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The Guide to Malaysia ©2022 Leisure Guide Publishing Sdn Bhd Photos & illustrations ©2022 as credited All rights reserved ISBN 978-983-2241-27-0 No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, including electronic, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of Leisure Guide Publishing Sdn Bhd. The publisher has made every effort to ensure that all information is up-to-date and correct at the time of printing. However, Leisure Guide understands that change is constant and that many businesses enact policy changes without prior notice. This may result in some information no longer being valid. We apologise if any amendments to the places listed in this book have caused any inconvenience and regret that we cannot take any responsibility for any incorrect information or omission. Furthermore, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many attractions, facilities, retail and hospitality outlets and government departments have temporarily changed their opening times or have even shut down for limited periods. We recommend that prior to visiting any premises or locations listed in this book, readers should check with the respective organization’s website or telephone in advance. We welcome your feedback so that we can continue to make The Guide To Malaysia as comprehensive and accurate as possible. If you wish to order a book, if you have any questions or if you wish to inform us about any changes to items described in the text, kindly visit our website. We are always happy to hear from you and to assist. Website: malaysiaguides.com.my Tel: (603) 7955 7013, Fax (603) 7956 1660 E-mail: [emailprotected] Note - International Telephone Dialing: All telephone numbers in this guide include the area code and subscriber number only. If calling from overseas, callers should dial their country exit code (usually +) followed by 60, where the zero in 60 replaces the first zero of the area code. For example, to call the publisher from overseas, dial +60 3 7955 7013. Layout: Thirteen Studio Printed by: A. Sani KW (KV) Sdn Bhd Distributor: BookXcess Sdn Bhd (also for online orders) Leisure Guide Malaysia English Editions 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003 German Edition 2002 The Guide To Malaysia English Edition 2003 ISBN English Edition 2005 ISBN English Edition 2006 ISBN English Edition 2014 ISBN English Edition 2022 ISBN

983-2241-09-x 983-2241-23-5 983-2241-24-3 978-983-2241–26-3 978-983-2241-27-0

The Guide To Melaka ISBN 983-2241-04-9 The Guide To SarawakISBN 978–983-2241

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

9th Edition

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Their Majesties, the King and Queen of Malaysia TO MALAYSIA Map of Malaysia A Land of Multiple Facets INTRODUCTION Perlis, Kedah, Perak, Penang, Selangor, Putrajaya, Kuala TO THE STATES OF Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Pahang, MALAYSIA Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah, Sarawak, Labuan

9 10 12 24

CULTURE, ARTS Foreword by Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, Dancer & Choreographer, & HERITAGE Chairman of the Sutra Foundation

Kaleidoscope of Culture National Culture and Arts Department Department of Museums Malaysia National Film Development Corporation Malaysia, FINAS National Academy of Arts, Culture & Heritage, ASWARA National Archives of Malaysia Istana Budaya (National Theatre) National Library of Malaysia National Art Gallery National Museum (Muzium Negara) Listing Museums Listing The Arts The Art of Diversity Performing Arts The Human Canvas

42 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 54 64 72

PLACES OF Foreword by Datuk Prof. Jimmy Choo OBE, Global Fashion SPECIAL INTEREST Icon & Tourism Ambassador for Malaysia PETRONAS Twin Towers & Kuala Lumpur City Centre Suria KLCC Petrosains, The Discovery Centre Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS Menara Kuala Lumpur, KL Tower Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Tourism Centre, MaTiC Negeri Sembilan State Museum Melaka UNESCO World Heritage Site George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site Sarawak Cultural Village Labuan Water Village Homestay Listing Places Of Special Interest Listing INTEGRATED Foreword by Tan Sri Prof. Lim Kok Thay, Chairman & Chief RESORTS Executive, Genting Group Sunway City Kuala Lumpur MINES Resort City Resorts World Genting A’Famosa Resort Bukit Merah Laketown Resort Legoland Malaysia Resort Bukit Gambang Resort City Listing Integrated Resorts Listing

86 88 89 90 91 92 94 96 98 100 102 104 106 108 110 126 128 130 132 134 136 138 140 142

CONTENTS SHOPPING Foreword by Dato’ Sri (Dr.) Farah Khan, Founder of The Melium 146 Group, Malaysia’s Leading Fashion & Lifestyle Specialist The Fashion Industry Fashion in a Land of a Thousand Styles Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Bangsar Shopping Centre 1 Utama Shopping Centre Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall Vivacity Megamall Kuching Central Market Pasar Siti Khadijah Listing Shopping Listing

148 156 158 160 162 164 166 168 170

FLAVOURS OF Foreword by Chef Wan, Datuk Redzuawan bin Ismail MALAYSIA A Culinary Melting Pot

180 182

NATURE, Foreword by Tan Sri Lee Oi Hian, CEO of Kuala Lumpur AGRICULTURE Kepong Berhad & PLANTATIONS

192

Nature Agriculture Plantations and Commodities

A Manifesto for Megadiversity Transforming the Green Economy Reaping a Golden Harvest Boh Sungei Palas Tea Centre Sabah Tea Resort Malaysian Pepper Board National Elephant Conservation Centre Lake Kenyir Gua Kelam Recreational Park (Cave of Darkness) Listing Nature, Agriculture & Plantations Listing

THE SPORTING LIFE Foreword by Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Norza Zakaria, President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia

194 196 200 204 206 208 210 212 214 216 232

A Passion for Sport Sepang International Circuit Le Tour De Langkawi Penang Bridge International Marathon Borneo Ultra-Trail Marathon Flying Clubs Flying for Fun Listing Stadiums & Complexes and Sports Associations Listing

234 242 243 244 245 246 248

GOLF Foreword by YABhg Tun Ahmad Sarji, Chairman, Professional Golf of Malaysia

252

Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC) Palm Garden Golf Club The Royal Selangor Golf Club The Els Club Desaru Coast Listing Golf Club Listing WATER SPORTS Foreword by YM Tunku Soraya Dakhlah Tunku Tan Sri Abdullah, Rear Commodore, Royal Langkawi Yacht Club

254 256 258 260 262 270

CONTENTS Malaysia’s Rivers, Lakes and the Sea Malaysia’s Islands Marine Parks in Malaysia A Diver’s Paradise World Class Sailing Events The Sarawak Regatta Sabah FCAS International Dragon Boat Race Royal Langkawi Yacht Club Pangkor Marina Royal Selangor Yacht Club (RSYC) Admiral Marina & Leisure Club Straits Quay Marina Sutera Harbour Marina & Country Club Listing Marinas, Charters, Cruises & Ferries EQUESTRIAN Foreword by YABhg Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, former Prime Minister of Malaysia, Honorary President, Perdana Leadership Foundation Dreaming of Gold Polo Malaysia’s King of Games Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort Rider’s Resort Ceremonial Mounted Squadron Kuala Lumpur City Hall Mounted Unit Royal Malaysia Police Mounted Unit Selangor Turf Club Perak Turf Club Penang Turf Club Listing Equestrian Centers, Turf Clubs, Service Providers, Tack Shops, Breeding Stations, Polo Clubs Malaysian Equine Council & Equestrian Association of Malaysia HOTELS & Foreword by Tan Sri Dato’ Teo Chiang Hong, President, CONVENTION Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners FACILITIES The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur 5 Heeren Museum Residence Hotel Tanjong Jara Resort Eastern & Oriental Hotel The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi Japamala Tioman Island Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa Listing Hotels Listing Convention Facilities Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE) Listing Convention & Exhibition Centres Listing

272 274 275 276 278 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 292 294 298 302 304 306 307 308 309 310 313 314 316 318 320 322 324 326 328 330 332 346 350

MALAYSIA MEANS Foreword by Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik, President and 352 BUSINESS Group CEO, PETRONAS Why Malaysia? 354 Malaysia - the Global Halal Hub 366

CONTENTS Malaysia’s Economic Opportunities in every Area Regions Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) East Coast Economic Region (ECER) Sabah Development Corridor (SEDIA) Sarawak Corridor Of Renewable Energy (SCORE) Useful Information Malaysia is a Safe Country Malaysia’s Energy Landscape A Resilient and Inclusive Financial System ICT to Digital: Mainstreaming Digital into Malaysia’s Economy Architecture – New Horizons for Tropical Living Property – An Investor Friendly Market MM2H - Retire in a Tropical Paradise…For Less Education – Developing a Nation’s Greatest Asset Healthcare – Investing in Total Wellness Protecting the Environment The Media Scene Listing Who’s Who – Crucial Contacts CONNECTIVITY Foreword by Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam, Group Managing Director, Westports Holding Berhad Malaysia By Road Malaysian Highways – Safer, Quicker and More Convenient Malaysia By Air KL International Airport (KLIA) KLIA2 Listing Airports Listing Malaysia Airlines MASkargo MASwings AirAsia Berjaya Air Firefly Malindo Air Hornbill Skyways Sabah Air Aviation SKS Airways Cargo Airlines Flying Academies Aerospace and Aviation Malaysia By Rail Malaysia by Rail Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral) Klang Valley Rail Transit Map KTM – Malaysian Railways Sabah State Railway Eastern & Oriental Express Malaysia By Sea Ports – Gateways to Prosperity Editorial Team Acknowledgements

368 369 370 371 372 373 374 376 380 386 390 392 395 396 400 404 408 410 416 418 422 424 426 428 429 430 431 432 433 434 435 436 437 438 439 440 444 446 448 449 450 451 452 460 461

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

MAP OF MALAYSIA

PENINSULAR MALAYSIA SCALE 1:8 500 000 N

PERLIS KANGAR

P. LANGKAWI

THAILAND

ALOR SETAR

KOTA BHARU

KEDAH Sik Sg.Petani

Tasik Temenggor Kulim Butterworth

K.Kerai

rak

GEORGE TOWN

Ketereh P. Perhentian Besar Besut P. Redang

Tanah Merah

P. PINANG (PENANG)

KUALA TERENGGANU

Sg .Pe

Marang

Tasik Bkt. Merah Tasik Taiping Chenderoh

K E L A N TA N Gua Musang

TERENGGANU Dungun

IPOH 2183 G. Korbu

P. Pangkor

P. Kapas

Tasik Kenyir

2187 G. Tahan

PERAK

Kerteh

Cameron Highlands

Lumut

Kemaman

Kuala Lipis Jerantut

IT S O

Tg. Malim

PA HA NG

M EL

SELANGOR

Genting Highlands

AK A

W.P. KUALA LUMPUR SHAH ALAM Port Klang

P.Indah

W.P. PUTRAJAYA

NEGERI SEMBILAN

Kuala Lumpur International Airport Tg. Tuan

KUANTAN

Sg. Pahang

Temerloh Tasik Chini Tasik Bera

Pekan

SOUTH CHINA SEA P. Tioman

SEREMBAN

P. Pemanggil P. Rawa P. Aur P. Besar

Tampin

MELAKA

Segamat

MELAKA P. Besar

Mersing

1276 G. Ledang

P. Tinggi P. Sibu P. Tokong Yu

JOHOR Muar

Kluang

Tg. Leman

Batu Pahat THAILAND PHILIPPINES

JOHOR BAHRU

MALAYSIA BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Kuala Lumpur SINGAPORE INDONESIA

Map Courtesy of Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia, 2021

P. Kukup Tg. Piai

Tg. Pelepas

SINGAPORE

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

SABAH & SARAWAK SCALE 1:11 000 000 N

P. Layang Layang

P. Balambangan

Kg. Limbuak

P. Banggi P. Malawali

Kudat P. Jambongan

Kota Belud 4095 G. Kinabalu

W.P. LABUAN

Sandakan

Ranau

KOTA KINABALU

Beaufort

SABAH

Tenom

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Long Pasia Marudi

Long Akah

P. Tabawan P.Timbun Mata P. Gaya

Semp*rna

Tawau

P. Sebatik P. Sipadan

Mulu National Park

Ba Kelalan Bario

Niah National Park

Bintulu

Datu

Mulu

Long Seridan

SOUTH CHINA SEA

n Ki

n ga an Lahad

. Sg

Lawas Limbang

Miri

SULU SEA

Teluk Labuk

Long Lellang Long Banga

CELEBES SEA

Mukah

Belaga

Tg.Manis

Sibu Sarikei

Kuala Rejang

Santubong

Saratok

S A R A W A K Kapit

Batan

g Raja

KUCHING

Sri Aman

INDONESIA

LEGEND Population

International Boundary

Ferry

State Boundary

River

Less than 30 000

Lake

30 000 - 50 000

Principal Road

Mountain

50 000 - 100 000

International Airport

National Park

100 000 - 250 000

Expressway

Domestic/STOL Airport *Short Take-off & Landing Tanker/Container Ship Cruise Ship

Abbreviations Bkt. Hill G. Mountain P. Island Sg. River Tg. Cape

250 000 - 500 000 500 000 - 1 000 000 > 1 000 000

INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

A Land of Multiple Facets The Land Malaysia lies at the very heart of Southeast Asia, just north of the Equator, where the vast land mass of Eurasia gives way to the sprawling archipelagos of the Sunda Shelf. Its land area of 329,847sq km makes it almost as large as Germany and somewhat bigger than Italy. The country consists of two main land masses. West Malaysia or Peninsular Malaysia is made up of 13 States and 3 Federal Territories and covers 132,090sq km or 40% of the country, forming the southernmost point of the Asian mainland and bordering Thailand in the north. East Malaysia covers 198,847sq km or 60% of the total land area and comprises the states of Sabah and Sarawak in the northern part of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia and enclosing Brunei Darussalam.

A panoramic view of tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands. These highlands are part of the Titiwangsa Range, a chain of mountains rising to 2,183 metres that forms the backbone of the Malay Peninsula.

The landscape of West Malaysia is predominantly flat in the coastal regions, bisected by great meandering rivers. The Peninsula is divided lengthwise by the Titiwangsa Range, also known as the Main Range, which rises to 2,183m and forms the central spine of West Malaysia. The interior of Sabah is dominated by Mount Kinabalu (4,095m), while Sarawak has a number of smaller ranges rising to 2,424m (Mount Murud). Both West and

East Malaysia have long coastlines, totalling some 4,675kms, sprinkled with islands and coral reefs. Malaysia’s climate is equatorial with an average temperature of 27°C and high annual rainfall of 2500mm in the peninsula, rising to 2900mm in Sabah and between 3,300 and 4,600mm in Sarawak. There is no specific wet or dry season, although rainfall is usually heavier from November to March on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia,

Sabah’s longest river and Malaysia’s second longest, the Kinabatangan River is renowned as a wildlife paradise, home to orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys and many more iconic species.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Sabah and Sarawak. The West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia used to be wetter during the South-West Monsoon (May to October) but over the years, partly due to climate change, the distinct monsoon period has become somewhat blurred. The high annual rainfall over Peninsular and East Malaysia has given rise to major river systems fed by numerous tributaries. The longest is the Rajang River in Sarawak with a length of 563km. The second longest is the Kinabatangan River in Sabah with a length of 560km. The longest river in Peninsular Malaysia is the Pahang River with a length of 459km. With almost 200 water basins, the extensive river systems meander across flat coastal regions providing both drainage of the hinterland and river access from the coastal regions far into the interior, encouraging commerce and tourism. Apart from their support for transportation and economic activity for the indigenous riverine populations, these extensive freshwater systems support the ecological health of vast interior tracts of virgin forest. Natural lakes are not prevalent in Malaysia, in part due to the porous limestone nature of much of the terrain, but Pahang’s Tasik Bera and Tasik Chini

Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj (1903-1990), Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, proclaims independence for Malaya at the Merdeka Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, 31st August 1957.

in Peninsular Malaysia are exceptions. In support of Malaysia’s hydro energy, however, substantial manmade lakes have been constructed, the primary ones being Bakun Hydro Lake (Sarawak, 695sq km), Tasik Kenyir (Terengganu, 260sq km), Murum Hydro Lake (Sarawak, 245sq km) and Tasik Temenggor (Perak, 152sq km). The equatorial climate and high rainfall have blessed Malaysia with extensive tropical rainforests and over 50% of the country remains under forest cover. Malaysia is recognised as one of the world’s 17 Megadiverse Countries by Conservation International. It boasts 210 mammal species, 620 bird species, 250 reptile species, 150 frog species and over 14,500 species of plants. Some of Malaysia’s waters are in the Coral Triangle, a global biodiversity hotspot. The waters around

Sipadan Island are among the most biodiverse in the world and bordering East Malaysia, the Sulu Sea is an additional biodiversity hotspot, with around 600 coral species and 1,200 fish species. Historical Background Malaysia’s history is largely influenced by its

Sir James Brooke (ruled 1841-1868), the first of Sarawak’s centurylong dynasty of White Rajahs. The family’s autocratic yet benign rule only ended in 1941 with the WWII Japanese invasion.

INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

location on the strategic trade routes between East and West Asia. There is archaeological evidence of trade between China and the Malay Peninsula from the 1st Century CE, and a number of Hindu-Buddhist kingdoms arose in the succeeding centuries. Modern Malaysian history began with the founding of Melaka by Parameswara in the 15th Century. Melaka rose in just a few decades to become the commercial and Islamic capital of the East, but was captured by the Portuguese in 1511 and later by the Dutch in 1641. British colonisation began in the 18th Century, with the lease of Prince of Wales

Malaysians are very patriotic. Hari Merdeka (Independence Day, 31st August) is a great opportunity to show their love for the country with flags attached to their car or displayed outside their home. Some companies even decorate whole buildings, such as Menara T.S. Law, seen here in 2021.

Island (Pulau Pinang, 1786) and Province Wellesley (Seberang Perai, 1800) by the British East India Company, along with the founding of Singapore by Sir Stamford Raffles (1819). In 1826, the British Straits Settlements - comprising Penang, Melaka, and Singapore - was formed, followed by the Federated Malay States consisting of Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Pahang in 1896. The Unfederated Malay States, comprising Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, accepted British advisers around the turn of the 20th century. In East Malaysia, Sarawak had been a dependency of Brunei until English adventurer James Brooke obtained the title of “Rajah” in 1841 (recognised as hereditary in 1846) and the right to govern the Sarawak River District. Sabah, formerly governed by the Sultan of Sulu, was ceded

to the British North Borneo Company in 1881. The British exploited Malaysia’s hinterland, containing major reserves of tin, iron ore, copper and bauxite, and vast tracts of land were cleared for rubber, pepper and other agricultural products. These activities provoked mass immigration of Chinese and Indian labourers, dramatically changing Malaysia’s ethnic makeup. However, the British also developed the country, with a modern system of government, judiciary, schools, hospitals, roads, utilities, post and telecommunications. The Japanese entered WWII in 1941 and occupied Malaya, Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah for three and a half years. After the Japanese surrender, the British returned and attempted to form the Malayan Union in the peninsula in 1945, which

Independence Day is also known as Hari Kebangsaan (National Day). Here the Sabah International Convention Centre celebrates it as a festival of diversity, with attendees wearing their traditional ethnic costumes.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

was rejected by the Malays. Consequently, the Federation of Malaya was formed in 1948, while Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak became Crown Colonies. Independence for Malaya came in 1957 following amicable negotiations between Britain and two Malayan delegations, one of Malay, Chinese and Indian leaders led by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra AlHaj (subsequently Malaya’s first Prime Minister), and another representing the hereditary rulers, the Sultans. Merdeka (Independence) was declared in Coronation Park, Melaka, and proclaimed at Merdeka Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on 31st August 1957. In 1963, Malaya was expanded through a merger with the former Crown Colonies of Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore to form Malaysia. In 1965, however, Singapore ceased to be part of Malaysia and became a separate, independent country. The People Malaysia’s population (2020) was 32.7 million, including 3 million noncitizens. The population growth rate is 1.1% (2020). The median age is 29.2 years, with some 70% of the population in the 1564 year age group. The majority of Malaysians are Malay-Muslim Bumiputeras

Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy based on the Westminster Parliamentary System. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong (currently Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah ibni Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah) is King and Head of State. He is chosen from Malaysia’s 9 hereditary rulers for a 5-year term (2019-2023) based on a rotation system.

who together with the non-Malay Bumiputeras, make up about 69.6% of the population, followed by Chinese (22.6%), Indian (6.8 %) and others (1.0%). Bumiputeras (“Sons of the Soil”) is the official term for people of Malay and/or indigenous ethnicity, who enjoy certain privileges designed to upgrade their economic status. The non-

Malay Bumiputeras consist of Orang Asli aboriginal communities, ethnic Thais, Khmers and Chams, and Portuguese Eurasians from West Malaysia; Kadazanduzun, Bajau, Murut and other indigenous groups from Sabah; and Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, Orang Ulu and other indigenous groups from Sarawak.

The King (left), the Sultan of Perak (Deputy King, middle) and the Sultan of Kedah (right) followed by the other Sultans and Governors on the way to the Ruler’s meeting at Istana Negara, Malaysia’s Royal Palace.

INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

The national language is Bahasa Malaysia. English is also widely spoken along with many Chinese, Indian and native dialects. Religion Malaysia is a modern Islamic country; Islam is professed by 63.5% of the population and is the official religion. Other faiths however, such as Buddhism (18.7%); Christianity (9.1%); Hinduism (6.1%); others (0.9%) and unknown or no religion (1.8%) are freely practiced; temples, mosques and churches are situated comfortably side by side as it were. Religious faith has given Malaysia some of its finest landmarks. Notable mosques include the National Mosque, the Blue Mosque in Shah Alam (the largest in Malaysia), the Crystal Mosque in

The Perdana Putra building (centre right) houses the offices of the Prime Minister. Located on Putrajaya’s highest point, it is flanked by the Putra Mosque (centre left). The square fronting the two buildings flies the national flag and those of all Malaysia’s constituent states.

Kuala Terengganu and the exquisite Ubudiah Mosque in Kuala Kangsar. In major cities, including Penang, Melaka, Klang, Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur, mosques built by Indian Muslims also occupy prominent locations. Major Hindu monuments

The main tower of Malaysia’s Parliament Complex in Kuala Lumpur, which houses representatives’ offices. The main building holding the Dewan Rakyat (Lower House) and Dewan Negara (Upper House) is visible in the background.

include the Batu Caves temple complex in Selangor, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Penang and the Sri Sundararaja Perumal Temple in Klang. Buddhism has contributed the Wat Machimmaran in Kelantan,

The imposing Palace of Justice in Putrajaya houses Malaysia’s two highest courts, the Court of Appeal and the Federal Court. Its symmetrical design represents the order resulting from well-administered justice.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Sultan Haji service, both at federal and Ahmad Shah state levels. Al-Musta'in The Prime Minister is Billah) is King either the parliamentary and Head of head of the party with the State. He is most seats in the Dewan chosen from Rakyat, or the member of Malaysia’s 9 the largest coalition partner hereditary who enjoys the support of rulers for a the coalition as a whole 5-year term and the confidence of the based on Yang di-Pertuan Agong. a rotation The Prime Minister appoints system. and leads a cabinet of Members ministers. of the Lower Malaysia is made up of House, the 13 states and 3 Federal Dewan Rakyat, Territories. Nine states have are elected hereditary rulers (Perlis, under a firstKedah, Perak, Selangor, A man of the people. His Majesty the Yang dipast-the-post Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Pertuan Agong greeting Traffic Police Officers after officiating the Opening Ceremony of the Darul system with Kelantan, Terengganu and Kifayah Orphan Complex in Labuan. elections Johor), while the remaining (with the largest sitting held every five years. Until four (Pulau Pinang, Melaka, Buddha in Southeast Asia), recently, universal suffrage Sabah and Sarawak), have as well as the Kek Lok Si was available to citizens governors known as Yang Temple in Penang, amongst above 21. However, the di-Pertua Negeri, who are others. voting age was reduced to appointed by the Yang The famous Snake Temple 18 on 15 December 2021. di-Pertuan Agong for a in Penang and the ancient At the same time, the 4-year term. All 13 states Cheng Hoong Teng Temple introduction of automatic have their own State in Melaka stand out voter registration added Legislative Assemblies amongst the many Chinese 5.8 million Temples. Fascinating people to the churches include the electoral role, an Dutch-colonial Christ increase of 40%. Church in Melaka and the Members of the neo-classical St George’s in Upper House Penang. or Senate, the Dewan Negara, Government are appointed Malaysia is a federal by the Yang constitutional monarchy di-Pertuan based on the Westminster Agong and the Parliamentary System. The respective state Yang di-Pertuan Agong governments. (currently Al-Sultan Malaysia is Malaysia is transitioning rapidly to green energy. Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Aladministered by a Solar arrays such as the one shown here are becoming a common sight in suburban and rural Mustafa Billah Shah ibni professional civil areas.

INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

A view of Kuala Lumpur’s spectacular skyline, showing many iconic buildings, including Exchange 106 (left), Menara KL (centre) and the Petronas Twin Towers (right). The Royal Selangor Golf Club is in the foreground.

(Dewan Undangan Negeri), elected every five years. The Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan are governed directly through the Ministry of Federal Territories in conjunction with local authorities, namely Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Putrajaya Corporation and Labuan Corporation. The national flag, the Jalur Gemilang (Stripes of Glory), comprises a field of 14 alternating red and white stripes which represent the equal status of the 13 member states and the federal government. The blue canton bears a yellow crescent, representing Islam, the country’s official religion, and a 14-point

star representing the unity which governed from between the member independence. It is states and the federation. led by UMNO (United The yellow colour of the Malays National star and crescent is the Organisation), supported royal colour of the Malay rulers. Political Situation Since 1973, power was held by The Barisan Nasional (BN or National Front) coalition, following on from its predecessor Public transport in Malaysia is not only practical but also introduces passengers to beautiful scenery. Here the Alliance the KL Monorail glides over the heart of the city with (Perikatan) the Chinese Assembly Hall in the background.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

by MCA (Malaysian Chinese Association), MIC (Malaysian Indian Congress), some smaller peninsula-based parties and regional parties from Sabah and Sarawak. Traditional opposition parties include Parti-Islam Se-Malaysia (Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party or PAS), Parti Keadilan Rakyat (People’s Justice Party or PKR) and the Democratic Action Party (DAP) which, along with newer opposition parties, e.g. the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (PPBM) and National Trust Party (AMANAH), saw increasing support in recent years at the expense of BN. In 2018 an opposition coalition, Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope), comprising PKR, DAP, PPBM and AMANAH unseated the Barisan Nasional and took power on a reformist agenda in an unexpected victory, capturing both the Federal Parliament and a majority of state legislatures. The Pakatan Harapan government collapsed in February 2020 and a new coalition, Perikatan Nasional, took over. Perikatan Nasional has since been replaced by an informal coalition of parties led by UMNO. The political landscape is expected to consolidate when a new general election is held, which is expected to take place once the Covid-19

pandemic is under control. This change of Government at short intervals from PH to PN and the present informal coalition is untypical of Malaysian politics and is expected to normalise after the next general election. Legal System Malaysia has an AngloSaxon style legal framework based on that of the UK with a written Constitution. The independent Judiciary consists of the Federal Court at its apex followed by the Court of Appeal. Below these are the High Court in Malaya, whose jurisdiction covers Peninsular Malaysia, the High Court in Sabah and Sarawak, whose jurisdiction covers East Malaysia, followed by the Sessions Court and Magistrates’ Court. Community-level courts (Penghulu Courts in West Malaysia and Native Courts in East Malaysia) deal with minor offences according to customary law (adat). In addition, there is a Court for Children dealing with juvenile offenders and a Special Court which hears cases involving the Heads of State of Malaysia and its component states. A parallel system of Shariah Courts deals with Islamic Law, mostly family and inheritance cases. The Shariah Court’s jurisdiction is limited to Muslims, although non-Muslims may also choose to be tried or

to litigate under Shariah law if they so wish. Security Malaysia espouses and strictly practices the rule of law, enforced by a professional Police Force, backed up by RELA (People’s Voluntary Militia) and various neighbourhood security associations. Crime is low and violent crime against foreign visitors is extremely rare. Perceived corruption levels are the third lowest in the region after Singapore and Brunei, according to Transparency International, and 62nd out of 180 countries globally. External security is guaranteed by apolitical, well-trained and seasoned armed forces, who have distinguished themselves in UN peacekeeping missions in some of the world’s most volatile regions. They are backed up by professional immigration and customs & excise services and marine security agencies. Economy & Transportation Malaysia has a vibrant market economy with an overall GDP of US$337.006 billion and a per-capita GDP of US$10,412 in 2020 according to the World Bank. The country is working hard to achieve High Income Nation Status and is the 3rd largest economy in Southeast Asia. Malaysia’s economy was formerly based on commodities, especially

INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

tin, rubber and palm oil, but during the 1970s it transitioned rapidly to become a major manufacturing economy and since the 1980s the industrial sector has led Malaysia’s growth. It is now one of the world's largest producers of electronic components, electrical goods, solar panels, and information and communication technology (ICT) products. Services are also important, especially tourism, with Malaysia ranked 9th on the list of the world’s most visited countries, receiving some 26 million visitors in 2018. Medical tourism has also become a significant sector of Malaysia's economy and has been awarded “Destination of the Year” in 2015, 2016 and 2017 by the International Medical Travel Journal (IMTJ). Kuala Lumpur has emerged as a major financial services hub. According to Bank Negara, Malaysia leads globally in integrating Islamic finance, with 16 fully-fledged Islamic banks including 5 that are foreign-owned. It is also home to five international financial institutions from Europe, the GCC and Asia Pacific. Malaysia’s Islamic banking assets totalled US$ 254 billion as of December 2019, 38% of total banking sector deposits. The Malaysian economy is supported by an extensive

transport infrastructure. A network of highways links all major cities on the peninsula and a Pan Borneo highway is under development in East Malaysia. An intercity rail network covers both east and west coasts of the peninsula and connects to Thailand and Singapore. An integrated mass transit light rail and monorail network covers Kuala Lumpur, with a High-Speed Rail link to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Further national rail expansion and a possible high speed (HSR) line between Kuala Lumpur and Singapore are under consideration. The world-class Kuala Lumpur International Airport (page 422) is the main international hub, supported by international airports at Penang, Johor, Melaka, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri and Langkawi, and numerous other major domestic airports, with short take-off and landing (STOL) airports serving offshore islands and rural towns and villages in Sabah and Sarawak. Sea freight is handled by Malaysia’s modern sophisticated terminals (page 452), including Port Klang, Penang Port, Pasir Gudang, Tanjung Pelepas, Bintulu (Sarawak) and Kota Kinabalu (Sabah). Smaller ports handle domestic, feeder and regional shipping.

The Malaysian economy welcomes foreign investors with incentives, pragmatic labour laws, a well-educated workforce, a transparent legal framework and a comprehensive transport and logistics network. The country is ranked 12th in the world and second in Southeast Asia according to the World Bank’s Doing Business 2020 report. Culture, Arts & Crafts Malaysia’s history and diverse ethnic mix has created a vibrant cultural mingling. A fusion of Oriental and European architectural styles can be seen in modern structures such as the PETRONAS Twin Towers, the Penang Bridge, and Putrajaya, the administrative capital. The Colonial past is represented by the exquisite Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (or Blue Mansion) in Penang, the Moorishstyle Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Kuala Lumpur, and the town centres of Melaka and George Town (Penang), which hold joint UNESCO World Heritage status. Fine examples of traditional architecture can be seen in many old Malay kampung houses, the wooden palace (Istana Kenangan) in Kuala Kangsar and the native longhouses of Sarawak and Sabah. A wide variety of handicrafts also reflects

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Every state in Peninsular Malaysia has its own time-honoured style of Malay kampung house architecture. These superb watercolours by Osman Akbar Long showcase traditional village homes (left), Selangor and (right) Melaka.

Malaysian diversity and includes woodcarvings, ceramics, beadwork, metalwork (pewter, brassware and the Malay keris or ornamental dagger), basketry, textiles (batik, kain songket, and the Iban pua kumbu from Sarawak), intricately decorated giant kites (wau bulan), and spinning tops (gasing). Traditional motifs and materials are also reflected in Malaysian fashion; kebayas, cheongsams and saris are given a modern twist, while modern fashions take advantage of ethnic designs and natural materials. The multi-cultural heritage has given birth to dance, music, theatre, storytelling and other performing art forms unique to Malaysia, including wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), mak yong (dance drama) and the traditional dances of Sabah and Sarawak. Many modern performers have

borrowed from traditional styles to create remarkable new music, dance, drama and literature forms that are gaining worldwide recognition. Festival & Events Due to its wide variety of cultures and religions, Malaysia celebrates many festivals, the most important of which are Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Malay/ Muslim), Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Thaipusam (Hindu), Christmas, Gawai Dayak (harvest festival, Sarawak) and Kaamatan (harvest festival, Sabah). Many other major festivals take place throughout the year during which people practice the Malaysian tradition of “open house”, inviting anyone and everyone into their homes to enjoy traditional food and warm hospitality. There are also frequent pop, rock, folk and jazz concerts by famous local and international artists and classical

concerts and recitals by the internationally renowned Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. Music festivals such as the Rainforest World Music Festival (Kuching, Sarawak), the Penang World Music Festival, the Kuala Lumpur Jazz Festival, the Borneo Jazz Festival (Miri, Sarawak) and the Tiger Asian Music Festival (Kuala Lumpur) create opportunities for celebration throughout the year. On a sporting note, the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) is held annually at the Sepang International Circuit and the Tour de Langkawi, held early in the year, is a major international cycling road race and part of the UCI Asian Tour. The Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta and the Royal Langkawi International Regatta provide worldclass yacht racing, the Sarawak Regatta and the Penang Dragon

INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, celebrating the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is a time for families and friends to visit one another’s homes. Here a family in Malay festive attire prepare to welcome visitors to their open house celebration.

One of the most popular attractions during Chinese New Year. Traditional lion dances, said to drive away bad luck and ensure good fortune for the coming year, are very artistic and also require a remarkable degree of athleticism.

Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, is the highlight of the year for Malaysia’s Hindus, Sikhs and Jains. Malaysian Indian staff of Da Men Mall in Subang Jaya are shown dressed for the occasion while posing with this exquisite Kolam decoration, created from coloured rice grains.

Boat Festival showcase traditional water sports, and the Regatta Lepa in Semp*rna, Sabah highlights traditional Bajau sailing craft. The country also hosts major international golf, tennis, badminton, squash and hockey tournaments, and has successfully hosted the Commonwealth Games and Southeast Asian Games. The Great Outdoors Malaysia has a wide variety of natural attractions, including tropical rainforests, beaches, mountains, lakes and islands. On the peninsula, these include Taman Negara and the Belum Rainforest Reserve, both vast tropical rainforests, home to a huge array of tropical flora and fauna. In Sabah the Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World

Heritage Site, is dominated by the tallest mountain in Southeast Asia, and in Sarawak the Mulu National Park, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the world’s largest known cave system. Lakes and rivers add to Malaysia’s colourful landscape; Kenyir Lake is the largest artificial lake in West Malaysia, and the Kinabatangan River in Sabah offers sightings of orangutans, proboscis monkeys, riverine crocodiles and even pygmy elephants. In Sarawak, the Bakun Hydro Lake is the second largest body of fresh water in Southeast Asia and the 563km Rejang River in Sarawak is the gateway to remote longhouses and pristine rainforest, while the Selangor River and the Padas River in Sabah offer challenging whitewater rafting. Malaysia’s many tropical islands include: Pangkor Laut, where the “Three Tenors” sang under the stars; Tioman, where elements of the film “South Pacific” were shot; the idyllic Langkawi archipelago; and Mabul and Sipadan in Sabah, two renowned diving sites. The mainland also offers superb beaches and rustic fishing villages, especially on the east coast of the peninsula and in Sabah. Redang Marine Park in Terengganu, one of

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The spectacular 300-metre canopy walk at Danum Valley, Sabah. This 438sq km Conservation Area is one of Earth’s most complex ecosystems, home to clouded leopards, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, Bornean pygmy elephants and the world’s tallest tropical tree.

Malaysia’s top snorkelling sites; and Turtle Islands Park in Sabah, a nesting site for Green and Hawksbill Turtles. Sipadan Island Park comprises Malaysia’s only oceanic island and is considered to be one of the top 10 diving sites globally. The country is a paradise for outdoor sports, especially golf, with a remarkable choice of venues ranging from breezy seaside courses to “golfing in the clouds”. Horse riding and polo are increasingly popular, as are yachting, kayaking and motorised watersports. Visiting & Living in Malaysia Malaysia is a remarkable place to visit, live or work.

The amenable climate, food and hospitality create a complete experience and high quality of life. The mix of Malay, Indian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Western and fusion cuisine, and the huge variety of outlets, ranging from hawker stalls to food trucks and 5-star hotels, makes it possible to dine out every day of the year without breaking the bank. Comfortable accommodation is easy to find and ranges from clean and cosy backpacker hostels to Airbnb rentals and some of the most exclusive 5and 6-star city hotels and resorts in Asia. Business visitors will find complete business facilities that make Malaysia the ideal destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. Longterm residents have a wide choice of quality rental properties convenient for

schools, shopping and commuting, and may also purchase residential and commercial properties with some minor restrictions. Malaysia is above all a healthy place to live. Its modern hospitals and medical centres with state-of-the-art facilities offer worldclass care at affordable prices. Alternative and complementary therapies– traditional medicine, spas and wellness centres–are also widely available. Malaysia also has a My Second Home programme (MM2H) that enables foreigners and their families to experience the joys of making Malaysia their home. Qualified applicants can obtain a 10year renewable Social Visit Pass and Multiple Entry Visas, purchase properties, and enjoy tax exemptions on imported cars.

