Travel Malaysia - An Exotic Retreat in South East Asia

Malaysia is an exotic land pampered by a tropical climate, blessed with immense natural beauty and packed with loads of adventure. It is the tropical climate of the place that allows it to afford a rich and varied floral and faunal wealth, making it a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Golden beaches with swaying palms and perfect sunshine make Malaysia a perfect lazing out spot too. With a dozen of islands teeming with coral reefs, Malaysia is a perfect adventure place with loads of diving, snorkeling and surfing opportunities. One of the most preferred holidaying destinations around the world, the country offers everything one would wish for a dream holiday.
The sheer beauty and bounty of nature makes Malaysia a place as enchanting it is. The tropical climate and dense woods make it a natural home to a wide variety of birds. The forests here are home to around 450 species of birds. It is this avifaunal wealth that attracts thousands of avian-watchers to the land. Tropical rainforests the cover the hills in Langkawi also afford a good population of tigers, orangutans, bears, crocodiles, elephants, leopards, monkeys, panthers, rhinoceroses and elephants, an undying excitement for all wildlife lovers. Langkawi is one of the best places here to enjoy the tropical climate. Penang too is a known for its sheer natural beauty.
Though calm and quiet, Malaysia has immense options for fun and excitement. A host of coral reefs and beaches make the land a hub of thrilling activities. The numerous beaches give out ample of scope for beach games and leisurely strolls. While the crystal clear waters and the corals allow you to dive, snorkel and surf. A number of marine parks have come up in Malaysia that offer a wide range of water-bound activities and exciting games. Langkawi is again one of the best places in the country to grab some bit of fun.
Apart from the beauty bestowed by Mother Nature, Malaysia is alluring for the urbane excitement it has to offer. The country's capital, Kuala Lumpur throbs with a thumping night life. As the sun goes down the entire city glows as life pounds in the numerous pubs, karaoke, discos and lounges that dot the city. Also known to be a shopper's paradise, Malaysia offers a whole world of goods for shoppers to pick from. Think of a thing and the markets of Malaysia have it for you. From Oriental treasures to the best of world-famous brands, it's all there. Walk the streets of the bazaars where tiny shops offer you the most unusual curios or go to the high-tech malls that have the best of brands and labels from every corner of the world.
A trip here cannot be complete without visiting the Genting Highlands, the Las Vegas of Malaysia. The only casino city in the country, Genting Highlands is a place to live the happening spirit of Malaysia. Genting Highlands are also home to two famous theme parks and the Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum. Some of the finest golf courses and swankiest of malls in the country are present here too.
Home to almost all kinds of hotels and resorts, Malaysia can hardly be a problem when it comes to finding a suitable accommodation. From splurge to economy to budget, hotels in Malaysia serve almost every kind of visitor it receives. With the best of resorts and hotels under the most well-known banners from all around the globe, Malaysia has the best of opulent hotels and lavish resorts. One can also find the best Spa resorts and upscale star properties in here. Apart from these there are a good number of hotels for the economy minded travelers too. The country is truly exceptional and is a perfect holiday destination for everyone.

Visit Kuantan, Pahang - For Beach Lovers

Are you a lover of exotic beaches? Then get ready to visit Kuantan, Pahang where you can enjoy walking on the pristine sand and playing with the friendly and warm waves.

This is the state capital of Pahang, and is situated on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the most exotic tourist destinations in Malaysia, especially for its lovely beaches. Of all the destinations in Malaysia, it is certainly worth a visit.

Getting here is very easy. You can conveniently take a flight to Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport and get to the city. The city is also well connected with a good network of roads.

Beaches:

Visit Kuantan, Pahang in Malaysia as it is famous for pristine and lovely beaches. Teluk Chempedak is one of the loveliest beaches, which offer lots of beach activities and facilities for adults and children. Some of the water sports that can be enjoyed in this area are boating and kayaking.

If you enjoy fishing then it is a great place to do fishing to your heart's content. Some of the other spectacular beaches where you can enjoy hanging out with your friends and family members are Balok beach and Batu Hitam.

Places to see:

There are many important and must visit tourist attractions while you visit Kuantan, Pahang. Some of them are Taman Teruntum; Pulau Ular; Sungai Lembing; Panching Caves; Pahang Buddhist Association Temple; and Berkelah Falls. Apart from visiting these interesting sightseeing spots, you can also enjoy visiting the Turtle sanctuary and the river cruise, and fireflies tour.

Discounted hotels and accommodations:

There are many cheap and reasonably good accommodation options available in the city, and Duta Village Beach Resort is a great choice. It is located on Balok Beach, which is known as one of the top ten windsurfing spots in the world. The luxurious accommodation units, sunny places, and wonderful service are some of the reasons that make Duta Village Beach Resort a great choice.

Are you really looking at the best offer to spend your short weekend with your family? Then Smart Holiday Packages is a right choice for you, where you enjoy your weekend with the cheapest price ever found from any other providers. Keep checking smart holiday offers for every month, whether you are a businessman or an individual willing to go for business meetings all around the world, or you take your family to spend your weekends. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Murtaza_Habib

Driving to Sungai Lembing

Driving to Sungai Lembing from Kuala Lumpur (KL) using East Coast Expressway (ECE) will have your senses turned from tense to relax within the 4 hour journey. Before the East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (ECE1) opened in April 2004, one had to endure 5 to 7 hours of driving from KL to get there.

Whether you are from the northern or southern region, if you are driving there, take the North South Expressway (NSE) to KL. However, if you are coming from the eastern states (Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and eastern part of Johor), head to Kuantan and follow the Sungai Lembing signboard.

From KL, look for Kuantan signboard that leads you to Karak Highway. You will drive pass Gombak and Bentong and reach Karak toll plaza. Between Karak and Kuantan toll plaza, there are two petrol stations: Shell at Temerloh rest area (129 km) and Petronas at Gambang rest area (194 km). At 128 km, you will cross the Semantan Bridge over the Pahang River (440 km). You should exit Kuantan (EXIT 833) which is about 238 km from KL. Immediately after the Kuantan exit, you will reach a T-junction traffic light, turn right to Sungai Lembing.

From there, the two-lane trunk road winds through scatter of villages, palm tree and rubber tree plantations where it ends at Sungai Lembing. You may encounter some local drivers with laid-back driving, lorries transporting palm fruits or timber, village kids playing on roadside, animals crossing (chickens, goats, cattle, monkeys, mongooses, snakes, monitor lizards and on a very rare occasion wild boars and even the rainforest clouded leopards), the unmistakably Gua Charas (Charas Cave) limestone and if the weather is fine, you can see Mount Tapis (1512 m) on the horizon. When you are approaching the town, there is a sharp bend that you may be caught by surprise! An outsider once lost control and crashed his car into one of the villager's house in 1960's. The locals dubbed it 'The Death Curve'.

You should drive with extra care especially at night. Most part of the road is pitch-dark and with many slopes, it's hard to see what is ahead of you. With the car headlight as the only light source, you may suddenly see light flickering in the middle of the road. By the time you realized what it is, you might have just hit a cattle!! A few fatal accidents had occurred at Kolek and Panching Selatan (south of Panching) areas that killed both human and cattle.
The cattle are owned by villagers nearby and they are usually left wandering at night. Their eyes reflect light. The tar road is warm after absorbing the heat during the day and serves as a warm and comfy bed for the cattle at night. You have to slow down and negotiate your way to avoid hitting them.

Alternatively, you can exit Gambang (EXIT 830) but this makes the journey longer. After the Malaysia Electric Corporation City (MEC City) and University Malaysia Pahang (UMP), you will come to a traffic light crossroad, turn left to Kuantan. After the Caltex petrol station, you will reach Jalan Panching (Panching Road) T-junction traffic light which is next to TUDM Kuantan (Royal Malaysian Air Force of Kuantan), turn left to Sungai Lembing. After 24km from TUDM Kuantan, you will reach another T-junction, turn left again to Sungai Lembing. The Panching Road serves as an alternative road during floods. The winding road can lead you to Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) palm tree plantations. You can make a detour to the Sungai Pandan Waterfall which is about 11 km from TUDM Kuantan.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_Cheong

Kelantan - Cradle of Malay Culture

The east coast state of Kelantan is charming destination with colourful traditions, interesting pastimes and superb handicrafts. Watch captivating activities such as top-spinning, giant kite-flying or woodcarving. The batik and songket fabrics produced by cottage industries here are among the best in the country. Its laid-back atmosphere, rustic charms and friendly locals add to Kelantan's appeal.

Accommodation in the capital city, Kota Bharu, ranges from star-rated hotels to affordable rooms. In other main towns, visitors can find comfortable inns, rest houses and modest hotels. The state has a tempting variety of local delicacies. Continent food is available at major hotels while fast food can be found at main towns.

Among the popular places of interest are, Cultural Centre or locally known as Gelanggang Seni. It is a veritable showcase of the state's rich cultural heritage. You can watch an enthralling range of traditional performance such as shadow puppetry (Wayang Kulit), Malay martial arts (Silat), top-spinning (Gasing), giant kite flying (Wau Bulan) and musical performance.

Mount Stong is one of the most popular eco-adventure destinations in Kelantan. Mount Stong rises majestically at a height of 1,433m. Trek to view a diversity of flora and fauna, including Rafflesia, the world's largest flower. A highlight is the spectacular Jelawang Waterfalls, acclaimed to be the highest in Southeast Asia.

Wat Photivihan Buddhist Temple is one of tourist attraction in Kelantan. It houses a 40m long statue of reclining Buddha and believed to be the second longest in the world and the longest in Southeast Asia.

Live with a friendly local family and join their interesting pastimes. Home stays can be experienced at the villages of Renok Baru, Pantai Suri and Blok Ulu Kusial.

For more information about Malaysia, Visit http://www.mykltravelguide.mymamall.com Detailed information about Kelantan also can be found at http://www.mykltravelguide.mymamall.com/Kelantan/Kelantan.php

12 Things to Do in Penang

Penang, Malaysia has been known as one of Southeast Asia's finest destinations for many years now. Aptly called as "Pearl of the Orient", Penang offers amazing cultural heritage and diverse population which cannot be found anywhere else around the globe. In general, Penang is a great place all by itself and travelers find this small place full of interesting things to do and many places to visit even on foot. Here are some recommended things you must do while visiting Penang.

