Malaysia is a Shopping Paradise

Malaysia is indeed a nation truly blessed with a wealth of cultural heritage and captivating environmental beauty. It is also a gastronomic haven and a definite shopper's paradise. Remarkably diverse, it is one of Southeast Asia's most energetic and prosperous nations. Once in Malaysia, shopping is a must. Be amazed by the variety  of goods available for you to choose from ranging from sophisticated, high technology equipment to avant-garde couture displayed and sold in spacious and comfortable shopping malls throughout the nation to the unique knickknacks sold in the jam-packed back-lanes.    Look forward to exciting and unique experiences throughout Malaysia and be mesmerised by the beauty and fragrant perfume of its bountiful flowers which fill the parks and gardens; give in to temptation and enjoy the various delicious local fruits and delectable authentic cuisines Malaysia has to offer. Later, to work off the calories, take a stroll along the beautiful beaches of the east coast, or jog along comfortable walkways around the city as you take in the impressive beauty of modern structures complementing some of the old colonial buildings that are wellpreserved and signify Malaysia's sure and steady progress. Prefer to do your walking in an air-conditioned mall as you browse through rows and rows of colourful designer clothes and a host of unique handicrafts leaving you spoilt for choice? Chances are, you are just a few short steps away from one! In Malaysia, simply let your hair down and your purse strings loose! There is something for everyone! From the most conservative and discerning of designs to select from in terms of clothing, household furniture to knick-knacks to the most avant-garde creations, you will find them all here in Malaysia, all at amazingly low prices! Prepare to get knocked off your feet when shopping during the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival period as you will be presented by such astonishingly low prices for a wide variety of high quality products. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at bargaining at the hundreds of little shops throughout the nation. When in Kuala Lumpur, do not miss out on the opportunity to show off your bargaining skills in Chinatown on Petaling Street where there are a host of stalls offering a wide range of goods from electrical gadgets and components to watches and clothes and shoes among many others. Sample local Chinese dishes in the back-lane stalls of the structures that surround this exciting' shopping haven as you watch others try their hand at bargaining for that must have item! Shopping in Kuala Lumpur, be it in a comfortable mall with all its modern facilities, in the jam-packed little stores or back-lane stalls, your satisfaction is guaranteed. There is always something for everyone and you are most unlikely to go home empty-handed. Each of the six primary regions has its own unique characteristics promising each and everyone his own exciting experience. During the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival period, look out for special promotions offered not only by the thousands of retailers operating in the many malls throughout the nation but also be on the look out for fantastic promotions or discounts extended by transportation companies, rental car agencies, hoteliers and restaurants. Travel throughout Malaysia is generally safe and very affordable. Book a ride on a train, rent a car, hop a ride in a taxi or just get on a plane and enjoy the beauty your next local destination has to offer. Trains run between major towns in Peninsular Malaysia to Thailand in the north and Singapore in the south while domestic airline services to the various local destinations are offered at affordable prices by both Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia. Fly east to Sabah and Sarawak and immerse in the local cultures of the various indigenous tribes that make up the majority of the population here. Allow yourselves to be charmed by the tranquility of the dense natural rainforests and be captivated by the subtle ways of the local people going about their daily chores. Unlock the secrets of the lbans and Dayaks of Sarawak and the mesmerising Kadazans of Sabah while you continue to explore and discover the many other tribal groups that make these two mystical and enchanting states. Be adventurous and sample the local dishes and purchase unique handcrafted souvenir items to remind you of your stay. Collect intricately designed wooden jewellery boxes, colourful purses made up of thousands of tiny beads, kitchen-utensils fashioned out of bamboo, hand-woven mats, as well as hats and bags made from screw pine leaves, amongst others. Get the best deals throughout Malaysia everyday but especially during the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival! For better shopping, experience it all in Malaysia - without a doubt, a shopper's paradise! Book Your Hotel Stay Here

Beautiful Beaches in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to many of the world's most pristine and celebrated beaches. Its expansive coral beaches produce pure, snow-white sand which sits in dazzling contrast to the crystal blue waters of its shorelines. Many of these waters are teeming with exotic marine life, much of which cannot be found anywhere else on earth. Due to its climate, many of Malaysia's beaches sit right at the forest wall of Malaysia's majestic, lush rain forests, meaning that you can hike the jungles and go scuba diving all in the same adventurous afternoon!

