Introduction: Places

A detailed guide to the entire country, with principal sites clearly cross-referenced by number to the maps.

Malaysia is a land of surprising contradictions: picturesque fishing villages and opulent hotels share the same sandy beach, cosy colonial resorts nestle on hillsides that host spirit-worshipping tribal ceremonies, while secondary forests are penetrated by the strains of karaoke. Throw in the cultural pastiche that is the Malaysian people and the result is an irresistible combination of charm and adventure that is still just a glimpse of the “real” Malaysia.

An Orang Asli house in the Cameron Highlands.

James Tye/Apa Publications

Situated right in the middle of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is about the size of Japan and has a population of over 26 million. The country’s infrastructure is well set up for tourism and consequently, it is fairly easy and safe to travel anywhere in the country.

Peninsular Malaysia juts out from the southernmost part of the Asian continent. In the northwestern peninsula, tin-mining plains are punctuated by sheer limestone hills and caves that are home to both prehistoric civilisations and modern temples, as well as the region’s first geological park in the Langkawi archipelago. Malaysia is also culturally well endowed. Penang’s George Town and Melaka in the southern peninsula are recognised as historical trading ports and inscribed as World Heritage Sites. Between these two places lies the dynamic capital city of Kuala Lumpur, which offers a captivating blend of influences. Meanwhile, natural riches are never too far away. While the country’s oldest national park in the interior harbours the endangered tiger, Malay craftsmen build finely decorated fishing boats by hand on the east coast, where endangered turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

Fishing boats in Marang harbour.

James Tye/Apa Publications

About 640km (400 miles) of ocean – the South China Sea – separates the peninsula from the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. While Sarawak tempts visitors to stay at longhouses and experience wildlife watching at many of her sanctuaries, it is Sabah that offers premium and world-class diving, wildlife safaris and Mount Kinabalu, Borneo’s highest peak.

Malaysia is a land of contrasts, and it is this that offers visitors such a gamut of experiences and the possibility of endless adventure and exploration.

A dragon wall carving at Kuek Seng Onn Chinese Temple in Kuching.

James Tye/Apa Publications