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).

Perak's Traditional Handicrafts

The State of Perak in Malaysia is known as the "Silver State" as it was once rich in tin, which has a silvery sheen. Today, the State is more renowned for its traditional handicrafts rather than the vestiges of its tin-mining industry. The villages of Enggor, Kampung Berala, Kampong Padang Changkat, Sayong and Kampong Kepala Bendang are among the main centres for handicrafts production, especially the famous labu sayong, anyaman tikar and tekat.
Labu sayong is a generic name for water pitchers produced in the village of Sayong, just outside Kuala Kangsar. Shiny and black, these gourd-shaped bottles have variations in form. A labu tanah is based after the bottle gourd, while a labu pucung has a long cylindrical neck similar to that of a heron's that is commonly found in paddy fields. The labu gelugor takes its name from the assam gelugor which is a yellow-orange fluted citrus fruit that is used as seasoning in curries. This particular water pitcher has bulges around its body. The labu panai has ribs all round, either vertically or horizontally. Neolithic Age potshreds found in Lenggong, Perak indicate that the making of labu is an ancient art that has been refined through time.
The making of labu is predominantly the domain of womenfolk. The first step in making this type of water pitcher is the collection of clay from a river bank. In days of yore, a menstruating woman was disallowed to do this task or even be in the vicinity while the clay was being collected. The clay is dried in the sun, and a mortar and pestle worked by foot is used to pound it so that it is free of air pockets. It is then sieved to remove coarse materials, and shaped into a cylinder using a mould for easy handling.
The process of shaping the clay begins by coiling a cylindrical piece from end to end, forming a circle. The potter's wheel is then spun and the clay pinched with the thumb and forefinger so that it rises vertically. Skill and control are required to shape the body, neck and head. A bamboo spatula is used to shave off excess clay while a small, wooden paddle is used to shape and firm the body. Finally, a flat piece of clay attached to the body becomes its foot. The pitcher is now decorated with motifs and smoothened with pebbles. It is then placed inverted in a kiln. After firing for four hours, it is removed and buried in paddy chaff, which imparts a black sheen to it. A coat of resin is applied to its foot to make it waterproof.
Another popular traditional handicraft is the weaving of mats from pandan (pandanus) and mengkuang (screwpine) leaves. Mats woven from pandan are considered more superior to that woven from mengkuang as the former is more pliable. The leaves, either pandan or mengkuang, are prepared for weaving by cutting them at both ends. The spine and thorns are stripped from the leaves, which are then sorted into sets of equal lengths.
Sometimes, mengkuang leaves are lightly pounded with a club to soften them. They are then soaked in water for two days and dried in the shade. Once dry, the leaves are divided into two portions. One portion is meant to be used in its natural colour while the other is soaked in dye that has been boiled in water. Purple and dark blue are standard colours though more vibrant colours such as yellow and pink are also gaining popularity. After being immersed for one hour, the leaves are removed and allowed to dry. What follows is the smoothening of the leaves using a bamboo or wooden smoother.
The weaving process can now begin, and a variety of techniques is used to produce plaits of different patterns that are named after plants and animals such as bamboo shoot, durian flower, clove flower, flying fox's elbow, tiger's paw, cockroach's wing and sandpiper's claw. It takes about ten to fifteen days to complete a mat, depending on its size and the skill of the weaver. The weaving of pandan and mengkuang leaves not only produces mats but baskets, food covers, wallets, fans, boxes and hats - serving both functional and decorative purposes.
Unique to Perak, tekat is a Malay art form with a unique identity. It is a type of gold embroidery produced by stitching gold thread over card templates to create raised relief on velvet. Common colours of the velvet are green, blue and red. The contrast of gold over the velvet produces a delicate handiwork that is high in visual beauty. The motifs used are inspired by plants and flowers such as cempaka flower, jasmine and water-lettuce leaves. Spangles are also sometimes used to achieve special effects. Tekat pieces are traditionally used on pillow cases, cushion covers, betel nut boxes and slippers.
To keep with changing times, applications of tekat now include handbags, table cloth, decorative wall panels and prayer mats. In Perak weddings, the use of tekat is mandatory. Bukit Chandan, a village near Istana Iskandariah, the sultan's palace, is believed to the birthplace of tekat. In the olden days, mothers passed the techniques to their daughters who were required to create their own tekat pieces to be paraded at their weddings. Though machined tekat is now available, it is the hand-stitched designs that are highly treasured.
The Perak branch of the Handicraft Development Corporation, located at the 40th kilometre Ipoh-Enggor Road, is a one-stop centre for handicrafts of all kinds. At the Kuala Kangsar Market, sprawled on the bank of the Perak River, souvenir stalls offer exquisite labu sayong. At the Lumut jetty, tekat products and shellcraft items are popular buys from the stalls here.