Malaysia’s coastline is surrounded with beautiful tropical islands, perfect for sun and sea vacations. This glorious sea view is from Sari Pacifica Hotel, Pulau Sibu Tengah, Johor.

Malaysia Maps

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy.

Perlis

PERLIS

Population: 253,800 Area: 819sq km State Capital: Kangar State Website: perlis.gov.my HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport

Historical Background The 1821-1842 Siamese invasion forced the Sultan of Kedah to surrender Perlis as an autonomous Siamese vassal state. In 1843, the Sultan of Kedah consented to his grandson Syed Hussain Jamalullail being appointed the first Raja of Perlis. Perlis came under British colonial rule but was returned to Siam as a reward by the Japanese for their allegiance in WWII. With the Japanese surrender, Perlis once again came under British rule. Perlis became

in Alor Setar, Kedah, is 40km away. International airports at Langkawi, accessible by ferry, and Penang, 110km away. By Road: Perlis is the northernmost state in Peninsular Malaysia, bordering Satun and Songkhla Provinces, Thailand. The Kuala Perlis-Changlun Highway connects to the North–South Expressway running from Kedah in the North to Johor in the South. By Rail: Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity North-South Line stations are in Padang Besar, Bukit Keteri and Arau. State Railway of Thailand (SRT) operates a daily sleeper service from Padang Besar to Bangkok and a twice-daily shuttle to Hat Yai. By Sea: Kuala Perlis is the state’s main cargo port and the ferry terminal for services to Langkawi (Kedah).

independent under the Federation of Malaya in 1957, and later joined Malaysia as its smallest state in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Raja (King) of Perlis, currently HRH Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail (2000 - present). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister, usually leader

Major Economic Activities Perlis’s economy is dominated by the services sector, followed by agriculture including Labuan fruit farming (especially “Harumanis” mangoes), paddy farming, livestock breeding (cattle, goat, sheep, chicken), fisheries and aquaculture. Manufacturing is focused around food processing, especially fruit and meat products. There is SARAWAK also some manufacturing of plastic, electrical, metal and textile products. Main Industrial Areas The Perlis State Economic Development Corporation (PSEDC) has developed Jejawi Industrial Area (24.43ha), Chuping Industrial Area (22.35ha), Kuala Perlis Industrial Area (26.88ha) and Padang Besar Industrial Area (42.54ha). New industrial zones under development are Kuala Perlis Industrial Area (26.88ha), and Pauh Putra Industrial Area (30.51 ha) constructed for heavy and environment-friendly industries. These will all be dwarfed by the planned Chuping Valley Industrial Area, a 1,215ha former sugarcane plantation scheduled to become the state’s economic and industrial hub by 2025.

Malaysia Maps

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Kedah Darul Aman

(Kedah, Abode of Peace)

KEDAH

Population: 2.19 million. Area: 9,447sq km Major Towns: Alor Setar (state capital), Anak Bukit (royal town), Sungai Petani, Kulim, Kuah (Langkawi). State Website: kedah. gov.my HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Sultan Abdul Halim Airport, Alor Setar and Langkawi International Airport (free port status). By Road: North-South Expressway from Kuala Lumpur & Penang. By Rail: KTM stations in Alor Setar, Gurun, Sungai Petani. By Sea: Kuala Kedah Jetty, ferry to Langkawi Island.

Historical Background Kedah, the oldest state in the Malay Archipelago, dates from around 110 CE. Sultan Mudzaffar Shah I embraced Islam in 1136 CE, founding the oldest Royal House in Malaysia and one of the oldest in the world. Invaded by Siam in 1821, Kedah remained under Siamese control until 1909 when it was transferred to Britain. During WWII the Japanese returned Kedah to their Thai allies, but British rule resumed after the war. Kedah gained independence in 1957 as part of the Malay Federation. State Government The current (29th) Sultan, Tuanku Sallehuddin Ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah

(2017 - present), is Head of State and Head of Islam and governs together with the State Executive Council under the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister). Major Economic Activities The main economic activities are services (56.2% of state GDP), manufacturing (28.7%) and agriculture and fisheries (12.1%). Kedah is the rice bowl of Malaysia, accounting for almost 42% of national production, and is noted for its high quality Jelapang rice. Aquaculture, fisheries, rubber, oil palm, timber, feedlots, poultry and horticulture are also significant. The manufacturing sector focuses on high-tech

automotive, aerospace, electronics and IT, as well as motorcycles. Tourism is driven by the world-famous Langkawi archipelago and Jerai Geopark, the eco-tourism hub for the mainland. Kedah also benefits from cross-border trade with Thailand and a modest mining sector Labuan (iron, granite and quartz). Development is also facilitated by Northern Corridor Economic Region initiatives (see page 369). Main Industrial Areas Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), the first of its kind in SARAWAK Malaysia, has attracted over 40 leading technology companies including Intel, Osram, Celestica, First Solar, Silterra, Fuji Electric and Infineon. Its strategic advantages include its location, global connectivity, dedicated Local Authority and dedicated power utility. Other major industrial sites include Modenas Motorcycles at Gurun and the Asian Composites plant at Bukit Kayu Hitam. Future Investment Opportunities The 1,224-acre Kedah Rubber City (KRC) in Padang Terap will be developed into a “Rubber Corridor” linking the major rubber producers in the Indonesia-MalaysiaThailand Growth Triangle. It is expected to contribute RM14.7 billion to GDP when fully realised.

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INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Pulau Pinang

(Island of the Betel Nut)

State Capital: George Town State Website: penang. gov.my PENANG

Population: 1.77 million Area: 1,049.07sq km comprising Pulau Pinang island (301.26sq km) and the Seberang Perai mainland (747.8sq km)

Historical Background Penang Island was leased by the Sultan of Kedah to Captain Francis Light in 1771 in exchange for protection against the Burmese and Siamese. In 1800, the Sultan leased to LieutenantGovernor Sir George Leith an adjoining strip of land on the adjacent mainland known as Province Wellesley (now Seberang Perai). Penang formed part of the British Straits Settlements, together with Melaka and Singapore, and became a major trading port,

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Penang International Airport. By Road: The NorthSouth Expressway from Kedah in the North connects mainland Penang to Johor in the South. The Penang Bridge connects mainland Penang to the island. By Rail: Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity North South Line station is in Butterworth on the mainland, also used by Thai Railways services to Bangkok. By Sea: Penang Port is the main cargo and passenger terminal. Car and passenger ferry terminals for services between island and mainland are located in George Town and Butterworth.

remaining under British rule until it gained independence by joining the Federation of Malaya in 1957 and later Malaysia in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor), currently Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak (2021 - present), who is appointed by the Yang diPertuan Agong. The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council

(EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the Ketua Menteri (Chief Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy. Major Economic Activities Labuan The highly developed manufacturing industry consists of high-tech electronics, pharmaceuticals and plastics, among others. Tourism is also important, with Penang known as the “Pearl of the Orient” for its natural beauty, historical SARAWAK charm and UNESCO World Heritage Site status (held jointly with Melaka). Agriculture also plays an important role with rice, palm oil and rubber grown mostly on the mainland. Main Industrial Areas Penang Development Corporation has developed Bayan Lepas Industrial Zone (BLIZ), Batu Kawan Industrial Park, Bukit Minyak Industrial Park containing the Halal Integrated Park, Penang Science Park near Permatang Tinggi, and the Penang Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) Cybercity in Bayan Baru. It boasts over 140 multinationals including AMD, Intel, Dell, Sony, Motorola, Toshiba, Kingston, Western Digital, Seagate, Altera, Agilent, Renesas, Osram, Clarion, Plexus, Bosch, and B. Braun, amongst others.

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administers and implements policy.

Perak Darul Ridzuan

(Perak, The Abode of Grace)

Population: 2.51 million Area: 20,998sq km State Capital: Ipoh State Website: perak.gov.my

PERAK

Historical Background Archeological findings such as the “Perak Man” in Lenggong indicate that Perak was inhabited since prehistoric times. Perak’s modern history began when Sultan Muzaffar Shah, the eldest son (and later successor) of the Sultan of Melaka established his own rule on the banks of the Perak River in the mid-15th Century. Perak rose in prominence when Long Jaafar discovered tin in Larut in 1848. Mining areas were opened up and related infrastructure built, making Perak one of the most developed states at that time. Perak joined the

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Sultan Azlan Shah Airport, Ipoh. By Road: The North-South Expressway runs from Kedah in the North through Perak to Johor in the South. By Rail: Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity North-South Line stations are in Taiping, Ipoh, Tapah & Tanjung Malim. By Sea: Lumut (home of the Royal Malaysian Navy) is the ferry terminal for Pangkor Island, which has two public ferry jetties.

Federated Malay States in 1895, gained independence via the Federation of Malaya in 1957, and later joined Malaysia in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Sultan, currently HRH Sultan Dr Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah (2014 - present). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary)

Major Economic Activities Perak was the world’s biggest tin producer until the 1970’s. Its economy has since diversified and manufacturing activities are now centred on the maritime, automotive and defence industries. Labuan Perak has benefited from plentiful natural resources to develop its agricultural sector, including paddy farming, fruit farming (particularly pomelo), groundnuts, rubber and palm oil, aquaculture SARAWAK and agro-forestry. With its many jungles, hills, waterfalls and rivers, as well as the world-famous beaches of Pangkor Island, Perak is also a popular eco-tourism destination. Main Industrial Areas Perak’s focal business areas are Ipoh, Seri Iskandar, Tanjung Malim, Gerik, Kuala Kangsar, Parit Buntar, Telok Intan, Seri Manjung and Taiping. Major industries include electrical and electronics, basic metal products, automobiles, resource-based industries and maritime industries. A new growth corridor, the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), (see page 369) is being developed in the north of the state. A 132km West Coast Expressway will also be implemented to connect Hutan Melintang, Teluk Intan and Changkat Jering, Taiping.

Malaysia Maps

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Selangor Darul Ehsan

Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy.

(Selangor, The Abode of Sincerity)

State Website: selangor. gov.my

SELANGOR

Population: 6.56 million Area: 7,951sq km State Capital: Shah Alam

Historical Background Selangor’s history dates from the 15th Century when it was ruled by the Sultanate of Melaka. It was occupied by Minangkabau settlers from Sumatra and later Bugis settlers from Sulawesi, who established the present sultanate in 1740. The 19th Century discovery of tin attracted a large influx of Chinese migrants, whose clans allied with local chiefs to control the tin mines. Civil war broke out between warring clans resulting in the British intervening and installing a Resident in 1874. Selangor, with Kuala Lumpur as its capital, joined the Federated Malay States in 1895, the

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport. By Road: The North-South Expressway from Kedah in the North runs through Selangor to Johor in the South. By Rail: KTM Intercity stations are in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Rawang, and Kajang. Selangor has multiple KTM Komuter and Rapid KL connections. By Sea: Port Klang Free Zone’s Northport, Southport and Westport are major cargo ports.

Federation of Malaya in 1948, gained independence in 1957 and became part of Malaysia in 1963. Selangor ceded Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Government in 1974 and Putrajaya in 2001, to be administered as Federal Territories. State Government The Head of State is the Sultan, currently HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah (2001-present). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the (Chief Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional

Major Economic Activities Selangor is Malaysia’s richest and most developed state. In addition to services (especially finance and banking), the economy relies Labuan on manufacturing, vehicles (Perodua, Proton, Nissan, BMW, Toyota, Volvo, etc.), electronics, chemicals, and agriculture, namely palm oil, rubber, fruits and rice. A new source of growth has been identified in manufacturing supply and SARAWAK services related to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) digitalisation, animation, content industry, aerospace, smart and high-value farming, medical tourism, and gig economy. Tourism is thriving with many major attractions, including Sunway Lagoon (Bandar Sunway), the National Zoo (Ampang Jaya), the State Blue Mosque (Shah Alam) and the famous Batu Caves Hindu temple complex. Major Industrial Areas Cyberjaya, the hub of the Multimedia Super Corridor, is Malaysia’s Silicon Valley. There is also the Port Klang Free Trade Zone and Selangor Halal Hub on Pulau Indah (21sq km), the Zurah Industrial Park in Rasa, Hulu Selangor, the UPM-MTDC joint project in Serdang, the Klang Valley 2 Region Project in Sepang, and the UMW HVM Park in Kuala Langat.

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Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya (Federal Territory of Putrajaya)

Population: 120,000 Area: 49.31sq km Divisions: Precincts 1-20 Website: ppj.gov.my

PUTRAJAYA

Historical Background By the late 1980’s, the former Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Bin Mohamad, foresaw that Kuala Lumpur’s increasing prominence as Malaysia’s financial and commercial capital would lead to traffic congestion and overcrowding. He therefore initiated the birth of Putrajaya, a separate administrative capital, set in a planned garden city equipped with sophisticated multimedia and information network technologies,

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: The nearest airport is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), 29km away. By Road: There are major highway links via the Pintasan Dengkil bypass from KLIA and the Maju Expressway from Kuala Lumpur. By Rail: KLIA Transit connects Putrajaya to stations at KLIA, Bandar Tasik Selatan, Salak Tinggi and KL Sentral. By Sea: As Putrajaya is landlocked, access to the sea is via ports in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.

located between Kuala Lumpur and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Construction began in 1995. In 1999, the Prime Minister together with 300 employees moved to their new offices at Bangunan Perdana Putra, the first building to be completed. On 1st February, 2001, Putrajaya became the country’s third Federal Territory. Today, Putrajaya stands tall not only as the nation’s administrative centre but also a thriving residential

and commercial centre with more and more people drawn to its treelined roads, huge manmade lake, wetlands, parks and ample public facilities. Government Perbadanan Putrajaya (Putrajaya Corporation), a local authority under the Ministry of Federal Territories, is responsible for the planning, developmentLabuan and management of the City of Putrajaya. The President of Putrajaya Corporation serves as mayor of the city.

Major Economic Activities Putrajaya’s economy SARAWAK is mostly derived from its role as Malaysia’s administrative capital and is based on services such as retail outlets, restaurants and banks to cater to the resident civil servant population. In addition, there is a vibrant economy servicing tourists and visitors who come to admire the interesting Islamic architecture of the buildings here, the street lamps with different motifs (e.g. the bangau or stork, keris or dagger, wau or kite, etc.) in each precinct and the bridges of various designs that cross the 600ha manmade Putrajaya Lake and Wetlands that lies at the heart of the city. The lake is also popular among visitors for cruises and water sport activities.

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia Maps

(Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur)

Population: 1.67 million Area: 2,800sq km Website: dbkl.gov.my

KUALA LUMPUR

Historical Background Kuala Lumpur was originally a tin mining trading post at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers in the 1850’s; its name translates as “muddy confluence”. With the boom in tin mining it grew into a thriving frontier town. The British installed a Kapitan (headman) to administer Kuala Lumpur and by 1880, under the leadership of Kapitan Yap Ah Loy, it had

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), 70km from Kuala Lumpur. Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport, 25km away. By Road: The NorthSouth Expressway from Kedah in the North connects through Kuala Lumpur to Johor in the South. By Rail: Kuala Lumpur (KL) Sentral is the main railway terminus in the country and the hub for the Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity, KLIA Transit, KLIA Ekspress and RapidKL Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines. By Sea: As Kuala Lumpur is landlocked, access is via ports in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan.

become developed and replaced Klang as the state capital of Selangor. In 1896 Kuala Lumpur was chosen as capital of the newly formed Federated Malayan States. Kuala Lumpur under Selangor joined the Federation of Malaya in 1948, became independent via the Federation of Malaya in 1957 and became part of Malaysia in 1963. It was declared a city in 1972,

the first town in Malaysia to achieve this status. On 1st February, 1974, Kuala Lumpur was ceded by Selangor and declared a Federal Territory. State Government Kuala Lumpur is governed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur), led by a Mayor (Datuk Bandar), appointed by the Minister of Federal Territories. Major Economic Activities Kuala Lumpur is the financial and commercial center of Malaysia and home to Bank Negara Malaysia (Central Bank), the Companies Commission and Bursa Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange). SARAWAK It has a highly-developed service sector comprising finance, insurance, real estate, retail and media companies. It lies within the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) and also has a high concentration of hospitals, institutions of higher learning and centres for arts and culture. Light and medium manufacturing industries are also important, as are the property and construction sectors. As the home of many of Malaysia’s most iconic attractions, including the PETRONAS Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur’s tourism, convention, transportation and hospitality industries are also well developed.

Labuan

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Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus

Malaysia Maps

(Negeri Sembilan, The Special Abode) Population: 1.14 million Area: 6,656sq km State Capital: Seremban Royal Town: Sri Menanti Website: ns.gov.my

NEGERI SEMBILAN

Historical Background The name Negeri Sembilan, literally meaning “Nine States”, is derived from the nine districts settled by Minangkabau people who migrated to the region from West Sumatra. In the 15th Century they were protected by the Sultanate of Melaka and later the Sultanate of Johor. In the 17th Century, continued attacks by Bugis from Sulawesi forced the Minangkabaus to seek protection from their homeland. Minangkabau ruler Sultan Abdul Jalil sent Raja Melewar to restore peace. In 1773, Raja Melewar became the first Yang di-Pertuan

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: The nearest airport is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), 65km from Seremban. By Road: The North-South Expressway from Kedah in the North runs through Negeri Sembilan to Johor in the South. By Rail: KTM Intercity North South Line stations are in Bahau, Gemas, Seremban, Tampin. KTM Komuter stations are in Batang Benar, Nilai, Labu, Tiroi, Seremban, Senawang, Sungai Gadut, Rembau. By Sea: Port Dickson is connected to Dumai, Sumatra (Indonesia) by a daily ferry service.

Besar (Ruler). Upon the death of the fifth Yang di-Pertuan Besar, a succession struggle ensued. The British intervened, installing a Resident in 1873. Negeri Sembilan joined the Federated Malay States in 1895, the Federation of Malaya in 1948, gained independence through the Federation in 1957 and became part of Malaysia in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Yang di-Pertuan Besar (Ruler), currently HRH Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir (2008 present). He is selected from among the state’s leading

princes by the Council of Ruling Chiefs (Dato’-Dato’ Undang). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) exercise the executive power conferred by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, and is headed by the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition) who is appointed by the Yang diPertuan Besar. A professional Labuan Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy. Major Economic Activities Negeri Sembilan has maintained continuous economic growth over the last decade, despite the SARAWAK fragile global economy, with services and manufacturing the main contributors. Tourism is important, especially in Port Dickson with its popular beaches. Manufacturing includes electronics, textiles, furniture, machinery, rubber products and oil refining. Agriculture remains significant for food security and rural development. Main Industrial Areas Industrial parks are located in Nilai, Bandar Seri Sendayan (Sendayan Techvalley), Labu (Techpark@Enstek), Senawang in Seremban and Chembong in Rembau. They have attracted both local and international companies including Coca Cola, Nestle, Kellogs, Safran Group, Daihatsu, Hino Motor, Kibing Group and On Semiconductor.

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Malaysia Maps

Melaka Negeri Bersejarah (Melaka, The Historical State)

Population: 932,700 Area: 1,652sq km State Capital: Bandaraya Melaka (Melaka City) Website: melaka.gov.my

MELAKA

Historical Background The Sultanate of Melaka was established in 1402 by Parameswara (Iskandar Shah). Strategically located between India and China, Melaka provided easy access to the Indonesian spice islands, with Ayutthaya (Siam) in the North, and Sumatra in the Southwest. It was centred on contemporary Bandaraya Melaka. Parameswara constructed port facilities, suppressed piracy and set up an effective administration, transforming this former fishing village into the world’s greatest trading port. Melaka’s pre-eminence lasted over a century, until

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Melaka International Airport, Batu Berendam By Road: The NorthSouth Expressway from Kedah in the North runs through Melaka to Johor in the South. By Rail: Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity North-South Line stations are in Pulau Sebang and Batang Melaka. By Sea: Sungai Udang Port and Melaka Port have cargo and ferry terminals.

the Portuguese invaded in 1511. The Dutch ousted the Portuguese in 1641, then ceded Melaka to Britain in 1824, in exchange for Bengkulu (Sumatra). It later became a Crown Colony, part of the Straits Settlement with Penang and Singapore. Melaka joined the Federation of Malaya in 1948, thereby gained independence in 1957, and joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor), currently Tun Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Mohd. Ali Bin Mohd. Rustam (2020 present), who is appointed

by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the Ketua Menteri (Chief Minister). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy. Labuan

Major Economic Activities Melaka is the first state in Malaysia to reach developed status (in 2010). Bandaraya Melaka is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (jointly with George Town in Pulau Pinang) and thus a tourist SARAWAK magnet, attracting visitors to its historical sites, cultural mix, unique cuisine and nearby beaches. Apart from Malaysia’s largest oil refinery at Sungai Udang, manufacturing is mostly small and medium scale, (albeit with significant multinational participation), producing food products, footwear, surgical gloves, vehicle parts, electronic components and military equipment, amongst others. Major Industrial Areas 23 industrial zones with nearly 500 local and international businesses are located in Tanjung Kling, Batu Berendam, Cheng, Ayer Keroh, Tasik Utama and Alor Gajah. The Tanjung Kling and Batu Berendam Free Trade Zones operate free of quotas, tariffs and other trade barriers.

Malaysia Maps

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Johor Darul Ta’zim

(Johor, The Abode of Dignity)

Population: 3.74 million Area: 19,102sq km State Capital: Johor Bahru State Website: johor. gov.my

JOHOR

Historical Background The name “Johor” comes from the Arabic Jauhar (gemstone). According to Portuguese writer Godinho d’Eredia, Johor was also known as Akhir Medini (Land’s Edge). In the early 16th Century, Alauddin Riayat Shah II founded the Johor Empire, which became the major regional power. In 1855 Sultan Ali ceded Johor to Temenggong Daing Ibrahim in exchange for formal recognition from Britain. Daing’s son, Sultan Abu Bakar, the “Father of Modern Johor” implemented major administrative reforms, developed the economy,

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Senai International Airport, Johor Bahru. By Road: The NorthSouth Expressway connects from the north to the Singapore Causeway and Second Link. By Rail: KTM Intercity stations in Segamat, Labis, Pagoh, Kulai, Kempas Baru, Johor Bahru Sentral, plus shuttle to Woodlands (Singapore). By Sea: Major container ports at Tanjung Pelepas and Pasir Gudang.

built a new capital at Johor Bahru and introduced the Johor State Constitution (14 April 1895). This made Johor the first Malay state to have written laws and a constitutional monarchy. Johor joined the Federation of Malaya in 1948, played a leading role in the Malayan independence movement, gained independence thereby in 1957 and became part of Malaysia in 1963. State Government The Sultan is Head of State, currently His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Sultan and Sovereign Ruler of the State and Territory of Johor Darul Ta’zim (ruled

2010 - present). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) is the executive, headed by the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy.

Labuan

Major Economic Activities Johor’s diverse economy includes agriculture, manufacturing and services. Exports include palm oil, rubber, horticulture & food products, electrical goods, furniture, textiles and SARAWAK petrochemicals. The long coastline, offshore islands, rainforest enclaves and heritage sites make tourism important; Johor boasts the first Legoland in Asia - with several more theme parks newly launched - as well as over 20 golf courses and several integrated resorts. Major Industrial Areas The 2,217sq km Iskandar Malaysia, (see page 370) is set to become Southern Malaysia’s most developed region. Its strategic location - the southernmost part of the entire Eurasian landmass – has positioned Iskandar to attract high value-added investments in the following sectors; electrical and electronic, petrochemical and oil & gas, food and agro-processing, logistics, tourism, finance, property, creative industries, healthcare and education.

Malaysia Maps

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Pahang Darul Makmur

(Pahang, The Abode of Tranquility)

Population: 1.67 million Area: 36,840sq km State Capital: Kuantan Website: pahang.gov.my

PAHANG

Historical Background Gold deposits in the Tembeling River attracted Srivijayan traders in the 8th - 9th Centuries. This led to claims by neighbouring Majapahit, followed by Siam and later Melaka. A series of takeovers ended with Pahang part of the Johor Empire by mid-17th Century. In 1888, the British coerced the reigning Bendahara (vizier cum regent) Wan Ahmad to place Pahang under a British Resident. Pahang joined the Federated Malay States in 1896, the Federation of Malaya in 1948, gained independence thereby in 1957 and became part of Malaysia in 1963.

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport, Kuantan. Tioman Airport (STOL). By Road: The Karak Highway and East Coast Expressway run from Kuala Lumpur through Pahang to Terengganu in the Northeast. By Rail: Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity East Coast Line stations at Kuala Lipis, Jerantut, Mentakab, Triang. By Sea: Kuantan Port is the largest port on the East Coast. Ferry access to Pulau Tioman is via Mersing in Johor.

State Government The Head of State is the Sultan, currently HRH Al-Sultan Abdullah ibni Sultan Ahmad Shah (ruled 2019 - present), who is also the Yang-diPertuan Agong (King) of Malaysia. The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the Menteri Besar (Chief Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy. Major Economic Activities Tourism is the main income

earner, mostly derived from Genting Highland’s integrated resort, Taman Negara (Malaysia’s national park), Cameron Highlands, Fraser’s Hill, Cherating, Lake Cini, Lake Bera and Pulau Tioman. Forestry, plantation crops, agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture and gold mining are also important. Industry Labuan is centred on wood-based products and petrochemicals. The East Coast Economic Region (ECER) (see page 371) covering Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and northeastern Johor is set to boost industrial activity & tourism in theSARAWAK state. Major Industrial Areas Pahang has three development corridors with ten industrial estates: The Eastern Corridor - Gebeng Industrial Estate (chemical & petrochemical zone), Tanjung Agas Industrial Park (oil & gas), Peramu Industrial Area (automotive cluster) and Pahang Technology Park in Gambang (ICT, biotechnology and Halal Hub); the EastWest Corridor – Bentong 2A Industrial Estate (electronics, food processing, motor parts), Bentong 2B Industrial Estate and Temerloh Industrial Park (rubber, wood and herbal products) and the Central North-South Corridor – Rompin Industrial Estate (automotive cluster, food processing), Kechau Tui Industrial Estate (timber products) and Muadzam Shah Industrial Area (ceramic cluster).

Malaysia Maps

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Terengganu Darul Iman

Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy.

(Terengganu, The Abode of Faith)

TERENGGANU

Population: 1.23 million Area: 12,959sq km State Capital: Kuala Terengganu Website: terengganu. gov.my

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Sultan Mahmud Airport, Kuala Nerus. By Road: The East

Historical Background In the 1700’s Terengganu established itself as a Sultanate under Tun Zainal Abidin. However, by the 19th Century it had become a vassal state of Siam until the signing of the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, when the Siamese relinquished their claim. Terengganu became one of the Unfederated Malay States (as did Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan) with a British Advisor. The Japanese occupied the state in WWII, after which British

Coast Expressway from Kuala Lumpur, either through the coastal roads or the LPT2 Highway. Federal Route 3 from Kelantan in the North and Pahang and Johor in the South. By Rail: Malaysian Railways (KTM) handles freight between Kerteh, Gebeng and Kuantan Port in Pahang. There are no passenger services. By Sea: Kerteh and Kemaman are major container ports. Ferries to Redang and other islands operate from Kuala Terengganu, Merang, Kuala Besut, Marang and Kuala Dungun.

rule resumed. Terengganu joined the Federation of Malaya in 1948, achieved independence thereby in 1957, and became part of Malaysia in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Sultan, currently HRH Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin (ruled 1998 - present). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Executive Council (EXCO or state cabinet) acts as the executive, headed by the Menteri Besar (Chief

Major Economic Activities Oil and gas were discovered offshore in 1974 and most industries in the state are Labuan centred on this sector, with the largest refineries at Paka and Kerteh. Tourism is thriving; the shoreline and offshore islands feature long white sandy beaches, while Kuala Terengganu’s Floating Mosque, Chinatown and traditional shipbuilding SARAWAK at Pulau Duyung are major visitor magnets. Agriculture is also a major contributor, along with fishing, aquaculture and handicrafts, especially woodworking and textiles. Major Industrial Areas Terengganu has benefited greatly from the Eastern Corridor Economic Region (ECER) (see page 371), with 10 new industrial areas springing up in Gong Badak, Cendering, Pulau Serai, Jakar I, Jakar II, Jakar III, Ajil, Al-Muktafi Billah Shah, and Ceneh Baharu. There are a further 13 industrial areas in Kerteh, Bukit Labohan, Lot Q in Kerteh, Bukit Khor in Marang, Teluk Kalong, Seri Medang, Batu Rakit, Batu 7 Dungun, Batu 7 Extension, Sungai Bari, Wakaf Tapai, Bukit Besi, Kertengah Jaya, and Seri Bandi.

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Kelantan Darul Naim

Malaysia Maps

(Kelantan, The Blissful Abode)

Population: 1.86 million Area: 15,100sq km State Capital:Kota Bharu Website: kelantan.gov.my

KELANTAN

Historical Background The early history of Kelantan points to independence from Siam in 1411. By 1477 however it became a vassal state of the Melaka Sultanate. After the fall of Melaka to the Portugese in 1511, Kelantan was divided up by local chiefs. In 1835 Sultan Muhammad II, in alliance with the Siamese, formed the modern Kelantan state centred around his new fort, Kota Bharu, on the eastern bank of the Kelantan river. Under the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, Siam

HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Sultan Ismail Petra Airport, Kota Bharu By Road: The East-West road, from Perak and Kedah in the West and Federal Route 3 from Pahang and Johor in the South. By Rail: Malaysian Railway (KTM) Intercity East Coast Line stations are in Tumpat, Kota Bharu, Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah, Kuala Krai, Dabong, and Gua Musang. By Sea: Ferry access to the Perhentian Islands is via Tok Bali, Pasir Puteh.

relinquished its claim over Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Perlis to Britain. Kelantan became one of the Unfederated Malay States with a British Adviser. Kelantan was the first state to be invaded by the Japanese during WWII. Upon their defeat, the British returned and resumed their rule. Kelantan joined the Federation of Malaya in 1948 and achieved independence under the Federation in 1957, becoming part of the Federation of Malaysia in 1963.

State Government The Head of State is the Sultan, currently HRH Sultan Muhammad V. The State Executive Council is the legislative body, headed by the Chief Minister whilst the State Secretariat (under the State Secretary) spearheads the administration and development of the state.

Labuan

Major Economic Activities The principal economic activities are services and agriculture, contributing 66.4% and 26.4% to the State GDP respectively. They are followed by the manufacturing sector SARAWAK at 5.4%, construction at 2.3% and mining and transportation at 2.3% of State GDP. The highest contributors in the services sector are the wholesale and retail services at 27% followed by government services at 17%, insurance and finance services at 14%, information and communication services at 10% followed by food and beverage services at 5%. Major Industrial Areas Industrial areas are located near Kota Bharu, at Pengkalan Chepa, Pasir Mas, Kuala Krai, Jeli, Jelawang and Tanah Merah. The Kelantan government is reviewing prospects for developing new industrial areas for further investors.

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Sabah Negeri Di Bawah Bayu (Sabah, The Land Below the Wind)

Malaysia Maps By Road: The Pan Borneo Highway from Sarawak and Brunei in the South. SABAH By Rail: Sabah State Railway has 15 stations (all within Sabah) starting from Tanjung Aru near Kota Kinabalu through to Tenom. By Sea: Kota Population: 3.9 million Kinabalu, Sepangar Bay, Sandakan Area: 73,631sq km and Tawau are major international State Capital: Kota Kinabalu ports. Ferries serve Labuan (from Website: sabah.gov.my Kota Kinabalu, Sipatang, Menumbok), Brunei (from Menumbok), Zamboanga, HOW TO GET THERE Philippines (from Sandakan) and By Air: Kota Kinabalu International Nunukan and Tarakan, Indonesia Airport, regional airports at (from Tawau). Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau.

Historical Background Sabah was part of the Brunei Sultanate before being ceded to the Sultan of Sulu in 1658 for helping Brunei to settle a civil war. The Sulu Sultanate leased and subsequently ceded North Borneo (as Sabah was previously called) to the British North Borneo Company, ratified by the Madrid Protocol of 1885. Sabah became a British Protectorate in 1888 until the Japanese occupation in WWII, following which it became a British Crown Colony. Sabah achieved independence by forming the Federation of Malaysia

together with Malaya, Sarawak and Singapore (later expelled) in 1963. State Government The Head of State is the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor), currently Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Juhar Mahiruddin (2011 - present), who is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (ruling monarch). The State Legislative Assembly is the elected legislature. The State Cabinet, comprising Ministers and Assistant Ministers (Menteri and Pembantu Menteri), acts as the executive, headed by the Ketua Menteri (Chief

Minister, usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy. Major Economic Activities Sabah’s economy relies on three key areas; agriculture, tourism and manufacturing, with oil and gas beginning to play a major role thanks to recent major discoveries. Palm oil is heavily planted together with rubber and cocoa. Eco-tourism is an important contributor, thanks to superb beaches, offshore islands and six national parks, including Kinabalu Parks, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Manufacturing centres on natural resources; wood and paper products, food processing and palm oil refining. Major Industrial Areas Major industrial areas, populated mostly by SMEs, are concentrated around Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu, Keningau, Semp*rna, and Kudat. To boost industrialisation, the State Government initiated the Sabah Development Corridor (see page 372), where the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park and Sepanggar Container Port Terminal are located. Launched in 2008, it is geared to attracting large manufacturing plants with emphasis on the oil and gas sector.

INTRODUCTION TO THE STATES OF MALAYSIA

Sarawak Bumi Kenyalang

(Sarawak, The Land of the Hornbills)

Malaysia Maps

SARAWAK

Population: 2.47 million Area: 125,000sq km State Capital: Kuching Website: sarawak.gov.my HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Kuching and Miri

Historical Background Malaysia’s largest state formerly belonged to the Sultanate of Brunei. In 1839, an English adventurer, James Brooke, volunteered to ward off piracy and insurgency, and as a reward was made Rajah of Sarawak in 1841, founding a dynasty that lasted until the Japanese occupation in 1941. Following WWII, Rajah Vyner Brooke ceded Sarawak as a British Crown Colony. On 22nd July 1963, Sarawak once more became an independent nation. However, its leaders felt the country would advance more rapidly as part of a greater whole; on 16th September 1963 it joined with Malaya, Sabah and Singapore (later expelled) to form the new nation of Malaysia.

International Airports; regional airports in Sibu, Bintulu and Limbang; STOL Airports in Ba’Kelalan, Bario, Lawas, Long Akha, Long Banga, Long Lellang, Long Seridan, Marudi and Mulu. By Road: The Pan Borneo Highway from Sarawak in the South via Brunei to Sabah in the North. By Sea: Kuching, Sarikei, Tanjung Manis, Sibu, Sungai Merah, Mukah Bintulu, Miri and Kuala Baram are cargo and passenger ports. Express boat passenger terminals at Sarikei, Kapit, Marudi.

State Government The Head of State is the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor), currently Tun Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib bin Mahmud (assumed office 1st March 2014), who is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The State Legislative Assembly holds elections independently of national elections. The State Cabinet, comprising Ministers and Deputy Ministers, acts as the executive, headed by the Premier (usually leader of the majority party or coalition). A professional Civil Service (under the State Secretary) administers and implements policy. Major Economic Activities Major industries involve production and downstream

processing of natural resources: petrochemicals, wood-based products, palm oil, marine engineering and oil and gas refining. The newly emerging energy intensive industry sector is expanding rapidly. There are also small but fast-growing electronics and ICT sectors. Sarawak’s abundant flora and fauna and vibrant indigenous cultures have made tourism an important activity. Major Industrial Areas Sarawak has 17 industrial zones: Pending Industrial Estate, Demak Laut Industrial Park, Sama Jaya Free Industrial Zone (Kuching); Kota Samarahan Industrial Estate, Tebedu Industrial Estate (Samarahan); Sarikei Light Industrial Estate; Upper Lanang Industrial Estate, Rantau Panjang Shipbuilding Industrial Zone (Sibu); Bintulu Light Industrial Estate, Kemena Industrial Estate, Kidurong Light Industrial Area, Tanjung Kidurong Industrial Area, Jepak Industrial Estate (Bintulu); Kapit Light Industrial Estate; and Kuala Balam Industrial Estate, Piasau Industrial Estate, Bekenu Light Industrial Area (Miri). There is also the energy-intensive Samalaju Industrial Park located within the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) (see page 373), which leverages on the state’s abundant hydropower.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan

Malaysia Maps

(Federal Territory of Labuan)

LABUAN

Population: 94,600 Area: 95.42sq km Website: pl.gov.my HOW TO GET THERE By Air: Labuan Airport By Road: Labuan is an island off the coast of Sabah. It has its own road network but is not connected to the mainland.