Other activities handily available at many of Malaysia's beaches include jet-skiing, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, or just relaxing on the beach and taking in the gorgeous panoramic view afforded at the ocean's edge.Malaysia has dozens of tiny islands on both the east and west coasts that rival the beauty of southern Thailand. Plus, the best Malaysia beaches have the added advantage of being relatively unknown (read: cheaper, less crowded, more unspoilt).

One important fact to keep in mind when planning a trip to any Malaysian beach is the monsoon season – do not visit the east coast of Malaysia between November and March, unless you like rain. Lots of rain. That one caveat aside, here are my top picks for a beach-hopping Malaysian adventure.

Top  beaches and Islands in Malaysia

Redang Island - Terengganu

"Redang" is one of the largest islands off the east coast of Malaysia. It is one of nine islands, which form a marine park, and which offer snorkeling and diving opportunities. Access is from Merang or Kuala Terengganu on boats operated by the resorts; there is also a small airport with services operated by Berjaya Air from Singapore. The Pulau Redang archipelago comprises Pulau Redang, Pulau Lima, Pulau Paku Besar, Pulau Paku Kecil, Pulau Kerengga Kecil, Pulau Kerengga Besar, Pulau Ekor Tebu, Pulau Ling and Pulau Pinang. Pulau Redang is the biggest of all the islands in the Marine Park,

Perhentian Island - Terengganu

This exotic island has always been a personal favourite. I remember very well the swing hung from a big tree at the beach fronting Cozy Chalet at Pulau Perhentian Besar. This stretch of beach is dotted with big trees and any spot is perfect to hang a hammock or a swing.

Tioman Island - Pahang

Much have been said about this beautiful island. But my favourite beach is at Kampung Air Batang. Huge ketapang trees dot the beach, giving a wonderful canopy not only for hammock swingers but also for those going for those high-back benches. Either swinging in a hammock or sitting on one of the benches, the beach is a perfect spot for watching the glorious sunset.

Pulau Sibu Besar, Johor

This one-resort island has four beaches, each with its own unique character. My favourite is Beach Four, secluded and separated by a rocky hill where Sibu Island Resort’s Check-point Two is located. Its shallow water exposes dead corals and straight-up bakau tree roots, giving an edge to the beach. Further across the water are three little islets — Kukus, Sibu Hujung and Lima.

Langkawi - Kedah

The island of Langkawi, Malaysia has come into its own as a holiday destination. A beautiful, verdant tropical island with white sandy beaches, brilliant aqua waters and emerald green rice paddies. Then there"s the intriguing heritage of fabulous myths and legends of ogres and warriors, battles and romance, fairy princesses bathing at the Seven Wells Waterfalls, the virtuous Mahsuri, and the Lake of the Pregnant Maiden, which all adds to its mystical allure.

Pangkor Island - Perak

Less well-known than the lavish island resorts of Langkawi and Tioman, Pangkor Island is more of a low-key holiday destination, located off the country's west coast and home to unspoilt golden sand and great Malaysian cuisine. 

One of the best strands is pretty Pasir Giam with the offshore islet of Giam which is walkable at low tide. Pasir Giam is 2km north of Teluk Nipah.

Head to Pasir Bogak, the island's largest stretch of sand, for marine activities or Nipah Bay, a fine length of clean golden sand with crystal-clear waters.

Sipadan Island - Sabah

Sipadan claims to be the world's best dive site. While this is a big claim, the diving here is certainly world class. Sipadan used to have resorts but to protect the environment these were closed around the year 2002. To dive on Sipadan you have to stay somewhere nearby, such as on Mabul, Kapalai or in Semporna, and take a boat onto the island.