01 Climb up Penang Hill: Your trip to Penang should include Penang Hill. This popular tourist spot is also known as Bukit Bendera, referring to its most developed peak, the Flagstaff Hill. The most recommended way up to Penang Hill is through the Penang Hill Railway. This is a funicular railway that will bring passengers all the way up to Flagstaff Hill. Funicular train leaves every 20-25 minutes interval and carries up to 80 passengers per trip. Penang Hill is also accessible by 4x4 vehicles through the "jeep track" which is a tarred road most commonly used by residents of the hill.

There are also trails that one can follow such as Moongate trail, trail from Air Itam Dam to Tiger Hill, trail from Hye Keat Estate and one coming from the Municipality Park. From Penang Botanical Gardens, it will take 3 hours to reach the top of the hill by foot.

02 Shop at Batu Ferringhi Night Bazaar: Batu Ferringhi Night Bazaar is a nightly affair in Batu Ferrunghi starting from 7pm until 1am. After the sun sets in, the whole stretch of Batu Ferringi is transformed into a night market definitely worth checking out. You will find over 1000 stalls in Batu Ferringhi which are lined near the main road. Shopping addicts will surely have a high time sorting out goods ranging from clothes to paintings and everything in between.

03 Enjoy food and sight at Gurney Drive: Gurney Drive is famous for its mouth watering cuisine. Aside from the food, this road is made popular by having the best view of the sunset. Just outside the Georgetown City, Gurney Drive faces the sea of Penang, truly a relaxing experience and quite fulfilling to the stomach as well. Dinners are served in this side of town where most hawker stalls open around 6pm. One can find something to please the palate, for sure. Top 3 recommended dishes to try are: Char Keow Teow, Asam Laksa and Hokkien Mee. You will also find Gurney Plaza Shopping Center in Gurney Drive which is one of the famous shopping spot in Penang. You will find popular Malaysian and foreign brands in Gurney Plaza.

04 Be a Shopaholic: With all the shopping centers in Penang, you will never run out of options. Penang is considered as the biggest shopping destination in northern Malaysia with huge department stores and shopping malls in and out of the island. Queensbay Shopping Mall in Bayan Lepas is the largest and longest shopping mall in Penang Island housing more than 400 local and international shops. Gurney Plaza, on the other hand, has the biggest Cineplex in northern Malaysia. Pranglin Plaza is noted for local finds.

05 Enjoy dazzling 360 view of Penang from KOMTAR: During your visit to KOMTAR, go to the 60th floor to enjoy the fascinating 360 view of the Penang Island. KOMTAR is the tallest building in Penang and proved to be an important landmark for the area. This building houses government offices, shopping complexes, hotels and exhibition center.

06 Ride a ferry from Butterworth: A ferry ride from Butterworth is hard to miss since this is the main gateway to Penang Island. All ferry rides to Penang come from Butterworth terminal and provide a great photo opportunity for travelers featuring a magnificent landscape. The ferries run 24 hours a day.

07 Take a Georgetown Heritage Walk: Of course, Penang travel is more or less equivalent to Georgetown Heritage Walk. Georgetown Heritage Walk features century-old, historical sites and religious temples from various faiths. It is located at the northeastern side of Penang Island. Some of its famous attractions are the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Fort Cornwallis, Penang Islamic Museum, Pinang Peranakan Mansion and Queen Victoria Clock Tower.

08 Enjoy nightlife in Upper Penang Road: Your day in Penang is not yet over after dark, check out Georgetown's nightlife in upper Penang road with live music, DJs and bands. Karaoke is a popular activity, aside from dancing and just plain chilling out. Bring your friends for a round of singing and drinking til wee hours of the morning!

09 Cross Penang Bridge, one of the largest in the world: Penang Bridge is Asia's longest bridge and it offers a spectacular view of Penang. This bridge is the pride and joy of Penang and a national landmark. It is also a standing symbol of Penang's economic development. Penang Bridge is host to annual Penang Bridge Marathon.

10 Visit largest Buddhist Temple in Malaysia: The Buddhist temple of Kek Lok Si is situated in Ait Itam and it is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Kek Lok Si Temple is home to series of monasteries, prayer halls, temples and beautifully landscaped gardens. It is also the best known temple in Penang, Malaysia.

11 Meet Francis Light at Fort Cornwallis: Visit the historical Fort Cornwallis and meet the statue of Francis Light. This old star-shaped fort is located at the northeastern coast of Penang and the oldest of three lighthouses in the area. Fort Cornwallis also features the Seri Rambai Cannon as always seen in pictures.

12 Visit nearby Islands: Small islands surrounding Penang are also worth looking up to. Pulau Aman or Island of Peace is a small island that houses the traditional Malay village. Other islands include Pulau Tioman, Pulau Rawa and Pulau Babi Besar. Although there is limited information about these nearby islands, a local tourist guide can help you find them.

On the whole, Penang, Malaysia is a great place to visit due to its almost side-by-side visitor spots, travelers won't run out of things to do. This list is just a taste of what Penang can offer its visitors and it is not entirely impossible to fell in love with this beautiful island. Truly, a Penang travel is a trip worth remembering!

Batu Ferringhi - The Most Popular Beach in Penang

Being the most popular beach location in Penang, the Batu Ferringhi beaches draw a massive crowd, especially during the holiday season. Asides from having the most luxurious resorts in Penang, it serves as a total holiday provider as any tourist will find much to do here.

A bevy of fine hotels line the seafront, all of which offer the utmost quality of service. The Rasa Sayang is the most expensive resort at Batu Ferringhi, whilst the Holiday Inn, Park Royal, and Bayview Beach Resort cost slightly less. The Golden Sands is a more affordable accommodation but is still considered in the upper tier of hotel pricing. While the Rasa Sayang is more for the luxury traveler looking for peace, quiet and comfort, the rest of the hotels are regular beach resorts with more families and friends booking in for a holiday. All the resorts provide excellent beach activities and facilities.

There are cheap and affordable hotels available at Batu Ferringhi which aren't on the beach front. Their location is still convenient as they are located just across the road from the beaches. Prices there are more apt for those who are on a budget. Beach activities and facilities can still be enjoyed as visitors from anywhere are allowed to pay for the sea activities.

Food is not a problem as across the road from the hotels are a line of restaurants and bars, some of which provide live performances. After dinner there is a multitude of stalls set up for the night market. A walk up the road will introduce you to a roadside cluster of make-do shops that sell all sorts of things, from clothing to bags, to cigarette cases and lighters and children's toys. There is also a hawker centre nearby the night market where tourists can stop for dinner, refreshments or even supper.

If you want to enjoy the beach in Penang, you can be sure this is the place.

Hi, my name is Julian Khoo. Whenever I travel, I will photograph and write about the places I visit. So go and discover and enjoy yourself in Batu Ferringhi.

Penang's War Museum Popular With British Tourists

Every year, thousands of visitors crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels in Vietnam. The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City is also a standard destination on a tour itinerary. On Malaysia's Penang Island, you can capture a similar war experience at War Museum in Batu Maung on Penang Island.

Generation-X citizens of our country only know about the horrors of World War II from history books. The War Museum provides a fascinating insight into the Japanese invasion of then Malaya and its impact on the lives of civilians, soldiers and POWs.

Sprawled over nine hectares, the War Museum was built as a fortress in the 1930's by British Royal Engineers using convict labour shipped in from Gibraltar and India. Its aim was to protect British vessels in Penang Harbour, on the assumption that any enemy aggression would come from the sea. As history would unfold later, the British cannons were facing the wrong direction as the Japanese invasion came from south Thailand.

On December 17, 1941, the Japanese flag was raised on the island when they overran the Batu Maung fortress. The British, in their haste to retreat, even left behind a radio station that was in full working condition! By early January 1942, the Japanese infantry was advancing towards Kuala Lumpur on bicycles. These hardy two wheelers can be seen in the War Museum. During the Japanese Occupation, the fortress was turned into a POW camp. After World War II, it was abandoned, and was gradually overgrown with jungle. Local shunned the place as it was reputed to be haunted due to the many executions that had taken place there. It was re-discovered and turned into a living museum in 2002.

Visitors can explore more than 60 relics that have been restored to almost their original state. Among them are the ammunitions store, observation tower, pill boxes, cook houses, cannon firing bay, generator room and living quarters for soldiers and officers. If you are adventurous, you can crawl through tunnels in pillboxes.

Step into a torture chamber to view the tools of brutality used by the Japanese when they occupied the complex in 1941. Branding irons, clamps and pliers for pulling off finger nails are among the exhibits that tell silent stories of the tremendous sufferings of the POWs. There is also a sword hanging from a ceiling that was reputedly swung with merciless gusto to lop off heads of prisoners by Lieutenant Suzuki, the resident executioner.

Take your time to read the information plaques and scrutinize the old photographs. They show the invasion, POWs, civilian casualties and the Japanese surrender.

Throughout the grounds of the complex, there are posted signs and the trails are easy to follow. A rusty anti-aircraft gun, an observation tower and the grave of one Sergant John Wolf, marked by a cross, are among the other relics found within the grounds. Visiors are advised to carry a torch light with and apply insect repellent. The mueum opens everyday from 9am to 7pm. Admission fee is RM10 for adults, RM for children.

If you are hungryafter your tour, head for the countless hawker stalls selling Malay food line the Bayan Lepas Expressway. For more tempting delighs, go to the seafood restaurant at Batu Maung Village. Fatty Loh, a Chinese eatery located opposite the nearby Fisheries Department is quite popular.

How to get there? After crossing the Penang Bridge, turn left to the Coastal Highway onward to the Bayan Lepas Expressway. Proceed to Jalan Batu Maung and you can see a signboard.

The Pinnacles of Borneo, Malaysia's World Wonder

A small twin engine airplane is the only way to get to Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak Borneo, and looking out the window you will be overwhelmed with the vastness of the jungle that lay below. Once you have landed on the isolated runway, you truly feel in the middle of nowhere.

A climb to the mysterious pinnacles is the star attraction of Gunung Mulu. The Pinnacles are a stone forest jutting 45 metres out of the earth in razor sharp formations. Part of the fun and challenge is getting there. Make your way to the parks headquarters and you can book your multi-day excursion deep into the heart of the Borneo Jungle.