Historical Background Labuan and its surrounding islands were inhabited when it was ceded by the Sultan of Brunei, Omar Ali Saifuddin II, to the British in 1846 and became a crown colony in 1848. Administration was passed to the British North Borneo Chartered Company in 1890, where it formed part of the Straits Settlement under Singapore. The island was used as a coaling station for ships going to China and coal was commercially mined there

By Rail: Labuan does not have a railway network. By Sea: Labuan Liberty Port is the main cargo port. Labuan International Ferry Terminal provides passenger ferry and speed boat services to Brunei; Kota Kinabalu, Menumbok and Sipitang in Sabah; and Lawas and Limbang in Sarawak.

until 1911. The Japanese occupied the island in WWII and renamed it “Maeda Island”. It assumed its former name following the war, and under Sabah, joined the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. Labuan was ceded by Sabah to the Federal Government and proclaimed a Federal Territory on 16th April, 1984. State Government Labuan is governed by the Labuan Corporation, a statutory body under the Ministry of Federal

Territories. The corporation is headed by a Chief Executive Officer. Major Economic Activities Labuan is an offshore financial centre, and has offered international tax, fund management, wealth management, insurance and Islamic finance services via Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) since 1990. Labuan has also maintained its position as an offshore support hub for deepwater oil and gas activities in the region. Important economic activities include mining (oil and gas), light industries and trading, capitalising on its free trade zone status. Labuan’s dutyfree shopping attracts day trippers from Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei. It is also a tourist destination, especially for scuba divers, with diveable wrecks in the waters off Labuan. Three islands - Kuraman, Rusukan Besar and Rusukan Kecil - have been gazetted as Labuan Marine Park, while twelve other sites have been identified for a proposed National Geopark. Major Industrial Areas Small-to-medium industries are located throughout the territory, particularly in Lau Kiew Ngien Light Industrial Park & Saguking Industrial Park along Jalan PatauPatau, as well as RanchaRancha Industrial Park.

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE - FOREWORD

Culture and Arts inevitably mirror society and their universal message is to celebrate diversity and inclusivity as we move towards a progressive worldview. They promote the quest for self-reflection, celebrate the miracle of life and encourage us to engage more humanely and sustainably with our environment. For these reasons, a vibrant culture and arts scene is essential to our personal, communal and national development, and to our quality of life. Fortunately, and thanks to the determined efforts of countless dedicated and talented individuals, Malaysia has developed a vibrant, complex and diverse artistic and cultural landscape in the 60-plus years since independence. Our traditional art forms, whether of Malay, Chinese, Indian, indigenous or other origin, have continually renewed themselves to reflect modern Malaysia and its place in the world. Similarly, we have borrowed artistic themes and genres from elsewhere and made them uniquely our own. And of course, being multi-racial, multi-cultural Malaysians, we have blended all these sources and themes together to create astounding diverse works of art. It is heartening to see the many recent initiatives, both government and private sector led, that provide funding and resources for young artists and help them to realise the economic potential of their work. Also, the blossoming of independent galleries and performance spaces over the last decade or so, and their spread to towns and cities far from Kuala Lumpur, has provided more opportunities for artists throughout the country and enabled many more Malaysians to appreciate and enjoy their creations. We have come a long way in a short time, but we can go further still with sensitive, compassionate and visionary leadership and support from arts organisations, the private sector, the Malaysian media and of course our Federal and State governments.

Datuk Ramli Ibrahim

Dancer & Choreographer, Chairman of the Sutra Foundation

CULTURE ARTS & HERITAGE Kaleidoscope of Culture

National Art Gallery

National Department of Culture & Arts

Muzium Negara (National Museum)

Department of Museums Malaysia

Museums Listing

FINAS, National Film Development Corporation Malaysia ASWARA, National Academy of Arts, Culture & Heritage National Archives of Malaysia Istana Budaya (National Theatre) National Library of Malaysia

The Art of Diversity The Human Canvas

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE

Kaleidoscope of Culture Jutting, pendantlike, from the Asian continent into the heart of Southeast Asia, the Malay Peninsula is positioned directly on the ancient trade routes between China, India and the Middle East. The Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak dominate the sea routes of the South China and Sulu Seas. Thus Malaysia has historically been a crossroads of peoples and cultures. Malaysia’s cultural heritage dates back

This family group photo taken in 19th Century Melaka blends Malay, Javanese and Indian sartorial styles, illustrating the rich cultural mix of the Colonial Era.

to prehistoric times - it is the location of Southeast Asia’s oldest modern human remains, as much as 40,000 years old. Waves of traders, missionaries, colonialists and immigrants, attracted by its natural wealth

and beauty, have added layers of history to the country. This interaction culminated in the fabulous 15th Century Malaccan (Melaka) Empire. A legacy of trade brought people from China, India,

The Niah Great Cave in Sarawak, site of the oldest known human culture in Southeast Asia.

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Persia, Arabia and beginning in the 16th Century - a succession of European powers, namely the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. Over time, the mingling of locals and newcomers weaved the rich cultural heritage that we enjoy today. A dazzling tapestry of culture, architecture, arts and crafts has sprung from Malaysia’s ethnic diversity. At its core lies the majority Malay-Muslim heritage, and that of more than 60 indigenous groups, overlaid by the rich cultural textures and patterns of the nation’s vibrant Chinese, Indian and other communities. The artistic scene reflects this diverse milieu, from ancient native dances to ultramodern interpretations of performing arts, visual arts and fashion.

A Peranakan (Baba-Nyonya or Straits Chinese) family show off their spectacular traditional costumes.

This performance of Raja Panah (the King of Archers, a Makyong or Malay traditional opera) showcases just a fraction of Malaysia’s enormous cultural wealth.

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE

NATIONAL CULTURE AND ARTS DEPARTMENT Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya Malaysia Menara TH Perdana Lot 1001, Jalan Sultan Ismail 50250 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2614 8200 W jkkn.gov.my

Introduction The National Culture and Arts Department (JKKN), an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, leads the development of national culture and arts. JKKN is responsible for creating various initiatives to cultivate public awareness of the country's culture and arts and enhance Malaysian cultural identity to the highest level. The department remains relevant with the passage of time by adapting the development of virtual and digital technology in channelling knowledge, data and cultural art information to the broadest possible target audience. As a government department taking care of the country's cultural and artistic

affairs, JKKN's role is to ensure that the cultural arts that will be inherited by future generations are preserved and strengthened wherever necessary. Based on the main vision and mission of the department, this effort will be intensified through close cooperation between the state JKKN offices and all levels of society. Department Functions • To implement research and development, documentation and publishing, cultural arts coaching, skilled human capital development in cultural arts field, expanding cultural arts, enhancing cultural arts, artistic and production development,

•

and cultural arts promotional programme. Building effective networking between cultural arts industry players, Government agencies, the private sector, arts and culture NGOs, and cultural arts activists locally and internationally. Providing an economic platform for arts activists to monetize their abilities through cultural arts activities. Strengthening suitable cultural and arts activities to become domestic and international tourist attractions. Optimizing organizational functions within the respective States’ JKKN offices.

A player sets his gasing (spinning top) in motion during a game of gasing uri (competitive top spinning). This is a popular traditional sport in Kelantan and much of northern Terengganu.

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DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS MALAYSIA Jabatan Muzium Malaysia Jalan Damansara 50566 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2267 1000 W jmm.gov.my

The Department of Museums Malaysia is responsible for managing the many

federal-government-owned museums around the country (please see listings), including the National Museum in Kuala Lumpur. Its objective is to preserve, conserve and disseminate knowledge on the country’s historical, cultural and natural heritage through activities such as exhibitions, educational programs and museum development. The department also aims to help create a harmonious society with high moral standards and to assist the government in promoting the tourism industry.

The Department has a library with an extensive collection of books including some very rare volumes, which are invaluable especially to researchers. Books and video compact disks (VCDs) published by the department are also available at the library. The Department also provides advisory services to state departments, other government agencies as well as individuals and the private sector pertaining to preserving the historical legacy of the country.

The headquarters of the Museum Department, located in the landscaped grounds of the National Museum.

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE

NATIONAL FILM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MALAYSIA Kompleks Studio Merdeka Lot 1662, Bt.8, Jalan Hulu Kelang 68000 Ampang, Selangor T (03) 4104 1300 W finas.gov.my

The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) is the agency entrusted with developing the film industry in Malaysia. It is tasked with nurturing and facilitating the development of the Malaysian film industry and driving its commercial sustainability. Its various roles include licensing and

enforcement, marketing and promotion, funding and incentives, facilities and services, production and archiving, data gathering and research as well as training and education. It is based in modern, purpose built premises in Ulu Klang, Selangor, and has a branch in Kuching, Sarawak. FINAS performs a variety of important functions. It promotes, preserves and facilitates the development of the film industry by expanding the market space and increasing the effectiveness and competitiveness of the film industry. It carries out international marketing of locally produced content though collaboration with the Creative Content Association of Malaysia (CCAM). It provides cutting edge support services and effective incentives for film

production in Malaysia, and also carries out human capital development in collaboration with the Creative Content Industry Guild Malaysia (CCIG). FINAS is also responsible for creating and maintaining a filmic record of the country’s history and development. It produces documentary films and trailers covering important national historical events, which are shown via existing broadcasting channels such as television, cinema and online streaming. It also stores films of significant importance to the country, which are kept in temperature-controlled and fire proof vaults. These historical items include the famous footage of Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra AlHaj declaring the country’s independence at Stadium Merdeka in 1957.

Nam Ron delivers his acceptance speech as Best Director at the 30th Malaysian Film Festival - the “Malaysian Oscars” - organised by FINAS. His dark crime thriller One Two Jaga won two further awards.

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NATIONAL ACADEMY OF ARTS, CULTURE & HERITAGE (ASWARA) 464, Jalan Tun Ismail 50480 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2778 5999 W aswara.edu.my

The National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) established in 1994 as the National Arts Academy is the only public art university in Malaysia. ASWARA was upgraded to its present status in 2006, to ensure that economic growth in Malaysia corresponds with the development and growth of artistic and creative activity. ASWARA’s main objective is to produce creative performers and trainers in order to raise the standard of performing arts and preserve the national heritage. It also aspires to be a centre of artistic excellence by encouraging new and creative directions in all art forms, by prioritizing quality teaching and by serving as a centre for artistic and creative research in

ASWARA’s purpose built and student-friendly campus in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

the country. ASWARA offers programmes in music, dance, theatre, creative writing and film, visual communication design, animation and multimedia and culture and heritage management at foundation, diploma, degree, masters and doctorate levels.

Some of its courses include the traditional performing arts such as Bangsawan (Classical Malay Theatre), Makyung (Kelantanese Dance Drama), Mek Mulong (Traditional Kedah Theatre), Randai (Minangkabau Folk Theatre) and Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppet Theatre).

The library and resource centre facilitate research into the performing arts.

ASWARA’s state-of-the-art, 4K-ready Broadcasting Centre.

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE

NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF MALAYSIA Arkib Negara Malaysia Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim 50568 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 6209 0600 W arkib.gov.my

IN BRIEF A world-class archive with extensive collections and excellent research facilities, it is open to the public. Registration is required. OPENING HOURS Research Hall (Headquarters) Monday - Friday 9am~5pm Closed: Weekends & Public Holidays

MAIN FEATURES The National Archives of Malaysia was established on 1st December 1957. Its headquarters are in Kuala Lumpur with 10 branches throughout the country. It is the custodian of some of Malaysia’s greatest treasures, namely its historical records, some of which are displayed in the well-lit and spacious galleries. It makes the

The headquarters of the National Archives of Malaysia, in the green heart of Kuala Lumpur.

documented heritage of the country available to members of the public for reference and research via its wellequipped Research Hall. It also organises outreach activities aimed at imbuing Malaysians with a sense of historical consciousness, including seminars, conferences, competitions, quizzes, debates and publications.

At the International level, the National Archives is involved in SARBICA (Southeast Asia Regional Branch of the International Council of Archives) and the UNESCOsponsored Memory of the World Programme. It also provides technical cooperation to developing countries under the Malaysia Technical Cooperation Programme.

LOCATION / ROUTE On Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim near Istana Negara (National Palace). HOW TO GET THERE Car or taxi – free parking available. Bus: Rapid KL B115 to Duta Vista.

A highlight of the National Archives is the Statesmen Memorial, seven galleries each devoted to one of Malaysia’s founding fathers. Those of Tun Temenggung Jugah (Sarawak) and Tun Datu Mustapha (Sabah) are shown here.

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ISTANA BUDAYA (NATIONAL THEATRE) Jalan Tun Razak 50694 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4026 5555 W istanabudaya.gov.my

IN BRIEF Istana Budaya is rated among the ten most sophisticated theatres in the world, thanks to its state-ofthe-art equipment for staging all kinds of performances. It presents almost every theatrical and musical genre, from grand opera, ballet and musical theatre, to classical, traditional and contemporary concerts, dramas, comedies and historical epics. OPENING HOURS According to performance schedules.

MAIN FEATURES Istana Budaya was completed in 1999 and its architecture reflects various aspects of Malay culture. The magnificent folded roof, rising majestically above the tree-tops, portrays the sirih junjung, a multi-tiered floral arrangement of betel

The spectacular folded roof makes Istana Budaya (the National Theatre) one of Kuala Lumpur’s most striking landmarks.

leaves used for Malay weddings and welcoming ceremonies. The building houses two performance venues - Panggung Sari, the main theatre, with 1413 seats, and Lambang Sari, a smaller experimental performance space seating 281.

Other facilities include a box office counter, VIP room, media lounge, café, ballet studio and dressing rooms. Istana Budaya is also the permanent home of the Orkestra Tradisional Malaysia (OTM), Orkestra Simfoni Kebangsaan (OSK) and the Artis Tari dance troupe.

LOCATION / ROUTE Just off Jalan Tun Razak in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. HOW TO GET THERE KL Monorail: 10-minutes walk from Titiwangsa and 15 minutes from Chow Kit. Bus: Rapid KL bus to Tasik Titiwangsa or KL Hospital.

The main Panggung Sari theatre is one of the 10 most technically sophisticated performance spaces in the world.

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE

NATIONAL LIBRARY OF MALAYSIA Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia 232, Jalan Tun Razak 50572 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2687 1700 W pnm.gov.my

IN BRIEF The National Library of Malaysia is the country’s apex reference and lending library and the central depository for Malaysia’s historical memory and culture. It presides over an ever-expanding collection of over 5.6 million books, manuscripts, documents and other sources of knowledge. OPENING HOURS Tuesday to Saturday, 10am~7pm Sun, 10am~6pm Closed Mondays & Public Holidays.

MAIN FEATURES The National Library of Malaysia was established in 1972 and moved to its current building in 1994. The building design is based on the tengkolok, a folded songket cloth

The National Library of Malaysia building draws its architectural inspiration from the traditional Malay tengkolok headgear and the exquisite songket textile.

headgear worn by Malay men spaces, lecture halls and on ceremonial occasions. private study rooms. Limited The library houses a number wheelchair access is available. of important historical The library’s digital content collections, of which pride can be accessed via W of place goes to the Malay u-library.gov.my. Manuscripts Collection. Two of these manuscripts, the Hikayat Hang Tuah and the Panji Tales, have been acknowledged by UNESCO and placed in the ‘Memory of the World’ Register. Additional facilities include a cafeteria, The world’s first Samsung Smart Library, a digital auditorium, children’s interactive book reading zone, is one of many digital services offered by NLM. theatre, exhibition

LOCATION / ROUTE Located at Jalan Tun Razak in the heart of Kuala Lumpur HOW TO GET THERE KL Monorail: 15-minute walk from both Titiwangsa and Chow Kit stations. Bus: RapidKL 220 to Kampung Baru, RapidKL 402 to National Library of Malaysia, GoKL (Orange Line) to MINDEF.

The pride of the Malay Manuscript Collection is the original manuscript of the Hikayat Hang Tuah, part of UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

NATIONAL ART GALLERY 2, Jalan Temerloh Off Jalan Tun Razak 53200 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4026 7000 W artgallery.gov.my

IN BRIEF The 13,500 square metre National Art Gallery reflects the rich and diverse artistic heritage of Malaysia, showcases the best of Malaysian contemporary art and hosts visiting international exhibitions. OPENING HOURS 9am~5pm daily. Closed Hari Raya Aidilfitri (2 days) and Hari Raya Aidiladha. Admission is free.

MAIN FEATURES Established in 1958 by Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, the National Art Gallery is one of the leading art museums in Southeast Asia. The Main Gallery houses a permanent collection of more than 4,000 works by Malaysia’s most important artists, including historically

Exterior view of the National Art Gallery.

significant works, indigenous art, sculpture, textile art, multimedia and electronic art. The Tun Razak Gallery and other galleries host exhibitions by local and international artists. Facilities include a Resource Centre, 144-seat Auditorium, souvenir shop, Art Depot (to

develop young entrepreneur artists), Art Hospital (for conservation and restoration of the collection, open to the public), and a café. Public programmes include films, lectures and art-related activities for all ages. All galleries are accessible for wheelchair users.

LOCATION / ROUTE Off Jalan Tun Razak, next to Istana Budaya (National Theatre). HOW TO GET THERE KL Monorail/LRT: 10-minute walk from Titiwangsa Station. Bus: KL Hop-On Hop-Off, GOKL Orange Route (free), RapidKL B402.

The Gallery’s layout is divided up into many intimate spaces which enable it to present a wide variety of artists and artistic themes.

CULTURE, ARTS & HERITAGE

NATIONAL MUSEUM (MUZIUM NEGARA) Jalan Damansara 50566 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2267 1111 W muziumnegara.gov.my

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HOW TO GET THERE Train:(all services): 5-minute walk from KL Sentral. Bus: Rapid KL bus B112, B115 or KL Hop-On-Hop-Off to Muzium Negara.

BUKIT TUNKU

LOCATION / ROUTE On Jalan Damansara in the centre of Kuala Lumpur, between KL Sentral Station and Taman Tasik Perdana.

Gallery illustrates the rise of Malay civilization in Southeast Asia, with a special focus on the Melaka Sultanate. The Colonial Era Gallery illustrates the country’s colonial history from the Jal an Tu n

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MAIN FEATURES Opened in 1963 on the site of the former Selangor Museum, which was destroyed in WWII, the National Museum’s architecture was inspired by the Balai Besar Palace (Istana Balai Besar) in Alor Setar, Kedah. The museum has

four main galleries. The Prehistory Gallery traces early human settlement in Malaysia and includes Perak Man, the earliest intact human skeleton found in Southeast Asia. The Malay Kingdoms

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OPENING HOURS 9am~5pm daily. Last admission time 4.30pm Closed 1st Monday of every month and 1st day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha. Nominal admission fee.

Muzium Negara’s imposing entrance. The architecture is inspired by the Balai Besar Palace in Alor Star, Kedah.

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IN BRIEF Malaysia’s best known and most accessible museum, as well as an iconic KL landmark, the National Museum traces Malaysia’s history and culture from prehistoric times to the present day.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

This Makara statue in the Malay Kingdoms Gallery is a symbolic cohesion of elephant and fish, two powerful animals in Hindu mythology.

arrival of the Portuguese in 1511 through to the Japanese Occupation of WW II. The Malaysia Today Gallery traces the rise on the independence movement as well as the

Replica of the Royal Throne of Perak used for the installation of His Royal Highness Sultan Iskandar Shah, 30th Sultan of Perak, in 1918.

country’s achievements since independence. World-class visiting exhibitions are a regular highlight. Public programmes include lectures, workshops and

Part of the stunning collection of Malay decorative arts in the Malay Kingdoms Gallery.

history-related activities for children. There is a Discovery Room which offers regular educational programmes for students, as well as a Cafeteria and a well-stocked Museum Shop.

A colourful display of royal headdresses and their regal wearers in the Malaysia Today Gallery.

MUSEUMS LISTING

Please Note: Museums under the Department of Museums Malaysia (jmm.gov. my/ms/museumdirectory) are open daily except on the first Monday of every month, Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha. Other museums determine their own opening days, closing on public holidays and/or specific days of the week. Please check with the respective museum when planning your visit. DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS MALAYSIA (JABATAN MUZIUM MALAYSIA) Website: jmm.gov.my JOHOR

The Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum uses informative displays and personal audio guides to trace the fascinating history of Chinese settlement in Johor.

Sungai Rambah, Pontian Hp (017) 763 3244 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm

AR TRICK EYE MUSEUM Level 05, Johor Bahru City Square Jalan Wong Ah f*ck Johor Bahru T (07) 220 0250 Open: Daily, 10am~9pm

JOHOR HISTORICAL FIGURES MUSEUM (MUZIUM TOKOH JOHOR) Jalan Lingkaran Dalam Bukit Senyum, Johor Bahru T (07) 207 0934 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm

DATO’ ONN GALLERY Jalan Dato Mohd. Shah Gunong Soga, Batu Pahat T (07) 431 7220 Open: Sat-Thu, 9.30am~4.30pm

KOTA JOHOR LAMA MUSEUM Kampung Johor Lama Kota Tinggi T (07) 895 5282 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month.

GALLERI TENUN JOHOR Johor Heritage Centre Lot 888, Jalan Sungai Chat Johor Bahru T (07) 221 3148 Open: Sun-Thu, 8am~5pm JOHOR ART GALLERY Jalan Petrie, Johor Bahru T (07) 226 3266 Open: Sun-Wed, 9.30am~4.30pm Thu, 9.30am~3pm JOHOR BAHRU CHINESE HERITAGE MUSEUM 42, Jalan Ibrahim Johor Bahru T (07) 224 9633 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm JOHOR BUGIS MUSEUM Taman Rekreasi

KOTA TINGGI MUSEUM Jalan Laksamana Kota Tinggi T (07) 883 1498 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~4pm KWONG SIEW HERITAGE GALLERY 24, Jalan Siu Nam Johor Bahru T (07) 223 3682 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm Sat, 9am~1pm MALAY CULTURE VILLAGE 33A, Jalan Petaling Kawasan Perindustrian Larkin Johor Bahru T (07) 238 7377 Open: Daily, 9am~4pm

MERSING MUSEUM Jalan Ibrahim, Mersing T (07) 798 0627 Open: Sat-Wed, 9am~4.45pm, Thu, 9am~3pm PASIR GUDANG KITE MUSEUM Jalan Bandar Pasir Gudang T (07) 251 3720 Open: Daily, 9.30am~5.30pm PINEAPPLE MUSEUM KM 53, Jalan Johor, Pontian T (07) 687 2424 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm ROYAL ABU BAKAR MUSEUM Jalan Ayer Molek Johor Bahru T (07) 223 0555/ 0222 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm TANJUNG BALAU FISHERMEN’S MUSEUM Tanjung Balau, Desaru T (07) 884 3100 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm KEDAH GALERI PERDANA Kilim, Mukim Air Hangat T (04) 959 1498 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. (Closed for upgrading until 2023)

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

KEDAH ROYAL MUSEUM Medan Bandar, Alor Setar T (04) 732 7937 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 2.30pm~10pm KEDAH STATE ART GALLERY Medan Bandar, Jalan Raja Alor Setar T (04) 732 5752 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 2pm~5pm KEDAH STATE MUSEUM Bakar Bata, Lebuhraya Darul Aman, Alor Setar T (04) 733 1162 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 2pm~5pm KOTA KUALA KEDAH MUSEUM Kampung Seberang Kota Kuala Kedah Hp (011) 6572 7266 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. LANGKAWI RICE MUSEUM Jalan Pantai Cenang Mukim Kedawang T (04) 955 1118/ 4312/ 1818 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm School Holidays, 8am~6pm LEMBAH BUJANG ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM Bujang Valley, Merbok T (04) 457 2005 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month.

ISLAMIC MUSEUM Jalan Masjid, Kota Bharu T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45pm ISTANA BATU ROYAL MUSEUM Jalan Hilir Kota, Kota Bharu T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45pm An aerial view of the Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum, gateway to a sprawling 224 sq km historical complex which is the richest archaeological area in Malaysia, dating back more than 2,500 years.

RICE MUSEUM Jalan Gunung Keriang Alor Setar T (04) 735 1315 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12.30pm & 2.30pm~5pm SULTAN ABDUL HALIM MU’ADZAM SHAH GALLERY Medan Bandar, Jalan Raja Alor Setar T (04) 730 1957 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 2pm~5pm KELANTAN CRAFT MUSEUM & HERITAGE VILLAGE Kampung Kraftangan Jalan Hilir Balai Kota Bharu T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45 pm

KELANTAN STATE MUSEUM Jalan Hospital, Kota Bharu T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45pm MUSEUM OF ROYAL TRADITIONS AND CUSTOMS KELANTAN Istana Jahar, Jalan Hilir Kota Kota Bharu T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45pm Fri, 8.30am~12.30pm & 2.45pm~4.45pm MUZIUM KUALA KRAI JKR 60, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, Kuala Krai T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45 pm SECOND WORLD WAR MEMORIAL (BANK KERAPU) Jalan Hospital Kota Bharu T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45pm WAU MUSEUM (TRADITIONAL KITE MUSEUM) Pantai Sri Tujoh Tumpat T (09) 748 2266 Open: Sat-Thu, 8.30am~4.45pm KUALA LUMPUR

One of the highlights of the Kelantan State Museum is the superb collection of Kelantanese wayang kulit (shadow puppet) figures, which are considered unique due to their naturalistic appearance.

BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA MUSEUM & ART GALLERY Sasana Kijang 2, Jalan Dato Onn T (03) 9179 2784 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm

MUSEUMS LISTING

BIOMEDICAL MUSEUM Institute for Medical Research, Jalan Pahang T (03) 2616 2666/ Ext: 2545 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm GALERIA SRI PERDANA Jalan Terengganu Off Jalan Damansara T (03) 2072 0035 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm ILHAM GALLERY Level 3 & 5, Ilham Tower 8, Jalan Binjai T (03) 2181 3003 Open: Tue-Sat, 11am~7pm Sun,11am~5pm ISLAMIC ARTS MUSEUM MALAYSIA

(See page 94)

JADE MUSEUM 26, Jalan Delima, Off Jalan Imbi T (03) 2142 9648 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm MALAY ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM Universiti Malaya Lembah Pantai T (03) 7967 7275 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm MALAY WORLD ETHNOLOGY MUSEUM Jalan Damansara 50566 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2267 1000 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. MUSEUM OF ASIAN ART University of Malaya Jalan Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz (Formerly Jalan University) T (03) 7967 3805 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS Ansa Hotel, 1st & 2nd Floor 101, Jalan Bukit Bintang T (03) 2110 2654 Open: Daily, 9am~10pm MUZIUM DIRAJA

(ROYAL MUSEUM)

Istana Negara Lama Jalan Istana

You can only have fair and transparent trade when you are able to standardize measurements, which this display at the MATRADE Trade Museum explains so effectively.

T (03) 2272 1896 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. MUZIUM NEGARA (NATIONAL MUSEUM)

(See page 52)

NATIONAL ART GALLERY

(See page 51)

NATIONAL TEXTILE MUSEUM Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin T (03) 2694 3455/ 3457/ 3461 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. ORANG ASLI CRAFTS MUSEUM Jalan Damansara T (03) 2282 6255 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. P. RAMLEE MEMORIAL LIBRARY 22, Jalan Dedap, Taman P. Ramlee, Setapak T (03) 4023 1131 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~5pm Fri, 10am~12pm & 3pm~5pm Closed: Mon (Except School & Public Holidays)

PUCUK REBUNG ROYAL GALLERY MUSEUM 18, Lorong Ara Kiri 2 Lucky Garden, Bangsar T (03) 2094 9969 Open: Daily, 10am~5.30pm ROYAL MALAYSIAN POLICE MUSEUM Jalan Perdana Perdana Botanical Garden T (03) 2272 5689 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~6am TELEKOM MUSEUM Jalan Raja Chulan T (03) 2031 9966 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm TRADE MUSEUM Level 2, Menara MATRADE Jalan Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah

The aquarium displays in the Labuan Marine Museum’s marine life exhibition reflect the colourful biodiversity of the seas surrounding the island.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

T (03) 6207 7700 Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 3pm~5pm LABUAN CHIMNEY MUSEUM Jalan Tanjung Kubong Kampung Lubok Temiang T (087) 463 603 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. LABUAN MARINE MUSEUM Kompleks Sukan Air Antarabangsa Jalan Tanjung Purun T (087) 414 462/ 425 927 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. LABUAN MUSEUM Jalan Dewan T (087) 414 135 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. MELAKA AGRICULTURE MUSEUM Jalan Aman, Jasin T (06) 282 1303 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm BABA & NYONYA HERITAGE MUSEUM Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock T (06) 282 1273 Open: Daily, 10am~1pm & 2pm~5pm

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE MEMORIAL Kompleks Warisan Melaka Jalan Kota T (06) 284 1231 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm DEMANG ABDUL GHANI GALLERY Jalan Merlimau Jaya Merlimau T (06) 284 1934 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm

T (06) 284 1934 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm HISTORY & ETHNOGRAPHY MUSEUM – STADTHUYS Jalan Kota T (06) 284 1934 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm HOUSE OF MUSEUMS MELAKA 82, Lorong Hang Jebat T (06) 281 1265 Open: Fri-Sun, 10am~6pm Mon-Tue, 10am~5pm

DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT MUSEUM Jalan Kota T (06) 284 1934 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm

KITE MUSEUM Jalan Kota T (06) 282 1303 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm

EDUCATION MUSEUM Jalan Kota T (06) 284 1934 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm

(MUZIUM SASTERA)

FOLKS ART GALLERY Jalan Laksamana T (06) 284 1934 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm GOVERNOR’S MUSEUM

(MUZIUM YANG DI-PERTUA NEGERI MELAKA)

Kompleks Warisan Melaka Jalan Kota

LITERATURE MUSEUM

Kompleks Warisan Melaka Jalan Kota T (06) 284 1934 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm MALAYSIA ARCHITECTURAL MUSEUM Jalan Kota T (06) 286 4763 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. MALAYSIAN PRISON MUSEUM Jalan Parameswara Bandar Hilir T (06) 281 3548/ 4661 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm MALAYSIAN YOUTH MUSEUM Kompleks Warisan Melaka Jalan Kota T (06) 284 1934 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm

CHENG HO CULTURAL MUSEUM 51, Lorong Hang Jebat T (06) 283 1135/ 1136 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm CHITTY MUSEUM Jalan Gajah Berang T (06) 283 0926 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm DATUK WIRA BORHAN MD YAMAN GALLERY Jalan Kota T (06) 282 1303 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm

MARITIME MUSEUM (FLOR DE LA MAR) Jalan Quayside T (06) 283 0926 Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri-Sun, 9am~7pm A replica of the Flor De La Mar, a 16th century Portuguese carrack, is the highlight of the Melaka Maritime Museum.

MARITIME MUSEUM PHASE II Jalan Quayside T (06) 283 0926

MUSEUMS LISTING

Ghafar Baba, Bukit Peringgit T (06) 284 4593 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm Public & School Holidays VILLA SENTOSA Jalan Kampung Morten T (06) 282 3988 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm WORLD BEE MUSEUM Jalan Taman Botanikal Ayer Keroh T (06) 253 2377 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion recreates the opulent 19th century lifestyle of a wealthy Baba Nyonya (Straits Chinese) family.

Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri-Sun, 9am~7pm MELAKA ABORIGINES MUSEUM Ayer Keroh T (06) 282 1303 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm MELAKA ARTS GALLERY Jalan Laksamana T (06) 284 1934 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm MELAKA GOLF GALLERY Jalan Banda Kaba T (06) 282 7464 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm MELAKA ISLAMIC MUSEUM Jalan Kota T (06) 282 1303 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm MELAKA STAMP MUSEUM Kompleks Warisan Melaka Jalan Kota T (06) 282 1303 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm MELAKA SULTANATE PALACE MUSEUM Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir T (06) 282 7464 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm

PEOPLE’S MUSEUM Jalan Kota, Bandar Hilir T (06) 282 1303 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm PULAU BESAR MUSEUM Pulau Besar T (06) 283 0926 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.00pm ROYAL MALAYSIAN NAVY MUSEUM (TLDM) Jalan Quayside T (06) 283 0926 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm SUBMARINE MUSEUM Dataran 1 Malaysia Klebang T (06) 283 0926 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm TAN SRI AZIZ TAPA GALLERY Jalan Kota T (06) 282 1303 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm TUANKU JA’AFAR ROYAL GALLERY Jalan Taman Bunga Tasek Seremban T (06) 761 9102/ 9103 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~5pm TUN ABDUL GHAFAR BABA MEMORIAL Lot 163, Persiaran Tun Abdul

WORLD ISLAMIC AND MALAY MUSEUM Jalan Kota T (06) 282 7464 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm NEGERI SEMBILAN ARMY MUSEUM Persiaran Pahlawan Kem Si Rusa, Port Dickson T (06) 646 2359 Open: Wed-Sun, 10am~5pm CUSTOM MUSEUM Jalan Dato’ Umbi Kuala Klawang T (06) 613 6586 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. LUKUT MUSEUM Jalan Besar, Kota Lukut Port Dickson T (06) 651 2954 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. NEGERI SEMBILAN STATE MUSEUM

(See page 100)

REMBAU MUSEUM & REPLICA ROYAL PALACE Kampung Istana Raja Rembau T (06) 438 4992 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm ROYAL GALLERY TUANKU JA’AFAR Jalan Taman Bunga Seremban

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T (06) 761 9102 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~4.30pm SERI MENANTI ROYAL MUSEUM Seri Menanti, Kuala Pilah T (06) 497 9653 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm TERATAK ZA’BA MUSEUM Kampung Bukit Kerdas Batu Kikir, Jempol T (06) 498 5193 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm PAHANG GALERI MAT KILAU Jalan Pulau Tawar Durian Hijau, Jerantut T (09) 266 2205 Open: Daily, 10am~5pm KAMPUNG PULAU KELADI CULTURAL COMPLEX Kampung Pulau Keladi Pekan, Bandar Diraja T (09) 422 1371 Open: Mon-Fri, 9.30am~5pm MAH MERI ART GALLERY 29 & 30, 1st Floor Main Road Tanah Rata Cameron Highlands T (05) 491 2031 Open: Daily, 10.30am~7.30pm PAHANG ART MUSEUM Jalan Masjid, Kuantan T (09) 516 1328/ 1329 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm SULTAN ABDULLAH MOSQUE MUSEUM Kampung Pancur Pekan T (09) 422 1371 Open: Tue-Thu & Sat-Sun, 9.30am~5pm Fri, 9.30am~12.15pm & 2.45pm~5pm SULTAN ABU BAKAR MUSEUM Jalan Sultan Ahmad Pekan T (09) 422 1371 Open: Tue-Thu, Sat & Sun, 9am~5pm, Fri, 9am~12pm & 2pm~5pm

The Pulau Keladi Cultural Village in Pekan incorporates many fine historical buildings, including the village house where Malaysia’s second Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak was born. It also hosts the Royal Pahang Silk Weaving Centre (inset), where skilled artisans create unique Tenun Pahang textiles.

SUNGAI LEMBING MUSEUM Sungai Lembing Kuantan T (09) 541 2378 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. TIME TUNNEL MUSEUM Jalan Sungai Burong Brinchang Cameron Highland Hp (016) 328 8438 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm PENANG 3D GLOW-IN-THE DARK MUSEUM 145, Lebuh Kimberly George Town T (04) 251 9694 Open: Daily, 10am~5.30pm

T (04) 371 5512/ 5516 Open: Tue-Sun, 11am~7pm BATIK PAINTING MUSEUM PENANG 19, Lebuh Armenian George Town T (04) 262 4800 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm GHOST MUSEUM PENANG 57, Lebuh Melayu George Town T (04) 261 2352 Open: Daily, 10am~7pm GLASS MUSEUM PENANG 6, Jalan Burma, George Town T (04) 251 9880 Open: Mon-Fri, 9.30am~6pm Sat, 9.30am~5pm

ASIA CAMERA MUSEUM 71, Lebuh Armenian George Town T (04) 251 9878 Open: Mon-Sat, 10am~6pm

P. RAMLEE HOUSE Jalan P. Ramlee George Town T (04) 281 7484 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm & School & Public Holidays

ASIA COMIC CULTURAL MUSEUM Level 2, ICT Mall Komtar George Town

PENANG 3D TRICK ART MUSEUM 10, Lebuh Penang GeorgeTown

MUSEUMS LISTING

T (04) 263 1628 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm PENANG HOUSE OF MUSIC Komtar, Level 4-02 Jalan Penang, George Town T (04) 370 6675 Open: Daily, 11am~8pm PENANG INDIAN HERITAGE MUSEUM 225, Jalan Macalister George Town T (04) 650 5215 Open: Thu-Fri, 10am~4pm, Sat, 12pm~4pm, Sun, 10am~4pm, PENANG PERANAKAN MANSION Lebuh Gereja, George Town T (04) 264 2929 Open: Daily, 9.30am~5pm PENANG STATE MUSEUM 57, Macalister Road George Town T (04) 226 1461/ 62 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm PENANG WAR MUSEUM Jalan Batu Maung Batu Maung T (04) 626 5142 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm & 7pm~10pm

SUN YAT SEN PENANG BASE 120, Lebuh Armenian George Town T (04) 262 0123 Open: Tue-Sat, 9am~5pm, Sun, 1pm~5pm

DARUL RIDZUAN MUSEUM Jalan Panglima Bukit Gantang Ipoh T (05) 241 0048 Open: Daily, 8.30am~4.30pm

TEDDYVILLE MUSEUM PENANG Ground Floor Double Tree Resort by Hilton Penang Batu Ferringhi Hp (016) 550 5949 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm

GEOLOGICAL MUSEUM Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah Ipoh T (05) 540 6000 Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~12pm, 2pm~4.30pm, Fri, 9am~12pm, 3pm~4.30pm

TEOCHEW PUPPET & OPERA HOUSE 122, Lebuh Armenian George Town T (04) 262 0377 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~6pm TOY MUSEUM HERITAGE GARDEN 1370, MK2, Teluk Bahang Hp (012) 460 2096 Open: Mon-Thu, 2pm~6pm Fri, Sat & Sun, 9am~6pm TUANKU FAUZIAH MUSEUM & GALLERY Universiti Sains Malaysia Jalan Pemimpin Gelugor T (04) 653 3261/ 4789 Open: Mon-Sat, 9am~5pm PERAK 22 HALE STREET HERITAGE GALLERY 22, Jalan Tun Sambanthan Ipoh T (05) 241 3991 Open: Thu-Tue, 11am~5.30pm BERUAS MUSEUM Jalan Besar, Beruas T (05) 674 0160 Open: Daily, 10am~5pm

Discover the history of tin mining and its impact on the development of Malaysia at the Kinta Tin Mining Museum.