Layang-layang Island - Sabah

Located 300km northwest of Kota Kinabalu, you find Layang Layang, part of the disputed Spratly Islands. The island is a true diver's paradise. Though the island is not cheap, it is definitely worth a visit. When you go to Layang Layang, do not expect to arrive at a tropical paradise. The place used to be an active marine base, and until only recent no public visitors where allowed on the 'man-made island'. Because of the splendid diving conditions, Layang Layang is a must-visit destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. There are no tropical beaches on the island; only the naval base, the resort and diving school and the air strip. The (only) resort on the island, Layang Layang Island Resort, is closed from September till February; as during this time the area is being plagued by the monsoon.

Golden Beach and Turtle Beach, Sarawak

These are the two best beaches in Sarawak, East Malaysia. Located close to each other in the Similajau National Park, they boast 30 kilometers of sandy golden beaches surrounded by wildlife. Its jungle streams, waterfalls and 185 species of bird will certainly charm first time visitors. It is normal to spot Macaques, crocodiles, turtles, gibbons and wild boars at this tropical paradise.

Beautiful beaches in Malaysia

Book Your Hotel Stay Here

Many more places to go from here !!!

Malaysia to see 36 million tourists in 2020 
(The Star, 20th November 2013)

Some 36 million tourists are expected to spend their vacation in the country in 2020, contributing around RM168 billion to the economy, according to the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board. A major portion of that revenue will come from the retail sector, as shopping is the second biggest contributor of tourist spending after accommodation, accounting for 38% of the RM60 billion spent by visitors in 2012.

Malaysia was ranked 10th in the world for the number of international tourists arrivals with 25 million visitors. CNN also ranked Kuala Lumpur as the fourth best city for shopping behind New York, Tokyo and London.

Meanwhile, Langkawi is set to receive more international recognition as the Naturally Langkawi @ Korea exhibition introduces local gastronomic delights, culture and art in South Korea. The exhibition, which is being held until December 15, at Nami Island, South Korea, is part of a partnership programme between Langkawi Development Authority (Lada) and Nami Island Incorporation to promote cultural tourism annually. As part of the Nami Island-Langkawi partnership, Malaysians residing in Korea will also receive free entry to Nami Island and visit the Zip Wire attraction at half price.

Langkawi will become the transit hub for tourists who wish to visit Malaysia as more nature-based attractions are in progress. Eco-tourism will drive Langkawi towards a place in the world‖s top 10 eco-destination islands by 2015.

Meanwhile, 16 participants from tourism agencies and the media in Penang took part in a four-day visit to explore interesting tour packages in Johor. The programme, in cooperation with AirAsia Bhd, is seen as capable of meeting the needs of tourism entrepreneurs in both states to exchange ideas and find the latest input in providing creative and profitable holiday activities to meet the demands of the current market.

Last year, 85,700 tourists from Penang visited Johor compared with 97,000 tourists who visited Penang from Johor in the same period.

Capitalising on Vietnamese medical tourism (Business Times, 19th November 2013)

Aesthetics practice Mediviron UOA Clinic plans to capitalise on the untapped Vietnamese medical tourism segment during Visit Malaysia 2014 (VMY2014), which could potentially increasing its yearly revenue by up to 20 per cent.

There are currently about 211,000 Vietnamese tourists visiting Malaysia yearly and a very small percentage are medical tourists as Vietnamese prefer to go to either Thailand or South Korea to get aesthetics work done.

At present, about half of the company's business comes from Malaysians while the remaining from Europeans, Middle Easterners, Americans and Singaporeans and very few Vietnamese.

Malaysia is an attractive destination for aesthetics tourism given the country‖s incredibly high standard of professionalism in healthcare and its comparatively cheaper price tag. It is an ideal destination for Vietnamese medical tourists as it offers relative cheaper price than their home country.