You will arrive most likely in the afternoon, so book a dorm room for the night. Meeting other trekkers, you can arrange to share a boat and guide to bring down the costs. It can be quite expensive to hire a private boat so it is worth it to make friends quickly as people tend to pair up fast.

The Pinnacles is not an easy undertaking. You must carry your own food to last for 3 days and carry your garbage out with you. The trek itself involves a 2-hour boat ride to the start of an 8.9 km trail which takes you to Camp 5 situated at the base of the Pinnacles and the entrance to the Headhunters. trail.

At 7:00 am you start the journey up the Melinau river. The water can be low and the driver and navigator earn their money as they pull it through shallow water careful to avoid rocks and logs. Once you arrive at the trail entrance, make sure to inform the captain how many days you will be staying so that you are not stranded.

It is now that you begin the 8.8 km jungle hike. It is an adventure to say the least.

Within the first kilometre, you will come across your first of two river crossings. The water can be high and fast so there is a rope spanning the river as a safety line to keep from falling over and being swept away. Once you are across, make sure to check for leaches. Even thought you can't feel them, you can be sure that they have latched on somewhere.

Your destination, Camp 5 is in a beautiful location surrounded by large cliffs, a quiet stream and lush jungle. Here is where you will relax for the night before your climb. Be sure you bring an ample supply of food with you, because there isn't any provided. There is a kitchen so you can cook whatever you bring, just be sure to take the waste with you when you leave.

The accommodations are very rustic and basic, but that is the appeal of going to the Pinnacles. Everyone sleeps in one room on a row of vinyl mats placed in a raised wooden platform. Nobody sleeps well however, because of the anticipation and excitement of the climb.

At 6:00 am sharp, you will meet your guide with your water bottles filled and begin to climb. You must reach a certain section of the climb by 11:00 am, otherwise you will not be able to go on. This section is the steepest part of the trek and has 17 aluminum ladders bolted and fastened into the mountain to help with the climb. It can be tricky and you always need to make sure to have 3 points of contact at all times for safety.

Many people that try to climb the Pinnacles do not summit. It is not a high climb, but it is a technically challenging climb without safety ropes. You cross crevasses on metal beams and balance on rocks while holding onto a rope over head. It is a challenge, but the payoff is definitely worth the effort.

Coming off of the trail and turning a corner, you are treated to one of the most spectacular sights on the planet.

Giant white stones, jutting out of the jungle like sharks teeth, the Pinnacles are majestically poised for your viewing. The silence is unsettling and soon, clouds and mist roll in making the pinnacles even more ominous. They turn to a darker shade of grey and take on an even more dramatic look as they tower over the trees.

You can only sit and look on for so long however, because the climb down is even more difficult than the climb up and you have to be back at camp before the sun goes down. It is a slippery and exhausting climb, but to be among the rare few that venture to this part of the world and make it to the look out for this magical view is worth every ache and blister.

To explore everything in Gunung Mulu National park could take months. The Sarawak Chamber, the largest cave chamber in the world, rock climbing, the head hunters trail, The summit of Gunung Mulu and the Bario and Kelabit Highlands are just a few of the things that you can do at Gunung Mulu. But rest assured, whatever you choose to do in Sarawak, it will definitely be and adventure.

Debra Corbeil is one half of Canada's Adventure Couple with her husband Dave Bouskill. Together they have traveled to over 30 countries on 5 continents. Follow their journeys at http://www.theplanetd.com as they hike, bike, dive, trek and climb their way around the globe. You can also see their photo stories at http://www.picturetheplanet.com

Malaysian Tourism

Malaysia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the ASEAN region. Malaysia, a land of ready smiles and incredible contrasts, beckons the visitor with a rich diversity of experiences. The country is endowed with verdant rainforests, beautiful dive sites and marine parks containing a diversity of flora and fauna unique to this part of the world. In Malaysia you can choose to city-hop to experience the incredible variety of shopping opportunities, entertainment and accommodation, take an eco-holiday, or lie back blissfully on white sand beaches as you gaze upon the rustic charms of the countryside.

Attractions

Genting - City of Entertainment

Genting - City of Entertainment is one of the hottest tourist spot in Malaysia. It is located 6000 feet above sea level. A mere 45 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's thriving capital city, Genting City of Entertainment is the country's premiere holiday destination, attracting millions of local and foreign tourists alike every year. For many visitors, the excitement begins even before they step into the Resort; as an alternative route, visitors can opt to ride Genting Skyway, the world's fastest and South-East Asia's longest cable car system, to the peak. After a thrilling day of fun and excitement, Tourists can then check into one of the Resort's many hotels. For 5-star luxury, look no further than the prominent Genting Hotel and the magnificent 932-room Highlands Hotel. Refined business class accommodations can be enjoyed at the 4-star Resort Hotel, while those looking for larger, more inexpensive rooms can check into the Theme Park Hotel. And for true value-for-money, nothing beats the First World Hotel, recently certified by Guinness World Records as the World's Largest Hotel, which has 6118 rooms to fit any budget. So, for those who want a holiday experience that's truly on top of the world, take a trip to Genting City of Entertainment.

Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain between New Guinea and the Himalayas and reigns over an astonishing variety of scenery. Thousands of tourists visit Kinabalu National Park every year with the intention of reaching the summit. The best time to come to Mount Kinabalu is during the dry season from February to April, when walking and climbing is much more enjoyable. The temperature ranges from a comfortable 20-25 degrees Celsius at the main park to something approaching freezing near the top. The distribution of flora on the mountain is a classic example of altitude and temperature-related zonation. From the warm lowland rainforests to the near-freezing alpine conditions at the summit, each zone is characterised by a quite different assemblage of plant species.

Penang

There’s so much to see and do in Penang, good food everywhere, and beautiful beaches to relax your mind. Most of Penang’s fancier accommodation is in the form of beach resorts on the main tourist beach of Batu Feringghi. More backpacker-friendly options, as well as a few classical luxury hotels, can be found in Georgetown. Penang is more than just beaches. The most unique tourist attraction is the Snake Temple, swarming with poisonous pit vipers. Penang Hill is set amidst the island, with a 730 metre or 2,300 feet peak, where tourists who don’t mind the long queues for the funicular train are rewarded with beautiful views and jungle walks

Things to do

Shopping

Malaysia is a premier shopping destination in South East Asia. Shops, bazaars and shopping centers throughout the country offer a staggering variety of clothing, cosmetics, shoes, handbags, household conveniences and electronic apparatus. The exemption of duty on a range of items has resulted in more competitive pricing and makes shopping in Malaysia an even more attractive option.

Spa

For those who want to get away from the stress and the hustle of everyday life, Malaysia offers an extensive choice of Spa Treatments and Experiences. Ranging from top-of-the-line, internationally acclaimed luxury resorts, to quaint urban havens of relaxation, from locations in sun kissed beaches to tropical rainforests, Malaysia provides a perfect backdrop for the Ultimate Spa Experience.

Golf

Malaysia is a genuine golfing haven that attracts tourists from near and far each year. There are professionally and aesthetically designed courses of international standard set amidst undulating hills, sun-kissed beaches, invigorating highland tea plantations and lush greenery. For golf enthusiasts, Malaysia offers untold delights and a visit to this land of smiles and untold beauty is never complete without a round on one of the country's many courses.

Malaysia Truly Asia

Malaysia is very beautiful country. Malaysia is the only one place where all the colours, flavours, sounds and sights of Asia come together – Malaysia. No other country has Asia's three major races, Malay, Chinese, Indian, plus various other ethnic groups in large numbers. Nowhere is there such exciting diversity of cultures, festivals, traditions and customs, offering myriad experiences. "Malaysia, Truly Asia" captures and defines the essence of the country’s unique diversity. It sums up the distinctiveness and allure of Malaysia that make it an exceptional tourist destination. Visiting Malaysia is a fabulous way to experience the beauty of lush tropical jungles, the cool hideaways of the highlands, as well as the stretches of inviting sandy beaches. Rich in flora and fauna but at the same time equipped with first-world infrastructure, the country is both convenient and comfortable to explore. Malaysia is also well known for its multi-cultural background, where people of different ethnicities live together in peace and harmony, giving rise to diverse cultures and heritage, including Malay, Chinese and Indian, as well as other unique cultures of the local indigenous people. This is the reason behind the statement: “Malaysia, truly Asia.

Up in the highlands of Malaysia, visitors will experience the refreshing greenery, cool mountain air, unique flora and fauna. These cool highland resorts are situated on the major mountain ranges of Peninsular Malaysia, as well as Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia. The tropical waters of Malaysia create a perfect excuse for yachters to sail with the wind, while enjoying the splendor of the country’s golden, sandy beaches. Participate in the water sports, regatta and have fun watching the camaraderie. Be a part of the international water sports scene in Malaysia.

Beaches and Islands

One of the most beautiful countries in the world, Malaysia is blessed with fair and balmy weather all-year round. Its idyllic beaches offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of city living. Sunny skies and golden sandy beaches make a perfect gateway, in some of the best hidden secret beaches in the world. Ranging from the powdery stretches of sand that characterize the eastern coastline of Peninsular Malaysia to the black sand beach of Pantai Pasir Hitam and the smooth pebble beach of Pantai Batu Kerikil, Malaysia's shores offer more idyllic locales than one could explore in many lifetimes. In addition to the plenitude of beaches along the the peninsula and the coast of Eastern Malaysia, the country also possesses over a hundred tropical islands. Many of these are so beautiful as to have entered into legend centuries ago, like the islands of Langkawi remain desert isles, marked , or Pulau Tioman. Others only by the imprint of the South China Sea on their sands.