Malaysia Travel Guide, Taman Negara - What to Do?

Before I proceed on the activities that you can do there, let me explain about the park rules. The most important thing is you must have an entry permit to enter the park. Next fishing is not allowed and you can not take photographs without license. So let's proceed with the activities that you could do there in the mighty jungle.
The most popular attraction there is the Canopy Walk. The Canopy Walk is about 45 meter up in the air. The canopy walk was built for research but later open to the public. Any visitor to Taman Negara should not miss the Canopy Walk. Although the Canopy Walk was built with safety but it still scare me as hell. The walking down ladder is crazy man. It even worst than the walk up in the air. I am very glad to step on the flat ground. I think this will be the first and the last time for me. Entrance fees is RM10 for adult and RM6 for child.
'Orang Asli' or the original people are believed to be the early people of Malaysia. They have been living in the forest for the past hundred years. It took 20 minutes boat ride to get to the Orang Asli Cam from Kuala Tahan. The Orang Asli will demonstrate how to make fire. They are also famous with the poisonous dart. The dart is the bullet for the blow pipe which is used in hunting. Don't worry the Orang Asli will teach you to use it.
Next you can spend a night in a wildlife observation hide. There are six hide available in the Taman Negara and they can be reached either by walking or taking the boat. You need to be really quiet to let the animal come out. Among the famous wild animal to be seen are wild cats and wild pig.
So I hope you will enjoy your Taman Negara Vacation.. "Selamat Datang"
(Price of admission is time sensitive and may be vary from time to time)
Ahmad Syahrir is the author of the Malaysia Tourist Guide. He is providing free information that every tourist need to know if they are planning a vacation in Malaysia. Get Now!

Malaysia Travel - Land of Rainforests and Beaches

Malaysia can be termed as a place that provides the experience of the diversity of all Asian culture in a single destination. It is a land with a multiracial populace living in harmony and peaceful co-existence.
Kuala Lumpur, the capital city is a cosmopolitan, modern city with a thriving business and commercial centre. The city also owns some of the world's tallest buildings, a Formula I Grand Prix track and glittering shops and malls.
Lush tropical rainforest filled with a variety of plant and animal life. Golden sandy beaches with warm waters and swaying palms. Clear blue waters teeming with prolific marine life. Picturesque highland resorts for the ones seeking cooler climes. All this combined with fantastic Malaysian mouth-watering cuisine. Shopping in Malaysia is tremendously enjoyable be it in air-conditioned malls or the glittering-with-lights night markets. It is like a home away from home.
With Malaysia's perpetually hot and humid climate, there's not much of a choice about when to go. However, to avoid heavy rains, August-September and November-February are the months to stay away.
Accommodation is not a problem as visitors are spoilt for choice, as there is a wide range of hotels, chalets, resorts and home-stay facilities catering to various tastes and budgets. From the top notch hotels to a tent. Rest houses are also available, many of which are family run; giving both home comfort and an insight into local lifestyles. Moving around not only in the city but also long distances is easy because of the well connected transportation network including airlines, railways and bus routes.
Local transportation includes Buses, cabs, and trishaws.
Some of the most exciting and beautiful places are located at close distances. Penang, the 'Pearl of the Orient" is the best known of all Malaysian tourist destination.
Langkawi Islands, known for its priceless treasures- the sea, golden beaches, thick green forests and calm blue lakes that entice and permanently capture the visitor
Genting Highlands is a perfect weekend getaway from the chaos n stress of a cosmopolitan city like KL. Perfect spot to relax and unwind, walk away the blues and let the highland breeze. Also it has a huge adventure theme park which is a must visit for all young and old.
Malaysia excels in its variety of restaurants and food. Nearly all food outlets are safe to eat at.Most restaurants, except Chinese, do not serve pork. Alcohol, especially wine, can be expensive and add significantly to the price of a meal.
Shopping in Malaysia is an adventure and involves a lot of fun. Malaysia is regarded as a shopper's paradise from all parts of the world. For Indians it is considered to be a favorite destination as it showcases a diverse range of all types of goods. It is a home for branded designer goods as well as local intricate goods. The exchange rate of currency is also quite moderate.
The currency is in Ringgit.
From the cosmopolitan shopping malls and big buildings to the exotic beauty of beaches and islands, Malaysia tour is full of sightseeing destinations. Let your dream holiday come true in Fascinating Malaysia.
There are many luxury hotels in Malaysia, check it out the best hotels deals at http://www.hotelsmalaysia.com.my.