Klang Valley hospitality market grows in 1H2013 (City & Country, The Edge Malaysia, 18th November 2013)

The Klang Valley hospitality market performed reasonably well despite election jitters, thanks to a healthy growth in international tourist arrivals in the first six months of the year. The growth in Malaysia‖s hospitality market was due to the government‖s Visit Malaysia 2014 campaign launched earlier this year. The campaign offers various promotional packages and tours as part of the government‖s initiative to promote Malaysia as a tourist destination and achieve arrivals of 28 million and receipts of RM75 billion.

Alila Hotels and Resort Group recently announced its intention to open the Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur hotel, comprising 124 rooms, in early 2017 while KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd plans a new hotel and commercial development on 3.9 acres between Suria KLCC and the Asy-Syakirin mosque in Jalan Pinang. The joint-venture (JV) between KLCC Holdings and Qatari Investment Authority via QD Asia Pacific Ltd will comprise a 76-storey hotel, serviced apartments, residences and associated facilities, including a 64-storey office building, 6-storey retail podium and basement car park. The development is expected to be completed by the end of 2017.

Klang Valley hospitality market is likely to see stronger growth in 2H2013 due to the anticipated entry of branded hotels in the near future, for example St Regis in 2014, The Regent in 2015, Four Seasons Place Kuala Lumpur and W Kuala Lumpur in 2016, and continuous efforts to promote Malaysia as prime tourist destination under the Visit Malaysia 2014 campaign.

MALAYSIA - Your Great Holiday Destination

To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia - a bubbling, bustling melting-pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony.  

Our multiculturalism has made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise and home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very relaxed, warm and friendly. 

Geographically, Malaysia is almost as diverse as its culture. 11 states and 2 federal territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) form Peninsular Malaysia which is separated by the South China Sea from East Malaysia which includes the 2 states (Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo) and a third federal territory, the island of Labuan. 

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts which further add to this theme of ‘diversity’. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts while five-star hotels sit just metres away from ancient reefs. 

Rugged mountains reach dramatically for the sky while their rainforest-clad slopes sweep down to floodplains teeming with forest life. Cool highland hideaways roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

For the perfect holiday full of surprises, the time is now, the place is Malaysia. 

Country

The Federation of Malaysia comprises of Peninsular Malaysia, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.

Situated between 2º and 7º to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. 

In the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand, and in the south, neighbouring Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares borders with Brunei. 

Area 329,758 square km

Population 28.3 million

Capital city Kuala Lumpur

Government

Malaysia follows the bicameral legislative system, adopting a democratic parliamentary. The head of the country is the King or the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position which is changed every five years among the Malay Sultanates. The head of government is the Prime Minister.

Economic Profile

Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are major contributors to the economy.

People & Language

Malays comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and other races make up the rest of the country's population.

While Malay is the national language the many ethnic groups also converse in their various languages and dialects, but English is also widely spoken. 

Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions such as Buddhism and Christianity are widely and freely practised.

Currency

The monetary unit of the country is Ringgit Malaysia and is written as RM or MYR.

The exchange rate is valued at USD1 = RM3.15. Notes are available in RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, and RM100 denominations, while coins are issued in 5, 10, 20 and 50 sen (cents) denominations. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and money changers.

 

Weather

The country experiences tropical weather year-round. Temperatures range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF).

Higher elevations are much colder with temperatures between 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F).

Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm. However, the wettest parts of Malaysia could well be the hill slopes of Sarawak’s inland areas, which receive a mean annual rainfall exceeding 5,000mm.

Practicalities
Time

Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S Standard Time.

Electricity

Voltage is 220 - 240 Volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Malaysia uses standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.

Weight & Measurement

Malaysia follows the metric system for weight and measurement.




Telecommunications

Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or prepaid card. International calls can also be made using phone cards or at any Telekom office.

Banking Hours






Most states: Monday- Friday: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Saturday & Sunday: Closed (Some banks and its branches are opened Saturdays). Kelantan & Terengganu: Sunday - Wednesday :9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Thursday :9.30 am to 4.00 pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public holiday: Closed.

Accommodation

Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. International standard hotels, medium and budget hotels, youth hostels are just some of the types of accommodation available.