Fishing

Endowed with a wide variety of marine and inland angling destinations, Malaysia hosts a plethora of fish species in both environments. A fantastic variety of fish species, boundless fishing waters, and plenty of king-sized specimens are leading increasing numbers of anglers to discover Malaysia. It is an angling avenue of world class standards and provides top-class sport in a wondrous diversity of fresh and salt water fishing adventures. Malaysia’s tropical seas also hold the king of the seas, Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, oversized specimens of groupers, coral trout as well as other deep reef dwellers. Inland fishing is also common in lush verdant rainforests and clear cool waters where the giant snakehead, giant goramy or the Malaysian Jungle Perch

The "Great Lakes" of Malaysia's Pahang State

The State of Pahang n Malaysia can truly be dubbed as the "State of Great Lakes" as it is home to Tasik Bera (Bera Lake) and Tasik Cini (Cini Lake) which are consecutively the country's largest and second largest natural lakes. Taking a trip to these havens of biodiversity promises adventure galore for anglers and naturalists.
Sprawling over 6,150 hectares, Tasik Bera measures approximately 35km long and 20km wide. Its water landscape consists of interlocking lakes, fresh water swamps, pandanus (screwpine) swamps and peat swamps, which drain into the Pahang River, the longest river in the country.
From Kuala Lumpur, the easiest route to the lake is to travel to Temerloh, then southward towards Triang. Before reaching Triang, a signboard at Kerayong leads you to the northside Sudin and Dara Jetties. The Tasik Bera Museum at Kg Kuin has brochures and maps, and Tasik Bera Resort offers chalets and dormitories. For most visitors, a must-do is to cruise the myriad of river channels and bays on flat-bottom boats to explore the flora and search for wildlife. As the boat navigates through the narrow waterways, overhanging pandanus leaves brush against the faces of its passengers, while epiphytes, ferns, orchids and pitchers plants add color to the swamp landscape.
More than 200 species of birds have recorded at Tasik Bera. The White-Throated Kingfisher can often be seen diving into the water for fish. Feared raptors such as the Grey-Head Fish Eagle and Brahminy Kite help maintain the ecological balance of the lake. More beautiful avian creatures include the Malayan Peacock Pheasant and Uncommon Wrinkled Hornbill but sightings are rare. Commonly seen frolicking among the pandanus are Bulbuls, Spiderhunters and Pacific Swallows.
To spot wildlife, ask the boatman to anchor at a secluded bay or shallow channel and switch off the engine. There is the possibility of seeing the Malayan False Gharial, a fish-eating crocodile and the Striped Giant Soft-Shelled Turtle. Across the water's surface, water snakes and vipers can occasionally seen swimming from one reed bed to another. A feared resident of the lake is the reticulated python, which grows to a length of five meters. Its favorite food is monitor lizards and the Malayan Giant Frog - the latter tips the scale at one kilogram.
The lowland dipterocarps around Tasik Bera support medium-sized game such as tapirs, clouded leopards, wild boars, monkeys, mousedeer, flying lemurs and flying squirrels. Along nature trails, there are sights of their existence such as paw prints on mud flats, fresh dung, and claw marks on tree trunks. Angling is allowed at the lake, and more than 100 species of fish are found here. The adventurous angler will try to reel in the ferocious Toman (or Giant Snakehead) and Haruan (or Common Snakehead).
A visit to a Semelai village should also be part of one's itinerary. For more than 600 years, they have lived in Tasik Bera by fishing and hunting. Today, they rely on revenue from farming. They also collect sandalwood, resin from the Keruing tree and trap reticulated pythons for their skin.
Tasik Cini is located 100 km south-west of Kuantan, and consists of 12 interlocking lakes. Romanticized as the "Loch Ness of Malaysia", Tasik Cini's fame is attributed to a Jakun legend that a naga laut (water serpent) lurks in its underwater caves. The lake is also believed to be the site of an ancient Khmer city as artifacts have been discovered in the area though scientific expeditions to discover it have been unsuccessful. According to one story, when the city was threatened by attack, the populace submerged it using a system of aqua-ducts, intending to drain it later.
Traveling to Tasik Cini involves driving to the village of Cini from Kuantan. From Cini, the next leg of the journey is through the oil palm plantation of Felda Cini to the shores of the lake, where Lake Cini Resort is located. A more exciting option is to travel from Kuantan to Kampung Belimbing; take a boat ride across the Sungei Pahang, followed by an upriver trip along Sungei Cini -- where a canopy of lianas hangs overhead -- to the lake,
What greets the visitor is indeed a magnificent sight. The surface of the lake is black and spiky pentenas grass protrude from the water in many places. Wreathed in clouds, Gunung Cini rises 825 meters high, forming a beautiful backdrop. Near the edges of lake stand massive trees with their buttress roots half-submerged in water.
A highly recommended boat ride is to Laut Babi, the biggest lake in the system where turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Another must-visit lake is Laut Melai. From June to September, large parts of its water surface are swathed with thousands of pink water lilies and white lotus blooms on velvety carpets of green leaves. Last but not least, one must also venture to Laut Gumum, where most of the purported sightings of the serpent by locals have taken place. During colonial times, British engineers who have glimpsed it have described the elusive monster as moving with forward lunges, while Jakun elders have claimed that it has a head resembling a tiger's.
At Kampung Gumun, which has a Jakun settlement, visitors can hire a guide to escort them along the nature trails. A popular trek is from Lake Cini Resort to Kampong Gumum, two kilometers away. Another longer trek leads from the resort to a campsite at Lake Terembau. The trail weaves through swamps, oil palm plantations and lowland forests. Along the way, there are frequent encounters with the Grey-Breasted Babbler, Crimson-Winged Woodpecker, Orange-Bellied Flowerpeckers and Lesser-Tailed Drongo. Traditional Jakun villages can also be visited, and one can try to use a blowpipe.
Tasik Cini is a sanctuary for more than 150 species of fish. The best fishing months are from November to January, with Gouramy, Giant Freshwater Puffer, Carp and various species of Catfish being the popular catches. From October to March, migratory birds make a stopover at the lake, enhancing one's birding experiences. Tasik Cini, an undisturbed paradise for centuries is truly spectacular.

Malaysia's Traditional Games Are Cultural Attractions

One of the pleasures of visiting villages in the rural areas of Malaysia is to watch the playing of traditional games. It is even better to participate in one of the games. Some of the simpler games played by children come from nature, such as using red saga seeds as marbles, catching a wild spider to pit it against another spider, walking on "stilts" made of coconut shells, and using rubber seeds as conkers. However, there are many games that are also zealously played by adults that often hold spectators in awe.
TOP SPINNING Top spinning draws excited yells and shouts from both spectators and players. Strength, skill and physical dexterity are needed to launch a top, which is as big as a Frisbees and weighing as much as five kilogrames. Tops are normally of two popular designs. The gasing jantung is heart-shaped while the gasing uri is flattened in shape. There are two types of competitions: endurance and knockout. In the endurance competition, the gasing uri is launched and, once spinning, it is scooped up with a small wooden paddle. It is then transferred onto a small post and allowed to spin. The winner is the top which spins the longest - sometimes it can spin for two hours. In a knockout competition, a player tries to knock another player's spinning top outside a circle using his own top. The ropes used for launching a top are different for each of its function. To maximize its spin, the rope is usually long and thin; while a top used for striking is usually spun using a thick and short rope. The execution of a launch by a master top spinner is done in fluid but powerful movements. Tops are usually made of the merbau and afzella trees, and top-making requires great skill. Top-spinning competitions are often organised on a state, national and international level. Brunei, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan are among the keen participants in top-spinning competitions.
KITE FLYING Kite flying can be seen throughout the country though it is more popular in the East Coast, where farmers fly them on the levelled paddy fields after a harvest. A kite usually measure 1.7 metres in height and 1.5 metres from tip to tip of its wing. The most popular shape of the kite is the crescent moon (wau bulan) though other shapes are also found, which are abstract versions of animals such as cat, peacock, hawk, fish, eagle and quail. The tail of a kite is decorated with tassels while a bow is often attached across its neck. When the kite is flown, the bow produces a high-pitched humming noise. The bow is simply a strip of ribbon stretched over a strip of bamboo. A kite, is made of bamboo strips and foil paper, and its artwork is usually formalised by tradition. For instance, a required element in traditional design is to have a large central flower or "ibu" in the centre of the kite; furthermore, vines must emanate from the base of the kite and connect logically.
Two types of kite flying competitions are in vogue: cutting and performance. In a cutting competition, the string of a kite is glazed with glass powder so that it can cut the string of an opponenet's kite, causing it to lose flight. In a performance competition, judges select a winner based on the flight characteristics of the kite such as a vertical launch and maximum height achieved.
PLAYING OF REBANA UBI In the state of Kelantan, after the harvesting of paddy, the playing of rebana ubi by villagers is a popular pastime. A rebana ubi is a giant drum measuring one metre in diametre and weighing 100 kg. It is made from a hollowed-out log and is painted in bright colours. Bamboo sticks decorated with tinsel and flowers fan out from its centre like the spokes of a bicycle. The drum produces a thunderous roll when beaten with a stick. In a competition, players in traditional costumes compete in teams of six who play different sized drums. They are often dressed in traditional tunic and headgear, which enhances the gaiety and excitement of the event. They beat the drums continuously for 30 minutes, producing complex rhythms in harmony. Judging is based on the complexity and consistency of the beat and synchronized movements of the players.
CONGKAK Played by two persons, congkak has existed since the time of the Melaka Sultanate in the 15th century. The equipment used is a boat-shaped wooden board with two rows of holes (usually 12) and one large hole (rumah) at each end. Each player's rumah is the large hole at the left. The holes are filled with rubber seeds (or marbles). Each player's aim is to move the seeds in a clockwise direction through the holes to his rumah while observing several rules of the game. The player who gets the most of the seeds in the rumah wins.
GALAH PANJANG This game does not require any equipment. It is played by two teams of not less than 4 players in each team. A playing area consisting of a grid of six rectangles is required. A badminton court is an ideal place as the lines are already drawn. One team is the attacker while the other is the defender. The object of the game is for the attacking team to progressively enter the defending team's area without being tagged by any member of the defending team. The "attack" can be done either individually or in groups.
TARIK UPIH The flower-sheath of the betel nut or nibong palm is used in this game of speed. A team consists of a person seated on the upih and another person who pulls it. Whichever team that crosses the designated finishing line first is the winner.
SEPAK BULU AYAM Literally meaning "kicking chicken feather", this game requires only a simple and cost-economical equipment. A nail is inserted through a few circular piece of rubber of 2 inches in diametre. Usually, the rubber pieces are cut from the inner tube of a bicycle tyre. Five of six chicken feathers are tied to the nail with tape or rubber band. The game can now begin! The object of the game is to kick the bulu ayam for as many times as possible using only the instep of the feet. Therefore players can compete individually or as a team.
MAIN LERENG This game requires only the metal rim of a bicycle wheel and a stick. Individuals or teams use the stick to roll the bicycle rim over a predetermined distance. The winner is the player or team who completes the distance first.