Malaysia Travel - Rich Experience

This beautiful Southeast Asian country welcomes you with a lovely traditional and touching statement "Selmat Datang." Malaysia is a vibrant and exotic country which has abundance of cultural and technological prosperity. The diverse cultural heritage is complemented by the lush landscape, delicious foods and variety of modern and ancient festivals. Several Indian, Chinese and Malay festivals share the list of holidays in the country.
Traveling Malaysia will give an altogether different experience. The two distinct parts of Malaysia can be explored separately. The Peninsular part constitutes the land that touches the border of Thailand and Singapore in Asian continent. The least populated East Malaysian province Sabah and Sarawak are separated from the mainland by the South China Sea. You will encounter the dense jungles of Sabah and Sarawak with plethora of plants and Wildlife. Do visit the Mt. Kinabalu that stakes its claim as the highest peak in South East Asia.
The Peninsula Malaysia attracts most of the visitors in Malaysia. And it is all because of the diversity in terms of people, culture and activities. Visitors like to travel Malaysia because it offers a comprehensive platform of modernity and history to be explored. If you wish to spend your days in cooler climate, you can head towards the Highland regions. For beach and sand freaks, Langkawi is the popular choice. Eastern coast feature many places like Kelantan province that offers you a nice opportunity for exploring the Malay life. Kota Bahru comprises of best of artistic values. For quenching the historical interest, one can turn towards the western coast which features the capital city Kuala Lumpur.
For more information on Malaysia visit: http://www.stayresmalaysia.com
Author is an associate editor of Stayresmalaysia. The website offers exclusive information of travel Malaysia. We also provide online hotel reservation of hotels in Malaysia.

Things To See In Malaysia

If you are planning on taking a vacation in the near future, I recommend that you travel to Malaysia. Malaysia is a beautiful place to really enjoy yourself. There are plenty of places that you can visit while you are there if you are traveling to site-see. If you prefer to just relax, there are plenty of places devoted to that past time as well.
In all actuality, Malaysia is a place that all nature lovers should visit because it has pristine beaches, tropical islands, haunting caves and untamed jungles. The natural beauty of Malaysia will open your senses and capture your heart.
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is the hub of Malaysia and is often overlooked by tourists. This is a mistake as there is a lot to see that will take your breath away including:
1) Petronas Twin Towers
2) Sultan Abdul Samad Building which is full of Victorian and Moorish architectural styles.
3) Tasek Perdana Lake Gardens which is a perfect place to have a picnic with your family or enjoy a nice walk.
4) Parliament House
5) National Monument
6) National Museum which is the home to many historical exhibits and also houses craftwork from many different parts of the nation and a wide variety of architectural styles that make it so unique.
7) National Mosque which is surrounded by spectacular lawns and elegant fountains that decorate the lawn like a Christmas tree, as strange as that may sound. The National Mosque was built in 1965; the dome on the Mosque is in the shape of an eighteen point star to represent the thirteen states in the country and the five central pillars of Islam.
8) Old Chinese Clan House where Chan See Yuen lived.
9) The Friday Mosque which is located in the middle of the Klang and Gombak rivers is the most popular place to visit in the city. A great place to watch the sun set.
Kuala Lumpur also offers many eating and shopping opportunities.
Magnificent Caves and Parks
1) The Batu Caves are located north of the city of Kuala Lumpur. They can be reached by climbing two hundred and seventy two steps. Wow, that is a lot of steps, isn’t it? These caves house the Hindu Shrine of Lord Subramanian.
2) The Museum Caves are full of brightly colored statues and murals from Hindu mythology.
3) Templar Park is nothing but all natural rainforest that is bubbling with beauty for everyone to see. It is full of jungle paths, swimming lagoons and waterfalls that all lie within the park boundaries. A magical place, indeed.
4) Malaysia’s agricultural park which is located in Shah Alam, Selangor at Cherakah has a large play area for all the skateboarders and roller skaters out there. If you have teens with you, this is the place for them.
Overall, Malaysia is a wonderful place to take a vacation. It is still considered exotic, but is becoming more of a mainstream destination as it gains in popularity.
Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - makers of travel journals to preserve your travel experiences. Great Gifts!