CONCUBINE LANE MUSEUM 19, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah Ipoh T (05) 254 9612 Open: Mon-Fri, 10am~5pm Weekends & Public Holidays by appointment only.

GOPENG HERITAGE HOUSE 6, Jalan Sungai Itek Gopeng Hp (012) 501 3201 Open: Fri-Wed, 9am~4pm GOPENG MUSEUM 28, Jalan Eu Kong Gopeng Hp (016) 542 1287 Open: Sat & Sun, 9am~4pm HAN CHIN PET SOO 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah Ipoh T (05) 241 4541 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~3pm HO YAN HOR MUSEUM 1, Jalan Bijeh Timah Ipoh T (05) 241 2048 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~4pm KINTA TIN MINING MUSEUM Jalan Batu Karang Taman Bandar Baru, Kampar Hp (012) 288 8530 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm LENGGONG VALLEY ARCHAEOLOGICAL GALLERY Kota Tampan, Lenggong T (05) 767 9700 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Fri, 9am~12.15pm & 2.45pm~5pm MATANG MUSEUM Matang, Kota Ngah Ibrahim T (05) 847 7970 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month.

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MINIATURE WONDERS ART GALLERY 49, Jalan Market, Ipoh Hp (018) 579 0492 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 8.30am~6pm PASIR SALAK HISTORICAL COMPLEX Kampung Gajah, Pasir Salak T (05) 631 1462 Open: Daily, 9.30am~5pm PERAK MUSEUM Jalan Taming Sari, Taiping T (05) 807 2057 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. PERAK ROYAL MUSEUM Istana Lama, Bukit Chandan Kuala Kangsar T (05) 776 5500 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~4.30pm SULTAN AZLAN SHAH GALLERY Bukit Chandan Kuala Kangsar T (05) 777 5362 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~4.30pm TELEGRAPH MUSEUM TAIPING 2664, Jalan Stesen, Taiping T (05) 801 0682 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm TIME TUNNEL IPOH Jalan Panglima, Ipoh Hp (016) 328 8438 Open: Daily, 9am~4.30pm

PUTRAJAYA JUSTICE MUSEUM PUTRAJAYA The Palace of Justice Precinct 3, Putrajaya T (03) 8880 3500 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~4pm SABAH AGNES KEITH HOUSE 296, Jalan Utara, Sandakan T (089) 221 140 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm AQUARIUM & MARINE MUSEUM Universiti Malaysia Sabah Borneo Marine Research Institute Jalan UMS, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 320 121 Open: Sun-Sat, 9am~4pm BATU TULUG ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM Kampung Batu Putih Kota Kinabatangan T (089) 551 062 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm LING ZHI MUSEUM Jalan Kepayan Kota Kinabalu T (088) 725 555 Open: Mon-Sat, 10am~6pm SABAH ART GALLERY Jalan Penampang Kota Kinabalu T (088) 268 748 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

SABAH ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION MUSEUM Jalan Menteri Kota Kinabalu T (088) 238 501 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm SABAH MUSEUM COMPLEX Jalan Muzium Kota Kinabalu T (088) 225 033 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm SANDAKAN HERITAGE MUSEUM Wisma Warisan, Sandakan T (089) 222 679 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm TECK GUAN COCOA MUSEUM Mile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut Tawau T (089) 775 566 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm Sat, 9am~1pm TUN MUSTAPHA GALLERY Podium Level, Menara Tun Mustapha, Teluk Likas Kota Kinabalu T (088) 326 489 Open: Mon-Fri, 8.30am~5pm SARAWAK Opening Hours Except where otherwise indicated, museums listed here have the following opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9am~4.45pm & Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 10am~4pm

PERLIS KOTA KAYANG MUSEUM Jalan Kuala Perlis T (04) 977 0027 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month. PERLIS ROYAL GALLERY Arau Royal Palace, Arau T (04) 986 4835/ 1226 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm *Permission must be sought prior to visit.

No time to dive or snorkel at Sabah’s pristine reefs? You can get close to many colourful reef-dwelling species at Kota Kinabalu’s Aquarium and Marine Museum.

MUSEUMS LISTING

KUCHING BORNEO HOUSE MUSEUM 1, Jalan Batu 6-7 Jalan Penrissen T (082) 622 968 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm BROOKE GALLERY Fort Margherita, Petra Jaya Hp (018) 372 5189 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~4.30pm CAT MUSEUM DBKU Building Kuching City Hall North Jalan Semariang Bukit Siol, Petra Jaya 93050 Kuching T (082) 512 200 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm CHINESE HISTORY MUSEUM Kuching Waterfront Jalan Main Bazaar T (082) 231 520 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~4.30pm Sat & Sun, 10am~4.30pm DATIN AMAR MARGARET LINGGI PUA GALLERY Level 4, Tun Jugah Tower 18, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman T (082) 239 672 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~12pm & 2pm~4pm ISLAMIC MUSEUM Jalan P. Ramlee T (082) 244 378 Open: Daily, Mon-Fri, 9am~4.30pm Sat & Sun, 10am~4.30pm KUCHING CITY SOUTH COUNCIL (MBKS) PICTORIAL GALLERY Ground Floor, Kuching South City Hall T (082) 354 200 Open: Mon-Fri, 8.30am~5pm SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE

(See page 106)

SARAWAK MUSEUM Jalan P Ramlee

Kuching’s Datin Amar Margaret Linggi Pua Gallery showcases wonderful pua kumbu textiles and many other Iban cultural artefacts.

93400 Kuching T (082) 548 181 W museum.sarawak.gov.my The Sarawak Museum campus combines the new Borneo Cultures Museum, Sarawak Natural History Museum (Museum Old Building), Sarawak Art Museum and Sarawak Islamic Heritage Museum together in one city centre location. For opening hours please see website. STATE RECORD REPOSITORY Jalan Cahaya Indah Off Jalan Sultan Tengah T (082) 440 488 Open: Mon-Fri, 8.30am~4.30pm TEXTILE MUSEUM Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg T (082) 246 194 Open: Daily, Mon-Fri, 9am~4.30pm Sat-Sun, 10am~4.30pm TIMBER MUSEUM Wisma Sumber Alam Jalan Stadium Petra Jaya T (082) 443 477 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~12.30pm & 2pm~5pm, Fri, 8am~11.30am & 2.30pm~5pm

MIRI BARAM REGIONAL MUSEUM Jalan Fort, Marudi T (082) 548 181 The museum is currently closed for renovation. For information kindly visit the website. LIMBANG REGIONAL MUSEUM Jalan Kubu Limbang T (085) 211 277 Open: Tue-Fri, 9am~4pm Sat & Sun, 10am~4pm NIAH ARCHAEOLOGY MUSEUM Batu Niah, Miri T (082) 244 232 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~4pm PETROLEUM MUSEUM Canada Hill Jalan Oil Well 1, Miri T (085) 438 516 Open: Tue-Fri, 9am~5pm Sat & Sun, 10am~4pm SIBU LAU KING HOWE HOSPITAL MEMORIAL MUSEUM Jalan Lau King Howe T (084) 350 080 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm

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WORLD FEDERAL FUZHOU HERITAGE GALLERY Lot 837, Block 18, Salim Road T (084) 213 131 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~12pm & 1.30pm~4.30pm, Sat, 8am~12pm SRI AMAN HERITAGE SRI AMAN MUSEUM (FORT ALICE) Jalan Astana, Sri Aman Hp (014) 587 8885 Open: Tue-Fri, 9am~5pm Sat-Sun & Public Holidays, 10am~5pm SELANGOR SABAK BERNAM MUSEUM Jalan Raja Chulan Pekan Sabak Bernam Kuala Selangor T (03) 3216 5586 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm CHOCOLATE MUSEUM 2, Jalan Teknologi ¾ Section 3, Kota Damansara T (03) 6156 9960 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm GALERI SHAH ALAM Laman Budaya Persiaran Tasik Shah Alam T (03) 5510 5344 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm JUGRA INSITU MUSEUM Kampung Permatang Pasir Bukit Jugra, Banting T (03) 3120 1288 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~5pm

MALAY HERITAGE MUSEUM Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang T (03) 9769 8939 Open: Mon-Fri, 10am~5pm MUSEUM OF ACADEMIC HERITAGE & GALLERY OF TUANKU CHANCELLOR The National University of Malaysia, Bangi T (03) 8921 3136/ 5916 Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~ 5pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 3pm~5pm MUZIUM SEJARAH KUALA SELANGOR 1, Puncak Bukit Melawati Kuala Selangor T (03) 3289 7167 Open: Daily, 10am~5pm NATIONAL AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM Sepang International Circuit Jalan Pekeliling, Sepang T (03) 8787 4759/ 1499 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Except first Monday of every month.

SULTAN ABDUL AZIZ ROYAL GALLERY Bangunan Sultan Sulaiman Jalan Stesen Klang T (03) 3373 6500 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~5pm SULTAN ALAM SHAH MUSEUM Persiaran Bandaraya Seksyen 14 Shah Alam T (03) 5519 0050 Open: Daily, 9.30am~5.30pm The museum is currently closed for renovation. For information kindly visit the website. TERENGGANU DUNGUN DISTRICT MUSEUM Jalan Yahya Ahmad T (09) 844 1206 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm

ORANG ASLI MUSEUM Batu 12, Jalan Pahang Lama Gombak T (03) 6186 8796 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm

KEMAMAN DISTRICT MUSEUM Lot 132, Jalan Sulaiman Chukai T (09) 858 2701 Open: Sat-Thu 9am~5pm

RED CARPET WAX MUSEUM D-1-G, Jalan Multimedia 7/AJ City Park, I-City, Shah Alam T (03) 5521 8800/ 8860 Open: Wed-Mon, 1pm~11pm & Public Holidays

TERENGGANU STATE MUSEUM COMPLEX Bukit Losong Kuala Terengganu T (09) 632 1200 Open: Sat-Thu 9am~5pm

Car enthusiasts will feel at home in the National Automobile Museum in Sepang, which traces the history of Malaysian motoring since 1904.

Red Carpet 2 is Malaysia’s first interactive waxwork museum, where you can take selfies with the famous and the infamous, including film and music celebrities, athletes, politicians and even royalty.

THE ARTS

The Art of Diversity The aesthetic roots of Malaysia’s art can be found both in its past and in its multicultural makeup. Maritime routes brought the world’s traders to its shores, along with their respective cultures. Arab, Chinese Indian, and European influences have seeped into Malaysia’s art forms since antiquity. As the country gained independence in the midtwentieth century, Islamic influences became more prominent, through art forms like calligraphy and nonfigurative representation. Over in East Malaysia, the traditional motifs of Borneo’s

indigenous peoples create an aesthetic blend that shares similarities with Polynesian cultures. As skyscrapers take the place of rural landscapes, our visual topography has followed suit, with a younger generation of artists taking pride in exploring new media. Today, Malaysia’s art scene is a medley of old and new, and many of the country’s contemporary artists have embedded the aesthetics and traditions of their elders into modern works that remain distinctively Malaysian. Traditional Arts The country’s classic art forms include textiles, pottery, metalwork, and woodcarving, and

This exquisite Kitab al-Mawlid al-Nabawi (book of prayers recited on the occasion of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday) is a highlight of the IAMM Malay World gallery. Written in Arabic with interlinear Malay translations, it is a foundation stone of the Islamic arts movement in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia’s Borneo and East Coast states remain the best places to view and purchase fine traditional works. Along the southern coast of Selangor lies Carey Island, where the indigenous Mah Meri trade their world-famous UNESCOrecognised sculptures, along with beautiful woven objects, in their Cultural Village. In the states of Terengganu and Kelantan, wood carving still flourishes, with the fine work of artisans finding its way into architectural features such as supports and doors, or even onto decorative touches on fishing boats.

Another highlight of the IAMM Malay World gallery, a pokok pitis (coin tree) minted from locally mined tin in Kelantan in 1903 AD/ 1321 AH. Each coin has inscriptions in naskh script on both sides.

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These two states also boast a rich history of batik and songket weaving. The latter, featuring intricate interweaving of threads with gold or silver strands to create geometric patterns, is descended from the courts of Pattani in Southern Thailand, and is still used today in royal regalia and formal Malay wear. Rattan weaving and basketry remain prevalent in the country’s rural areas and all manner of utilitarian objects — predominantly handmade by women — are crafted from materials such as pandan and mengkuang leaves. Traditional kites or wau are another popular tradition, often decorated with colourful adornments and floral motifs. In the state of Kelantan, people

Malay master woodcarver Norhaiza Noordin in his workshop at Bakawali Sari Warisan, the woodcarving study centre he created in Kampung Raja, Terengganu.

still fly these multihued kites, which also feature in the logo of the country’s national carrier, Malaysia Airlines (see page 428). Sadly, as the speed and efficiency of machineassisted processes become more dominant, these art forms, and the intricacy offered by handmaking techniques, are increasingly being threatened with extinction. Therefore, the wise art-lover should grasp the opportunity to acquire traditional works of art before they become priceless relics. For traditional arts and crafts in the capital, Pucuk Rebung in Bangsar is a good place to start. Antiquities, old wooden carvings, and glittering jewellery and adornments flood the store-comemuseum, taking visitors on a trip through Malaysia’s past. Also good for a quick overview is the Kompleks Budaya Kraf on Jalan Stonor (see page 96), which also hosts the annual National Craft Day festival. The art of Peninsular Malaysia’s original inhabitants is showcased at the Orang Asli Craft Museum, next to the National Museum in KL. Here, visitors can view carved wooden totems and masks, as well as traditional costumes made from natural materials. The Arts of Sabah and Sarawak The Borneo states of Sabah

A weaver at the Tanoti workshop in Kuching executing a fine Songket, a Malay brocade textile interwoven with silver and gold threads.

and Sarawak offer visitors a glimpse into well-preserved forms of traditional art, predominantly related to the indigenous communities. In Sarawak especially, body art still flourishes, and the bestknown tattoo artists, as well as their living canvases, belong to the Iban and Orang Ulu communities. Popular motifs include the bunga terung (eggplant flower), an abstract floral design featuring spiral lines at the centre to represent the passage of life. Each tattoo motif bears a different meaning, and traditional tattooing is done with handmade implements. Other forms of body art include decorative pieces, such as jewellery and weighty brass ear pendants that cause the earlobes to droop.

THE ARTS

Nancy Ngali, an Iban weaver from Sarawak, received the World Crafts Council Award of Excellence in 2018 for her magnificent Pua Kumbu textiles.

Sarawak’s artistic history can be traced back to Neolithic times, with evidence of wall paintings

and pottery found in the Niah Great Cave. Today, contemporary touches are present in the state’s traditional art forms, such as basketry, yet traditional Iban pua kumbu textiles are still widely available, with their highly distinct geometric motifs woven on simple backstrap looms. Also noteworthy is the colourful and intricate beadwork of the Orang Ulu. Superb examples of all these crafts can be found at the Sarawak Museum and Textile Museum in Kuching. In Sabah, the weaving and basketry of the Rungus and Bajau people can still be seen today, and traditional aesthetics have provided a rich source of inspiration for contemporary artists. One of the best-known works is Sabahan Bayu

Utomo Radjikin’s Lang Kacang of 1991, a cement and metal sculpture of a Kadazan warrior with his head thrown back, his mouth frozen in a powerful scream. Pusat Kraftangan Sabah in Keningau has an excellent selection of traditional crafts, especially woven household objects. A walk through the centre’s workshops reveals a thriving learning environment where young apprentices inherit traditional skills from master artisans. Pewter One art form that has moved fluidly from the past into the present is pewtersmithing, whose preservation can largely be attributed to Royal Selangor. The company was started in 1885 by Yong Koon, a

Iban master tattooist Ernesto Kalum creates a traditional hand tapped tattoo at his studio in Kuching.

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Royal Selangor Pewter’s showroom at Pavilion KL. Pewter has played an important role in Malaysia’s industrial and artistic history.

young Chinese migrant, in a simple shop on 23 Cross Street, Kuala Lumpur, where he sold pewter incense burners and Chinese prayer items. His company has since grown into a global enterprise that crafts everything from utilitarian wares, such as plates and goblets, to decorative and personal items like tie pins, money clips and even superhero figurines. Royal Selangor’s Visitors Centres in Setapak Jaya and Penang are great places to get up-close-and-personal with this slice of Malaysian history. Guided tours are held daily, and visitors may enroll into their ‘School of Hard Knocks’ to handle pewter and take home their very own pewter bowl as a souvenir. Fine Arts The history of fine arts in Malaysia begins in the twentieth century. Largely spurred by the accessibility of international travel,

young Malaysians set sail for Europe, to undergo formal art training and become inspired by seeing Picassos and Monets at first hand. Oil painting flourished in the earlier part of the twentieth century. Artists that drew on this largely Occidental tradition included the Nanyang Artists and later the Angkatan Pelukis

sem*nanjung artists, who would play a pivotal role in developing modern Malaysian art. They were followed by the mid-20th Century Wednesday Art Group (WAG), led by Peter Harris, British Malaya’s first art superintendent. Harris organised weekly gatherings for fledging artists to hone their craft in an atmosphere of bohemian camaraderie that was reflected in their works. Key artists, such as Cheong Laitong (creator of the Venetian glass mural façade of Malaysia’s National Museum), Sivam Selvaratnam and Patrick Ng were all WAG members. Proper art schools soon mushroomed, catering to a growing demand for formal art education. Malaysian Institute of Art and Institut Teknologi MARA (now Universiti Teknologi MARA) were among the earliest,

An exquisite detail from the Essence Of Culture series by Awang Damit Ahmad, a highly regarded artist and art educator.

THE ARTS

with many of their alumni acknowledged as important Malaysian artists. Art Galleries Most of Malaysia’s art galleries are located in Kuala Lumpur. The National Art Gallery (Balai Seni Negara, see page 51) houses the national collection, with artworks spanning the twentieth century till today. A good selection can also be found at Sasana Kijang, Bank Negara Malaysia’s Museum and Art Gallery, featuring key works from top names including Datuk Ibrahim Hussein, Datuk Syed Ahmad Jamal, Latiff Mohidin, Dato’ Chuah Thean Teng, Yeoh Jin Leng, Khoo Sui Hoe, Jolly Koh, Dato’ Sharifah Fatimah, Yusof Ghani, Awang Damit Ahmad, Dato’ Tajuddin Ismail and Chang

Two stunning Ilham Gallery exhibitions: The Body Politic and the Body, a collaboration with Singapore Art Museum exploring the many facets of Malaysian contemporary art; and (inset) Love Me in My Batik, recounting batik painting’s emergence as a modern Malaysian art form.

Fee Ming. Early works by contemporary artists, such as Wong Hoy Cheong, Zulkifli Yusoff, Ahmad Fuad Osman, Hamir Soib, and Mad Anuar Ismail, are also

exhibited. Another private institution to look out for is the non-profit ILHAM Gallery which dedicates its efforts to modern and contemporary art from

An installation by Raja Shahriman Raja Aziddin at the National Art Gallery. The artist is renowned for using Malay martial themes in his metal sculptures.

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Malaysia and the region. In addition, Galeri Petronas, Ken Gallery, and Soka Gakkai Malaysia exhibition hall often hold good exhibitions. The proliferation of commercial art galleries and exhibitions in Malaysia, particularly in KL, is testament to growing public interest and international, as well as the rising value of the art itself. Whilst art prices in China and India have skyrocketed, prices here are still reasonable, making for sound yet attainable investments. In Kuala Lumpur, galleries such as A+ Works Of Art (Sentul), Richard Koh Fine Art, Galeri Prima and Pinkguy (all Bangsar), WeiLing Contemporary (The Gardens Mall) and Taksu (Ampang) present a wide range of contemporary

Proving that art and sustainability go hand in hand, Sabah Art Gallery’s Conservation Building is the first green building in Sabah and the first green public gallery in Malaysia.

Penang’s community-run Hin Bus Depot Gallery is an informal art space and creative hub for bringing artists and art lovers together.

Southeast Asian art and an engaging selection of art-related public events. HOM Art Trans (Ampang) promotes young contemporary artists while City Art Gallery (Cheras) focuses on more traditional subjects and themes. The Zhongshan Building in Kampung Attap is a hive of creativity, home to independent spaces like The Back Room that feature exhibitions by emerging artists. Publika Shopping Gallery is tenanted by Segaris Art Center, Artemis Art and Art Row, and exhibition spaces like White Box, Black Box that host a busy calendar of art events throughout the year. Just outside KL’s city limits, G13 Gallery, Core Design Gallery (both Petaling Jaya), and Shalini Ganendra Fine Art (Subang Jaya) also showcase quality modern artworks, while The Print Room (Petaling

Jaya) specializes in fine art photography. Outside the capital, state museums are good spots for art. Notable is the Penang State Museum & Art Gallery, and the island’s communitydriven Hin Bus Depot Gallery, which includes artist studios, murals and public art. The Sabah Art Gallery, which recently found a permanent space in its new Conservation Building, showcases exhibitions allyear long. Its permanent collection includes the works of Tina Rimmer, the first artist to hold a solo exhibition in the gallery, renowned for her paintings capturing daily life in the local markets of Tamparuli. Rimbun Dahan’s residency programme is located in Kuang, Selangor, on expansive grounds featuring indigenous plants and landscaping inspired by traditional kampung styles. Artist studios and

THE ARTS

Multidisciplinary artist Haffendi Anuar discussing an installation with Rimbun Dahan director Angela Hijjas during his 2017 residency at the arts centre.

giant sculptures dot the landscape, including Sakinah, a striking yellow aluminium sculpture by Ahmad Osni Peii. Rimbun Dahan occasionally opens its doors to the public, allowing for guided tours to

Works by Ahmad Shukri Mohamed (Malaysia) and Claire Healy and Sean Cordeiro (Australia), former resident artists, on display at Rimbun Dahan’s Underground Gallery.

its grounds, artist studios and the exhibition in its underground gallery. Art Auctions Auctions have become a regular feature of the Malaysian arts calendar,

The tension ramps up as the bidding intensifies and the auctioneer acknowledges another frantic bid at a Henry Butcher Art Auction in KL.

offering a good avenue for the secondary sale of works. Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers (HBAA) made their debut in 2010, with their initial auction topping the RM1.7 million mark. Their second auction

The late Datuk Ibrahim Hussein’s Calama Desert diptych (1991) sold for a remarkable RM 918,400 at Henry Butcher’s October 2020 Art Auction.

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included rare pieces, such as one from Latiff Mohidin’s Pago-Pago series, drawing great interest from serious collectors, and in 2012 they added works by younger Malaysian artists, attracting collectors seeking maximum potential returns. In only a decade, HBAA auctioned off more than 2,200 works (90% Malaysian art), with sales of more than RM50 million. Their 2019 sale achieved a record RM8.3 million. Henry Butcher’s success has naturally attracted keen competition. KL Lifestyle Art Space emerged as a new challenger in 2012, while Masterpiece began offering modern Indonesian art in 2013. This emergence

of multiple art auction houses provides a wonderful opportunity for collectors of all budgets and interests to get serious about investing in Malaysian art. Art Expo Malaysia (AEM) is the longest-running international art fair in Southeast Asia and definitely one of the most prestigious. Under the leadership of co-founder Sim Pojinn it has been a catalytic force in moving the art industry forward and defining standards for curated art fairs. The 2019 edition offered over 1,500 works from 60 leading international galleries representing some of the most promising names

in the art world. It also featured a specially curated Southeast Asia Curatorial Exhibition Area, a Japanese Pavilion and fascinating Art Talks that offered art lovers expert insights on contemporary issues in the arts. Langkawi Art Bienniale was launched in 2014 by Art Malaysia, showcasing local and international artists in the context of Langkawi’s natural beauty. The bienniale was held again in 2016 and its 3rd edition was scheduled for March 2020 (now postponed to end of 2022), with over 130 artists from 26 countries creating and presenting works on the theme of “Environment & Culture”.

A small selection of the 60-plus exhibitors and their mini-galleries at the International Art Expo Malaysia 2019, Southeast Asia’s longest running art fair.

PERFORMING ARTS

MUD: The Story of Kuala Lumpur by Enfiniti Productions is Malaysia’s longest running musical, tracing the history of Kuala Lumpur from 1857 to the present day.

The Human Canvas Malaysia’s performing arts scene offers something for everyone, with performances taking place throughout the country. Enthusiasts can choose from musical theatre, bangsawan (Malay operetta), Shakespeare, experimental theatre, pop and rock concerts, makyung (traditional dance-drama), opera, jazz, classical music, cultural or contemporary dance, children’s theatre, stand-up comedy, street or puppet theatre and traditional and religiousbased performances. The increasing number of Malaysian performance spaces, theatres and

concert halls are buzzing with the energy of youthful audiences. With arts schools and universities now offering degrees in the performing arts, an increasing number of young adults are venturing into full-time careers, carving a name for themselves in the industry both locally and globally. What makes Malaysian performing arts truly magical is the diversity of the artists and artistes. We are by nature a very creative people; our country’s multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-linguistic background and our exposure to Western culture has led to the emergence of unique cross-cultural dance,

music, theatre, storytelling and other art forms in both traditional and contemporary styles. ARTS FESTIVALS Malaysia plays host to many international festivals which either focus on the performing arts or include a significant performing arts component. Look them up on the internet or social media for line-ups and performance dates. ASEAN International Film Festival & Awards, Kuching, Sarawak (biennial, April) Yayasan Sime Darby Arts Festival (April) Rainforest World Music Festival, Kuching, Sarawak (July) Borneo Jazz Festival, Miri,

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Held annually at Sarawak Cultural Village near Kuching since 1998, the 3-day Rainforest World Music Festival is the only Southeast Asian event to be ranked in the Transglobal World Music Chart’s Global Top-10 festivals (2018 & 2019).

Sarawak (July) KL International Arts Festival, Kuala Lumpur (August) George Town Festival, Penang (August) Sibu International Dance Festival, Sibu, Sarawak (August) Johor Arts Festival, Johor (September) Borneo Arts Festival, Labuan (September) Kuala Lumpur International Jazz & Arts Festival (September) Melaka Art and Performance Festival (MAPFest), Melaka (November)

Miri Country Music Fest, Miri, Sarawak (November) Kuala Lumpur Experimental Film, Video and Music Festival (KLEX) (December) Shantanand Festival of Arts, Kuala Lumpur (December) Penang Island Jazz Festival (December) AWARDS Founded by Kakiseni.com, Malaysia’s online arts portal, the Boh Cameronian Arts Awards has been held annually since 2002 to celebrate outstanding performances in dance, music, theatre and musical

Harith Iskander, winner of “The Funniest Person in the World” and “Asia’s Funniest Stand-Up”, has the audience in stitches during his 30th Anniversary show at The Joke Factory, Publika, Kuala Lumpur.

theatre performed in the previous year. The annual ADA Drama Awards, also started in 2002, honours the best in Chinese theatre. The top cinema awards are the domestic Malaysia Film Festival Awards (see page 46), the regional ASEAN International Film Festival & Awards and the international Malaysian Golden Global Awards. COMEDY Malaysia’s vibrant stand-up

Winners of the 17th Boh Cameronian Arts Awards Best of 2018 celebrate with judges, sponsors and officials, including (back row centre) Caroline Russell, Datuk Isham Ishak, Tan Sri Norliza Rofli, Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina and Low Ngai Yuen.

PERFORMING ARTS

ASK Dance Company performing Bharatanatyam during the first finale concert of Asia Pacific Dance Festival 2019 held at the University of Hawaii. ADC were one of the three resident guest artists for the festival.

comedy scene has many venues hosting comedy nights across the country, while KL has its own fulltime comedy clubs. Leading performers include Allan Perera, Douglas Lim, Harith Iskander, Hishamuddin Rais, Indi Nadarajah, Dr Jason Leong, Joanne Kam, Kavin Jay, Keren Bala Devan, Kuah Jenhan, Papi Zak, Phoon Chi Ho, Riza Van Geyzek and Shamaine Othman. Standups perform in English, Malay, Chinese, Tamil and sometimes all four at once! DANCE ASK Dance Company ASK is a full-time professional dance company, its repertoire and its members’ ethnicity a shining example of Malaysia’s plurality. ASK aspires to be a unique force providing employment, experience and a career pathway for outstanding dancers and

choreographers, while bridging boundaries and breaking glass ceilings. Contact: Imran Syafiq Bin Mohd Affandi A1-1, Jalan Excella, Excella 3 Taman Ampang Hilir off Taman Ampang Putra 51100 Kuala Lumpur Hp (013) 972 7252 Dua Space Dance Theatre Founded by Anthony Meh

and Aman Yap in 1998 as the first non-government professional Chinese contemporary dance company in Malaysia. Dua Space’s locally and internationally acclaimed productions, performed by technically brilliant dancers, include Scream – A Response to Munch (2005), The Legend of Hou Yi and Chang Er (2008), Anak Malaysia (2009), Two (2011), Voyage of Ink and Poems (2017) and Amidst The Wind (2019). Contact: Anthony Meh and Aman Yap, Directors 2B, Jalan Kenari 11, Bandar Puchong Jaya 47170 Petaling Jaya T (03) 8070 0890 W duaspace-dancetheatre. blogspot.com Hornland Dance Theatre East Malaysia’s leading dance company takes its name from Sarawak, “The Land of the Hornbill”. Founded by Chen Ing Kuan

Twirls, an original dance performed by Hornland Dance Company during the opening night of the Sibu International Dance Festival 2019, which they also organised. The dance integrates elements of Borneo tradition and contemporary technique to explore a new artistic vocabulary.

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in 1995, it explores local arts and culture through dance. It has created over 100 short pieces of dance, set performance records in the National Chinese Dance Festival in Kuala Lumpur, and also organises the annual Sibu International Dance Festival. Contact: Chen Ing Kuan, Artistic Director 46, 3rd Floor, Lane 1 Lanang Road 96000 Sibu Sarawak T (084) 349 932 W sidfestival.com

performed for spellbound audiences in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, India and the UK. They are also heavily involved in wushu training for young people. Their critically-acclaimed wushu dance dramas include The King’s Sword, Farewell My Concubine, Wushu Madness – 1 Table 2 Chairs and W Soul. Contact: Lee Swee Seng, Artistic Director 101-02, Jalan Bestari 1/5 Taman Nusa Bestari 79150 Nusajaya, Johor

Hp (016) 715 9193 W leewushuarts.com MyDance Alliance MyDance Alliance, a member of World Dance Alliance, is a non-profit, member-run, volunteer organisation that supports and promotes all forms of dance in Malaysia (cultural, traditional, contemporary, ballet and commercial). It runs festivals, capacitybuilding projects, performance platforms like the very popular Dance Box Series, workshops,

Kwang Tung Dance Company This multiple award-winning company, founded in 1980, nurtures young dancers and choreographers and provides a platform for dance in the community. Its productions range from performances for school and pre-school audiences, to a highly acclaimed annual members’ dance series, the Kua Bu Dance Showcase. Contact: Amy Len, Artistic Director 501, 6th Floor, 44, Jalan Pudu 55100 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2031 1203 W kwangtungdance company.blogspot.com Lee Wushu Arts Theatre Founded in 1998 to develop wushu (a Chinese martial art) as an art form, with a fusion of dance and martial arts that is poetry on stage. Lee Wushu have

Lee Swee Keong of Nyoba Kan, Malaysia’s only Butoh dance company, performs the title role in Old Lear, a “Shakespeare Meets Butoh” adaptation of King Lear in collaboration with the KL Shakespeare Players and Japanese dancer and co-choreographer Dai Matsuoka.

PERFORMING ARTS

Promoting Malaysian performing arts throughout the world. Dancers of Sutra Foundation pose for a picture with founder and Malaysian dance icon Datuk Ramli Ibrahim (right) during a tour in Tuscany, Italy.

conferences and more. Contact: Bilqis Hijjas, President P. O. Box 12409 50776 Kuala Lumpur Hp (017) 310 3769 W mydancealliance.org. Nyoba Kan Nyoba Kan, formed by veteran dancer Lee Swee Keong in 1995, is the only Butoh company in Malaysia and the driving force behind KL’s annual International Butoh Festival. Butoh is a unique behavioural and gestural dance performance originating from Japan after WWII. Nyoba Kan has developed its own unique style, fusing butoh with elements of qigong, yoga

and contemporary dance. Contact: Lee Swee Keong, Artistic Director Hp (010) 306 1100 (Jess) W nyobakan.com.my

Sutra Foundation 12, Persiaran Titiwangsa 3 53200 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4021 1092 W sutrafoundation.org.my

Sutra Dance Theatre Established in 1983 by dance icon Ramli Ibrahim to explore, develop and promote Malaysian performing arts through strong original works, Sutra focuses on Indian classical dance (Bharathanatyam and Odissi). Their many innovative and internationally acclaimed productions have earned them a global reputation for artistic excellence. Contact: Ramli Ibrahim, Artistic Director

Temple of Fine Arts Founded in 1981 by Hindu spiritual teacher Swami Shantanand Saraswathi to reflect his belief that art is divinely inspired and to teach appreciation for Indian classical dance. TFA’s own building has two well-equipped theatres plus dance and music studios. Its many productions have toured successfully in Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and India and include: The Ramayana, Swan

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Lake, Legend of Mahsuri, Lady White Snake, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Krishnaarpanam, Kaadambari and Meera. Contact: Malar Gunaratnam, Director 114-116, Jalan Berhala, Brickfields 50470 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2274 3709 W tfa.org.my FILM Malaysian cinema has a rich history, starting with Singapore-based B.S. Rajhans and the famous Shaw Brothers in the 1930s. The most prominent figure over the years was Tan Sri P. Ramlee, a multi-talented actor, singer, musician, composer, writer and director who was involved in 66 films throughout his career, many of which are still popular today. Nowadays Malaysia produces about 60 feature films a year, shot in English, Tamil, Malay, Mandarin, and Cantonese, as well as 300– 400 television dramas and serials. Local directors who have impacted Malaysian and global cinema include P. Ramlee, Yasmin Ahmad, U-Wei Haji Shaari, Amir Muhammad, Chiu Keng Guan, Yusof Haslam, James Lee, Liew Seng Tat, Aziz M. Osman, Mingliang Tsai, Shanjhey Kumar Perumal, S.T. Bala, Vimala Perumal and C. Kumaresan. Malaysian actors who have made their mark on the international stage include

Malaysia’s Queen of Pop Siti Nurhaliza, pictured during a performance. This multiple award-winning, million-selling artist sings in seven different languages, has performed with the London Symphony Orchestra and has also been described as “the Voice of Asia”.

Michele Yeoh, Lim Pek-Sin, Henry Golding, Ramon Tikaram, Ruby Faye, Sean Ghazi, Lawrence Ong and Lawrence Wong. Malaysia is also a prime location for international movie productions. Notable films shot or partially shot here include A Town Like Alice (1956 & 1981), South Pacific (1958), The Living Daylights (1987), Farewell to the King (1989), Welcome Home (1989), The Iron Triangle (1989), Indochine (1991) Police Story 3: Super Cop (1992), Thunderbolt (1995), Entrapment (1999), Anna & The King (1999), The Sleeping Dictionary (2003) After This Our Exile (2006), Lust-Caution (2007), Fair Game (2010), Don (2006), Don 2 (2011), Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation (2015), Black Hat (2015) Kabali (2016), Mechanic: Resurrection (2016), Crazy Rich Asians (2018) and Rajah (2020).