Butterfly Watching in Malaysia

More than two thirds of Malaysia is swathed with vegetation. Within the lowland dipetercarp and hill forests dwell more than 1,032 species of butterflies, which present unlimited opportunities for the delightful hobby of butterfly watching. The butterfly represents tranquility, grace and freedom. Unfortunately, they are extremely sensitive to the environment and have an extremely short life span -- only an average of two weeks. Catching sight of these living works of art is a wonderful experience that should be cherished.
Malaysian butterflies can be roughly divided into highland and lowland species though some can be found at all elevations. The Clipper (Parthenos Sylvia), for example, is a lowland species that is frequently found at the edge of the rainforest and scrub areas. On the other hand, the Malay Lacewing (Cerhosia Hypsea) lives on both lowland and hilly areas. The Raja Brooke Birdwing is the most famous of Malaysian butterflies. It was discovered in 1885 by A.R. Wallace and named after the first Rajah of Sarawak.
The amateur who is taking the plunge in butterfly watching for the first time should first note the behaviour of tropical butterflies. Large numbers of butterflies are seasonal, often coming with moderately wet weather after a dry spell and an abundance of flowers and new leaves. Generally, they prefer a cool, moist and leafy habitat. Butterfly hotspots are flowers, hilltops, mud puddles and caterpillar food plants. Flowers often attract butterflies because of the nectar they produce. Sometimes a plant or tree that is in full bloom will have swarms of butterflies feeding on its nectar. Many species are also attracted to rotting fruits and animal urine. Certain areas attract certain species. For example, the majestic Raja Brooke Birdwing is often hovering near river banks, while the Blue Crow and Banded Yeoman are fond of clearings and the forest edge. Though many butterflies start searching for food early in the morning, they are most active between 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. It is recommended that dull coloured clothes be worn, and that you arm yourself with a pair of binoculars.
Three popular tourist spots where one can observe highland butterflies are Fraser's Hill, Cameron Highlands and Bukit Larut in Perak. Though Fraser's Hill (1,524m) and Cameron Highlands (1,462m to 1,755 m) are in Pahang, they are both accessible from Kuala Lumpur. Bukit Larut (1,054m) is only 7 km from Taiping in Perak, and forms part of the Bukit Larut Forest Reserve. Among the recommended areas in the lowlands for butterfly watching are Pantai Aceh Forest Reserve on Penang Island; Paya Indah Wetlands Sanctuary in Putrajaya; Templer's Park and Kanching Forest Reserve in Kuala Lumpur and Air Keroh Forest Reserve on the northern fringe of Melaka town. All these areas can be visited on a day trip.
At Fraser's Hill, the WWF-sponsored Nature Education Centre in the sports complex dispenses maps showing the nature trails around its seven hillocks. For butterfly watching, the Mager Trail is the most rewarding, and the area around the Jeriau Waterfalls also teems with colourful flitting creatures. At Tanah Rata in Cameron Highlands, visitors can pick up maps from Cameron Museum & Information Centre. Choose those trails that meander past waterfalls and alongside streams. The Parit Fall and Robinson Waterfalls are also hot spots for butterflies. Bukit Larut is located in the wettest region in the country, with most of the forest trails near its summit.
Visitors who do not wish to trek in the jungle can visit one of the five butterfly farms in the country: namely, Penang Butterfly Farm, Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm, Cameron Highland Butterfly Farm, Melaka Butterfly Park and Poring Butterfly Farm in Sabah
Opened in 1986, Penang Butterfly is the world's first butterfly sanctuary. It is located at Teluk Bahang, about 17 km from Georgetown, and occupies a 0.8 hectare site. Double doors lead into a 41m x 42m enclosure that houses a landscaped garden with gargling brooks, koi ponds and quaint curved bridges. Dripping foliage of and Within the netted enclosure, more than 4,000 Malaysian butterflies representing 120 species flit around your arm's reach. There are also stations along the meandering pathways that provide information on the various stages of butterfly's life cycle -- from egg to caterpillar to pupae.
Side attractions are the scorpion pit and snake house. There is also a tank with aquatics insects such as water scorpions. These creatures breathe through their tails. The reptile station display several species of giant-sized geckos and lizards from South American and Africa. Try to spot the Thorny Stick Insect, Walking Stick Insect and Moving Leaf Insect in other glass cases. The Insect Museum is packed with more than 2,000 specimens, including 600 species of butterflies and moths 800 species of beetles and other creepy crawlies.
The Poring Butterfly Farm is located in the settlement of Poring, 40km southwest of Kinabalu Park headquarters. The farm is divided into four areas; namely; netted enclosure, exhibition gallery, breeding room and food plant nursery. The netted enclosure is 25 metre square and six metres in height, and houses more than 500 butterflies of various species. In the exhibition gallery, preserved specimens and photographs are displayed. Information panels present interesting facts n the butterfly as such distribution and behavioral characteristics such as mimicry and colouration.
The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Farm is modelled after the one in Penang, and is nestled within the lush Lake Gardens. Cameron Highlands's butterfly farm is perched atop a plateau, about 5km from Kea Farm in Brinchang. Melaka Butterlfy Park is located in Ayer Keroh, and also includes a marine centre. . There is also a small butterfly park within the sprawling grounds of the Jubli Perak Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Agricultural Park, which is located 5km from Bandar Indera Mahkota near Kuantan.
Facing buying a preserved Raja Brooke Birdwing or a Banded Yeoman mounted in a decorative glass case as a souvenir? Pop over to Papillion in Batu Caves Light Industrial Estate in Batu Caves, just 10km north of Kuala Lumpur. This is probably the only company in the country that manufactures all sorts of collectibles using the butterfly. There are plastic paper weights, pen holders and key chains with preserved butterflies embedded within them. Apart from butterflies, there are also scorpions, rhinoceros beetles and stick insects mounted in glass cases -- they make a good conversation piece in one's living room or study.

Chinatowns of Malaysia

Functioning as a half-way house between China and Middle East, the Malay peninsula has been a cultural crossroad for centuries. Therefore, it was inevitable that some early traders choose to settle here, and among them were Chinese merchants. Though trade with China reached a peak during the Dutch occupation of Malacca (1641-1795) with consequential Chinese migration, it was the British who encouraged thousands of Chinese immigrants to come and work in the tin mines. These early migrants preferred to congregate together, thus giving rise to Chinatowns. A stroll through such quarters is an eye-opening experience.
Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown is the area roughly demarcated by Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, Jalan Sultan and Jalan Cheng Lock. A hodge-potch of Neo-Classical shophouses, modern shopping complexes, fan-ventilated coffee shops and stores selling a myriad of wares ranging from salted fish, herbal medicine, Buddhist figurines and funeral paraphernalia make for interesting browsing. The heartbeat of Chinatown is Jalan Petaling (Petaling Street), where makeshift stalls sprout out every evening to sell clothes, watches, CDs and leather bags. The clang of ladles and spatulas against frying pans, the steam of Chinese steamboat soup wafting in the air, and the sizzle of vegetables and meat being stir-fried stimulate an appetite among the passers-by.
Here, one can also observe a few dying trades during the day. At Jalan Petaling (Petaling Street), a tinker makes buckets, pots, letter boxes and ladles using a soldering iron heated over a charcoal oven. He uses only manual tools such as shears, pliers and scissors to cut, shape and solder the aluminium foils. A few doors away in a shop, there is a wizened shoemaker who hand-stitches PU and PVC shoes. Nearby, Uda Ocean Shopping Complex and Plaza Warisan beckon with their products made in modern factories. Obviously, the tinker and clobber may never be seen again in future as they fight a losing battle against the forces of modernisation.
If you can stomach the smell of fish and poultry, pop inside the Wet Market at Jalan Petaling. Gasping fish wriggle on cement slabs, chickens are crammed in cages, hogs' trotters hang from hooks and piles of vegetables lie invitingly in baskets. The entrance to the wet market is at Jalan Hang Lekir -- a street with an savoury past, as it had 39 registered brothels in 1890. For more palatable sights and smells, head for China Park. Located at the southern fringe of Chinatown at Jalan Maharajalela, next to the Monorail Station, it is an ochre two-storey building housing stores overflowing with Chinese collectibles and trinkets.
Historical sights are aplenty. At Jalan Tun. H.S. Lee (formerly known as High Street), the Kwang Siew Association harks back to 1888. Its temple roofs and eaves are adorned with stone dragons and mythical creatures, while two stone lions watch over its entrance. Proceeding south will bring you to the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple and the High Street Police Station, which was built in 1895.
At the southern end of Jalan Tun H. S. Lee, the pitched roof of the Old Victoria Institution peeps through the foliage of angsana trees. Resembling an English cottage and made of timber and brick, it was designed by A. C. Norman. In 1911, the bungalow in its grounds was the scene of a murder. English writer Somerset Maugham immortalised this crime of passion in a short story which was later made into a film titled "The Letter."
Up north in Georgetown, the capital of Penang, the soul of a Chinatown still lingers after more than 200 years since the founding of the island by Sir Francis Light in 1786. Geographically, the Chinatown is the maze of streets between Lebuh Chula and Jalan Dr. Lim Chwee Leong. Start your tour in the early morning at Lebuh Carnarvon where the street is turned into an open-air wet market with scores of makeshift stalls. Slippers, crockery, baskets of squirming fishes, bunches of vegetables and boxes of fruits fight for space among the stalls. While housewives jostle against one another to shop, rickshaws gather at stands to await customers, giving the scene a distinct Oriental feel.
Proceed to Lebuh Cannon to reach the Khoo Kongsi, an opulent clanhouse built in 1898. Intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes and Taoist deities atop its saddle-shaped roof enhance the lavishness of its interior, which is furnished with mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture and other embellishments such as carved pillars. Ten minutes' stroll away at Lebuh Acheh, Masjid Melayu has an interesting history. Built in 1808 with an Egyptian-styled minaret, it was the secret rendezvous of the Malay Red Flag Secret Society which sided with the Hokkien Tua Pek Kong triad in the latter's dispute with the Cantonese Ghee Hins. The upshot of the dispute resulted in the Penang Riots of 1867.
Sir Harry Ord, the Governor General of the Straits Settlements, dispatch a battalion of sepoys from Singapore to quell the fighting. It is rumoured that bullet holes can still be seen in many old houses in the area and that the hole in the minaret of the mosque was caused by a flying cannonball.
Another must-visit attraction is Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, which is located at Lebuh Leith. Comprising 38 rooms and 220 windows, it was once the residence of Cheong Fatt Tze and his eight wives. Nicknamed "Rockefeller of the East" by the New York Times, Cheong combined an eclectic mix of imported English floor tiles, Gothic louvered windows, art nouveau stained glass window and feng shui symbols to create a stunning showpiece. The mansion was also the set of the film titled "Indochine" starring Catherine Deneuve.
More sights wait at Lorong Cinta (Love Lane), Lorong Stewart and Lebuh Muntri, which are residential areas. Here, townhouses display calligraphic signboards and pastel-coloured stucco walls. Several have been converted into budget hotels. The Carpenters Guild on Love Lane has seen more than 150 years of history. During those days, all carpenters who came from China sojourned at the guild before proceeding to other parts of the country for work.
In the Chinatown of Malacca -- Malaysia's historical city -- the focal point is Jalan Hang Jebat and Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock. Formerly known as Hereen Street, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock is a showcase of Straits Chinese architecture at its best. Also referred to as Baba-Nyonya, Straits Chinese are the offsprings of intermarriage between early Chinese migrants and Malay woman. Their palatial homes are a beautiful blend of Chinese, Malay and European styles. To explore the interior of such a home, step into the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, where there are conducted tours.
Once known as Jonker's Street, Jalan Hang Jebat is famous for its antique stores. The Malay daggers, Nyonya ceramics, Dutch candle-holders, Chinese opium beds, charcoal-burning irons and Victorian clocks on sale in the dozens of stores mirror Malacca's rich history. Even if you are not into antiques, Jalan Hang Hebat will captivate you with its rustic charm.
Kuala Terenggnau's Chinatown consists of a row of prewar old building at Jalan Kampong Cina. These century-old buildings house shops, coffee shops, tour operators, batik and souvenir shops and restaurants. Recently, some businessmen have bought the houses from the original owners and turned them into 'swiftlet house' for their bird nest business.