Melaka Heritage Walk

Melaka, Malaysia is best known for its well preserved culture and heritage. This is why Melaka earned its place in the coveted UNESCO world heritage sites. Melaka or Malacca is Malaysia's oldest historical city and one of the most popular tourists' spots in the world today.
The town of Melaka is small and compact. You can visit all of its interesting sites just by walking down the narrow streets lined with specialty shops and century-aged houses. With combined effort from the Melaka Tourist Information Center and American Express Foundation, they developed the Melaka Heritage Trail that will bring tourists to the right places just by following the map. Melaka Heritage Trail is like a walk back in time for tourists. This map is made simple with easy-to-follow diagram and descriptions of each suggested site.
When visiting Melaka, stop by at the Melaka Tourist Information Center first, to pick up your map and for best tips on how to maximize your visit to this ancient town. The center is located right at the heart of old Malacca. Your trail will start here and should end here as well. There are 10 major stops, not to mention your "side-stops" to interesting shops and spots along the trail. So, here it is, enjoy!
Your first stop is to the site where Melaka history started and took shape, the Malacca River. This river was once a busy, major port playing an important role in the spice trade but now it is only used for tourism purposes. Because of this port, Melaka had been colonized by foreign blood so many times. Melaka River Cruises are also offered in this area. At the eastern bank of this river, you can find 15th century Hindu Prince Parameswara's palace.
Explore the world of Baba Nyonya heritage or Peranakan culture with your next stop. This culture began with inter-racial marriages between the Chinese settlers and native Malay women in Melaka. The Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock is the "rich people" lane where houses are designed exquisitely with blends of Dutch and Chinese influences. You can also find Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum in this side of the street where guided tours are held upon request. Check out the miniature shoes, intricately designed, in display. They were used by foot-bound female of Baba Nyonyans.
A short walk and you will find yourself face to face with Malaysian's oldest Buddhist temple that is fully functional despite its age, the Cheng Hoon Teng or Green Cloud temple. Religiously activities are held here everyday. Further along is the oldest mosque in Malaysia, the Kampong Kling Mosque that was built with Sumatran influence in 1748. Kampong Kling Mosque still remains as the central of the Malay community.
Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia and one of the firsts. This temple is dedicated to Vinayagar, a deity who is known to remove obstacles. Now, when you see the famous bright red building, you will know you are still right on track. This old protestant church is called Christ Church and it is situated in Dutch Square. It is said that there are tombstones underneath the church. Masses are regularly conducted here in different dialects to cater to its multi-lingual congregation and one should not miss the clock tower that was built in 1886.
Going around, you will see the St. Paul's Historical Complex which houses three of Melaka's oldest buildings. At the foot of St. Paul's Hill, you will find the former residence of Dutch governor built in 1650. This building is hard to miss since it was painted red. Right up the top of the hill is the St. Paul's Church where you can also see the magnificent view of Malacca Strait. On the other side is the surviving gate of A Famosa called Porta de Santiago which was built in 1512.
Stumble upon Malacca Sultanate palace on your way back. This is a fairly new building if compared to those in site since it is a replica of the original palace. It is now home to Malacca Cultural Museum. Your last stop will be the Malacca Club or the Proclamation of Independence memorial. This trail will lead you back to Melaka Tourist Information Center, ending your journey through this fantastic and rich culture of Melaka. After visiting the important sites, feel free to roam around for some more.
Nowal has been a freelance travel writer and photographer for almost 10 years now. His expertise lies in Asia Travel Guides. Melaka Travel Guide is his recent travel guide to the historical city of Malaysia. The travel guide focus on travel and tourism information of straits of Malacca, Malaysia Explore Melaka Travel Guide and get to know the historical city of Malaysia.