MUSIC The very diverse Malaysian musical culture ranges from the traditional to the avant-garde. There are literally thousands of performance venues, from village community centres to world-class concert halls. Kuala Lumpur is nowadays a major touring venue, with international A-list artists from most musical genres performing in the city. Pop: A thriving Malay language pop scene rules the airwaves, represented by artists such as Siti Nurhaliza, Sheila Majid, Joe Flizzow, Shila Amzah, Ning Baizura, M.Nasir and Dayang Nurfaiza. Recently, a strong R&B influence has emerged. Country: A thriving country scene is driven by both amateur and professional musicians, especially from Melaka and Sarawak. Rock: Popular veteran bands include hard rockers Search and Headwind,

PERFORMING ARTS

Much-loved veteran crooner Datuk Irwan Shah, better known as DJ Dave, performing his evergreen hits at an outdoor show in Dataran Merdeka in 2018. He is also an active arts patron and philanthropist, heavily involved with the welfare of musicians and performers.

blues-rockers The Blues Gang and Penang vintage pop-rockers The Alleycats. Alternative & Indie: Malaysian indie music was pioneered by bands such as OAG, Nice Stupid Playground and Carburettor Dung. More recent artists include Zee Avi, Yuna, Pop Shuvit, Bunkface, Hujan and Kyoto Protocol. Reggae (including Ska & Dancehall): Popular among Malaysians of all ages, with plenty of reggae bars and clubs, concerts and festivals. Check social media for events and performances. Rap, Hip Hop and R&B: Pioneered in the 1990s by KRU, 4U2C, NICO, Krazz Kosh, Poetic Ammo and rap collective Naughtius Maximus, before spreading out to embrace R&B and influence the entire Malaysian popular music scene. Malay Standards: P. Ramlee, Sudirman Arshad, Sharifah

Aini and DJ Dave remain the most popular Malay language balladeers. Jazz & Blues: Prominent members of the vibrant jazz & blues scene include Lewis Pragasam’s Asiabeat, Michael & Daniel Veerappen, Roger Wang, Julian Chan, Julian Mokhtar and jazzfunkers Ryöt Jones. Classical: The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (founded 1994, see page 91)

has helped to popularise classical music, with the emphasis on baroque and romantic repertoires. Contemporary & Avant Garde: Malaysia produces many award-winning composers, including Chong Kee Yong, Tazul Izan Tajuddin, Yii Kah Hoe, Saidah Rastam, Adeline Wong and others, whose work is usually premiered and performed abroad. World: Pioneered in the early 90s by Zainal Abidin, World is now a Malaysian staple. Artists include Aseana Percussion Unit, Asika, At Adau, Darmas, Sayu Ateng and Tuku Kame. Traditional: Malaysians of Malay, Chinese and Indian heritage all have their own traditional music forms, with many cross-cultural influences. Traditional Chinese orchestras often perform Malay folk songs, while traditional Malay music has distinct Arabic,

Emerging star Alena Murang and veteran sape maker, player and composer Matthew Ngau Jau in a scene from the telemovie Iman Untuk Bulan (2019). Sarawak’s finest sape exponents, they promise a bright future for this hauntingly beautiful traditional instrument.

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Malaysia’s musical heritage with songs by P. Ramlee, Sudirman and Jimmy Boyle, and other original compositions inspired by global influences. Contact: Sean Ghazi Hp (011) 3335 3690 W tarakuchacha.com

Hands Percussion performing Reunion, composed and choreographed by Leong Kah Miu. The piece was part of Percussion Paradise, a 90-minute show celebrating the group’s 20th Anniversary.

Persian, Indian, Chinese, Thai, Portuguese and Indonesian influences. Indigenous: Every indigenous group in Malaysia has their own musical tradition. Best known is the Sape (Borneo lute) music of Sarawak’s Orang Ulu peoples, as played by Matthew Ngau Jau (an official Living Natural Heritage), Alena Murang and Jerry Kamit. Hands Percussion Founded in 1997, Hands Percussion has been delighting audiences at home and abroad with their inventive theatrical drumming, which incorporates contemporary styles while helping to preserve Malaysia’s musical heritage. Contact: Bernard Goh, Artistic Director and Co-Founder 18, Jalan SB Jaya 3 Taman Industri 47000 Sungai Buloh Selangor

T (03) 6141 4480 W hands.my Tarakuchaa! Founded by actor/singer Sean Ghazi, this 12-piece big band with supporting vocals is led by musical director Nish Tham. Their repertoire celebrates

The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra Malaysia’s world-class symphony orchestra (see page 91). Penang Philharmonic Orchestra The only professional orchestra in northern Malaysia, established in 2008. It performs popular orchestral and choral works in various venues in and around Penang. Level 2, The Star

Ida Mariana and Sean Ghazi performing a vintage number with members of their uniquely Malaysian retro big band Tarakucha! Taken at their show Marilah Menari! at The Platform, Menara KEN, TTDI in December 2018.

PERFORMING ARTS

Princess Wen Cheng, produced by Asia Musical Productions, is a musical tribute to the Tang Dynasty princess who travelled from Xi An to Lhasa, Tibet to marry its King. It comprises 150 minutes of original music, song, dance and stage extravaganza.

Pitt Street 15 Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling 10200 George Town, Penang T (04) 262 2462 W penangphilharmonic.org MUSICAL THEATRE Asia Musical Productions Founded by Ho Lin Huay in 1999 to produce musicals with a Buddhist theme to spread dharma (teachings). Their awardwinning musicals, with all songs composed by Imee Ooi, include Siddhartha, The Perfect Circle I, II, III, Kita, Singing Market, Tales of 4 Dialects and Medicine Buddha. Contact: Ho Lin Huay Director/Producer 60A, Jalan Bukit Raja Taman Seputeh 58000 Kuala Lumpur Hp (018) 266 6900 W asiamusicalproductions. com DAMA Asia This multiple award-winning

musical theatre company has staged over 40 productions since 1994. It blends EastWest musical themes to critical acclaim and packed houses in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Australia and China, and has also been featured at major international festivals throughout Asia. Contact: Khor Seng Chew Musical Director M-2-10, Plaza Damas 60 Jalan Sri Hartamas 1 Sri Hartamas 50480 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 6201 9108 W dama.asia Enfiniti Vision Media Led by award-winning director, producer and actress Tiara Jacquelina, Enfiniti is Malaysia’s leading promoter of musical theatre, winning over 50 local and international awards since 2004. It is best known for its original musicals based on Malaysian themes, including

Puteri Gunung Ledang (also a successful film), OlaBola The Musical, P. Ramlee the Musical and MUD – The Musical. Enfiniti’s Academy has trained more than 1,000 performers since 2012. Contact: Tiara Jacquelina President and Group CEO 28-2, Jalan PJU 5/20D Kota Damansara Petaling Jaya T (03) 6142 8115 W enfiniti.com.my PERFORMING ARTS ORGANISATIONS This section only lists organisations that focus exclusively on the performing arts. Other arts organisations can be found elsewhere in this Guide. Nusantara Performing Arts Research Centre An NGO supporting research into the performing arts, NusPARC offers grants and scholarships for research in Southeast Asia, outreach

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A scene from Shiny Black Gold, a musical about the early days of the tin industry in Perak, written, directed and produced by Perak Society of Performing Arts President Datin Rosalina Ooi and performed by society members during the Perak Performing Arts Festival 2011.

programmes for school students and professional training for performers and social entrepreneurs. 30A, 1st floor Jalan Datuk Sulaiman Taman Tun Dr Ismail

60000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 7733 3003 W nusparc.com Perak Society of Performing Arts A non-profit organisation

established in 1996 to develop the performing arts in Perak state. It organises workshops, masterclasses and seminars and promotes concerts, recitals, dance and theatrical performances

Giants of the Malaysian stage! Patrick Teoh, Datuk Faridah Merican and Jon Chew in Philadelphia Here I Come. Brian Friel’s famous play was moved from an Irish village to Kuala Lumpur and given an authentic Malaysian flavour in this award-winning production by The Actors Studio.

PERFORMING ARTS

by local and international artists. Contact: Rosalina OoiThong, President 51, Jalan Dato’ Lau Pak Khuan, Ipoh Garden 31400 Ipoh, Perak T (05) 545 0350 W pspaipoh.org THEATRE The Actors Studio Husband-and-wife team Faridah Merican and Joe Hasham founded The Actors Studio in 1989 to nurture Malaysian arts as performers and impresarios. 30 years later, they have groomed countless successful artistes, created numerous theatre spaces, presented almost 600 productions and played to over a million people. In 2018 their Actors Studio Academy partnered with Taylor’s University to offer Malaysia’s first

conservatory-style Bachelor of Performing Arts programme. Contact: See Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre under Venues below. Five Arts Centre Formed in 1984 by Chin San Sooi, Krishen Jit and Marion D’Cruz, Five Arts is a dynamic collective of 14 Malaysian artists and producers, internationally acclaimed for cutting-edge performances in theatre, dance and music. It has performed in Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, India, Egypt, Australia, Canada, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Portugal, Switzerland, Finland, UAE and the UK. Contact: Marion D’Cruz Artistic Director 27, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 7, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail 60000 Kuala Lumpur

T (03) 7725 4858 W fiveartscentre.org Gardner & Wife Theatre Malaysia’s busiest promoter of international and familyfriendly theatre, founded in 2000 by Chae Lian and Richard Gardner, who also run the PJ Live Arts performance space. The Gardeners haves presented over 50 international productions from Australia, Ireland, Finland, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA and more. Contact: Chae Lian Co-founder 30-G, Jalan 25/70A #308 50480 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2276 1402 W gardnerandwife.com Instant Café Theatre Company Formed in 1989 to create a new Malaysian theatre, incubate writers and

Jo Kukathas (The Narrator, centre) and Ghafir Akbar (Raj, right) in Instant Café Theatre’s Raj And The End Of Tragedy, a mixed-media fusion of theatre, dance and recital exploring both the depths and the heights of the human psyche. Directed by Natalie Hennedige, the play received dazzling reviews from critics.

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performers and nurture freedom of expression, Instant Café first gained a cult following with its merry social and political satire. Works range from Shakespeare to satire to new Malaysian plays including Air Con, Hero, Parah, Raj and the End of Tragedy, Flies and Foreigners. Contact: Jo Kukathas Artistic Director 18 SS1/17 Kampung Tunku Petaling Jaya T (03) 7866 0360 W instantcafetheatre.com Pentas Project Malaysia’s leading Chinese language company, founded by Loh Kok Man in 2005, focuses on contemporary theatre. Pentas uses multimedia tools to create experimental works staged without apparent walls or boundaries. Some productions are multilingual or have subtitles or audio translations. Contact: Loh Kok Man Artistic Director 8-2, Amber Business Plaza 2 Jalan Jelawat 1, Cheras 56000 Kuala Lumpur Hp (017) 382 8637 W pentasproject.blogspot. com Masakini Theatre Company Founded by actress/ director/producer Sabera Shaik to produce her acclaimed one-woman play Lady Swettenham

and ensemble musical My Bollywood Summer, Masakini is also the only company in Malaysia performing contemporary shadow theatre. Most works are staged in their zen-like theatre, Studio Ramli Hassan. Contact: Sabera Shaik 8A, Tepian Tunku Bukit Tunku 50480 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 6206 4931 W masakinitheatre.com.my Muka Space This community-based company was founded by brothers Dr Deric and Easee Gan (also founders of the Malaysian Puppetry Association) to produce cross-disciplinary performances. Muka Space’s award-winning original plays and adaptations include Dear Elena Sergeevna, Richard III, Peking Man and a 5-hour theatrical version of Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Contact: Dr Deric Gan Artistic Director Hp (011) 2800 9919 W mukaspace.org.my Rumah Anak Teater The country’s leading Malay language theatre company is led by Artistic Director Nam Ron and several ASWARA graduates (see page 47). This skilled ensemble of actors, writers, comedians and musicians target issues close to the Malay heart and spark debates on topics of race,

marriage, politics, religion and identity. Contact: Nam Ron Artistic Director Hp (012) 229 0944 W facebook.com/ rumahanakteater MOVERS & SHAKERS A select group of people have made enormous contributions to the Malaysian performing arts scene. We have namechecked as many as possible in the above article and feel a few more deserve a mention. Patrick Teoh: “the Voice of Malaysia” - a multi-awardwinning film, theatre and TV actor, broadcaster and voice artist, with over 30 international film and TV credits. Jo Kuthakas: actor, producer, director, comedian and Instant Café Theatre co-founder, famous for her much-loved comic characters YBeeee and Curry Spice. Andrew Leci: actor and Instant Café Theatre cofounder, nowadays a journalist, novelist and TV presenter. Jit Murad: Malaysia’s leading playwright, occasional actor and Instant Café Theatre cofounder. Works include Gold Rain & Hailstones, Spilt Gravy on Rice. Zahim Albakri: actor, film & theatre writer/director and Instant Café Theatre co-founder. Best known for Spilt Gravy on Rice (2015).

PERFORMING ARTS

The Gardens Theatre Multi-purpose 320-seat theatre with advanced lighting and acoustic systems. Level 6, The Gardens Mall Mid Valley City Lingkaran Syed Putra 59200 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2282 0730 W gardenstheatre.com.my Istana Budaya – National Theatre (See page 49)

Damansara Performing Arts Centre in Petaling Jaya, one of the Klang Valley’s most popular venues. The emergence of intimate, purpose-built theatres like DPAC has enabled the Malaysian performing arts scene to flourish.

VENUES The venues listed below are just a small sample of what Malaysia has to offer. Please check the Internet and social media for other possibilities and updates.

H-01, Empire Damansara Jalan PJU 8/8 Damansara Perdana 47820 Petaling Jaya T (03) 4065 0001 W dpac.com.my

Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre The most popular theatre venue in Malaysia, created by Faridah Merican and Joe Hasham of The Actors Studio. KLPAC includes 500-seat proscenium and 190-seat black box theatres, a 100-seat flexible space, 9 studios for rehearsals, etc., and extensive support facilities and amenities. Its repertoire includes The Actors Studio’s productions

Crackhouse Comedy Club KL’s longest-running comedy club, nightly shows Tuesday through Saturday. 1st Floor 24A, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14,TTDI 60000 Kuala Lumpur Hp (017) 205 6870 W crackhousecomedy.asia Damansara Performing Arts Centre Purpose-built centre with 200-seat proscenium, 120seat black box theatres and two multi-purpose studios.

Aerial view of Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KL Pac). The complex is built around a repurposed railway depot located in rolling green parkland.

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PJ Live Arts Centre, a vibrant neighbourhood performance venue with an exciting programme of family theatre. The auditorium’s casual yet intimate layout also makes it a favourite for comedy and variety acts.

as well other companies’ shows. It is also home to The Actors Studio Academy KL. Contact: Faridah Merican Executive Director Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan Off Jalan Ipoh 51100 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4047 9010 W klpac.org KuASH Theatre Experimental theatre venue set in landscaped grounds, offers a 245-seat black-box theatre, 50-seat outdoor amphitheatre, 6 studios and multiple outdoor performance spaces. Pusat Kreatif Kanak-Kanak Tuanku Bainun 48, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad Taman Tun Dr. Ismail 60000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 7733 8559 B pkktuankubainun.com The Joke Factory Founded by Asia’s Best

The Platform at Menara KEN TTDI. Located within an award-winning green building, it demonstrates how performing arts venues can be designed to minimize their environmental impact.

Stand-Up winner Harith Iskander, nightly shows Monday through Saturday. Publika, 27, Level G3, Block C5 Jalan Dutamas 1 Solaris Dutamas 50480 Kuala Lumpur Hp (014) 923 6608 W thejokefactory.com.my Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) Auditorium (See page 98) Petaling Jaya Live Arts Neighbourhood performance venue with 2-tier 450-seat proscenium theatre and 120-seat multipurpose studio. Ground Floor Block K @Jaya One 72A, Jalan Universiti 46200 Petaling Jaya Hp (018) 310 3076 W pjlivearts.my Penang Performing Arts Centre The first fully equipped performing arts centre in

Penang is a joint venture between The Actors Studio and E&O Group. It includes 303-seat proscenium and 120-seat black box theatres, three multifunctional studios and two gallery spaces. It is also home to The Actors Studio Academy Penang. 3H-3A-1 Straits Quay Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Tokong 10470 Pulau Pinang T (04) 899 1722 W penangpac.org The Platform 523-seat theatre with event spaces for musicals and concerts. Ground Floor Menara KEN TTDI 37, Jalan Burhanuddin Helmi Taman Tun Dr. Ismail 60000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 7733 1060 W kenholdings.com.my/ the-platform

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST - FOREWORD

It is always an enjoyable and rewarding experience to welcome visitors to my beloved Malaysia. We have so much to offer that every visitor will find something to delight them. There are so many fascinating places to visit that it would take half a lifetime to cover them all. Malaysia’s special places reflect our culture, our heritage and our ethnic diversity. Take religious buildings for example; you will see colourful Chinese and Hindu temples, serene mosques and colonial era churches in almost every town you visit. Our history is reflected in imposing palaces, rugged fortresses, perfectly preserved historic streets and buildings, and of course those locations where we took the many challenging steps to independence. Our rich and diverse culture can also be experienced and appreciated everywhere, from simple village handicraft centres, to craftsmen practising their traditional trades in narrow city lanes, to world-class museums, art galleries, craft factories and cultural parks. Mother Nature has given us many more special places, often with unique geographical or climatic features. Who can fail to be impressed by our extensive rainforests, thousands of pristine beaches, rugged mountain ranges and remarkable cave formations? Modern, urban Malaysia has plenty to offer too, including Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers, the parks and lakes of Putrajaya, hands-on science and educational centres, and entertainment complexes offering fun for all the family. Perhaps the nicest thing about Malaysia’s places of special interest is that so many of them are free to visit or charge only a nominal entry fee. Even those attractions operating on a commercial basis offer excellent value for money. Most importantly of all, they all offer a warm Malaysian welcome and together they paint a fabulous portrait of our wonderful country.

Datuk Prof. Jimmy Choo OBE

Global Fashion Icon & Tourism Ambassador for Malaysia

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST PETRONAS Twin Towers, Suria KLCC

George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site

PETROSAINS and Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS

Sarawak Cultural Village

Menara Kuala Lumpur (KL Tower) Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Tourism Centre (MATIC) Negeri Sembilan State Museum Melaka UNESCO World Heritage Site

Labuan Water Village Homestay Places of Special Interest Listing

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS Lower Ground (Concourse) Level PETRONAS Twin Towers Kuala Lumpur City Centre 50088, Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2331 8080 W petronastwintowers.com.my

OPENING HOURS Tuesday – Sunday, 9.00am~5.00pm IN BRIEF Malaysia’s proudest icon and architectural wonder, the PETRONAS Twin Towers dominate the Kuala Lumpur skyline and are among the tallest buildings in the world.

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Kuala Lumpur City Centre

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HOW TO GET THERE Road: Access from KLIA via Maju Expressway. Tunnels at Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Tun Razak and Ampang – Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) connect to KLCC parking bays. Rail: KLCC Station (LRT Kelana Jaya Line) is directly on site. Bus: RapidKL City Bus B103 & B114, GOKL City Bus (free service) Green Line & Purple Line.

The Skybridge located at level 41 (170 metres high) and the Observation Deck at level 86 (360 metres high) offer stunning views of the city and its surroundings. They are open to the public as part of a guided tour on a first-come first-served basis.

designed by architects César Pelli and Djay Cerico Djay and engineer Domingo Basa and set amidst a 50-acre tropical park designed by landscape artist Roberto Burle Marx. They house the PETRONAS Group’s corporate offices and major multinational tenants.

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LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) at the intersection of Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Ampang, 1 hour from KLIA.

You simply can’t miss them! Viewed from almost any location, the PETRONAS Twin Towers dominate the Kuala Lumpur Skyline. Inset: Stunning views looking down are a highlight of the visitor experience.

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MAIN FEATURES Once the tallest buildings in the world, the PETRONAS Twin Towers are still the tallest twin structures, their 88 stories rising to a height of 452 metres. Completed in 1996, they were

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SURIA KLCC Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd Lot 241, Level 2, Suria KLCC Kuala Lumpur City Centre 50088 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2382 2828 W suriaklcc.com.my

OPENING HOURS Daily, 10am~10pm IN BRIEF Suria KLCC is the premier shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur. Visitors are spoilt for choice with more than 360 specialty stores under one roof within its worldclass, 1 million square feet retail and dining complex.

MAIN FEATURES Many of the world’s leading designer fashion brands have chosen Suria KLCC for their Malaysian flagship outlets, including Balenciaga, Chanel, Calvin Klein, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Prada, Versace and literally dozens more. They are supported by a huge selection of international luxury brands, household names in fashion, beauty, skincare, accessories, personal grooming, jewellery, timepieces, electronics and sportswear and equipment. Also on site are an Isetan Department Store and a Marks & Spencer outlet.

Exterior night view of Suria KLCC and the PETRONAS Twin Towers, with the Esplanade and its symphonic fountains in the foreground.

The Centre Court lends itself perfectly to both seasonal and product-based displays and events. Onlookers can watch, admire and enjoy from all levels.

Hungry shoppers have over 80 food and beverage outlets to choose from, ranging from simple and delicious hawker dishes from the two food courts through global fast food brands, luxury bakers and chocolatiers to international fine dining restaurants. Many of these outlets have delightful

locations adjacent to the 50-acre park or along the Esplanade with its symphonic water fountains. Other attractions on site include the PETRONAS Twin Towers, Petrosains Discovery Centre, Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (see following pages) and Aquaria KLCC.

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

PETROSAINS Petrosains, The Discovery Centre Level 4, Suria KLCC, PETRONAS Twin Towers T (03) 2331 8181 W petrosains.com.my

OPENING HOURS Tuesday – Sunday, 9.30am~5.30pm IN BRIEF Petrosains, The Discovery Centre, is an interactive science discovery centre for people of all ages, with special focus on the science and technology of the energy industry.

MAIN FEATURES Petrosains, The Discovery Centre is everything a science centre should be. With exhibits, in-house and outreach activities that make learning STEM (science,

Petrosains offers engaging and fun activities such as science shows and workshops.

technology, engineering and mathematics) fun, Petrosains is an extension of PETRONAS’ commitment to nationbuilding, nurturing interest in STEM and driving the creation of a new generation of science

A young visitor interacts with ‘Robothespian’ a humanoid robot at Petrosains’ Tech Lab.

and technology-minded, innovation-inspired Malaysians. Petrosains’ hands-on approach puts the emphasis on the excitement of learning. Every aspect of the centre is presented in an entertaining and engaging way. The interactive features of the exhibits, with realistic simulators, ensure a rewarding learning experience for all ages. Exhibits include a replica oil platform, a Formula 1 driving simulator, a Dark Ride through ancient rainforests, SPARKZ zone for younger children, Molecule Nano World where the focus is on chemistry, a Space discovery centre with a programmable Mars Rover, a 3D Theatre and a Tech Lab where young inventors can build, meet and greet robots, feel what it’s like to fly and learn how to code.

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DEWAN FILHARMONIK PETRONAS Level 2, Tower 2, PETRONAS Twin Towers T (03) 2331 7008 W dfp.com.my

OPENING HOURS (BOX OFFICE) Tuesday-Saturday: 10.30am~6.30pm Performance Nights: 10.30am~9.00pm Performance Sundays: 12.00 noon to concert time

DFP’s superb acoustics have been praised by the world’s leading conductors, including Vladimir Ashkenazy, Lorin Maazel and Yan Pascal Tortelier. DFP is home to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, the first professional orchestra in the country. The MPO performs over 100 concerts annually, attracting enthusiastic audiences to enjoy great classical

masterpieces and showcasing emerging composers from Malaysia and beyond. World-renowned orchestras that have performed here include the New York Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, BBC Symphony and Vienna Symphony. Notable non-classical performers include Sheila Majid, M Nasir, Siti Nurhaliza, Harry Connick Jr, Diana Krall, Pink Martini, Ruth Sahanaya and Judika.

IN BRIEF Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) is Malaysia’s first and largest dedicated classical concert hall. Its magnificent architecture, superior acoustics and central location within Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) make it a must-visit destination for music lovers.

MAIN FEATURES Designed by Cesar Pelli and opened in 1998, DFP is recognised worldwide as an exceptional performing venue for both artists and audiences. International stars from classical, jazz, pop and world music are featured together with outstanding local artists. The 920-seat venue showcases one of the world’s greatest musical instruments, the Klais pipe organ.

The design of Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS is inspired by the great 19th century European concert halls. The magnificent Klais pipe organ provides a spectacular backdrop to the performers.

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

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HOW TO GET THERE The entrance is 20 mins walk from the Dang Wangi LRT Station and 10 mins from the Raja Chulan Monorail Station. The GoKL Free Bus Service Purple Line (buses have wheelchair ramps) stops a short distance from the entrance.

the viewing platform for a truly 3-dimensional experience. If you don’t have a head for heights, the indoor Observation Deck (276 metres), offers similar

LOCATION / ROUTE KL Tower is located in the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, with a free shuttle bus service from the entrance. Abundant paid parking is available and the site offers good wheelchair access.

KL Tower dominates the city nightscape with its spectacular LED Facade Lighting.

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MAIN FEATURES The main attraction of KL Tower is the 300 metre high open air Sky Deck offering spectacular views of the Kuala Lumpur City skyline day and night. It includes the glass-floored Sky Box, which extends out beyond

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OPENING HOURS 9am~10pm - 365 days a year

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IN BRIEF The 421 metre tall KL Tower is the tallest telecommunication tower in Southeast Asia and the only tower in the world located within a rainforest.

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KL TOWER Jalan Punchak, off Jalan P Ramlee 50250 Kuala Lumpur

panoramic views. For dining at altitude, the Megaview Banquet Hall (288 metres) can accommodate up to 400 guests for co*cktails or standing receptions and 350 guests for sit down functions. Just one floor below, the Atmosphere 360° Revolving Restaurant (282 metres) offers a unique Malaysian and international fine dining experience plus a great view. Back at ground level, families are certain to enjoy the KL Tower Mini Zoo, a petting zoo that hosts a wide range of exotic animals, and the Blue Coral Aquarium, which houses colourful and fascinating marine creatures. The best selfie opportunities are found at the KL Tower Upside Down House, built and furnished completely upside-down, with an antique 1974 Morris Minor hung upside down at the entrance. Ground level is the best place to get a close-up view of the KL Tower Facade Lighting, which lights up the entire tower and antenna with colourful LED lights, adding a vibrant

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THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The KL Tower Sky Box - a 3-D experience strictly for those who aren’t afraid of heights.

presence to Kuala Lumpur’s night skyline. KL Tower is also one of the entrance points to KL Forest EcoPark, a green oasis in the heart of the city with some pleasant nature trails. Other ground floor facilities include a souvenir and handicrafts arcade, a duty-free shop, a café and

an Indian restaurant. KL Tower is also the venue for two famous sports events. The KL Tower International Towerthon Challenge is one of the world’s most popular staircase runs, with competitors conquering the staircase up to the Megaview Banquet Hall,

The KL Tower International Jump Malaysia, one of the region’s most popular extreme sports events.

located 288 metres above ground level. The KL Tower International Jump Malaysia, held every September since 1999, is one of the longest running extreme sports events in Southeast Asia, with over 100 expert BASE jumpers leaping off the Sky Deck, 300 metres above sea level.

The Atmosphere 360° revolving restaurant offers a 5-star dining ambience while patrons enjoy an all-round view of Kuala Lumpur’s splendour.

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

ISLAMIC ARTS MUSEUM MALAYSIA Jalan Lembah Perdana 50480 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2092 7070 W iamm.org.my

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HOW TO GET THERE KTM Komuter: About 5-minute walk from the Kuala Lumpur Station. LRT: 15-minute walk or a short taxi ride from the Pasar Seni Station. Taxis are available from around the city.

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LOCATION / ROUTE The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is located adjacent to the National Mosque and Kuala Lumpur’s Taman Botani Negara (Perdana Botanical Garden).

Islamic world. Since its launch in December 1998, the IAMM has collaborated with numerous international museums and organisations, including the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the South Australian Museum, the National Museum of India, Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah, Kuwait and the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts, UK. Bibliotheca

MAIN FEATURES The IAMM is a unique urban museum surrounded by nature and enjoys abundant natural light.

Its decorative architectural elements such as its tiled facade and ornate interior domes, created by Iranian and Uzbek artisans, lend an extra dimension to the building. Besides its 12 permanent galleries, the IAMM organises several special exhibitions and produces a number of publications each year that feature a broad range of topics and artefacts from around the

OPENING HOURS Daily, 9.30am~6pm. Closed on Hari Raya Aidil Fitri and Hari Raya Aidil Adha.

The iwan-style entrance to the museum features a ceramic tapestry, created by Iranian tile workers, which frames a welcoming verse from the Qur’an.

IN BRIEF The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia is Southeast Asia’s largest museum of Islamic art. Housing more than twelve thousand artefacts, it is a custodian, restorer, preserver and educator for Islamic heritage. Under the auspices of the Albukhary Foundation, it serves to promote understanding and appreciation of the diverse arts, cultures and lifestyles of Islamic civilisations throughout the world and throughout history.

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THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The Living With Wood gallery. Muslim woodcarvers of various schools created a legacy that was prized throughout the world, with their skills sought after by Sultans, Princes and Popes.

Alexandrina, Egypt; The Museum of Cultural Palace of Nationalities, Beijing and the North West Minorities University, Lanzhou. The IAMM Scholar’s Library holds over 10,000 books and manuscripts, including numerous rare and out-of-print editions. Its Conservation Centre is one of the first institutions of its type in Malaysia. A sense of discovery pervades the museum’s Education department, from its

An enjoyable learning experience in the Education Workshop. This session focuses on paper making, a science introduced from China then refined and developed by Muslim paper makers from the 8th Century onward.

children’s workshops to calligraphy classes. In 2003, the museum received the IRCICA Award for Patronage in the Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Promotion of Scholarship

A rare Umayyad brass astrolabe, used to measure altitude above the horizon of a celestial body. This example, dated from 411AH/1020AD, bears the signature of one of the great astronomers of Islam’s Golden Age, Muhammad Ibn Al-Saffar. The son of a brassworker, he may well have made the instrument himself.

and the Montblanc Arts and Patronage Award, the first time either award was bestowed on a recipient in Southeast Asia.

King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Sylvia of Sweden together with the Raja Permaisuri Agong (Queen) of Malaysia, enjoying a museum tour. Their Majesties found time to visit the museum while officiating the Global Child Forum on Southeast Asia, May 2016.

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

KOMPLEKS KRAF KUALA LUMPUR Jalan Conlay 50450 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2162 7459 / 7533 W kraftangan.gov.my

IN BRIEF Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur comprises a Craft Museum, Karyaneka Craft Boutique, Karyaneka Craft Shop, Artists’ Colony, Craft Village, Craft Delight Cafeteria and an Amphitheatre.

informative craft books and CDs for sale. The Karyaneka Crafts Boutique has a stunning collection of clothing, textiles, home décor and accessories incorporating many creative and exclusive designs. Visitors may purchase offthe-rack or order custom made items. The Craft Village presents live demonstrations of crafts

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HOW TO GET THERE KL Monorail: Raja Chulan or Bukit Bintang Stations, then 10 minutes walk or a short taxi ride. Putra LRT: Ampang Park or KLCC Stations then 15 minutes walk or a short taxi ride. Putrajaya MRT: Due to commence operation during the lifetime of this Guide. Conlay Station is directly in front of KKKL, just 2 minutes walk from the entrance.

LOCATION / ROUTE Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur is located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, about 15 minutes’ walk from the PETRONAS Twin Towers.

by Kraftangan Malaysia and tasked with developing and promoting the handicrafts industry. It showcases the beauty and diversity of Malaysia’s local crafts, each with their own unique traditions and aesthetics. The Craft Museum exhibits all the major traditional crafts and offers fascinating insights into handicraft heritage and conservation. It also has

MAIN FEATURES Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur is a one-stop craft centre and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Malaysian arts and crafts. It is operated

The entrance to Kompleks Kraf Kuala Lumpur is guarded by these two magnificent Klirieng, ritual burial poles carved by the Orang Ulu peoples of Sarawak.

OPENING HOURS Open daily, 9am~6pm.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The Karyaneka Crafts Boutique - everything on display is of the very highest quality and guaranteed “Made in Malaysia”.

such as batik painting, wood carving, pewter and pottery making. Visitors can try their hand at creating their own masterpieces, under the expert guidance of the resident craftspeople. Visitors can even purchase creations of choice or personalized items made for them.

A stunning array of Malaysian fashion wear, reflecting traditional motifs and techniques.

The Artists’ Colony allows visitors to interact with local artists who express their talent and creativity through paintings and sculptures that display a uniquely Malaysian sensibility. The resident artists develop their ideas using many different materials and techniques, and visitors may purchase

Delegates from an international conference visit Kompleks Kraf and admire the craftspeople at work.

original works of art or even commission a piece to their own requirements. Customers wishing to shop online for exclusive and authentic Malaysian handicrafts should visit the Karyaneka website, karyaneka.com.my, and the MYCRAFTSHOPPE handicrafts portal, mycraftshoppe.com.

A painter translates his artistic vision onto canvas at the Artist’s Colony.

PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

MALAYSIA TOURISM CENTRE (MaTiC) 109, Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9235 4848/4900/ 4800 W matic.gov.my

IN BRIEF Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) is a one-stop tourist centre offering a comprehensive range of services and facilities to visitors. OPENING HOURS Tourist Information Counter: Daily, 8am~6pm. Tourist Police Counter: 24hrs. Administration Office: MonFri, 7.30am~5.30pm. Cultural Dance Show: MonSat, 3pm~4pm, closed Public Holidays.

MAIN FEATURES MaTiC is a one-stop tourist information and service centre operated by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia and dedicated to helping visitors make the very most

The MaTiC building, dating from 1935, is both an architectural and historical landmark that played a key role in Malaysia’s independence.

of their stay in the country. It occupies a painstakingly restored colonial-era mansion built in 1935. In 1941, it was converted into the British Army’s war office and then the Japanese Imperial Army’s headquarters until 1945. The building has since been the venue of numerous historical events, including the first sitting of Malaysia’s Parliament and the installation ceremonies for several kings of the country. The first stop for most

visitors is the Tourist Information Counter, staffed by knowledgeable Tourist Assistants who take great pride in answering client enquiries as accurately and comprehensively as possible. They also provide a very wide selection of free guides and brochures covering accommodation, transportation, travel tips, tour packages and other information. Additional services and

LOCATION / ROUTE Jalan Ampang, in the heart of the city’s Golden Triangle, a 10-minute walk from the PETRONAS Twin Towers. HOW TO GET THERE KL Monorail: Bukit Nanas Station, then a 5-minute walk. LRT: Dang Wangi or KLCC Stations then a 10-minute walk or a short taxi ride. GO-KL Bus: Green Line. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: City Route, Stop No 6.

MaTiC’s frontage, pictured against a backdrop of high-rise buildings. The restaurant is to the left, the main building in the centre and the small shopping arcade partially hidden to the right.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The shopping arcade houses the Harriston Chocolate Boutique and other outlets including Karyaneka, Money Changer and KL Hop-On Hop-Off.

facilities include a 24-hour Tourist Police counter, top spinning court, money changer, Malaysia Travel Business travel agent & tour operator, Karyaneka souvenir shop, Hop-On Hop-Off bus ticket counter, Mike’s Bikes guided bicycle tours, Harriston chocolate boutique, a free internet zone with 6 terminals, free Wi-Fi and Muslim prayer rooms.

Traditional cultural shows, contemporary theatre, concerts and exhibitions are held here regularly, providing insight into local traditions and lifestyles. MaTiC also offers a selection of meeting and event spaces which are ideal for conferences, lectures, seminars, press conferences, product launches, family celebrations, concerts and

The nerve centre of MaTiC is the Tourist Information Counter, staffed by knowledgeable and enthusiastic Tourist Assistants.

recitals. These include the 400-seat Tunku Abdul Rahman Hall, 300-seat Amphitheatre, 150-seat Mini Auditorium, 100seat AV Room, a Mini Studio and Laman Lanai MaTiC, a large outdoor lawn area with pergolas. TheLove@MaTiC restaurant, serving cuisine from all 13 of Malaysia’s states, also offers event spaces for up to 350 guests.

MaTiC is a popular venue for cultural shows, from traditional dance to concerts by leading contemporary artists, such as teen pop sensation Haqiem Rusli (pictured).

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

NEGERI SEMBILAN STATE MUSEUM Jalan Sungai Ujong 70200 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan T (06) 763 1149 W lmns.ns.gov.my

IN BRIEF This fascinating 3-in 1 museum traces the remarkable history and culture of Negeri Sembilan, with particular emphasis on the state’s Minangkabau heritage. OPENING HOURS Daily, 8am~5pm Closed on Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Hari Raya Aidiladha.

MAIN FEATURES The Negeri Sembilan State Museum comprises three LOCATION / ROUTE Located within the State Museum Crafts & Cultural Park, 2km from Seremban Town Centre, 66km south of Kuala Lumpur and only 500 metres from the North-South Expressway. HOW TO GET THERE Drive: 1 hour from Kuala Lumpur, 40mins from KLIA and 3hrs 30mins from Johor & Singapore via the North South Expressway (Exit 8, Seremban). Bus: Seremban Terminal 1 has express bus connections throughout Malaysia. From there, take a taxi, ride hail or local bus T52 or T56 (2.2km). Train: Seremban has rail connections via KTM’s ETS, Komuter and Inter City networks. From Seremban Station, take a taxi or ride hail (2.7km) or walk 5 mins to Terminal 1 for local bus T52 or T56.