Gardens Overflowing With Hibiscus

Many countries all over the world have selected and proclaimed certain species of flowers as their national flowers. These flowers symbolise their independent status and identity both nationally and internationally. The hibiscus is among one of the popular flowers picked for this purpose. Jamaica and Hawaii have also chosen the hibiscus as their national and state flowers respectively. The genus hibiscus belongs to the cotton family valvaceae, and has been dubbed as the "Queen of Tropical Flowers."
After having achieved independence in 1957, Malaysia also recognised the need to have her own national flower. In 1958, the Ministry of Agriculture announced this need and asked for proposals from different States in Malaysia. The seven species proposed included the common bunga kenanga, melor, terata, mawar, cempaka, tanjung and bunga raya. The bunga melor was highly preferred by the Western States. Without attempting to please anyone, on July 28, 1960, the Government selected and proclaimed the bunga raya or hibiscus sinensis. Several reasons were given to support its selection. First, it is well known and flourished throughout Malaysia, being commonly used as hedge fencing in many houses. The bunga raya is non-seasonal and flowers throughout the year. It also grows easily and vigorously, requiring little maintenance. The bright red colour of the flower signifies bravery, and the petals are beautiful and huge, and therefore are more outstanding as compared to other flowers.
The Kuala Lumpur 98 XVI Commonwealth Games logo was inspired by the Hibiscus Games, and symbolises the elements of friendship, dynamism and hospitality,. The blue peals are an abstraction of the alphabets CG; the red petals symbolise the numerals 98. The six pollen grains on the stigma represent the six regions in the world which the nations of the Commonwealth are spread. Overall, the stylized Hibiscus in full bloom represents a young, dynamic and vibrant Malaysia.
Besides being an ornamental plant, many species are used by various communities in various countries for medicinal purposes. In South America and West Indies, the seed is used as a snakebite remedy. The Xhosa of South Africa use hibiscus leaf as a dressing for septic wounds. The Zulu use a lotion prepared from the hibiscus leaf and stem to treat various skin ailments. In the East Indies and Senegal, the hibiscus seed is used to treat eye disease and dysentery. Hibiscus juice is an excellent thirst-quencher, and is available in major stores throughout Malaysia.
To introduce the bunga raya to visitors to the country, Taman Bunga Raya Kuala Lumpur or Kuala Lumpur Hibiscus Garden was constructed on an area of 0.9 hectare as a showcase of the different species. Owned and managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall, the garden sprawls over a hilly area of Taman Tasik Perdana which is surrounded by mature trees, making it most suitable for growing hibiscus plants. More than 2,500 varieties of the hibiscus plants have been planted according to its species and types all along the foot-path and terraces of the hills. There are also 55 types of hybrids between local and foreign plants, which come in a palette of colours and hues. The hybriding has been necessary as foreign species imported from Florida, Australia, Hawaii and elsewhere do not thrive in Malaysia's climate due to the heat and high humidity. So they had to be grafted onto local root stock, which has produced stunning results.
As visitors stroll through the rows of red, beige, light pink, yellow, orange and purple species of blooms basking under the tropical sun, the greenery and relaxing atmosphere soothes their frazzled nerves. Some of the blooms are as big as a saucer while a few are merely the size of a wrist-watch. Shutterbugs will definitely have a field day here. Along the pathways of ruddy brickwork, there are also clusters of rhododendrons, dancing ladies, yellow allamanda, ixora and helocinias amidst decorative lampposts.
At the summit of the hillock, a gazebo with spurting fountains allows visitors to take a breather. Nearby, a well-preserved colonial building housing a gallery-cafe offers air-conditioned comfort. Visitors sip Cappuccino or local coffee and admire the countless water colour and oil paintings on display and for sale. From the Hibiscus Garden follow a sign along a pathway that leads to Orchid Garden. An orchid bazaar opens every Sunday, offering countless varieties of plants. Take home your favourite orchid plants or blooms or compare notes with other orchid growers.
Another similar hibiscus garden is found on Penang island. The Bukit Jambul Orchid, Hibiscus and Reptile Garden is located at Persiaran Bukit Jambul, close to Hotel Equatorial and only ten minutes' drive from Penang International Airport. Penang has also chosen the hibiscus as its State flower.
The park is a veritable green paradise with man-made ponds, gushing fountains, snaking streams, reptile sanctuary, aviary and arboretum. The pride of the park is a vermillion red hybrid hibiscus named Dr. Mahathir Mohammad, after Malaysia's former Prime Minister. It was created by orchidist Michael Ooi, who together with his brother Gino, are founders of the park. Another peachy bloom is named in honour of HRH The Sultaniah of Terengganu Tengku Ampuan Basiah. Feast your eyes on other exotic species include Lucky Devil, Madonna, Happy New Year, Pink Champagne, John F. Kennedy and Mini Skirt.
Enhancing the beauty of the hibiscus are countless orchid plants. There is a rare hyrid named after Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's former Premier, which is considered a collector's item. The arboretum is home to local species of both hardwood and soft wood such as chengal, balau, resak and nyatoh. Reticulated pythons, poisonous vipers, monitor lizards and other creepy creatures make for interesting browsing in the reptile sanctuary.

Traditional Malay Palaces in Malaysia

In days of yore, the Malay palace not only functioned as the official residence of the sultans but also played an important role in society as a centre of learning, administration and culture. It was the palace which played patronage to artisans and craftsmen as well as issued orders pertaining to the administration of the state which flowed down the hierarchy of Bendahara, Temenggung and Laxamana.
During feudal times, the Malay rulers invested great effort and pride in the construction of their wooden palaces, which were often sited near river mouths to observe ships coming form the sea. The friezes, wall panels and even windows were embellished with intricate carvings. However, over the years, even the hardest of timbers succumbed to the ravages of flooding and termites. As a result, only less than a dozen wooden places are still standing today.
It is unfortunate that the most beautiful Malay traditional palace in the country -- the Malacca Sultanate Palace --- no longer exists as it was struck by lightning in 1460, one year after Sultan Mahmud Shah ascended the throne. According to the Malay Annals, the Malacca Sultanate Palace had a seven tiered roof of copper and tin, which was supported with pillars adorned with carvings of swallow's wings and shapes of clouds. Today, a replica of the original palace stands at Jalan Kota in Melaka, showcasing multi-layered roofs; it houses the Melaka cultural Museum. On exhibit inside are costumes, weapons, traditional musical instruments, old photographs and a diorama of Malay court life.
Arguably the most unique traditional palace in the country is the Istana Kenangan, which stands atop Bukit Chandan (Chandan Hill) in Kuala Kangsar. It is uniqueness stems from its bamboo walls, which gave it the original name of Istana Tepas ("tepas" means wickerwork). It was built in 1926 during the reign of Sultan Iskandar Shah by Haji Suffian and his sons Zainal Abidin and Ismail from Penang who took a year to complete the building without using any nails or architectural plans. The outstanding characteristic of this palace is the repeated use of the polygonal design. The whole structure of the palace, in fact, consists of several interconnected polygonal buildings, and its end tower supports a polygonal roof. Sixty pillars support this beautiful palace, which is a testimony to the artistry and skills of the Malay craftsmen. Today, Istana Kenangan functions as the Royal Museum, which brings back evocative memories of the past lifestyle of the Perak royalty with its displays of medals, old photographs and artefacts.
Moving south of Negeri Sembilan brings us to historical Malay palaces that feature buffalo-horn roofs, which are a result of its historical tie with the Minangkabau of Sumatra. In the State Cultural Complex in Seremabm, there is a small but interesting palace named Istana Hinggap. Originally sited in Ampung Ampang Tinggi in Kuala Pilah, it was built in 1865 by the Yamtuan Ulin ibni Almarhum Yamtuan Hitam to serve as a temporary place of sojourn during his travel throughout the State. Also known as Istana Ampang Tinggi, it is a now a showcase of Minangkabau culture with its weapons, brassware, silverware and costumes. The interior of its veranda and its door panels are profuse with intricate carvings in the finest arabesque tradition.
Of more recent construction is the Istana Lama in the Royal Town of Sri Menanti, 30km east of Seremban. Set in geometric landscaped gardens, the palace is the result of the skills of Kahar and Taib, two Malay master carpenters. M. Woodford of the Public Works Department was the chief draughtsman. The building was completed in 1908, and functioned as the official residence of the royal family until 1931. The ground floor served as the reception area; the second floor, family quarters; and the third, the sultan's private quarters. A ladder from the sultan's room leads to a tower which once contained the archives and prayer room. Construction techniques revolved around the creative of tebuk pasak (mortise and tenon) instead of nails. Ironwood was used for its roof, while its 99 pillars were made of penak wood, transported from Bukit Bukit Perigin in Jelebu, 60 km away.
Cultural influences have also played a role in the structure of palaces. In Alor Setar, the Istana Balai Besar features upturned roof finials and architraves of Thai design, reminiscent of the days when Kedah was under Thai rule. The two-story colonnaded building was originally built in 1895 by Sultan Abdul Hamid, and in 1905, an audience hall was added. Wrought iron railings and two curved stairways greet visitors at its façade. The palace was used by the sultans of olden days to hear grievance from their subjects and receive audiences.
In Kota Bahru, the Istana Jahar is decorated with carved panels and woden fretwork. Its Balai Penghinapan has a pentagon-shaped balcony supported by columns. Located at Jalan Sultan, the palace has been converted into the Museum of Royal Customs. Inside are dioramas displaying scenes of court life as well as pieces of songket and other textiles.
Near to the Istana Jahar stands the Istana Balai Besar, which was built in 1844 by Sultan Muhammad II. It contains the Throne Room and State Legislative Assembly. An outstanding feature of its roof is the duck-tail ridges. This design element is also found in Patani palaces in South Thailand, which points to its historical links with Kelantan. The audience hall of the Istana Balai Besar (and also that of Istana Jahar) is built on ground level rather than on stilts as compared to several West Coast palaces.
In the current age, when super-structures like the Petronas Twins Towers, KL Tower, Putrajaya Convention Centre and other edifices are glorified, the traditional wooden Malay palace is slowly losing its pride of place in modern Malay culture. In fact, during the past several decades, a few exquisite wooden palaces such as the Istana Seri Akar in Kelantan had simply been abandoned, whilst others had been pulled down to be used as firewood! A visit to these showpieces of Malay craftsmanship is akin to taking a time journey back to feudal society.