Sipadan Island - Paradise on Earth For Divers

The world-renowned Sipadan Island is located off the coast of East Malaysia. The isle is right at the center of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, the dwells for a vast species of marine creatures. Rumor has it that the island accommodates more than 3000 species of aquatic life with a staggering number of corals existed under its pristine waters. The position of Sipadan Island makes it perfect for divers alike who are interested in exploring the underwater beauty of it.
There are nine spots to choose from, perfect for diving. Apart from the insubstantial beauty, these sites have appealing names as well, obtained from creative divers who stumble upon the breathtaking sight of the island's undersea experience. Hanging Garden, Barracuda Point, White-tip Avenue, Coral Garden and Turtle Patch are among the names given to describe the scene. Barracuda Point, for example acquired its name from the stories told by divers who came across an enormous school of barracudas cruising in the area.
The sunny climate all year round that Malaysia offered is the perfect reason why the visit to Sipadan is not to be stalled anymore. The humidity of its ambiance proposes an ideal weather for divers alike. Rainy seasons are to be expected during the end of the year but it certainly provides more adventure!
Malaysian government is taking measures to preserve the beauty of its nature, thus only 120 divers are allowed each day. They are 12 resorts in Mabul and Kapalai, therefore each resort will contain 5 pairs of divers. The accommodation is world-class; whereas air-conditioning, water heaters, ceiling fans, panoramic view of the ocean from a private balcony, satellite television, mini bar and fly screens are provided in each bungalow or duplex available in the resort. Electricity is supplied 24-hours utilizing the 3-pin plugs similar to the British.
Divers are transported to these resorts via ferry daily. All transactions will be carried out in Malaysian currency (RM). ATM machine is not available in the resorts, but credit cards such as VISA and MasterCard are accepted. Nonetheless, money changers are available in the airports and Semporna town. Visitors who grew out on the sight of the blue sea can savor the green spectacle and fresh air in Sukau Rainforest Lodge through 4 hour transportation from Semporna. Jump on a river cruise at Kinabatangan River to enjoy observing the primates hanging from the trees.
Another interesting diving site in Malaysia other than Sipadan Island is Redang Island, perfect for divers! To know more about interesting places to visit in Malaysia, have a visit to Travelto.my - Cuti-cuti Malaysia. Come Cuti-cuti Malaysia, it's great to be there!

Experience in Booking of Malaysia Hotel

Malaysia is a popular travel destination in South East Asia, possessing a wide range of attractions, like beautiful beaches, interesting diving/snorkeling spots, relaxing island resorts, cooling highland stay, fascinating historical sites, unique flora and fauna etc. Traveling from one place to another place is quite convenience, the best way is self driving. There are also huge varieties of food available, ranges from local Malay style, Asian style to International and Western style. There are many hotels, holiday apartments, chalets, bungalows and resorts available, ranges from simple "Home Stay" type of motel to luxury 5 stars Hotel. Unfortunately, booking of such hotel is not that convenience.
In 2008 October, during the "Ramadan Festival" public Holiday, we managed to book an apartment in Cameron Highland. This apartment is located at "Brinchang" Town, Cameron Highland, call "Honey Moon Villa". Honey Moon Villa is a mixture of residential and holiday apartments. All apartment units contain three rooms, with kitchen and cooking utensils provided. Living room is quite spacious, good for 10 persons. Apartment rental is also very reasonable; we enjoyed staying there very much.
In 2009 June, when we planned to book this apartment again, we were not able to locate the Apartment contact number. Try to search from internet, but failed. The only way to book was through a tour agency. As we were not familiar with any of the tour agency, we have to change our plan. We booked another apartment that my friend has its contact number, but it was smaller and price was higher.
In the beginning of 2009, my family and I planned a trip to Maxwell Hill, Taiping Perak, for one night stay. After searching through internet, no contact information of bungalow was available. No choice, we can't make advance accommodation reservation. We want to try our luck; we went directly to the bottom of the Maxwell Hill and asked the government officer over there. Finally, we managed to get the contact number for one of the bungalows, "Cendana Hut" and we were very lucky, there was still unit available!
From these two incidents, our conclusion is that in order to promote tourism industry in Malaysia, there is a need to provide sufficient hotel information to all potential tourists. I used to travel to China, they have very well established hotel reservation agencies like Ctrip and Elong, but in Malaysia, this type of industry is still young, it is difficult to find an established and famous hotel reservation agent. If we are not careful, sometimes holiday will turn into nightmare when hotel reservation is not done properly.
This website:http://www.malaysia-hoteldirectory.com is providing a list of major hotels' website in Malaysia that may be useful to solve this problem.