The imposing entrance to the Teratak Perpatih Building, which houses the museum’s main collection.

remarkable buildings featuring traditional Minangkabau Rumah Gadang architecture, with dramatic, multi-tiered, upswept gables and roof peaks. These “buffalo horn” roofs symbolize mankind’s striving to enter Heaven. The Teratak Perpatih

Building (main museum), built in 1981, houses an extensive collection of royal regalia (especially silver and brassware), keris and other antique weapons, handicrafts, artefacts, traditional toys and games, musical instruments, ethnic costumes and

The Ampang Tinggi Palace, a unique and authentic royal residence constructed entirely of wood.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Lunch like a royal! Visitors can enjoy a regal lunch in the Ampang Tinggi Palace (prior booking required).

historical photographs. The first floor is used for special exhibitions. The Ampang Tinggi Palace was constructed entirely of wood without the use of nails for Yam Tuan Imam, 5th Yamtuan Besar (Sultan) of Negeri Sembilan. Completed in 1870 at Kuala Pilah, it was occupied by his descendants until 1953, when it was moved to Seremban. Sent to Britain for exhibition in 1994, it was then painstakingly reassembled at its current location. Visitors may enter the compact (20 x 7 metre) palace to view its unique carved wooden

The caklempong is a traditional brass gong set. Introduced to Negeri Sembilan by Minangkabau musicians in the 14th Century, it is played throughout Malaysia, especially on royal occasions.

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A museum guide explains the symbolism of traditional royal costumes to a group of visitors.

doors and panels, and even enjoy a traditional lunch there (requires 3-day advance booking). The Negeri Sembilan House was constructed by local and traditional Minangkabau architects for a noble family in Sungai Ujong in 1898. It was dismantled and brought to London for the British Empire Exhibition in 1924. It was recently relocated and lovingly restored at its present location. As well as its spectacular architecture,

Some exhibits from the porcelain collection. Chinese pottery has been prized in Negeri Sembilan for many centuries.

it is also notable for its exquisite inlaid wall decorations, which depict verses of the Holy Quran.

The museum’s collection includes everyday tools and implements as well as exquisite works of art.

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

MELAKA UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE For Correspondence Only: Corporate Communications Unit Majlis Bandaraya Melaka Bersejarah Graha Makmur 1, Lebuh Ayer Keroh Hang Tuah Jaya, 75450 Melaka T (06) 285 9700 W mbmb.gov.my

IN BRIEF Melaka, once the world’s busiest trading port, has been influenced by almost every great maritime nation. Its unique culture and townscape are unmatched anywhere in East or South Asia, except for George Town (see page 104). Melaka was inscribed a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 7 July 2008, together with George Town, as the Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca.

MAIN FEATURES Melaka’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Malaysia’s most rewarding visitor destinations, is known for its rich collection of historic buildings, diverse living heritage,

Kuala Lumpur International Airport

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Tukang Besi (Blacksmith Street), Lorong Hang Jebat, Jalan Hang Kasturi, Jalan Hang Lekiu and Jalan Hang Lekir. The Core Zone reflects every aspect of Melaka’s unique and colourful history. The Portuguese built the A’Famosa fortress and its gateway, the Porta de Santiago. The Dutch, who held Melaka for over a century, left many fine buildings, the most imposing of which is the Stadthuys or town hall, the oldest Dutch building

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HOW TO GET THERE Melaka is accessible by car, bus or train from both cities. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is easily accessible by foot or trishaw from the town centre.

multicultural influences and astounding cuisine. The Core Zone occupies both sides of the Melaka River. On the east, the Civic Zone includes colonial buildings from the Portuguese, Dutch and British eras. To the west, the Residential and Commercial Zone comprises over 600 buildings in Jalan Hang Jebat (Jonker Street) Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock (Heeren Street), Jalan Tokong (Temple Street), Jalan Tukang Emas (Goldsmith Street), Jalan

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LOCATION / ROUTE Melaka is located on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Malacca, 147km from Kuala Lumpur and 245km from Singapore.

The Melaka Stadthuys (or town hall). Built in 1650, it is the oldest intact Dutch colonial building in Asia.

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THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The Porta De Santiago, the only surviving gateway of the A Famosa, Melaka’s early 16th Century Portuguese fortress.

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One of many perfectly preserved Peranakan (Straits Chinese) houses in the Residential & Commercial Zone.

in the Far East. Next to it is the Christ Church, also constructed with bricks imported from Holland and covered with local red laterite. The local trading community - comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians, Europeans and unique hybrid Peranakan (Straitsborn) groups including the Baba Nyonya, Jawi

Peranakan, Chetti, Malacca Portuguese (Kristang) and Eurasians - all left powerful reminders of their architectural and cultural heritage. Their shophouses, mosques, temples, churches, warehouses and homes can be seen by boat from the Melaka River and on foot from the city’s ancient streets. The historical sites

There are many high quality antique and curio shops, making Old Melaka a collector’s paradise.

The Melaka River, once the main artery of the world’s busiest harbour. A Melaka River cruise is the perfect way to discover this ancient port’s remarkable history.

are lit up daily at sunset, showcasing Melaka’s landmarks and monuments, including Padang Pahlawan in Bandar Hilir, the site of Malaysia’s Proclamation of Independence by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, the country’s first Prime Minister, on 20th February 1956.

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

GEORGE TOWN UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE HQ: George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) 116 & 118, Lebuh Acheh 10200 George Town, Penang T (04) 2616 606 W gtwhi.com.my

“ … A unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.” – UNESCO, referring to both George Town and Melaka

IN BRIEF The George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site is a unique and highly-acclaimed historical and cultural destination. Known for its rich collection of historic buildings, diverse living heritage and multicultural influences, George Town, along with Melaka, was inscribed a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 7 July 2008.

5,013 buildings, including shophouses which are home to long-time residents, and places of worship that are still functioning as they were hundreds of years ago. The harmonious co-existence of multicultural influences is prevalent in the Streets of Harmony, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling and Lebuh Cannon, where religious buildings of different faiths are located. Also noteworthy are Little India, home to an array of

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HOW TO GET THERE The site is accessible by taxi, car or bus from Penang International Airport, and from the mainland via Penang’s two bridges. The ferry terminal, where passengers arrive from Butterworth, is located within the core zone of the site.

MAIN FEATURES In 2008, Melaka and George Town were jointly inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca. The inscription was based on three Outstanding Universal Values: (1) multicultural trading towns, (2) multicultural living heritage, and (3) unique architecture and townscape. The 109-hectare core zone and 150-hectare buffer zone contain a total of

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LOCATION / ROUTE The World Heritage Site covers the north-eastern cape of Penang Island. Penang is easy to reach by road and rail from Kuala Lumpur and other major cities, and via direct flights from many domestic and international locations.

An aerial view of the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Butterworth and Seberang Prai (the mainland component of Penang State) in the background.

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A must-visit location at the core of the World Heritage Site. Armenian Street is famous for its lovingly-restored 19th Century buildings and its vibrant street art.

curry spices and bright sarees; Chinese clan jetties along Weld Quay, where each jetty is named after the clan’s surname; and the bustling Chowrasta Market and Campbell Street Market, which offer a rich cultural experience. The multicultural community who live within the World Heritage Site are still practising

A rattan weaver begins work on his next masterpiece. Master craftsmen like him lend the World Heritage Site its unique character.

their cultural beliefs and traditions, and love to share their culture with others during the annual George Town Heritage Celebrations, held in July. Notable religious festivals include Thaipusam, with the breaking of coconuts and chariot procession, and the month-long Hungry Ghost Festival, which features opera performances and

Church Street Pier as seen from Weld Quay. Built in 1897, the pier served as the main gateway to Penang Island until the present Ferry Terminal opened in the mid-1960s.

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puppet shows. Although George Town is a thoroughly modern city, traditional trades are still widely practised within the site. Joss stick makers, songkok makers, shoemakers, watchmakers, tailors, rattan weavers and trishaw makers, among others, can be seen preserving their unique crafts and serving locals and visitors.

The Kapitan Keling Mosque at dusk, the most striking of the many different religious buildings in Penang’s Streets of Harmony.

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE Pantai Damai, Santubong P.O. Box 2632 93752 Kuching Sarawak T (082) 846 108 W scv.com.my

IN BRIEF A must-visit attraction showcasing the lifestyles and cultures of Sarawak’s people, this multiple-award-winning “living museum” is also the venue for international events including the Rainforest World Music Festival, the Sarawak Harvest & Folklore Festival, and the Rainforest World Craft Bazaar OPENING HOURS Open daily, 9am~4.45pm CULTURAL SHOWS 11.30am~12.15pm 4pm~4.45pm

MAIN FEATURES The Village, set in a landscaped tropical forest centred on a man-made lake, is the perfect place to learn about Sarawak’s multiethnic population.

The village entrance, overlooked by the legendary Mount Santubong.

Replica ethnic houses are staffed by friendly locals in traditional attire, with storytellers to interpret culture and customs. Reverberating war drums welcome visitors to the Baruk, the “head house” guarding the Bidayuh Longhouse. Visitors can try their hand at crushing sugar cane and pounding paddy, and observe a master bamboo craftsman at work. At the Iban Longhouse,

Damai Puri Resort & Spa Damai Beach Resort

LOCATION / ROUTE Damai Beach, 45 minutes from Kuching. 5-minute walk from Damai resorts. HOW TO GET THERE Shuttle bus from Kuching hotels. Tour operators offer transport, lunch & admission packages.

visitors may watch a warrior perform a war dance, see women weave exquisite pua kumbu textiles and make local kuih (cakes) such as kuih jala. At the Penan Hut, visitors can see the jungle nomads making blowpipes and animal traps, try their hand at blowpipe shooting and sape making. The many upriver tribes are famous for their arts, handicrafts, music and dances, which can all be

Damai Central

Sarawak Cultural Village Damai Golf & Country Club Santubong Resort Hotel

Mount Santubong National Park

Permai Rainforest Resort

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The Bidayuh Head House (Baruk), where the Sarawak ethnic experience begins.

experienced at the Orang Ulu Longhouse. Enjoy the enchanting melody of the sape, while admiring the wood carvings and the “tree of life” murals. Fascinating belum carvings, designed to ward off sickness and disease, are displayed at the imposing Melanau Tall House. Watch the processing of the sago palm and sample the finished product. At the elegant Malay

House, visitors may play traditional games like congkak, try the sport of top spinning, and view the preparations for a colourful Malay wedding. At the Chinese Farmhouse and Pavilion, visitors can observe a hand-driven rice mill, see how birds’ nests are prepared and taste healthgiving Chinese tea. Other facilities include The Rainforest World Music Gallery (with short

HRH Charles, Prince of Wales, tries his royal hand at blowpipe shooting.

performances by Tuku Kame, World Champions of Performing Arts), Persada Ilmu performing arts centre, Persada Alam Tea Garden, Budaya Restaurant (local delicacies) and the Village Shop (books, music, handicrafts & souvenirs). Visitors can also stay in the ethnic houses, enjoy a unique theme-dinner, or even hold their wedding reception in ethnic Sarawak style.

The bamboo bridge, gateway to a fascinating cultural experience.

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST

LABUAN WATER VILLAGE HOMESTAY Kampung Air Patau-Patau 2 87000 Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan Hp (013) 854 0217 (Puan Sahadiah@ Lizah Mangsur)

(010) 453 1970 (Puan Norela Kassim)

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surrounded by water, the main mode of transportation is the boat and most of the households here own one in preference to a car. Homestay guests can enjoy the scenic beauty of the village, watch young children flying their kites, join in local village games, fish right at their backyard for delicious catfish, or just bask in the sun. The Water

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HOW TO GET THERE By bus or taxi from the town centre. Regular water taxis and longboats run from the market jetty during daylight hours.

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LOCATION / ROUTE The Water Village is located 3km west of Bandar Labuan (formerly Victoria) town centre, accessible by road or water taxi.

residents incorporate their Kedayan Bruneian culture and customs into their daily lives alongside later additions of modernity. The village is equipped with water and electricity, telephones, sewers and street lights. Facilities include a water taxi service, grocery shops, handicraft shops, clinics, schools and surau (prayer room). Being

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MAIN FEATURES Kampung Air Patau-Patau 2 was built in the 1930’s and subsequently reconstructed, with only the highest grade belian hardwood used for the foundations. This makes the houses remarkably stable and able to stand strong for centuries to come. To this day, the village

Boats are the easiest way to get around the water village. Most families own one in preference to a car.

Patau-patau Jalan

IN BRIEF Kampung Air Patau-Patau 2 is one of the last remaining water villages in Malaysia, with colourful houses built on wooden stilts linked together by wooden boardwalks. Visitors get to enjoy a taste of local culture and cuisine in a unique marine environment.

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The sheltered moorings between the houses provide great photo opportunities.

Village Homestay is not merely a place to soak up local culture; it is also the perfect base for exploring the rest of the island, on land or on water.

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Strolling along the boardwalks is the best way to discover the village and meet the people.

The friendly host families are delighted to share their culture and cuisine with visitors. The famous Brunei sago dish, ambuyat, is an all-time favourite,

Casting a throwing net for the catch of the day. This is not as easy as it looks!

served with a sour and spicy dip made of young mangoes, chillies and dried shrimps. Traditional dance performances can also be arranged upon request.

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST LISTING

JOHOR JOHOR TOURISM INFORMATION CENTRE (JOTIC) Johor Bahru T (07) 223 4935/ 224 9960 Open: Sun-Wed, 8am~5pm Thu, 8am~4pm Closed: Fri, Sat & Public Holidays ARULMIGU SRI RAJA KALIAMMAN GLASS TEMPLE Johor Bahru Unique Hindu temple decorated with glass mosaics to create a stunning visual effect. T (07) 224 5152 Open: Daily, 7am~10pm AYER HITAM Batu Pahat District This bustling town, nicknamed Bandar Seramik is the perfect place to shop for pottery, porcelain, earthenware and stoneware. BAZAAR KARAT Johor Bahru A bustling night market offering pre-loved goods, as well as talented street musicians. Open: Mon-Fri, 6pm~12am Sat & Sun, 6pm~2am FORTUNE DRAGON Yong Peng This 115-metre-long

statue, opened in 2016, is the world's largest and longest dragon tunnel. It features 42 Chinese paintings portraying the teachings of the Buddha. T (07) 467 9800 Open: Daily, 8.30am~9pm JARO HANDICRAFT CENTRE Johor Bahru JARO (Johor Area Rehabilitation Organization) operates sheltered workshops for disabled artisans who have overcome their difficulties to create high quality handicrafts. T (07) 224 5632 Open: Sun-Thu, 9am~5pm KOMPLEKS KRAF JOHOR Johor Bahru One-stop centre showcasing Johor’s rich art and craft traditions, with hands-on craft workshops, musical performances and guided tours. T (07) 235 0433 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha PETROSAINS PLAYSMART JOHOR BAHRU Johor Bahru Petrosains PlaySmart Science Centres extend the Petrosains experience (see page 90) to communities outside the Klang Valley.

They feature interactive exhibits and engaging science-based activities as well as live science demonstrations similar to those organised at the main centre in KLCC albeit on a smaller scale. T (07) 207 0157 Open: Sun-Thu, 10am~2pm Closed: Fri & Public Holidays SKYSCAPE JOHOR BAHRU Johor Bahru City Centre 149-metre high skybridge offering panoramic views of Johor and Singapore. Adjacent Aerial Entertainment Space features family activities and VR games. T (07) 288 1747 Open: Daily, 9.30am~8pm SULTAN ABU BAKAR MOSQUE Johor Bahru The splendid late 19th Century state mosque, a fusion of Victorian and Moorish styles, is named for the late Sultan Sir Abu Bakar Ibni Daing Ibrahim, the “Father of Modern Johor”. TAN HIOK NEE HERITAGE STREET Johor Bahru This heritage street of 19th Century shophouses, enlivened by striking

The 115-metre Fortune Dragon at Yong Peng is the world’s largest and longest Dragon statue. Its role is to disseminate the teachings of the Buddha.

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street murals, is home to the Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum and various food outlets, boutiques and galleries. TANJUNG PIAI NATIONAL PARK Pontian District The southernmost point of the entire Eurasian landmass is also a RAMSAR wetland of global importance, covering over 900 hectares of mangroves and inter-tidal mudflats. (See page 217)

KEDAH

The spectacular Sky Bridge, located at the mountain-top terminus of the Panorama Langkawi Cable Car system.

INDEPENDENCE HOUSE

MENARA ALOR SETAR Alor Setar The revolving restaurant and observation deck of this 165-metre telecommunications tower provide commanding views of Kedah’s countryside and the Langkawi Archipelago. T (04) 720 2234 Open: Daily, 8.30am~10pm

Alor Setar Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, planned his successful independence and election strategies from this semi-wooden Malay house, built in 1953. T (04) 720 4214 Open: Sat, Sun, TueThu, 10am~5pm Fri, 10am~12pm & 2pm~5pm Closed: Mon (except Public and School Holidays)

NATIONAL SCIENCE CENTRE NORTHERN REGION Alor Setar An informal learning centre for children (and adults) interested in science, technology and innovation, with interactive exhibits and activities. T (04) 720 7700/ 7710 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Closed: Fri, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha

MAHATHIR MOHAMAD BIRTH COMPLEX Alor Setar This beautifully restored 1-room wooden house, built in 1900, is the birthplace of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia’s 4th and 7th Prime Minister, and showcases his family history. T (04) 772 2319 Open: Tue-Thu & SatSun, 10am~5pm Closed: Mon & Fri (except Public & School Holidays)

RUMAH TOK SU & RUMAH SERI BANAI Alor Setar Two fine examples of traditional wooden Malay houses raised on stilts. T (04) 733 1162 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Closed: Fri, 12.30pm~2.30pm

TOURISM MALAYSIA NORTHERN REGION George Town, Penang T (04) 261 0058 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12.15pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays (RUMAH MERDEKA)

ZAHIR MOSQUE Alor Setar Voted one of the 10 most beautiful mosques in the

world, the Kedah State Mosque was built in 1912. LANGKAWI ISLAND LANGKAWI TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Kuah T (04) 966 5271 Open: Sun-Thu, 8am~5pm including Public Holidays ATMA ALAM BATIK ART VILLAGE Padang Matsirat Batik Centre offering handmade attire and batik painting classes. T (04) 955 2815 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha EAGLE SQUARE

(DATARAN LANG)

Kuah A seafront plaza featuring a 12-metre sculpture of an eagle poised to take flight. A popular spot for watching boats in and around the harbour. T (04) 966 7789 Open: Daily/ 24 hrs IMAGINARIUM TIME TRAVEL ADVENTURE Oriental Village, Burau Bay Augmented reality time travel experience with interactive exhibits from the Jurassic to the far future. T (04) 959 4225/ 1225 Open: Daily, 9.30am~7pm

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST LISTING

LANGKAWI CRAFT COMPLEX Mukim Bohor One-stop centre featuring handicraft, batik painting and glass blowing, heritage and wedding museums and an apiary. T (04) 959 1913/ 1917 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha MAHSURI FORT Mukim Ulu Melaka The mausoleum of Mahsuri, a maiden wrongly accused of adultery and sentenced to death. She laid a dying curse on the island that it would remain barren for seven generations. Fortunately, the curse expired in 2010. Open: Daily, 9am~6pm ORIENTAL VILLAGE Burau Bay Activity and lifestyle centre offering elephant and cable car rides, quad bike and Segway tours, duty-free outlets, restaurants, Langkawi Geopark Information Centre and Malayan Tiger Gallery. T (04) 959 4225 Accessible 24 hrs.

Most outlets open daily, 10am~7pm PANORAMA LANGKAWI CABLE CAR Oriental Village, Burau Bay Scenic 2.4km ride to the spectacular Sky Bridge at the peak of Gunung Machinchang (708m), with a close-up view of the rainforest canopy and the unique rock formations of the Langkawi Geopark. T (04) 959 4225 Open: Daily, 10am~5pm (Subject to weather conditions) Closed: Wed: 12pm~5pm (Maintenance day) UNDERWATER WORLD LANGKAWI Jalan Pantai Cenang Large marine and freshwater aquariums with a 15-metre walk-through tunnel. Get up close to sharks, rays and other fish species, penguins, fur seals and otters. T (04) 955 6100 Open: Daily, 10am~5pm KELANTAN KELANTAN TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Kota Bharu

T (09) 748 5534 Open: Mon-Wed, 8am~3pm Thu, 8am~2pm Closed: Fri, Sat & Public Holidays KOTA BHARU TOURISM ZONE

(ZON PELANCONGAN KOTA BHARU)

The Kota Bharu Tourism Zone contains most of the state capital’s major attractions. CIK MINAH SONGKET CENTRE Kota Bharu Workshop providing songket weaving demonstrations and selling these exquisite brocade textiles. T (09) 748 1616 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~6pm Closed: Fri, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha GALLERY WAYANG KULIT MELAYU TRADISIONAL kELANTAN Palekbang The Tok Dalang (puppet master) skilfully manipulates leather shadow puppets into riveting characters from the Ramayana and Mahabharata odysseys, accompanied by live gamelan music. Hp (016) 215 9422 Showtime: 8.45pm~10pm (Prior group booking required) GELANGGANG SENI

(CULTURAL CENTRE)

The puppet master and his musicians skilfully recreate scenes from the epic Ramayana at Kelantan’s Shadow Puppet Theatre.

Kota Bharu Displays of traditional Kelantan culture, including shadow puppetry, silat martial arts, top-spinning, kite flying and music. T (09) 748 5534 Showtime: top spinning, silat martial arts demonstration, kite making: 3.30pm~5.30pm shadow puppet theatre, Sat, 8.30am~10pm Closed: Nov-Jan during monsoon season.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

KITE-MAKING Kelantan is the home of traditional kite-making in Malaysia, Gaily decorated kites, including the giant wau bulan are made and sold in many kampung homes on the road from Kota Bharu to Pantai Cahaya Bulan. MASJID MUHAMMADI

(STATE MOSQUE)

Kota Bharu Built in 1922, and named for the late Sultan Muhammad IV, its graceful arches and golden domes house a noted centre of Islamic scholarship, affectionately known as the Serambi Mekah (Corridor to Mecca). PANTAI CAHAYA BULAN

(MOONLIGHT BEACH)

Kota Bharu Kelantan’s most famous beach, a short drive from town, was formerly known as the Beach of Passionate Love. Come for the sunset view and local specialities from restaurants scattered along the beach. PASAR TANI PELANCONGAN

(TOURIST FARMERS‘ MARKET)

Kota Bharu Land and floating market reflecting the local village lifestyle. Attractions include kite making, cultural performances, river cruises local delicacies and handicrafts for sale. Hp (019) 269 5744 Open: Every Saturday, 8.30am~1pm PASAR TERAPUNG

(FLOATING MARKET)

Tumpat Malaysia’s first ever floating market, effectively a floating food court for enjoying delicious street food and the scenic riverine atmosphere. Hp (013) 967 1202/ 990 9160 Open: Fri & Sat, 8am~3pm

PENGKALAN KUBOR DUTY FREE ZONE Tumpat A small town on the Malaysia-Thailand border with a Duty-free Shopping Zone noted for good-value clothing, footwear, kitchenware and handicrafts. Open: Daily, 6am~6pm RANTAU PANJANG DUTY FREE ZONE Pasir Mas This major border crossing to Thailand has a very popular duty-free zone. Merchandise includes clothes, shoes, homeware and food, with many popular cafés and stalls. Open: Daily, 9.30am~6pm WAT MACHIMMARAM Tumpat This Thai-Buddhist temple houses an imposing 30-metre tall and 47-metre wide statue of a sitting Buddha. The interior frescoes depict the life of the Buddha. WAT MAI SUVANKHIRI Tumpat This breathtaking Thai Buddhist temple complex consists of two main temples, one of which is housed within a replica of a huge dragon boat. WAT PHOTIVIHAN Tumpat This stunning Thai-Buddhist temple houses a 40-metre statue of a sleeping Buddha, the 2nd longest in the world. KUALA LUMPUR MALAYSIA TOURISM CENTRE (MATIC)

(See page 98)

AQUARIA KLCC KL Convention Centre Complex This state-of-the-art aquarium has over 5,000

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marine and aquatic species in a variety of fascinating displays. T (03) 2333 1888 Open: Daily, 10am~8pm, last admission 7pm. BADAN WARISAN MALAYSIA 2, Jalan Stonor NGO promoting architectural conservation. Its HQ is a restored 1920s wooden house, with art exhibition space and gift shop. T (03) 2144 9273 Open: Tue-Thu, 10am~5pm Closed: Public Holidays FEDERAL TERRITORY MOSQUE Jalan Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin This 17,000 capacity mosque with twin minarets and 22 domes is a blend of Ottoman and Malay architectural styles, influenced by Istanbul’s Blue Mosque. T (03) 6201 8791 Open: Daily/ 24 hrs Tour guides available 10am~6pm JADI BATEK GALLERY 30, Jalan Inai Jadi Batek is one of the largest batik handicraft centres in Kuala Lumpur. Batik tours are offered daily where visitors can see how batik is made, talk to the artists and learn the story behind each piece. A retail area showcases the batik products produced here and other Malaysian handicrafts. T (03) 2145 1133 Open: Mon-Sat, 9am~5pm Closed: Public Holidays JAMEK MOSQUE Jalan Tun Perak This three-dome mosque is the oldest in KL. Formerly the National Mosque, it features Moorish and Mughal architecture and is one of

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the most photographed buildings in the country. KUALA LUMPUR CITY GALLERY Dataran Merdeka Restored 19th Century colonial building with an exhibition on historic and modern KL. The highlight is a huge scale model of the city. T (03) 2693 3333 Open: Daily, 9am~6.30pm KUALA LUMPUR RAILWAY STATION Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin A splendid Moorishinspired building by architect A.B. Hubback, completed in 1910. Most rail services have been moved to KL Sentral, although the KTM Komuter service still stops here. T (03) 2263 1111 LITTLE INDIA BRICKFIELDS Jalan Brickfields This historic city-centre enclave consists mainly of Indian-owned spice shops, grocery stores, restaurants, food stalls, textile shops, flower stalls and goldsmiths. LITTLE INDIA KUALA LUMPUR Jalan Masjid India

Known for its Indian Muslim-owned shops selling clothing, colourful saris, religious items and attire, as well as its wide selection of halal South Indian restaurants. MEDAN PASAR City Centre KL's original Market Square is nowadays a busy bus interchange, but it is notable for the beautifully restored early 20th Century shophouses that line its sides. MERDEKA SQUARE

(DATARAN MERDEKA)

Jalan Raja Malaysia’s Independence Square, where the British flag was lowered and the Malayan flag raised at midnight on 31st August 1957. It is dominated by one of the world’s tallest flagpoles, flying the national flag 95 metres aloft. MERDEKA SQUARE HERITAGE TOUR Free guided tour covering 11 heritage sites around Merdeka Square, starting from the Tourist Information Centre at KL City Gallery. Tour: 9am~11.45am every Mon, Wed & Sat

NATIONAL MOSQUE (MASJID NEGARA) Jalan Perdana One of the most striking mosques of the modern era. Up to 15,000 faithful are sheltered by an 18-pointed star roof representing the 13 states of Malaysia and the five Pillars of Islam. T (03) 2107 3100 NATIONAL PLANETARIUM 53, Jalan Perdana State-of-the-art displays include a Space Theatre with 3D sky-dome and outdoor replicas of Stonehenge and early Chinese & Indian observatories. T (03) 2273 4301 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~4.30pm Closed: Mon, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha NATIONAL SCIENCE CENTRE Persiaran Bukit Kiara Nine themed galleries represent various branches of science. The interactive displays will delight children of all ages. T (03) 2089 3400/ 3456 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Closed: Fri, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha ROYAL SELANGOR PEWTER VISITOR CENTRE Setapak Jaya The home of Malaysian pewter-smithing, with guided museum & factory tours and hands-on pewter workshops. T (03) 4145 6122 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

The Heli Lounge Bar on Wisma KH’s helipad is just one of many places to relax and enjoy a stunning view of the city, particularly at sunset.

SIN SZE YA TEMPLE Jalan Tun H.S. Lee The oldest Taoist temple in KL, founded by Yap Ah Loy, the first Kapitan of the city, it is devoted to the Sin Sze Ya and Si Sze Ya deities. T (03) 2078 9052 Open: Daily, 7am~5pm

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SRI MAHA MARIAMMAN TEMPLE Jalan Tun H.S. Lee The oldest Hindu temple in KL, built by Indian immigrants in 1873, has an intriguing facade and features with an ornate Raja Gopuram tower. T (03) 2078 5323 Open: Daily, 6am~9pm

CHIMNEY HISTORICAL MUSEUM COMPLEX Tanjung Kubong Centrepiece of this historic coal-mining museum is a 32.5-metre brick tower whose original purpose is unknown. T (087) 463 603 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha

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UNITED NATION BEACH Jalan Sungai Pagar So-named as it won the 2nd Clean Beach Award by COBSEA, a UN initiative, in 2008. It stretches 9km along the west coast of the island, offering fabulous sunset views. MELAKA

SULTAN ABDUL SAMAD BUILDING Jalan Raja One of KL’s best-known landmarks, this Moorishinspired building designed was completed in 1897. A former Colonial Secretariat, High Court and Supreme Court, it now houses government offices.

LABUAN WAR CEMETERY LABUAN MEMORIAL Jalan Tanjong Batu This cemetery is a sombre tribute to the servicemen from Australia, Brunei, Sabah and Sarawak who gave their lives to free Borneo from Japanese occupation during WW2.

MELAKA TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Ground Floor, Bangunan Surau Warisan Jalan Kota T (06) 232 8402 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays

THEAN HOU TEMPLE 65, Persiaran Endah One of the largest and most ornate temples in the country, dedicated to the Goddess Tian Hou, with Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian elements. T (03) 2274 7088 Open: Daily, 8am~10pm

SURRENDER POINT & PEACE PARK Pantai Layang Layangan Location of the Japanese surrender at the end of WW2, the park was built by the Japanese government to show their commitment to global peace.

A’FAMOSA St. Paul’s Hill, Heritage Complex The Porta de Santiago gateway and the shell of a church are all that remain of the A’ Famosa fortress, built by Alfonso d’Albuquerque in 1511 to defend Portuguese-held Melaka.

LABUAN LABUAN TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Jalan Dewan T (087) 423 445 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm, including Public Holidays AN-NUR JAMEK MOSQUE Jalan Tun Mustapha Labuan’s official mosque is notable for its unusual architecture, combining Brunei-Malay and Turkish themes with modernist elements. BA SAN MIAO TEMPLE Jalan Rancha-Rancha Kinabanuwa This ‘Eight-Deity Temple’ the largest Chinese Taoist temple on Labuan, was built by the island’s Hokkien community.

Learn about every aspect of the pewtersmith’s craft at the fascinating Royal Selangor Pewter Visitor Centre.

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AL-KAWARIZMI ASTRONOMY COMPLEX Tanjung Bidara Named for the great Persian astronomer, it traces Islam’s contribution to modern astronomy. 3D and Night Sky shows are a highlight. T (06) 384 2148 Open: Mon-Thu & Sat, 9.30am~5pm Fri, 9.30am~4.30pm Closed: Sun & Public Holidays BUKIT CINA CEMETERY Jalan Puteri Hang Li Poh The largest Chinese cemetery outside China, it covers 25 hectares with over 12,000 graves, many dating back to the 17th century. CHENG HOON TENG TEMPLE 25, Jalan To’kong The oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia and Singapore, dating from the 15th century. It holds UNESCO’s Award of Merit for Cultural Heritage Conservation. T (06) 282 9343 Open: Daily, 7am~4pm CHITTY VILLAGE Kampung Gajah Berang A small enclave of descendants of Indian traders who arrived in the 14th century and intermarried with Malay women. CHRIST CHURCH Jalan Gereja The oldest Protestant church in Malaysia, built in 1753, still retains its distinctive red colour, as well as a glazed-tile ‘Last Supper’, brass Bible stand and Armenian tombstones. HANG LI POH’S WELL

(KING’S WELL)

Bukit Cina A wishing well sunk in memory of the Chinese princess who married Sultan Mansur Shah in 1459

to strengthen relations between Melaka and China. T (06) 282 9343 HANG TUAH’S VILLAGE Jalan Semabok The supposed birthplace of Hang Tuah, the greatest of Melaka’s five legendary warriors. A sacred well is claimed to bring good fortune to those who drink from it. T (06) 284 1934 JONKER WALK Jalan Hang Jebat Famous for its BabaNyonya Chinese shophouses, Jonker Street is nowadays a pedestrian zone with exclusive boutiques, antique dealers, art galleries and restaurants. T (06) 284 8282 (Jonker Walk Association) KAMPUNG KLING MOSQUE Jalan Tukang Emas One of Malaysia’s oldest mosques, built around 1748, features a tiered pyramidal roof and pagodalike minaret, reflecting the diverse cultural mix of Melaka in its heyday. KOMPLEKS KRAF MELAKA Ayer Keroh Handicraft centre offering traditional Melaka items and demonstrations of batik making, basketry and top spinning. T (06) 253 1500 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~6pm Closed: Fri, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha

models of traditional houses from the 13 states in Malaysia as well as other ASEAN countries. T (06) 234 9988/ 9989 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5.30pm Sat-Sun & Public Holidays, 9am~6pm PORTUGUESE SQUARE Jalan Ujong Pasir The centre of Portuguese Eurasian culture in Melaka, it features restaurants serving traditional delicacies and dance performances during festivals. SRI POYYATHA VINAYAGAR MOORTHY TEMPLE Jalan Tokong The oldest Hindu temple in the country, dedicated to Vinayagar (Ganesha), was built in the 1780s by Melaka’s Hindu community. T (06) 281 0693 Open: Daily, 7am~11.30am & 6pm~9pm STADTHUYS Jalan Kota The oldest Dutch colonial building in Southeast Asia, built in 1650 as the Governor’s residence. It houses Melaka’s History, Ethnography and Literature Museums. T (06) 282 6526 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5.30pm THE SHORE OCEANARIUM (The Shore Shopping Gallery)

MENARA TAMING SARI Jalan Merdeka Bandar Hilir This 80-metre revolving tower gives visitors a 360 degree view of Melaka. T (06) 288 1100 Open: Daily, 10am~10pm

Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya Aquarium with an overhead tunnel linking displays. Child-friendly exhibits include touch pools, sea turtle feeding and virtual reality shows. T (06) 282 9966 Open: Daily, 10am~7pm

MINI MALAYSIA & ASEAN CULTURAL PARK Ayer Keroh Life-sized architectural

THE SHORE SKY TOWER Tower 1, The Shore Melaka Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya Melaka’s tallest building

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

offers a 360° panorama of the city, with glass perimeter walls for a totally unobstructed view. T (06) 288 3833 Open: Sun-Thu, 9am~10.30pm Fri, Sat & Public Holidays, 9am~11.30pm UPSIDE DOWN HOUSE MELAKA Jalan PM7 Plaza Mahkota, Bandar Hilir Upside-down version of a modern Malaysian house, with inverted furniture and décor. Perfect for fun selfies. Hp (011) 1072 2260 Open: Mon-Thu, 10am~7pm Fri-Sun, 10am~9pm NEGERI SEMBILAN NEGERI SEMBILAN TOURISM BOARD Bangunan Yayasan Negeri Jalan Yamtuan, Seremban T (06) 765 9725 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holiday HANDICRAFT DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MALAYSIA NEGERI SEMBILAN BRANCH

(PERBADANAN KEMAJUAN KRAFTANGAN MALAYSIA NEGERI)

Kuala Pilah Minangkabau handicrafts on display and for sale, including musical instruments, traditional games, and woodcarvings. T (06) 481 1045 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12.30pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat & Sun SZE KOON TEMPLE

(CENTIPEDE TEMPLE)

Seremban Located on a steep hill with great views of Seremban. The resident

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centipedes are believed to bring good fortune. Open: Daily, 7am~7pm

Resident’s House, Lipis Old District Office, Old Railway Station and Clifford School.