Diamond Bay - Famous For The Leaning Clock Tower

Ask anyone in Teluk Intan, Malaysia, what's the main attraction of the town, and the certain answer is "the Leaning Clock Tower". True, the Leaning Clock Tower is the town's most famous sight but why travel 120 km from Kuala Lumpur just to see a leaning structure? As Teluk Intan lies outside of the North-South Highway route, more often than not, travellers heading northward or southward bypass it. But there are fresh seafood, angling spots, toddy, boatyards, colonial shophouses, trishaws, "chee cheong fun" and "heoh piah", a dumpling-shaped cookie filled with caramel. These are sufficient reasons for a road trip there.
Lying between the Perak River and the Bidor River, Teluk Intan is the administrative centre of Hilir Perak district of the State of Perak. It was founded in the 18th century by Mak Intan, a widow from Mandahiling in Sumatra. She settled here with a group of followers, and they built a canal which looped over the Perak River, practically turning the village into an island. Soon, the settlement became an important riverine port that attracted migrants from Minangkabau, Java and Mumbai. When Sir General Archibald Edward Harbhord Anson became the first District Officer of Lower Perak, he filled up the canal. In 1882, Anson retired, and Sir Hugh Low, the third British Resident changed the town's name to Teluk Anson in honour of the former. In 1962, Sultan Idris Shah II reverted the name back to Teluk Intan.
Driving towards the town along Jalan Maharajalela, you will see the World War II Memorial. A huge solid boulder on a granite pedestal, it has the following engraved words: "At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them." Proceed to Jalan Bandar, and the old Police Station comes into view. Its arched entrance faces the Perak River - murky and lined with mangroves. Drive with care as cyclists are aplenty and there is no need to rush in this charming and rustic town.
At Jalan Selat, the Leaning Tower looming 25.4 metres high catches your sight from afar. Though it appears to have eight levels, it is only about three stories high, and displays all the elements of a Chinese pagoda. Its history is as colourful as the sunsets overlooking the Perak River. Built in 1885 by Leong Choon Chong, it served as a water storage tank as the town did not have a fire brigade at that time. Leong couldn't have chosen a worse place to build the tower as the site once had Mak Intan's canal flowing through. Years later, it began to tilt due to weak soil conditions. During the Japanese Occupation (1943-45), the structure served as a watch-tower for the Kempetai, with sentries posted to keep an eye on the movements of the residents. In 1997, the Hilir Perak District Council refurbished the tower, and opened it to the public in 2004. Today, the melodious chimes of the clock can still be heard one kilometre away. There is a trishaw stand near the clock tower, so why not take a ride on a three-wheeled contraption to see other sights? Teluk Intan is actually one of the few towns left in the country that has trishaws.
History peeks at you from many nooks and crannies. San Min School was once used by the Kempetai as their headquarters (opposite the school is a delicious rojak stall simply known as Ah Chye's Rojak); King George V Memorial Pavilion, still basks under the sun at Speedy Padang since its erection in the 1950's; St. Anthony's School, founded by priests in the 1940's, continues to educate countless students. Dying trades such as the weaving of rattan baskets, the making of wooden clogs and the lending of money by chettiers are fighting a slow death.
Just as Kampar is noted for its Kampar Chicken Biscuits, Melaka for its "dodol", Teluk Intan is renowned for its "heoh piah", literally meaning "fragrant biscuit." Three famous brands of "heoh piah" are Durian Sebatang, Hock Bee Tin and Tiger Head. The bakery selling the Tiger Head "heoh piah" is located at Jalan Pasir Bedamar. Just travel along that narrow road and you will come across a bakery with countless square tins stacked outside its premises. You can buy the cookies piping hot from the charcoal ovens! Packed in pieces of six, they are irresistible temptations for those with a sweet tooth. Residents of Teluk Intan usually buy these delicacies as "buah tangan" when visiting outstation relatives and friends. Another must-try is "chee cheong fun", which differs from other types as it comes with fillings, and is served with green chili slices. Stalls selling "chee cheong fun" can be found at Glutton Square, the moniker for the town's hawker centre at the end of Jalan Ah Cheong.
The Perak River is a mighty waterway, being the second longest in peninsular Malaysia. Its lower reaches are muddy and home to catfishes like patin (pangasius pangasius), tapah (wallago attu), haruan, toman and the odd sebarau (hampala macrolepidota). Anglers will find many spots to test the fighting spirit of these lively creatures. Live bait such as small fishes, freshwater prawns and grubs (lundi) should be used. Jetties suitable for angling are found at several spots around town, and a popular place is the Sultan Yusoff Bridge, five kilometres out of town. The local tackle shops are extremely helpful in advising the best place to land a good catch.
Teluk Intan's centre should not take much of your time, so for a change of scenery, head out of town along Jalan Sungei Nibong that leads to the Sungai Manik village. Here, large expanses of land are swathed with fields of paddy, and occasionally dotted with rest huts, often an assemblage of thatch and wood. The tattered clothes on scarecrows sway about in the wind and coconut palms enhance the beauty of the picture postcard scenery.
Another interesting drive is the route towards Kampong Gajah. To go there, leave town by Jalan Changkat Jong and after three kilometres turn left over the Sungei Bidor Bridge. The route is flanked by rustic Malay houses, lotus-filled canals and ancient tombs of the State's early sultans and royalty, some of which date back to the 16th century. Historians have dubbed this area as the "Valley of Kings." - a weak parallel to the Nile Valley of Egypt which contains the tombs of many of its kings.
Gastronomic adventures await in the coastal villages of Hutan Melintang and Bagan Datoh, 4 km and 15km away from Teluk Intan respectively. Economical seafood restaurants draw the crowds from Teluk Intan to Hutan Melintang during weekends. The culinary delight of Hutan Melintang is "udang hantu" (literally meaning ghost prawn), which is caught in estuarine bays. Don't expect air-conditioned restaurants but just plain wooden structures on stilts, with groaning ceiling fans whirling overhead. The most common fish served is patin, which can be steamed in a variety of sauces. Hutan Melintang is also a centre for boat-building, and craftsmen armed with saws and chisels at work on hulls can be observed.
Bagan Datoh, on the other hand, is coconut palm country, with toddy as a much-sought-after by-product. On a hot afternoon, savour fresh coconut juice from the roadside stalls as well as snack on coconut biscuits and other tidbits. There are also several kelongs out in the sea, but a boat has to be chartered to get there. The jetty provides an interesting stop to take photos of the open seas and to enjoy the sea breeze.
Teluk Intan means "Diamond Bay", and it is certainly a diamond of a town for visitors wishing to relish the days when life was simpler and less hectic.

River Safaris in Malaysia

Many towns in Malaysia were founded at the mouths of rivers as they were an important means of transport. Today, these rivers provide an alternative means of taking in the sights of a town as well as the plant and animal life along their banks. Tourists should try one of the the several leisurely river safaris available in East Malaysia.
Top of the picks is a river cruise that has been made famous by the Hollywood movie called "Entrapment" shot in 1998. It is none other than the Malacca river cruise. From the jetty at Dutch Square, the boat proceeds upriver and passes under Tan Boon Seng Bridge. This bridge has historical significance as its capture by the Portuguese in 1511 divided Sultan Mahmud's Shah's forces, weakening them. As a result, the Portuguese were able to capture the town.
Soon, old shophouses come into view on the left and right banks. The next bridge that the boat passes under is the Chan Boon Cheng Bridge. It was originally built in 1908 and replaced by its present structure in 1963. During World War II, (1942-45), the Kempetai (Japanese Military Army) displayed the beheaded heads of resistance forces at the foot of the bridge to serve as a warning to the community. After another five minutes of wind, a footbridge by the eerie name of Ghost Bridge passes overhead. The origins of the name is a mystery today. Then, the boat passes under the Old Market Bridge that links Kampong Hulu and the former Central Market. Fishing boats still berth here to unload their catches which are transported to the new Central Market.
Modern buildings dot the riverbank as the boat skims towards Jalan Hang Tuah Bridge that connects Jalan Munshi Abdullah and Jalan Hang Tuah. On the left are the Express Bus and Taxi Terminals. Further ahead, one can see the ruins of the Church of Rosario on the right. It is located near to St. Peter's Church, built in 1710. Your final sight is Kampong Morten, a typical Malay village with houses on stilts basking under the shade of swaying coconut palms. Moments later, the boat will make a U-turn and head back to the jetty. (Tel: 06-286 5468)
Kuala Terengganu offers a river cruise with several interesting stops. From the Shah Bandar jetty near the Central Market (locally referred as Pasar Payang), the tour boat departs upriver along the Terengganu River to Pulau Duyung (Mermaid Island), the first stop. A boat-building industry thrives on this island, which is also linked to the mainland by a bridge. Here, both luxury yachts and fishing boats are constructed by craftsmen without any blueprint, a skill inherited from their forefathers.
The boat then proceeds upriver along the Sungai Jeram (Jeram River), a tributary of the Terengganu River, to unfold a vista of rural lifestyle to its passengers. Women still wash clothes by the river, and the men cast lines to fish for prawns from sampan. Occasionally, small brightly coloured birds fly across the river or flit across the lush vegetation.
The riverine tour continues to Jeram River, with a stop at Kampung Jeram that holds a surprising sight. Amidst the traditional wooden Malay houses stands a Chinese temple with its red roof. According to legend, Admiral Cheng Ho of the Ming Dynasty sailed through the locality in 1414, and made a stop for supplies. His ship ran aground in the shallow waters of the river, and he came on land, spending several days with the villagers. In 1943, the Terengganu Chinese Cultural Association built a temple to honour the admiral. Called the Sam Poh Kong Temple, it comes alive during Chinese New Year and other festive days when devotees come to pray.
The next stop is the Pura Tanjung Sabtu Cultural Center, which has ten traditional houses. The centre belongs to the family of Tengku Ismail Tengku Su, a Terengganu prince, whose aim is to preserve the architectural heritage of his state. Two of the houses have been converted into guesthouses for paying guests (Tel: 09-615 3655); another serves as the private residence of the prince, and a third serves as a songket museum.
The final stop takes passengers back to the estuary of the Terengganu River to the State Museum Complex in Bukit Losong. The largest in the country, it consists of a Main Museum, Maritime Museum, Fisheries Museum, four traditional houses and herbs and botanic gardens. (To book the cruise, contact Ping Anchorage Travels and Tours: 09-6262020).
For nature lovers, a highly recommend river cruise is down the Sungai Selangor (Selangor River) at Kampong Kuantan to see the rhythmic flashing of lights produced by thousands of fireflies resting on mangrove trees. The phenomenon resembles the twinkling lights of Christmas trees and is truly spectacular. Locals call these fireflies kelip-kelip but they are actually beetles of the Lampyride family. On average each firefly measures six millimetres long. The males produce flashing lights in their thorax thrice every second. At the jetty at Kampung Kuantan, boat operators take their passengers (minimum two persons) upriver for about 40 minutes and turn back, allowing them the opportunity to observe this mating ritual of the insects.
The Sungai Perak (Perak River) is the second longest in the country, stretching for 400km. From the royal town of Kuala Kangsar, one can take a cruise downriver to the Pasir Salak Complex which commemorates the killing of J.W.W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak. Reservation booths are found at Jalan Tebing in Kuala Kangsar. A 25-minute boat ride to Kampung Jawang is followed by a two-hour boat cruise. Expect to see buffaloes wallowing in the muddy banks, monkey scurrying from tree to tree and brightly painted coloured birds flapping away in the lush foliage.
Nestled on the banks of the Kuching River, the capital of Sarawak, Kuching, has an interesting boat ride that begins from the waterfront in Main Bazaar. The narrow bustling streets near the river are chock-a-block with colourful temples, raucous markets, historic building and Chinese shophouses selling handicrafts of all manner. Admire the Astana, built by Charles Brooke in 1869 on the opposite bank. Today, it is the official home of the Governor of Sarawak. Further ahead, there is Fort Margherita that dates back to 1879. The fort resembles and English castle, and now serves as the Police Museum. It was named after the wife of Charles Brooke. As the boat slides eastward, the cheery colours of the wooden houses of Kampong Boyan, Kampong, Gersik and Kampong Sourabaya Ulu greet you. Finally, you are deposited on the east side of the city centre. What a joyful ride for a song.

Taiping's Heritage Trail

The town of Taiping in Malaysia means "Eternal Peace" and is Perak State's foremost historic town. It is located 80 km from Ipoh, the State capital. Formerly, known as Larut, the town was in the midst of a bloody feud between Chinese secret societies who worked the lucrative tin mines in the 1870's. After peace was declared between the feuding parties in 1874, the town changed to its present name. Before the founding of Kuala Lumpur in the south, Taiping prospered for several decades, scoring a number of firsts: first museum in the country, first English newspaper; first swimming pool. Today, it is chock-a block with heritage buildings.
Exploring the town is easy as its main roads -- Jalan Stesyen, Jalan Taming Sari, Jalan Pasar, Jalan Kota -- run parallel, and are criss-crossed with small ones. An excellent starting point for a walkabout tour is the Post & Telegraph Office at Jalan Stesyen. Built in 1884 and featuring buttresses on its walls, this building was built in 1884 and bears the distinction of being the first post office of the Federated Malay States. (The term Federated Malay States refers to a grouping of states ruled by British Residents during the 1890's). Now, proceed southward to the pitched-roofed Town Rest House that was built in 1894. Rich in colourful history, this rest house has once played host to past rajas and colonial officials.
Twenty metres further south, the ruddy brickwork of King Edward VII School peeps through the foliage of angsana trees. Tudor arches and wide verandahs are the hallmarks of this building that was built in 1905. During the Japanese Occupation (1942-45), the dreaded Kempetai (Japanese military police) used the school as their headquarters. Classrooms were converted into torture chambers and its grounds were turned into vegetable plots to supply food for soldiers. Strolling southward about a hundred paces takes you to the Ceylon Association on the other side of the road. An unassuming building of brick and wood, it was constructed in 1899. The next heritage building greeting you at the end of Jalan Stesyen is St. George's Institution, built in 1928. The wall of its grounds floor is adorned with friezes. During the Japanese Occupation, the building doubled as a Japanese school and a Japanese officers' hotel.
To continue the tour, turn left and proceed to the end of Jalan Taming Sari; then make a hairpin turn into Jalan Kota. As you proceed northward along this road, look out for the Hokkien Association was built in 1931. This building was the clan-house of the early settlers who migrated from Fujian province in China during that era. Another fifty metres further on at the junction of Jalan Masjid and Jalan Kota stands Old Mosque (Masjid Lama). Harking back to 1897, it features a six-sided façade and a brick wall enclosure. Its grounds contain the mausoleum of a Muslim scholar named Sheikh Makhbuli.
After passing the Old Mosque, turn right at the first junction to head to Jalan Idris and proceed to building No. 2 , which is the Peking Hotel. Once the premises of Taiping's rubber dealers association, it was built in 1929 and displays trefoil arches and narrow vertical windows.
Backtrack to Jalan Kota and head north. Near the junction of Jalan Kota and Jalan Iskandar, turn left to get to tree-lined Jalan Pasar. Resembling a temple, the unassuming Tseng Lung Hakka Association still stands proudly since its construction in 1887. From here, you can already see the Taiping Market ahead. Truly relics of a bygone era, it consists of two buildings: Old Market and New Market. The former was built in 1884; the latter, 1885. Made of ironwood timber, it is protected by an iron roof.
From Jalan Pasar, get back to Jalan Kota to see the Police Station. A former timber building constructed in 1881, the present structure was completed in 1936. It is topped with a fortified clock tower, and also doubled as a fire station. In fact, the first fire brigade of the Federated Malay States was based here. Proceed to Jalan Sultan Abdullah where a well-preserved building at No. 19 is occupied by Guan Chin Han, a trading company. In the 1930's, the building was actually a cigar factory built by a Burmese merchant who brought in women from Burma to roll tobacco into cigars. During the Japanese Occupation, it functioned as a warehouse for military supplies.
At Jalan Tokong stands the Cantonese Association and Temple for the Immortal Girl within a common compound. Founded in 1887, the association was set up to preserve the interests of early migrants from Kwangtung province in China. Its front courtyard is guarded by a pair of lions which were installed in 1954 when the building was renovated. Inside the same compound, Temple for the Immortal Girl is dedicated to the deity Ho Sien-ku Miao. It dates back to the 1940's.
Turning right into Jalan Kota, you are now at the outskirt of the town leading to the Lake Gardens. At the end of Jalan Kota, the Public Library is housed in a white-washed building with a pillared porch. Constructed in 1882, it was the former premises of the Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China, which later became Standard Chartered Bank.
A leisurely twenty minutes' stroll from here brings you to Jalan Esplande which joins Jalan Kelab Baru. At Jalan Esplanade, near the base of a hillock are two Chinese tombstones that date back to mid-1800's. They are the remnants of a Chinese cemetery once found at the foot of the hillock. Atop the hillock stands the District Officer's residence. Built in 1890's, it was once the home of the Secretary to British Resident.
After the District Officer's residence, continue for another ten minutes to British Officers' Mess. A right turn leads to Jalan Taming Sari where the All Saints Church is situated. Founded in 1886, it is the first Anglican Church in the Federated Malay States. The churchyard contains the graves of early British settlers who had failed to return home through some misfortune such as being struck down by malaria.
The grand finale to the walkabout tour is the Perak Museum at the end of Jalan Taming Sari. First opened in 1883, it exhibits ceramics, weapons, and stuffed animals, including the skull of an elephant that charged at a train in the 1950's. The statue of Colonel Walker, considered the "Father of the Malay States Guide" stands in front of the museum. Opposite the museum is Fort Carnavon, built in 1885, which is now a prison. Named after the Earl of Carnarvon, Secretary of State for the colonies (1894-1878), it was once used as a rehabilitation centre for captured Communists during the Emergency (1948-60).