TERACHI CULTURAL VILLAGE Sri Menanti Traditional wooden houses offering an immersive experience of Minangkabau culture, including music, dances, handicrafts and local cuisine. Open: Daily, 8.30am~11pm

NATURAL BATIK VILLAGE Kuantan The East Coast‘s largest batik showroom, where visitors can learn about batik production and create their own designs. T (09) 544 7335 Open: Daily, 10am~7pm

PAHANG TOURISM PAHANG OFFICE 33 & 33A, ICT Hub, Indian Town Jalan Putra Square, Kuantan T (09) 568 1623/ 1624 Open: Mon-Thu, 8.30am~3.30pm Fri, 8.30am~12.30pm & 2pm~3.30pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holiday KAMPUNG GUMUM ORANG ASLI VILLAGE Chini Lake, Temerloh This Jakun Orang Asli village of over 60 huts offers traditional handicrafts, forest produce and boat trips around the lake. KAMPUNG PULAU KELADI CULTURAL VILLAGE Pekan Features the kampung house birthplace of Tun Abdul Razak, Malaysia’s 2nd Prime Minister, his Memorial Hall and the Pahang Silk Weaving Centre. T (09) 422 1371 Open: Mon-Fri, 9.30am~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha KUALA LIPIS This former gold-mining centre, Pahang’s capital until 1953, is best known for its grand colonial buildings, including the British

PETROSAINS PLAYSMART KUANTAN Kuantan For description see Petrosains Playsmart Johor Bahru (see page 90). T (09) 514 2290 Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~1pm & 2pm~4pm Fri, 9am~12pm & 2pm~4pm Closed: Public Holidays SERAMBI TERUNTUM Kuantan A one-stop marketplace for traditional products, local food and handicrafts, with more than 80 outlets and food stalls. Open: Daily, 9am~10pm SKYWAY CABLE CARS Genting Highlands Two cable car services provide easy access to Genting Highlands (see also page 133), with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Genting Skyway runs 3.38km from Gohtong Jaya to Maxims Hotel (1,740m elevation). Awana Skyway runs 2.8km from Awana Bus Station to Sky Avenue (1725m elevation) T (03) 2718 1118 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~8pm Fri, Sat & Sun, 8am~10pm SULTAN HAJI AHMAD SHAH STATE MOSQUE Kuantan The state mosque, built in 1993, has blue and white decorations with marble interior, stained

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glass windows, a central dome, and four minarets. TENUN PAHANG DIRAJA

(ROYAL PAHANG WEAVING)

Kampung Sungai Soi Tenun Pahang is an exquisite woven silk fabric produced since the 18th Century and used for ceremonial wear. (See page 59)

T (09) 422 1612 Open: Mon-Thu & Sat, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12.45pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sun & Public Holidays PENANG PENANG TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE 10, Ground Floor, The Whiteaways Arcade Lebuh Pantai, George Town T (04) 263 1166 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm Sat, 9am~3pm, Sun, 9am~1pm Closed: Public Holidays

AUTO-CITY Juru Interchange North-South Highway This car and motorcycle dealership complex is also an entertainment venue, with bars and nightspots, themed restaurants, shopping and outdoor events. T (04) 501 1222 Open: Daily, 7am~midnight CHEONG FATT TZE MANSION George Town Built for Chinese tycoon Cheong Fatt Tze in the 1880s, the ‘Blue Mansion” currently operates as a hotel with daily tours. It holds a UNESCO Heritage Conservation Award. T (04) 262 0006 Daily tours: Mon-Fri, 11am, 2pm & 3.30pm Sat & Sun, 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3.30pm

CHINATOWN George Town Penang’s Chinatown is peppered with old shophouses, clan houses and temples that reflect the heritage of its Chinese community. Many traditional trades are still practised, such as lanternmaking, sign engraving and joss- stick making. CLAN JETTIES George Town One of the last remaining traces of Chinese settlement, these miniature water villages are well over a century old. The Chew Clan Jetty is the most visitor-friendly with the longest walkway and a photogenic temple. FORT CORNWALLIS George Town The largest intact fortress in Malaysia marks the site where Captain Francis Light landed in 1786. It features old bronze cannon, a unique lighthouse, a visitor centre and an amphitheatre. T (04) 264 3456 Open: Daily, 9am~7pm GURNEY DRIVE George Town The popular seafront promenade is famous for its hawker food served from the stalls near the Gurney roundabout. Open: Daily, 6am~midnight KEK LOK SI TEMPLE George Town Impressive Buddhist temple complex, built between 1891 and 1905, with fine examples of Burmese, Thai and Chinese temple architecture. T (04) 828 3317 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm KHOO KONGSI George Town Headquarters of the Leong San Tong clan, built between 1894 and

1902. Its temple and open-air theatre include stunning examples of Chinese craftsmanship. T (04) 261 4609 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm LITTLE INDIA, PENANG George Town This ethnic enclave within the old town centre has shops selling Indian textiles, jewellery, spice, and silverware. MASJID NEGERI PULAU PINANG

(STATE MOSQUE)

George Town The state mosque is known for its modern architectural exterior and magnificent chandeliers. PENANG BATIK FACTORY Teluk Bahang Noted for hand-drawn and block-printed designs. Offers guided tours and batik painting classes. T (04) 885 1284 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm PENANG HILL George Town Penang’s only hill resort, 650-833 metres above sea level, offers jungle treks, an Owl Museum, English tea-house, hawker stalls and a pitcher plant garden. The 30-minute funicular train ride to the summit provides spectacular views. (See also page 444) T (04) 828 8880 Open: Daily, 6.30am~11pm PENANG STREET ART George Town In 2012, Penang’s municipal council commissioned Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic to enliven the Chinese shophouses around the city. His paintings were a resounding success and local and international artists followed in his footsteps, creating more than 100 pieces of wall

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

art reflecting the people and history of Penang. PINANG PERANAKAN MANSION George Town This 19th Century Straits Chinese townhouse was the home of Chinese Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee, who turned it into a museum showcasing his collection of Peranakan antiques. T (04) 264 2929 Open: Daily, 9.30am~5pm (Guided tours every hour) RUMAH P. RAMLEE George Town Birthplace of Tan Sri P. Ramlee (1929-1973), a Malaysian cultural icon. The house showcases the career and memorabilia of this uniquely talented actor, director, singer, songwriter, composer and producer. T (04) 281 7484 Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~5pm Closed: Mon, except School & Public Holidays SEH TEK TONG CHEAH KONGSI George Town The foremost among Penang’s five great Hokkien clan houses, completed in 1873. It features a fine clan temple, courtyard, lion

sculptures, interpretation centre and museum. T (04) 261 3837 Open: Daily, 10am~4pm (By appointment only) SNAKE TEMPLE Bayan Lepas Built in 1850 and dedicated to Buddhist monk Char Soo Kong, who reputedly offered refuge to snakes here. Venomous pit vipers occupy the main prayer hall. T (04) 643 7273 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm SUFFOLK HOUSE George Town The oldest surviving colonial building in Penang, formerly the Governor’s residence, won the 2008 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Culture Heritage Conservation. T (04) 228 3930 Open: Daily, 10am~11pm TECH DOME PENANG KOMTAR Building George Town Penang’s first science discovery centre has over 150 exhibits, mostly handson interactive. Hours of educational family fun. T (04) 262 6663/ 251 9915 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm

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THE TOP KOMTAR Building George Town The Top is a high-rise theme park occupying the uppermost floors of the 251-metre (824-feet) KOMTAR Tower, the tallest building in Penang. It offers 18 fun-filled attractions for all the family, including an indoor Observatory Deck, outdoor glass-floored Rainbow Skywalk, Jurassic Research Centre, 7D Discovery Motion Theatre, Tech Dome Penang, Ocean Explorer, Penang Boutique Aquarium, The Gravityz rope course, Penang State Gallery and many more, along with extensive conference facilities and dining and retail outlets. T (04) 262 3800 Open: Mon-Fri, 11am~8pm Sat-Sun, 11am~9pm School & Public Holidays, 10am~10pm Rainbow Skywalk open Sun-Thu, 11am~10pm Fri & Sat, 11am~11pm PERAK TOURISM PERAK 22, 22A & 22B Jalan Teh Hawa Ipoh T (05) 249 9966/ 241 2372 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holiday DUTCH FORT Pangkor Island A fortified warehouse built by the Dutch in 1670 for storage and protection of tin ore. Abandoned in 1748, it was restored by Malaysia's Museums Department in 1973. The popular site includes a small park and souvenir stores. Open: Daily, 8am~6pm

The viewing gallery at The Top, the uppermost floor of George Town’s iconic Komtar Building, provides panoramic views of Penang Island.

KELLIE’S CASTLE Batu Gajah The ruins of an

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uncompleted castle started in 1915 by Scottish planter William Kellie Smith as a tribute to his wife and abandoned when she died in 1926. Hp (012) 231 5831 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm

Triple Gems' is Ipoh's bestknown cave temple, noted for its many Buddha statues concealed amongst the rock formations, as well as the award-winning gardens. T (05) 255 2772 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm

KOTA TAMPAN Lenggong The earliest known site of human habitation in Malaysia, dated between 250,000 and 500,000 years old. Lenggong Archaeological Museum showcases the research. (See page 60) T (05) 767 9700

TANJUNG TUALANG TT5 TIN DREDGE Batu Gajah This 4,500 ton floating tin mining and processing factory is Malaysia’s last surviving tin dredge, now fully restored and serving as a living museum for Perak’s historic tin industry. Guided tours run at hourly intervals. Hp (014) 904 3255 Open: Daily, 9am~1pm & 2.30pm~6pm

KUALA SAYONG Kuala Kangsar This village is famous for abu air (or abu sayong) earthenware jars made from clay found by the river banks. PASIR SALAK HISTORICAL COMPLEX Kampung Gajah A collection of traditional Malay buildings by the Perak River which form a museum tracing the history of Malay resistance to colonialism. Main attraction is the Time Tunnel, with dioramas of key events leading to independence. T (05) 631 1462 Open: Gallery: TueSun, 10am~4pm Office: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm PERAK TONG CAVE TEMPLE Ipoh A beautifully preserved temple located in a huge limestone cave, with over 40 Buddha statues including a 12.8-metre high sitting Buddha, fringed by lotus ponds, pavilions and pagodas. Hp (011) 2358 4126 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm SAM POH TONG CAVE TEMPLE Ipoh Built in 1912, the 'Cave of

UBUDIAH MOSQUE Kuala Kangsar Another notable IndoSaracenic building by A.B. Hubback, this mosque is held to be one of the most beautiful in Malaysia. WAT MEKPRASIT Ipoh This Thai Buddhist Temple is one of the oldest buildings in Ipoh. The highlight is the 24m-long reclining Buddha, one of the largest in Malaysia. PERLIS TOURISM MALAYSIA WILAYAH UTARA 11, Lebuh Pantai George Town, Penang T (04) 261 0058 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12.15pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays AL-HUSSEIN FLOATING MOSQUE Kuala Perlis This beautiful mosque has unpainted walls adorned with corals, quartz, granite, marble and pebbles. Built

on the beach, it seems to float at high tide. ARAU PALACE & ROYAL MOSQUE Arau The royal town of Perlis is dominated by two striking buildings. Istana Arau, the royal palace of the Raja of Perlis, built in 1905, is an elegant fusion of Malay and Indo-Saracenic architecture. Across the road, the Royal Mosque (also Perlis State Mosque) complements the palace with its mix of modern and moorish elements. KANGAR The smallest of Malaysia’s state capitals retains much of its traditional charm. The most impressive building is the century-old Masjid Syed Alwi, (former State Mosque) on Persiaran Jubli Emas. KUALA PERLIS A fishing town and main ferry port for Langkawi, famous for local seafood dishes, a colourful harbour and some fine old buildings standing on stilts over mangrove swamp. PADANG BESAR Padang Besar is a major road and railway crossing between Malaysia and Thailand. Every weekend, thousands flock from both countries to shop at the Duty Free Zone and the Siamese Market. A bargain-hunters' paradise. Open: Daily, 10am~6pm PUTRAJAYA TOURISM INFORMATION CENTRE I-Centre, 2, Persiaran Perdana (opposite Dataran Putra) Precinct 1 T 1-300-88-5050 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

CHINA-MALAYSIA FRIENDSHIP GARDEN Precinct 4 Built to celebrate 40 years of friendly relations between the two countries, the garden features bonsai trees, a pagoda, rock garden, ornamental and a pair of 200-year-old lion statues. Open: Daily, 6.30am~7pm DATARAN PAHLAWAN NEGARA Precinct 1 The National Heroes Square honours Malaysians who gave their lives in all wars and conflicts. Completed in 2016, it has replaced the National Monument as the venue for Warriors Day. Open: Daily/ 24 hours DATARAN PUTRA

(PUTRA SQUARE)

Precinct 1 Putrajaya’s main square is a 300-metre wide series of concentric circles, with the national flag surrounded by the flags of Malaysia’s 13 states at the centre. MASJID PUTRA

(PUTRA MOSQUE)

Precinct 1 Putrajaya’s main mosque is built of rose-tinted granite with a 116-metre minaret and can accommodate 15,000 faithful. Its design incorporates Islamic themes from various countries. T (03) 8888 5678

Library and research centre tracing the achievements of Malaysia's Prime Ministers. T (03) 8885 8900/ 8940 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5.30pm (Guided tours by appointment) Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays PERDANA PUTRA Precinct 1 An iconic landmark overlooking Dataran Putra and housing the Prime Minister’s Department offices. Its architecture is a blend of Malay, Islamic and European elements. PERSIARAN PERDANA Precincts 1-5 This processional boulevard is 100-metres wide, 4.2km long and links the five central precincts. Intended for ceremonial parades such as the National Day Celebration, its design and landscaping celebrate the nation’s diverse cultures and rich heritage. PUTRAJAYA LAKE & BRIDGES All Precincts This 650-hectare manmade lake is designed as a natural cooling element

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for the city. Spanned by nine bridges, each with a unique architectural style, it offers fishing, water sports, canoeing and lake cruises. SERI PERDANA Precinct 10 The Prime Minister’s official residence is a fusion of Malay, Islamic and Neoclassical architecture. The Protocol and Banquet Blocks are open to the public via guided tours. T (03) 8888 8200 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~3pm Closed: Fri & Public Holidays THE MILLENIUM MONUMENT Precinct 2 A uniquely shaped 68-metre tall obelisk with etchings denoting important periods and milestones in the nation’s history. SABAH SABAH TOURISM BOARD 51, Jalan Gaya Kota Kinabalu One of only three colonial buildings left standing in Kota Kinabalu at the end of WW2, the Tourism Board’s HQ is itself a

MASJID TUANKU MIZAN ZAINAL ABIDIN

(STEEL MOSQUE)

Precinct 3 Putrajaya’s largest mosque can accommodate over 20,000 faithful. Its structure is 70% stainless steel, combines with fine glass elements to create an impression of great delicacy. PERDANA LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION Precinct 8

Putrajaya’s Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque. Known as the Steel Mosque, its stainless steel structure combines with glass elements to create a stunning impression.

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PLACES OF SPECIAL INTEREST LISTING

heritage building. T (088) 212 121 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 9am~4pm AGNES KEITH’S HOUSE Sandakan Villa where author Agnes Keith lived from 1930 to 1952 and wrote three books about her life in Sabah, including Land below the Wind. T (089) 221 140 (Sabah Heritage Museum) Open: Daily, 9am~5pm ATKINSON CLOCK TOWER Kota Kinabalu Built in memory of the first District officer of Jesselton (Kota Kinabalu’s former name), the tower was one of three buildings to survive the destruction of WW2. KK ESPLANADE & WATERFRONT PROMENADE Kota Kinabalu The Esplanade and Waterfront combine seamlessly to provide a 1.5km ocean promenade dotted with craft outlets, restaurants, and nightspots.

KOISAAN CULTURAL VILLAGE Penampang This impressive living museum, operated by the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA), showcases Sabah’s indigenous peoples with eleven Cultural Houses representing the diverse local communities. Activities include traditional games, handicraft demonstrations, cultural performances, traditional food and drink tasting and more. Advance reservation is required for package tours. T (088) 713 696/ 337 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm MARI MARI CULTURE VILLAGE Kota Kinabalu A living museum showcasing the lifestyles of Sabah’s main indigenous groups - Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus and Dusun in traditional houses. Visits include craft workshops, cultural performances and local cuisine. T (088) 381 621

Open: Guided Tours, 10am & 2pm MASJID NEGERI SABAH

(STATE MOSQUE)

Kota Kinabalu A unique combination of prevailing Islamic architecture and contemporary design with a majestic dome and stunning gold inlay motifs. MONSOPIAD CULTURAL VILLAGE Penampang A living museum of Kadazandusun culture, named for a fearsome warrior of centuries ago. The ‘House of Skulls’ contains all 42 of his trophies. Hp (011) 1419 6484 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm NORTH BORNEO STEAM RAILWAY

(See page 450)

PETROSAINS PLAYSMART KOTA KINABALU Kota Kinabalu For description see Petrosains Playsmart Johor Bahru,page 90. T (088) 255 808 Open: Mon-Thu, 10am~1pm & 2pm~5pm Fri, 10am~12pm & 2pm~5pm Closed: Public Holidays RUNGUS LONGHOUSE Kudat This traditional ‘village under one roof’ offers homestay facilities, cultural performances and traditional handicrafts. Hp (019) 532 4288 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

Visitors to the Rungus Longhouse at Kampung Bavanggazo can experience hands-on some of Sabah’s oldest cultural traditions.

SABANDAR LEISURE RIDES Tuaran A mini “Cowboy Town” with horse riding on picturesque Sabandar Beach and mangrove walking trails. Hp (016) 822 1501 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

SANDAKAN HERITAGE TRAIL Sandakan Self-guided signposted walk tracing 100 years of fascinating history. Map available from Tourism Information Centre, Wisma Warisan, Jalan Administration. SIGNAL HILL OBSERVATORY PLATFORM Kota Kinabalu The highest point in the city offers excellent views of Kota Kinabalu and the surrounding islands, especially at sunset. TAGAL SUNGAI MOROLI FISH SPA Ranau River fish trained by villagers to perform healing massages. Tagal (‘no fishing’ in Kadazandusun) is a collective effort to preserve the river ecosystem. Hp (014) 855 4406 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5pm TANJUNG SIMPANG MENGAYAU

(TIP OF BORNEO)

Kudat The northernmost tip of Borneo is marked by a giant bronze globe with a map featuring the island. SARAWAK Sarawak is the largest component of Malaysia, covering a greater area than the whole of Peninsular Malaysia and is made up of 11 Divisions. Places of interests are listed under their respective divisions. SARAWAK TOURISM BOARD HEAD OFFICE Level 4, Plaza Aurora Jalan McDougall, Kuching T (082) 423 600 KAPIT DIVISION FORT SYLVIA Jalan Rajang Named for the second

Ranee of Sarawak, this historic wooden fort (built 1880) houses a mini-museum and handicraft centre. T (084) 799 717 Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~12pm & 2pm~4.30pm Closed: Mon & Public Holidays IBAN LONGHOUSES Longhouses are named after their headmen - names can change in the event of retirement or death. Rumah Bundong, 10km from Kapit, is well known for its tattoo artists; Rumah Garie, 30mins by boat, is famous for exquisite Iban textiles; Rumah Bangkong, 15km from town, is known for its traditional atmosphere. T (084) 340 980 (Sibu Visitors Information Centre) KUCHING DIVISION KUCHING VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Sarawak Tourism Complex (see below) T (082) 410 944 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~6pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 9am~3pm SARAWAK TOURISM COMPLEX Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg Sarawak’s seat of government until 1973 comprises the Old Courthouse, Round Tower, former Secretariat Building and the Charles Brooke Memorial. ANNAH RAIS LONGHOUSE Jalan Borneo Heights Padawan Traditional Bidayuh bamboo longhouse complete with baruk (skull house), famous for its hot springs and homestay programme. Hp (016) 866 3277 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm DARUL HANA BRIDGE Connecting the Kuching

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Waterfront and the Sarawak Parliament Building, this pedestrian suspension bridge with two viewing decks offers panoramic views of the city and the Sarawak River. FORT MARGHERITA & BROOKE GALLERY Jalan Astana Built in 1879 to guard Kuching from pirates, the fort was named for Ranee Margaret Brooke. It houses the Brooke Gallery, a mini museum exploring the history of Sarawak under White Rajah rule. Hp (016) 310 1880 Open: Daily, 9am~4pm KUCHING WATERFRONT Jalan Gambier/Jalan Main Bazaar/Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Landscaped esplanade with food stalls and attractions, including the Square Tower, Sarawak Steamship Building and Chinese History Museum. Excellent views across the river to the Astana, Sarawak Parliament Building and Malay villages. MAIN BAZAAR & CARPENTER STREET Kuching Waterfront The oldest streets in Sarawak, dating back to 1864. Home to most of Kuching’s handicraft shops as well as traditional family businesses such as tinsmithing and carpentry. MASJID JAMEK NEGERI SARAWAK Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman Petra Jaya Sarawak’s State Mosque has a blue domed cupola, hand-carved Italian marble interior, and a 99-metre minaret. It can hold 11,000 worshippers. PETROSAINS PLAYSMART KUCHING State Civic Centre Complex

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For description see Petrosains Playsmart Johor Bahru, page 90. T (082) 547 393 Open: Mon-Thu, 9am~12pm & 1pm~5pm Fri, 9am~12pm Closed: Public Holidays

High Street Miri’s carefully restored Old Town includes prewar Chinese shophouses, a fish market, and the Tua Pek Kong Temple.

SONGKET & KERINGKAM GALLERY 31, Jalan Masjid A showcase of Sarawak’s stunning traditional woven and embroidered textiles. T (082) 549 015 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays

Jalan Canada Hill Located next to the Petroleum Museum, this is the original well that first struck oil in Sarawak in 1910.

TANOTI HOUSE 56, Jalan Tabuan A workshop showing how Sarawak Kain Songket is woven and selling stunning examples of this traditional brocade textile. T (082) 239 277 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5.30pm Closed: Public Holidays

OIL WELL NO. 1

(THE GRAND OLD LADY)

ORANG ULU LONGHOUSES Batang Baram and tributaries Access via 4WD or express boat. They include Long Mekaba, famous for traditional music; idyllic Long Bedian; and Lio Matoh, gateway to the Kelabit highlands. T (085) 434 181 (Miri Visitor Information Centre) MUKAH DIVISION

TRADITIONAL POTTERIES Jalan Penrissen Artisan ceramic factories producing Sarawak’s unique Dayak-influenced Teochew pottery. Visitors may watch potters at work. Opening hours vary

KAMPUNG TELLIAN Kampung Tellian Tengah Picturesque water village best visited on foot or by boat. The small cottage industries (sago processing and boat building) welcome visitors.

TUA PEK KONG TEMPLE Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Kuching’s oldest and best-known Chinese temple, overlooking the Sarawak River, is dedicated to a Malaysian Chinese deity who reputedly rode a tiger in mortal life.

LAMIN DANA CULTURAL BOUTIQUE LODGE Kampung Tellian Tengah Modelled after a Melanau tall house, this visitors’ lodge and cultural centre also trains locals in arts and crafts. Hp (019) 849 5962 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays

MIRI DIVISION MIRI VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Jalan Melayu T (085) 434 180/ 181 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~6pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 9am~3pm MIRI OLD TOWN Jalan Cina and Jalan

RAJANG SONGKET CENTRE Kampung Rajang 10km from Tanjung Manis View songket-weavers at work and shop for finished textiles. Hp (013) 571 1045 Open: Mon-Sat, 9am~5pm

Closed: Sun, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha SIBU DIVISION SIBU VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Sibu Heritage Centre Jalan Central, Sibu T (084) 340 980 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~6pm Sat, 9am~3pm Closed: Sun & Public Holidays TUA PEK KONG TEMPLE & KUAN YIN PAGODA Jalan Wharf The oldest and bestpreserved Chinese temple in Sibu, with a perfectly proportioned pagoda. T (084) 312 005 Open: Daily, 6am~8pm YU LUNG SAN TIEN EN SI TEMPLE Km 26, Jalan Sibu-Bintulu The largest temple complex in Southeast Asia, also known as the Jade Dragon Temple, brings together Buddhists, Taoists, and Confucians. SRI AMAN DIVISION TIDAL WAVE OBSERVATORY Waterfront Award-winning building with commanding views of Sri Aman’s tidal bore. T (083) 322 170 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm SELANGOR TOURISM SELANGOR Jalan Indah 14/12, Seksyen 14 Shah Alam T (03) 5513 2000 Open: Mon-Fri, 8.30am~5.30pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays BATU CAVES Jalan Batu Caves Malaysia’s most famous cave temple has 272 steps

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places of worship and heritage buildings, conducted in various languages. T (03) 5513 2000 (Tourism Selangor) SKY MIRROR KUALA SELANGOR Sasaran Beach The world’s tallest statue of Lord Murugan dominates the entrance to Malaysia’s largest cave temple at Batu Only visible Caves. during new moon and leading to a Hindu shrine full moon. At low tide, the and the world’s tallest shallow waters reflect statue of Lord Murugan. It the sky in all its glory. is the main venue for the Hp (010) 509 1007 annual Thaipusam Festival. (Boat arrangements) Open: Daily, 9am~9pm SULTAN SALAHUDDIN DONG ZEN TEMPLE ABDUL AZIZ SHAH Kuala Langat MOSQUE Centre of the Fo Guang Shah Alam Shan School of Buddhism, The largest state mosque famous for its Lantern in Malaysia, set in and Floral Festival at 36 acres of parkland, Chinese New Year. accommodates 24,000 T (03) 3191 1533 faithful. It has the world’s Open: Tue-Sun, 9am~6pm tallest set of minarets. Closed: Mon TERENGGANU LITTLE INDIA KLANG Jalan Tengku Kelana TOURISM TERENGGANU The largest Indian 1st Floor, Marina Building street in Malaysia has Duyong Marina & Resort over 40 textile stores, Pulau Duyong, Kuala jewellers, sundry shops Terengganu and restaurants. T (09) 623 1553 Open: Sun-Thu, PULAU KETAM 7.30am~6pm (CRAB ISLAND) Closed: Fri, Sat & Port Kelang Public Holidays Small island off Port Klang with Chinese fishing BATU BURUK BEACH villages built on stilts RECREATIONAL PARK above the sea. An excellent Kuala Terengganu place to try local seafood. Popular weekend retreat just outside ROYAL KLANG Kuala Terengganu. HERITAGE WALK Klang KAMPUNG CHINA Guided 2.5 hour walking (CHINATOWN) tour tracing Klang’s rich Kuala Terengganu history, colonial sights, Vibrant, well-preserved

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historic district with colourful two-storey Peranakan-style shophouses. Recognised by the World Heritage Fund. KUALA TERENGGANU WATERFRONT Jalan Hiliran Landscaped esplanade offering splendid river views, food stalls, performance stages and a children’s playground. PULAU DUYONG BESAR Kuala Terengganu Island at the mouth of the Terengganu River, showcasing traditional architecture and the remarkable skills of its resident boat builders. TAMAN TAMADUN ISLAM

(ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION PARK)

Pulau Wan Man Kuala Terengganu Includes a Monument Park tracing the global history of Islam. Also home to Kuala Terengganu’s stunning Crystal Mosque. T (09) 627 8888 Open: Mon, Wed & Thu, 10am~6pm Fri, 9am~12.30 & 3pm~7pm Sat & Sun, 9am~7pm Closed: Tue, except School & Public Holidays TENGKU TENGAH ZAHARAH MOSQUE Kuala Terengganu This fairytale structure, the only authentic ‘floating mosque’ in Malaysia, is built on a floating platform at the mouth of the Ibai River. TERENGGANU SCIENCE & CREATIVITY CENTRE Kuala Terengganu Learning centre for science and technology, with user-friendly and informative galleries, activities and programmes. T (09) 617 4004 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm Closed: Fri & Public Holidays

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INTEGRATED RESORTS - FOREWORD

Malaysia is blessed with abundant natural and cultural wealth, which has given us some of the finest visitor attractions in the Asia Pacific region. We have ancient rainforests, fabulous biodiversity and a very long shoreline packed with palm-fringed beaches. We have fascinating cities both modern and historic, rich and vibrant cultures with remarkable heritage, political stability and social harmony. We are fortunate indeed, but all these attributes are shared by other tourism and investment destinations worldwide. Where Malaysia has a powerful competitive advantage is our commitment to a high-quality visitor experience. Modern tourists, whether domestic or international, are sophisticated and have ever-increasing expectations. They want more than white sand beaches, national parks or historic city tours. They want comfort, high quality service and entertainment for all in the family. Fortunately, the Malaysian tourism and hospitality industry recognised this very early, and development of integrated resorts and theme parks began in the late 1960s, with Genting Highlands Resort (now known as Resorts World Genting) and Mimaland both opening their doors in the early 1970s. In the 50 years since the first plans were proposed, the sector has expanded and integrated resorts can be found in a variety of locations ranging from city suburbs to rugged mountain ranges and remote islands. Similarly, theme parks have increased in number and diversified, and world-class brands both compete with and also complement uniquely Malaysian family attractions. Malaysia’s integrated resorts and theme parks offer something for everyone. They make family vacations effortless and they provide affordable world-class entertainment and recreation. Popular with local and international visitors alike, they make a major contribution to the growth of the Malaysian tourism industry.

Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay

Chairman & Chief Executive, Genting Group

INTEGRATED RESORTS Sunway City Kuala Lumpur Mines Resort City Resort World Genting A’Famosa Resort Bukit Merah Laketown Resort Legoland Malaysia Bukit Gambang Resort City Integrated Resorts Listing

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INTEGRATED RESORTS

SUNWAY CITY KUALA LUMPUR Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor T (03) 5639 8889 W sunway.city

Persiaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway, Selangor T (03) 7492 8000 W sunwayhotels.com/ sunway-resort

3, Jalan PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway, Selangor T (03) 7494 3000 W sunwaypyramid.com

3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway, Selangor T (03) 5639 0000 W sunwaylagoon.com

IN BRIEF This multiple award-winning integrated city, spread over 800 acres, comprises three hotels with over 1,400 rooms, Malaysia’s favourite theme park, a mega shopping and entertainment mall and a world-class convention centre. OPENING HOURS Sunway Pyramid: daily, 10am to 10pm Sunway Lagoon: Wednesday to Monday, 10am to 6pm

Sunway Pyramid shopping mall, while Sunway Clio Hotel (401 rooms) is nearby on the west side of the city. All hotels offer easy access to both the shopping mall and theme park. Sunway Lagoon is Malaysia’s premier multi-park destination, with over 90 attractions across its six parks — Water Park, Amusem*nt Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park, Scream Park and Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon. The 88-acre theme park delights visitors of all ages with wholesome familyfriendly fun and adrenalineHospital Universiti

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HOW TO GET THERE Buses (from KL & Subang Jaya) and trains - Putra LRT (Kelana Jaya) and KTM Komuter (Subang) with feeder buses and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) running between both stations.

MAIN FEATURES Sunway City Kuala Lumpur is one of the largest integrated leisure developments in Malaysia. Its flagship hotel is the luxurious 5-star 477-room Sunway Resort, which features world-class accommodation and meeting and event spaces. Its exclusive dining experiences include the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill, the globally renowned chef’s first restaurant in Malaysia. The 4-star options, Sunway Pyramid Hotel (602 rooms) is located adjacent to the

LOCATION/ROUTE 35 minutes from KLIA and 25 minutes from Kuala Lumpur city centre, close to the Federal Highway, DamansaraPuchong Expressway and New Pantai Expressway.

A breathtaking view of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur at dusk, the most visited destination in the country showcasing Sunway Resort, Sunway Lagoon and many other attractions.

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One of the highlights of Sunway Lagoon’s X-Park, G-Force X is Asia’s highest slingshot ride, accelerating to 120km/hr in just 2 seconds!

pumping thrills. It is home to the world’s largest manmade sandy surf beach, an interactive zoo, the Flow Rider, the Waterplexx 5D and Vuvuzela, the world’s largest vortex ride. The Egyptian-inspired Sunway Pyramid shopping mall is the country’s first themed shopping and entertainment mall, named “Malaysia‘s Favourite Mall”

in a Tourism Malaysia poll. It offers top international and local brands as well as gastronomic adventures, with over 1,000 outlets in four distinctive precincts Fashion Central, Marrakesh, Asian Avenue and Oasis Boulevard. Entertainment activities range from Stars Archery to Malaysia’s largest ice-skating rink. Sunway City Kuala

The first Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill restaurant outside of London located in Sunway Resort.

Lumpur features more than 360,000sq metres of world-class meeting and event spaces, featuring over 60 meeting and function rooms, and outdoor facilities for themed events. The Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre is one of Malaysia’s most versatile convention and exhibition venues, with 7,157sq metres of function space.

Sunway Pyramid mall is home to ‘Sunway Pyramid Ice’, Malaysia’s first indoor ice-skating rink that can accommodate 400 skaters at any one time.

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INTEGRATED RESORTS

MINES RESORT CITY Country Heights Holdings Berhad 8th Floor, Block A Mines Waterfront Business Park 3, Jalan Tasik Mines Resort City 43300 Seri Kembangan Selangor Darul Ehsan T (03) 8943 8811 W minesresortcity.com

luxury hotel that includes a number of world class restaurants. The Philea Beach Resort is a 4-star wellness resort constructed with traditional wooden architecture. It offers a serene lakeside environment and a wide range of traditional and complementary wellness therapies. GHHS Healthcare is a unique preventive healthcare

centre offering the best of both Traditional Chinese and Western medicine, including health screening down to the genetic level. This is supplemented with noninvasive alternative therapies and complementary healthcare services. GHHS Healthcare has conducted over 150,000 checkup sessions and more than 20,000 medical screening tests. Designed by Robert Trent

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MAIN FEATURES Mines Resort City is a 1,000-acre integrated resort centred on a 150-acre lake. It has 10 principal components and attractions. The MoorishMalaysian themed 472room Palace of the Golden Horses is an award-winning 5-star

An aerial view of Mines Resort City, taken from the direction of the Palace of the Golden Horses, showing the expansive lakeside setting.

IN BRIEF Mines Resort City, once the world’s largest open-cast tin mine, has been expertly transformed into a health and wellness resort city. It encompasses two prestigious hotels, a world-class golf course, an exhibition centre, shopping malls, a business park, exclusive residential houses and serviced apartments.

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HOW TO GET THERE Rapid KL (Sungai Besi), KL Komuter (Serdang), taxis and buses. Water taxis serve the Komuter station and all components of Mines Resort City.

LOCATION / ROUTE Seri Kembangan, Selangor, next to the E2 and E9 highways, 25 minutes from Kuala Lumpur and 25 minutes from KLIA.

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A breathtaking dusk view of the Moorish-inspired Palace of the Golden Horses hotel.

Jones Jr, the 18-hole par71 Mines Resort and Golf Club is consistently ranked amongst the top 3 courses in Malaysia. This multiaward-winning course has been the venue for many of Malaysia’s most prestigious tournaments. The comprehensively equipped Malaysia

International Exhibition & Convention Centre offers 180,000sq feet of multipurpose conference and exhibition space, ideal for trade shows, major exhibitions, conferences and concerts. The lakefront Mines Waterfront Business Park’s low density and superb

“A River Runs Through It”, or at least a canal. The Mines Shopping Mall is the only shopping centre in Malaysia where you can arrive by water taxi.

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amenities have attracted major corporations, institutions and universities from Malaysia and throughout the world. The Mines Shopping Mall is probably the only integrated shopping and entertainment centre in Asia with a canal running through it. MINES 2 is a street mall inspired by those in Tokyo and Hong Kong, made up of retail and office space and featuring mostly IT, electronics and local fashion outlets. The Heritage, Seri Kembangan, laid out around Venetian-style canals, is a luxurious serviced apartment complex comprising 842 units in five 18-storey lakefront towers. The Mines Cruise is the best way to explore Mines Resort City, offering sightseeing, dining, corporate entertainment and even massage and wellness cruises around the Mines Lake.

The welcoming and spacious reception area of GHHS healthcare.

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RESORTS WORLD GENTING Genting Highlands 69000 Pahang T (03) 6101 1118 W rwgenting.com

IN BRIEF The first integrated hill resort in Malaysia, Resorts World Genting opened in 1971 as Genting Highlands Resort. It has since evolved to become Malaysia’s premier leisure and entertainment attraction, featuring theme parks, dining and retail outlets, as well as international shows and concerts. LOCATION / ROUTE Set over 1,800 metres above sea level in the Titiwangsa Mountain Range, 52 km north of Kuala Lumpur and accessible via the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway (E8). HOW TO GET THERE Note: See website (rwgenting.com/ GettingHere/) for instructions and reservations. Most services terminate at Awana Transport Hub; passengers complete their journey via the Awana Skyway Cable Car. Limousine Coach: From KLIA, Melaka, Butterworth, George Town, Alor Setar, Ipoh and Johor Bahru. Bus: Buses depart halfhourly from Pudu Sentral, KL Sentral, 1 Utama and LRT Gombak. Express Bus: from KLIA, most major towns and cities in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. Rail: KTM Komuter to Batang Kali or LRT to Gombak then shuttle bus.

Located 1,800 metres above sea level with a cool highland climate, Resorts World Genting is one of Malaysia’s top destinations, offering non-stop leisure and entertainment.

MAIN FEATURES Home to world-class attractions, service excellence and top-notch facilities, Resorts World Genting (RWG) is one of Malaysia’s top tourist

destinations offering non-stop leisure and entertainment. Family entertainment includes Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park; Sky VR, featuring 5 exciting virtual reality thrill

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Universiti Islam Antarabangsa

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SkySymphony is a free performance showcasing astonishing audio, visual and motion graphics programming.

rides; Snow World, a winter village with lifelike snowfalls; Ripley’s Adventureland; two stateof-the-art Video Games Parks; SkySymphony, a spectacular multimedia performance from Asia’s largest winch installation; and the brand-new Genting SkyWorlds, Southeast Asia’s most anticipated outdoor theme park. Cultural attractions include SeniKome arts & cultural centre and the nearby Chin Swee Caves Temple. Golfers will love the challenging course at the Awana Golf & Country Club. RWG is famous for

Sky VR, RWG’s newest attraction, features five VR thrill rides that transcend the boundaries of time, distance and physical limitations.

entertainment and nightlife. The 5,000-seat Arena of Stars and 1,000-seat Genting International Showroom host worldclass shows and concerts. Zouk Genting, awarded “Asia’s Best Nightlife Destination” is a one-stop nightlife hub, offering co*cktails at RedTail, refined dining at FUHU, then pounding dance beats at Empire or the iconic Zouk. More than 100 restaurants cater to every palate. Along with local fare, the international flavours include Southeast Asia’s first Burger & Lobster, Ed’s Easy Diner, Spanish

Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park offers more than 20 rides to guests of all ages.

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restaurant La Fiesta, and the scenic High Line Roof Top Market. RWG offers more than 100 brands and shops at SkyAvenue and First World Plaza, as well as over 150 designer brands and stores at Genting Highlands Premium Outlets. Accommodation comprises about 10,500 rooms across seven hotels, including the award winning Crockfords, Highlands Hotel and Genting Grand and the First World Hotel, the world’s largest hotel. 94% of virgin rainforest in RWG remains intact and guided treks are offered through the pristine rainforest.

Passengers can enjoy spectacular views as they travel to the hilltop in only 10 minutes with the Awana SkyWay cable car.

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A’ FAMOSA RESORT Jalan Kemus, Simpang Empat 78000 Alor Gajah, Melaka T (06) 552 8833 W afamosa.com

OPENING HOURS Safari Wonderland: daily, 9am~5pm, show times vary. Water Theme Park: Monday - Friday, 11am~7pm Saturday, Sunday, Public & School Holidays, 9am~7pm. Closed every Tuesday except Public & School Holidays. Sports & Recreation: daily, 9am~7pm. Old West: daily, 6pm~12 midnight - Carnival Parade at 8.30pm. IN BRIEF The A’Famosa Resort comprises a Golf Course, Water Theme Park, Safari Wonderland, Equestrian Club, Old West, abundant sporting facilities and a range of comfortable accommodation choices.

MAIN FEATURES The A’Famosa Resort, named after LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Alor Gajah, the resort is visible from the North-South Expressway. Use the Simpang Ampat exit, 1 hr from KLIA, 1 hr 20 min from Kuala Lumpur, 3 hrs from Johor Bharu/ Singapore.

The entrance to the A’Famosa Resort features a replica of the Porta de Santiago, the only surviving structure of the historic Portuguese fort the resort is named for.

the famous 16th Century Portuguese fortifications in the historic town of Melaka is spread out over 520 hectares of rolling hills. The award-winning 27-hole international championship golf course, designed by Ross C. Watson, has exquisitely sculptured fairways with rocks, landscaping and lakes amidst its Rocky, Palm and Crocodile Nines. Par-36 for each 9. The A’Famosa Resort has the largest water theme park in Malaysia. The Wave Pool, Sandy Beach, Lazy River, Slides, Raft Rides, Water

Games Pool, Kid’s Adventure Play Pool and Tot’s Activity Pool provide endless fun for visitors of every age. Safari Wonderland showcases over 100 species of animals from all over the world, including elephants, lions and orangutans. The world-class animal shows entertain both young and old. The Wild Wild West Show, packed with fist-fights, high altitude falls, realistic gunfire and explosions, includes impressive pyrotechnic displays. Active guests will love the sporting activities and

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HOW TO GET THERE From Melaka Town: bus, taxi or car (45-60 mins). From other locations: express bus or train to Tampin then free transfer to resort (10 minutes). A shuttle service is provided within the resort.

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The river raft makes its way to Monkey Island, where visitors can get up close with a unique community of primate species.

facilities, including paintball war games, go-kart riding, jungle trekking, archery, basketball, fishing, kite flying and corporate team building. The equestrian facilities offer horse and horse carriage rides. Old West lights up after dark, offering a carnivallike fun fair with games and prizes to be won. Watch the fire-eating acts in the evening Old West Show and the colourful parade of floats and

charming animals. The highlight of the evening is the amazing fireworks display. For shoppers, the adjacent Freeport A’Famosa Outlet houses more than 80 international There’s fun for every age group at the A’Famosa fashion, sports Water Theme Park. and accessories spacious pool villas, while brands The resort’s six restaurants serve a accommodation includes wide range of local and a family-friendly hotel, international cuisines. cosy condotel units and

Freeport A’Famosa Outlet, home to over 80 global brands at attractive local prices.

A spectacular fire-eating display concludes the carnival show.

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BUKIT MERAH LAKETOWN RESORT Jalan Bukit Merah 34400 Semanggol Perak Darul Ridzuan T (05) 890 8888 W bukitmerahresort.com.my

OPENING HOURS Waterpark: MondayThursday 11am~6pm, Friday-Sunday, School &Public Holidays 10am~6pm Closed every Tuesday except school & public holidays Orangutan Island: Daily, 9am~5pm. Ferries run every 45 minutes.

MAIN FEATURES The Resort is situated on the shore of a 7,000-acre lake,

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HOW TO GET THERE The resort is accessible by long-distance taxi from Penang, Taiping and Ipoh.

Boomerang, a huge curving slide which is the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia. Orangutan Island is a 5-acre orangutan sanctuary, the only one of its kind in Peninsular Malaysia. The establishment is committed to the rehabilitation and conservation efforts of this endangered species. It also focuses on education activities especially for school

surrounded by lush green rainforest. It offers a wide range of accommodation, food and beverage outlets, and two major themed attractions; Waterpark and Orangutan Island. Waterpark is an 11-acre recreation park offering 12 water-based rides and attractions for children (and adults) of all ages. The best known is the spectacular

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LOCATION / ROUTE Just off the North-South Highway, 35 minutes’ drive from Penang, 20 minutes from Taiping, 45 minutes from Ipoh and 3 hours from Kuala Lumpur.

An aerial view of the Waterpark surrounded by lush rainforest.

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IN BRIEF Bukit Merah Laketown Resort is the 1st and largest water theme park in northern Malaysia and houses the only orangutan conservation site in Peninsular Malaysia. It offers a wide variety of fascinating natural and man-made attractions.

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The Kampung Air Water Village Chalets are built over the lake surface. Perfect for fishing from your balcony.

students. The island is accessible via a 15-minute ferry ride. Other activities include jungle trekking, cycling, beach soccer, volleyball, kayaking, paintball target shooting and fishing. The resort is also ideal for corporate retreats, especially team building

exercises. There are two choices of accommodation; the Kampung Air (water village) Chalets situated directly on the lake and the Laketown Hotel located within walking distance from the Waterpark. Visitors may dine at any of the three different food

Guided kayak tours are the perfect way to explore the 7,000 acre lake and its shoreline.

and beverage outlets serving a wide range of local and international cuisine. LakePark Komer and Ripples Hawker Centre are located in the lakeside Marina Village shopping & dining centre, while Bubbles Family Restaurant is located near the Waterpark.

The Waterpark offers soaking wet fun for all the family.

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INTEGRATED RESORTS

LEGOLAND® MALAYSIA RESORT Jalan LEGOLAND Bandar Medini Iskandar Malaysia 79250 Iskandar Puteri Johor T (07) 5978 888 W legoland.com.my

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HOW TO GET THERE Road: Second Link Expressway Exit 312 (Nusajaya) (from NorthSouth Highway or 2nd Link), Johor Coastal Highway (from Johor Bahru and Singapore Causeway). Bus: Causeway Link Bus from 2nd Link and Johor Bahru, WTS Bus from Singapore Flyer, KTB Bus from Singapore Larkin.

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LOCATION 20km from Johor Bahru and 15km from Singapore (2nd Link).

MAIN FEATURES LEGOLAND Malaysia has eight themed areas of attractions, the centrepiece being Miniland, where 30 million LEGO

ages. Imagination is where LEGO fans can bring their creations to life and ascend the observation tower to view all of LEGOLAND and its surroundings. LEGO® KINGDOMS features six magical rides, from entering a magnificent castle to exploring legends of fearsome dragons. Land of Adventure provides themed journeys to the lands of

bricks recreate famous landmarks from 17 Asian countries, including the PETRONAS Twin Towers, the Merlion Statue and the Taj Mahal. Parts of Miniland are animated with models come to life at the touch of a button. LEGO® TECHNIC™ offers educational and robotic workshop sessions and exciting themed rides for all

OPENING HOURS Please refer to the official website.

LEGO® characters welcoming visitors to the resort.

IN BRIEF LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort is the first theme park in Asia based on the world-famous LEGO® range of construction toys. It provides more than 80 hands-on rides, slides, shows and attractions offering adventure, education and fun for families with children aged 2-12.

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THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The Great LEGO Race combines roller coaster thrills with virtual reality in an exciting new adventure.

pharaohs and dinosaurs, laser-blasting for lost treasure or avoiding hungry dinosaurs. LEGOLAND Water Park offers over 20 exciting and refreshing slides, rides and water games. LEGO® City is an urban environment where the younger family members take control, putting out fires dinosaurs at the Rescue Academy, flying the LEGO aircraft, learning how to drive or enjoying hilarious 4D Movies.

The Dragon, a thrilling roller coaster packed with twists and turns as you travel through the heights and depths of the King’s Castle.

SEA LIFE Malaysia is part of the world’s largest aquarium brand, showcasing more than 25 display tanks in 11 habitat zones, featuring 13,000 sea creatures from 120 species. LEGO NINJAGO® World, recreates the blockbuster animated TV show with a challenging interactive ride to defeat the Great Devourer and earn NINJA status. The Big Shop offers the biggest selection of LEGO toys and accessories in

The LEGO NINJAGO® Live Show features traditional Japanese Bunkaru style puppetry, depicting characters from the popular hit TV series.

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Asia. Hungry visitors can select from 12 restaurants and cafés offering a wide selection of local and international food and beverages. LEGOLAND® Hotel Malaysia is the first LEGO themed hotel in Asia, with a choice of 4 unique theme rooms: NINJA action, PIRATE quest, KINGDOM reign or ADVENTURE thrill. Each room has a king-sized bed for parents and a separate sleeping area for 3 children.

The SEA LIFE Ocean Tunnel allows visitors to get a close-up view of thousands of marine creatures.

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INTEGRATED RESORTS

BUKIT GAMBANG RESORT CITY 26300 Gambang Kuantan Pahang T (09) 548 8000 W bgrc.com.my

OPENING HOURS Water Park: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday, 11am~6pm. Friday-Sunday, School and Public Holidays, 10am~6pm Closed: Tuesdays, except School and Public Holidays Active Academy: Friday– Sunday, 10am~6pm.

specializes in team-building events for groups of all sizes up to 500 people. Activities are also offered to day visitors, and include Paintball, Flying Fox, an Obstacle Course and night jungle trekking. The resort is also home to the Ataria International Convention Centre with stateof-the-art conference facilities

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HOW TO GET THERE From Kuala Lumpur: bus (3-4 hrs), taxi, e-hailing. From Kuantan: Rapid Bus 100, taxi, e-hailing.

MAIN FEATURES Bukit Gambang Water Park offers a unique combination of water slides & facilities, many of which are firsts in Malaysia, including the longest family raft ride, longest 6-lane racer and largest wave pool, capable of generating 8 different wave patterns. Active Academy Park is an outdoor activity centre that

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LOCATION / ROUTE Located near Gambang Old Town, Pahang. 30 mins from Kuantan and 25 mins from Kuantan Airport via Federal Route 2. 2 hrs 20 mins from Kuala Lumpur via East Coast Expressway (Sri Jaya exit 827). 2 hrs 30 mins from Kuala Terengganu via East Coast Expressway (Gambang exit 830). 4 hrs 30 mins from Johor Bahru/Singapore via Federal Routes 1 & 12.

These imposing turreted arches mark the main entrance to Bukit Gambang.

IN BRIEF BGRC is spread over 727 acres of secondary jungle, much of it conserved as permanent jungle. It features a world-class Water Park, an Active Academy outdoor recreational park, a Convention Centre and a huge accommodation inventory of over 2,200 family-friendly rooms, suites and villas.

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Aerial view of Bukit Gambang Resort City. The Water Park is shown in the centre of the picture, enclosed by the onsite accommodation, food & beverage and conference facilities.

and the largest pillarless ballroom in Malaysia, with a banquet style seating capacity of 3,100 guests. BGRC has the largest room inventory in the east coast with 2,268 rooms spread across 3 themed resorts: Caribbean Bay Resort, Arabian Bay Resort & Everia Villas Resort. All public walking areas in the resort and its facilities are wheelchair accessible. Everia Villas Resort features architecture from some of the world’s most famous waterfront cities.

“Stay Cool, Get Wet” is the motto of Bukit Gambang Water Park, which provides endless fun for all in the family.

Paintballers wait in ambush at Paintball Warzone, one of Active Academy’s most popular attractions.

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INTEGRATED RESORTS

fine dining, meeting and banqueting facilities, golf resort, riding club, sports complex, Japanese village, adventure park and rabbit park. T (09) 221 3666 W colmartropicale.com.my

JOHOR LEGOLAND RESORT MALAYSIA

(See page 138)

KUALA LUMPUR BERJAYA TIMES SQUARE 1, Jalan Imbi Integrated city centre urban luxury resort comprising a 48-storey, 203m twin tower with 5-star hotel, condominium, indoor theme park and shopping, dining and entertainment complex. The indoor theme park, Malaysia’s largest, offers thrilling rides catering for every age group, ranging from the Fantasy Garden suitable for younger children through to the Galaxy Station, with thrill-seeker rides tailored for teenagers and adults. T (03) 2117 8000 (hotel) T (03) 2117 3118 (theme park) W berjayahotel.com W berjayatimessquare themeparkkl.com Open: Theme Park, Mon-Fri, 12pm~10pm Sat, Sun, Public & School Holidays, 11am~10pm Shopping Centre, daily 10am~10pm.

RESORTS WORLD GENTING

(See page 132)

PERAK Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, Malaysia’s largest indoor theme park, provides fun-filled family entertainment whatever the weather.

MELAKA A’FAMOSA RESORT (See page 134)

PAHANG BUKIT GAMBANG RESORT CITY

(See page 140)

COLMAR TROPICALE BERJAYA HILLS Km 48, Karak Highway Bukit Tinggi, Bentong French-themed resort 2,700 feet above sea level amidst 80 acres of rainforest. It comprises 235 rooms and suites, 8 F&B outlets including authentic French

BUKIT MERAH LAKETOWN RESORT

(See page 136)

LOST WORLD OF TAMBUN 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway, Sunway City, Ipoh Action-packed, ecofriendly family adventure destination converted from a former tin mining wasteland. Includes 6 theme parks, hot springs night park and spa, animal shows and live performances. Choice of hotel, floating villa and glamping accommodation. T (05) 542 8888 W sunwaylostworldof tambun.com Open: Mon-Fri, 11am~11pm Sat-Sun, School & Public Holidays, 10am~11pm Closed: Tue (except School & Public Holidays) SABAH

The French-themed Colmar Tropicale resort in Pahang has a near-European climate to match, thanks to its 2,700-metre elevation.

SUTERA HARBOUR RESORT 1, Sutera Harbour Boulevard Kota Kinabalu Located close to the city centre and airport, the resort comprises the luxurious Pacific Sutera Hotel and Magellan Sutera Resort, 27-hole Graham Marshdesigned golf course, marina and 15 F&B outlets. Facilities include fitness centre, squash, tennis, badminton & volleyball courts, mini movie theatre, 12-lane bowling alley, KTV/karaoke room and billiard room.

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T (088) 318 888 W suteraharbour.com SELANGOR GOLD COAST MORIB INTERNATIONAL RESORT PT 294 Kawasan Kancong Laut, Mukim Morib, Banting 4-star integrated resort with water theme park, spread over 14 acres of mangrove and coastal scenery. 672 rooms, suites and apartments. Amenities include amphitheatre, shopping mall and 2,000 seat banquet hall. T (03) 3198 1028 W gcr.com.my Open: Daily, 8am~7pm MINES RESORT CITY

(See page 130)

SUNWAY LAGOON RESORT

(See page 128)

THEME PARKS JOHOR AUSTIN HEIGHT WATER & ADVENTURE PARK 71, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1 Taman Mount Austin Johor Bahru 3-in-1 theme park offering a Water Park with state-ofthe-art slides, a ropeworkbased Adventure Park and a Sports and Leisure Park with drift karting, synthetic ice skating and a Jump Street trampoline park. T (07) 360 3000 W funtime.my Open: Water Park & Adventure Park: 10am~6pm Sports and Leisure Park, weekdays, 1pm~9pm, weekends, Public & School Holidays, 10am~6pm DANGA BAY Jalan Bertingkat Skudai Danga Bay, Johor Bahru Seafront mini theme park offering about 16 different rides for all the family, sea cruises along the Straits of

Johor and dining zone with al-fresco food & beverage outlets. T (07) 233 3888 Open: Mon-Sat, 7.30pm~2am Sun, 7.30pm~12am DESARU COAST ADVENTURE WATERPARK Persiaran Pantai, Desaru Coast Bandar Penawar 21-acre water and adventure park boasting five spectacular wet and dry zones. Nearby are luxury hotels and internationalstandard golf courses facing the sea. T (03) 2203 9696 W desarucoast.com Open: Daily, 10am~6pm STARHILL LA STELLA WATER PARK Starhill Golf & Country Club 6.5km, Jalan Kampung Maju Jaya, Kempas Lama, Skudai Water Park with adults’ and childrens’ swimming pools, water slides, event & team building facilities. 36-hole golf course open to visiting golfers. T (07) 558 8111 W starhill-golf.com Open: Tue-Fri, 11am~7pm Sat-Sun, School & Public Holidays, 9am~7pm Closed: Mon (except School & Public Holidays)

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Ground Floor Jalan Kota Tinggi, Ulu Tiram Johor’s first indoor water theme park features a 26,000sq feet main pool with banana boats and other fun inflatables, slides and a Jacuzzi pool for adults, and a dry park for guests not wanting to get their feet wet. Hp (019) 725 4577 W tiramwaterpark.com.my Open: Daily, 10.30am~10pm TROPICAL VILLAGE MINIWORLD Batu 56 ½, Jalan Johor Ayer Hitam Theme park with scaleddown versions of 30 worldfamous landmarks, including the Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, Great Wall of China, Statue of Liberty and Leaning Tower of Pisa, plus boating, horse riding, flower nurseries and fruit farm. T (07) 758 2170 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm KEDAH

TIRAM INDOOR WATER PARK Today’s Mall, LG 75, Lower

FANTASIA AQUAPARK Jalan Darulaman Golf & Country Club, Jitra Bug-themed lakeside family water park with pool, slides, and dry land play areas. T (04) 917 2807/ 913 1846 W fantasia.bdb.com.my Open: Mon-Thu, 12pm~7pm Fri-Sun, School & Public Holidays, 10am~7pm Closed: Tue (except School & Public Holidays)

Desaru Coast offers thrills and spills for all ages, as well as world-class golf, within easy reach of Johor Bahru and Singapore.

SPLASH OUT LANGKAWI 79, Persiaran Mutiara 2 Pusat Perdagangan Kelana Mas, Langkawi Langkawi’s first water park, featuring 12 water attractions for all ages plus six family-oriented food and beverage outlets. T (04) 9611 520 W splashoutlangkawi.com Open: Sun, Mon, Tue, Thu, 12pm~7pm Fri & Sat, 10am~7pm Closed: Wed

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THE CARNIVAL WATERPARK & LAND OF EXCITEMENT Persiaran Cinta Sayang Sungai Petani Fully featured water park with a host of exciting rides including the 300m River of Adventure. Land-based activities include bungee jumping. T (04) 441 4777 W cintasayangresort.com Open: Daily, 11am~7pm Closed: Wed (except School & Public Holidays)

acres of recreational forest features 11 water attractions, a Dinosaur Park with giant replicas of these extinct reptiles, dirt-track karting and paintball. T (06) 231 3333/ 1119 W melakawonderland.com. my Open: Tue-Fri, 11am~7pm Sat & Sun, School & Public Holidays, 10am~7pm Closed: Mon (except School & Public Holidays)

KUALA LUMPUR

WET WORLD AIR PANAS PEDAS RESORT Lot 603, Jalan Tampin Mukim Pedas Malaysia’s first hot springs theme park offers natural healing hot springs (35-46 degrees C) with public and private baths. The fully featured water park offers a variety of exciting slides, wave pool, Lazy River, twin racing slides and inflatables. T (06) 685 8027 W wetworld.my Open: Thu-Tue, 10am~6pm Closed: Wed (except School & Public Holidays)

BEAST PARK, SUNGEI WANG L3 JUMPA @ Sungei Wang Jalan Sultan Ismail New indoor adventure and activity park in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Housed in a 15-metre-high indoor space on Level 3 of Jumpa @ Sungei Wang, it has five main areas designed to cater for different strength levels. T (03) 2713 7128 W beastpark.my Open: Mon-Fri, 10am~10pm Sat & Sun, 10am~8pm

NEGERI SEMBILAN

PENANG ESCAPE PARK 828, Jalan Teluk Bahang Unique adventure theme park connecting people with nature via challenging adventure activities. Includes Atan’s Leap jumping tower, Monkey Business climbing course, ESCAPE Gravityplay (the world’s longest tube water slide) and exciting activities for younger children. T (04) 881 1106 W escape.my Open: Tue-Sun, 10am~6pm Closed: Mon THE TOP PENANG

(See page 119)

PUTRAJAYA DISTRICT 21 AT 6, IOI City Mall IOI Resort City, Putrajaya Post-apocalyptic themed Sports and Recreation Park with 10 adventure attractions to suit all ages and abilities. Located in a 70,000sq feet indoor atrium, it has everything you need to get climbing,

SUPER PARK MALAYSIA Level 4, Avenue K Shopping Mall Jalan Ampang New all-in-one indoor activity park with 3 themed areas (Adventure Area, Game Arena and Freestyle Hall) that offer over 20 fun, healthy and energizing activities for all ages. T (03) 2789 1408 W superpark.com.my Open: Daily, 11am~7.30pm MELAKA MELAKA WONDERLAND WATER THEME PARK Lot PT 17178 Lebuh Ayer Keroh Hang Tuah Jaya, Ayer Keroh Melaka’s newest water park, surrounded by 360

Escape Park on Penang Island connects people with nature through exciting adventure activities on land, water and even up in the air!

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

jumping, riding, sliding and flying. T (03) 8328 8888 W ioicitymall.com.my/ district-21 Open: Mon-Fri, 12pm~8pm Sat-Sun, School & Public Holidays, 10am~8pm SARAWAK BORNEO SAMARIANG WATER PARK Lot 5569, Block 9, Salak Land District, Jalan Sultan Tengah Kuching The first water theme park in Sarawak is built on a 30-acre site surrounded by untouched mangrove forest. Among the many attractions are an 80-metre high water slide and an artificial beach with wave pool. Hp (019) 699 4768 W bsrc.com.my Open: Mon-Fri, 10am~6pm Sat, Sun, Public & School Holidays, 9am~6pm Closed: Tue (except Public & School Holidays) D-VIRTUAL PARK Jalan Meranek, Kampung Melaban, Kota Samarahan The first virtual reality theme park on the island of Borneo, with 10 stateof-the-art interactive VR experiences for individuals and groups of all ages, as well as an E-Sports Arena and a custom Hologram Theatre.

T (082) 659 686 W d-virtualpark.com Open: Daily, 10am~10pm SELANGOR BANGI WONDERLAND THEME PARK AND RESORT 2, Persiaran Bangi Avenue Bangi Avenue, Kajang A 12-acre water park featuring 14 state-of-the-art water rides, including the first Water Cannon in Malaysia. T (03) 8912 8333 W bangiwonderland.com. my Open: Mon-Fri, 11am~6pm Sat, Sun, School & Public Holidays, 10am~6pm Closed: Tue (except School & Public Holidays) ESCAPE CHALLENGE GB-07, Boulevard, Level G, Paradigm Mall Kelana Jaya, Petaling Jaya Indoor & outdoor adventure challenge park opened in 2020. Eleven themed attractions offer activities suitable for all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Hp (013) 488 3911 (WhatsApp only) W escape.my/pj Open: Tue–Sun, 10am~10pm Closed: Mon

I-CITY SHAH ALAM D-1-G, Jalan Multimedia 7/AJ City Park, I-City Shah Alam Unique high-tech theme park includes Spacewalk, an elevated rail ride through the City of Digital lights, Red Carpet waxwork museum, water park with tornado ride, fairground rides and SnoWalk, a 50,000sq feet indoor snowscape. T (03) 5521 8800/ 8866 W i-city.my Open: WaterWorld Borneo Samariang Water Park in Kuching, Mon–Fri, 11am~6pm, the first fully featured water theme park in Sat-Sun, public & Sarawak and Borneo.

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school holidays, 10am~6pm Closed: Tue (except School & Public Holidays) SnoWalk, daily 11am~midnight KIDZANIA Curve NX, 18 Jalan PJU 7/5 Mutiara Damansara Petaling Jaya Award-winning interactive city for children aged 4-14 years, with 60-plus stations spread over 80,000sq feet combines fun and learning through realistic role-play, where children can try out 100 exciting careers. T 1 300 13 KIDZ (5439) (03) 2203 9666 W kidzania.com.my Open: Sun-Fri, 10am~5pm Sat, School & Public Holidays, 10am~7pm Ramadan, 9am~4pm Closed: Mon (except School & Public Holidays) RIVERINE WATER PARK Amverton Cove Golf & Island Resort Mukim Jugra Pulau Carey Newly opened, resortbased water park with 9 fun water attractions for all ages, as well as guided river cruises. Also includes Riverine Survival Park with outdoor sports and adventure activities. T (03) 3123 3888 W amvertoncove.com/ theme-park/ Open: Wed-Mon, 10am~6pm Closed: Tue WET WORLD SHAH ALAM 3A, Persiaran Dato Menteri Seksyen 14, Shah Alam Urban neighbourhood water park featuring the longest water coaster in Asia and ten more exciting rides, providing safe family fun for all ages. T (03) 5513 2020 W wetworld.my/shah-alam Open: Mon & Tue, Thu-Sun, 10am~6pm Closed: Wed (except School Public Holidays)

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SHOPPING - FOREWORD

It would be cliché to describe any destination as a “shopper’s paradise”, except that in the case of Malaysia it’s true. Over the last 30 years since The Melium Group was founded, the retail landscape has evolved dramatically. Today, an array of world-class malls dots our cities, offering elite fashion, retail, dining and lifestyle experiences. The diversity and quality of products and services available to Malaysians and tourists alike has sealed the country’s reputation as one of the best Shopping Destinations in Southeast Asia. The offering here in Malaysia is breathtaking. From leading international luxury goods and designer fashion labels to local artisanal houses; from cutting-edge tech brands to spaces created by passionate young entrepreneurs pioneering exciting new retail concepts; there is something to delight every traveler. Traditional shopping streets also add value with a plethora of rich cultural and culinary experiences. While online shopping and the rise of e-commerce have had an impact on Malaysia - as they have globally - brick-and-mortar spaces still have a strong value proposition thanks to personalised customer service. There is nothing quite like the firsthand customer experience; looking at, trying on and touching a product prior to purchase. The older quarters of our towns and cities are peppered with fascinating antique shops and arts and craft galleries to thrill the modern traveler seeking experiences. Traditional artisans still handcraft all manner of cultural artefacts, including kites, shoes, garments, accessories, beadwork, batik, basketry, woven textiles, wood carvings, pewterware and brassware. Shopping in Malaysia is a veritable treasure trove of experience. There is truly something for everyone, whatever their interests, objectives, age or means. Whether you are a local consumer or a visitor, we have the perfect shopping environment for you: it is diverse, rich and there is always something new to discover.

Dato’ Seri (Dr.) Farah Khan

Founder of The Melium Group, Malaysia’s Leading Fashion & Lifestyle Specialist

SHOPPING Fashion In a Land of a Thousand Styles Pavilion Kuala Lumpur Bangsar Shopping Centre 1 Utama Shopping Centre Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall Vivacity Megamall Kuching Central Market Pasar Siti Khadijah Shopping Listing

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Just a few of Malaysia’s many colourful traditional costumes, a reflection of the ethnic and cultural diversity of this fascinating country.

Fashion in a Land of a Thousand Styles Malaysia’s emergence as a major fashion centre should come as no surprise. It lies at the centre of trade routes both ancient and modern, subject to centuries of artistic and sartorial influences from all over the world. It is also a cultural melting pot of more than 50 ethnic groups, each with its own rich heritage of ceremonial costumes and everyday wear. It is common to see Malaysians wearing outfits associated with oneanother’s ethnic groups or even combinations of different ethnic and cultural themes. Traditional Fashion Themes A wide variety of traditional garment styles are popular in Malaysia. The kebaya is one of the most versatile; an ankle-length skirt

(sarong) worn with a longsleeved blouse that hugs the contours of the body, it represents pure Asian elegance. Whether of batik or songket (a hand-woven Malay brocade fabric) or heavily embroidered on fine lawn, the exquisite handwork of the kebaya has made it a timeless classic. Variations can be seen in almost every state, including the nyonya kebaya from Melaka, the result of historical melding of Malay and Chinese cultures. The most popular Malay traditional outfit is the baju kurung, a kneelength loose top and a comfortably loose ankle length skirt in the same fabric and pattern. The top usually has a simple round neck and long broad sleeves, while the skirt may come with a variation of pleats and slits. Whatever configuration is worn, the colours are invariably bold and brightly patterned. The baju kurung enables Muslim

women to make a fashion statement, while their modesty is preserved by long sleeves and skirts with headscarves. Acceptable as formal and office wear, it is also very popular with non-Malay women and is invariably worn whenever the dress code specifies “national dress”. Many Malaysian Indian women favour the sari six yards of seamless cloth transformed into an elegant outfit - utilizing a range of fabrics from printed and woven cotton to feather-light georgettes and heavily embroidered silks. Woman of Punjabi or other North Indian extraction often favour the shalwar kameez, a long knee or calf-length blouse that is often printed or

This Kebaya by Bill Keith is derived from the traditional garment worn by ladies of the Peranakan (Baba Nyonya) community. It is worn with a sarong, typically made of batik or (as shown) songket fabric.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

A hand-loomed Kanjivaram silk saree from Zobha Sarees. Traditionally made of cotton, the saree has evolved with the use of different fabrics, colours, patterns and decorations to keep pace with contemporary fashion.

embroidered and worn over loose or tight-fitting pants. The look is completed with a light shawl flung around the shoulders. For special occasions and festivals, the local Chinese community favours the evergreen cheongsam (or qipao), often made from gorgeous brocaded silks. Classy yet sexy with its high Mandarin collar and form-fitting shape, the cheongsam can be knee, three-quarter or ankle length. A more casual and practical design is the samfu, a two-piece unisex suit comprising a short, waist- or hip-length blouse with straight cut pants, often favoured by the young for special occasions. Malaysian men are experts at combining elegant western suits with ethnic headgear, such as a songkok (if Malay) or a turban (if Sikh). Colonial influence lingers in the

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form of the short-sleeved bush jacket, worn as part of a practical two-piece suit by senior civil servants and politicians. Almost every male owns a few colourful batik shirts, something of a misnomer as many variants are printed or embroidered. They are usually longsleeved without external pockets, quite different to the Indonesian style. Despite their bright primary colours, they are regarded as ideal formal wear, so the men are often as colourful as the ladies at Doublewoot is a Malaysian online Malaysian social gatherings. retailer focusing on women’s casual apparel inspired by traditional The ultra-formal baju themes. This cheongsam design incorporating printed batik motifs is Melayu comprises a loosely a typical example. cut, long-sleeved, bright primary or vibrant pastel departmental stores. coloured two-piece pyjama Most Malaysians prefer suit in silk or fine satin. Set their own favourite off by a stunning kneetailors or dressmakers length songket (brocade for their special outfits. sarong), it is worn mainly Visitors should ask for by Muslim men at religious recommendations. holidays such as Hari Raya The indigenous Aidilfitri, and by VIPs and communities of East dignitaries on occasions of state, set off by a songkok hat or even a geometrically folded turban (tengkolok) for persons of rank. Men’s baju Melayu and women’s baju kurung or kebaya are Traditional Malay festive garments from Shawlpublika relatively fashion. The man and boy wear baju Melayu pyjama suits hard to with songket waist sarongs while the woman wears a classic baju kurung ensemble. find in

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Malaysia are especially proud of their traditional costumes, worn on formal occasions and major celebrations. Their traditional fabrics such as songket, batik, tenun and ikat are continuously given new leases of life as they are assimilated into contemporary wear, appealing to the younger generation and foreigners as well. The craft heritage of Sabah and Sarawak covering age-old weaving techniques, rattan work, beadwork, pleating, plant fibres and naturally-derived dyes from the rainforests – inspires contemporary

designers here in Malaysia and throughout the world. Fashion Events To promote Malaysia as a shopping destination, the Malaysian government and the fashion industry have organised events such as the annual KL Fashion Week and the Piala Seri Endon Fashion Show. These bring together the brightest and the most creative designers in Asia to showcase their collections. The popular KL Fashion Weekend is held in conjunction with the famous Malaysia Year End Sale and visitors are frequently able to purchase ready-to-wearoutfits at very attractive prices. Malaysia is also a pioneer in Islamic fashion and hosts the Islamic Fashion Festival KL every year under the tagline, “discover the beauty

Kuching’s World Eco Fiber and Textile (WEFT) Forum is a major showcase for traditional and sustainable fabrics and features local and international designers. Shown here are Edric Ong’s handwoven pua kumbu Ikat textiles woven by Rumah Garie longhouse women.

of modesty”. Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, hosts two notable events that promote indigenous fashion. The biennial World Eco-Fiber & Textile (WEFT) Forum & Fashion Show, organised by Society Atelier Sarawak, is a platform for international and local designers to share knowledge of sustainable textiles and raise awareness of clothing’s impact upon the environment. Beadwork is a signature craft of Sarawak’s Orang Ulu peoples, and the biennial Borneo International Beads Conference (BIBCO), organised by CraftHub, brings beadmakers together from all over the world to share their knowledge and expertise, concluding with a fashion show centred around beads. Malaysian Designers – Peninsular Malaysia Malaysian designers have shod the feet of the late Princess Diana, taken the catwalks of

Elegant hand-crafted Orang Ulu beadwork on display at the 5th Borneo International Beads Conference (BIBCo) held in Kuching in October 2019. BIBCo is the leading bead-related event in Southeast Asia.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

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Dato’ Sri Bernard Chandran exploded onto the scene in 1991, as the first non-European to win the coveted Silk Cut Young Designers Contest. Here he is seen with his wife Datin Sri Mary Lourdes, receiving the KL Fashion Week 2021 Outstanding Achievement Award from Andrew Tan.

Dato’ Zang Toi, whose fan list includes Ivana Trump, Sharon Stone, Kirstie Alley and Meg Ryan. Dato’ Seri (Dr.) Farah Khan, founder of Melium Group, which introduced international fashion • Dato’ Bernard brands to Malaysia, including Aigner, Emilio Pucci, Chandran, Hackett London, Max Mara, Givenchy, Roger Vivier, MCM and many more. hailed as Malaysia’s New York and Paris by “King of Fashion” and a storm, and designed the television personality world’s most expensive having been a chief dress. Not a bad record designer on Project for an emerging fashion Runway Malaysia. nation. Notable designers •

who have achieved international success and acclaim include: • Dato’ Seri Farah Khan, who founded the Melium Group in 1989 and now has over 50 upscale brands. • Dato’ Professor Jimmy Choo OBE, who made his first pair of shoes at 11, shod half the world fashion icons and was conferred the Order of British Empire in 2002 for his contributions to the British shoe industry.

• Dato’ Tom Abang Saufi, a prominent fashion designer who is also the Chairman of the National Art Gallery. Renowned for her colourful usage of motifs and prints from her native Sarawak, she is based in Kuala Lumpur. • Datuk Lewre Lew, an international high-end bespoke shoemaker with his eponymous brand, ‘Lewre Bespoke’. • Datuk Jovian Mandagie the sophisticated couturier

Couture designer Datuk Jovian Mandagie’s Jovian brand offers high-quality ready-to-wear clothing at affordable prices, with inspirations ranging from Malaysian village life to the Imperial Russian Court.

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•

Carven Ong focuses on bridal wear and has also designed couture items featured in the Hollywood film Crazy Rich Asians. His black and white gown design for Miss Malaysia Universe 2020 is shown here.

and RTW designer, dresses queens and princesses. • Carven Ong, whose self-named Couture and Wedding Specialist is supported by his lines Carven and Carven Sense. His creations were worn by the stars in the 2018 Crazy Rich Asians movie, and by Miss Malaysia at Miss Universe 2019 and 2020/21 pageant. • Khoon Hooi, whose

•

clothes scream feminine romance and youthful sexiness, as worn by Katy Perry, Karen Pittman and Ginnifer Goodwin. Bill Keith, founder of the Asian Designers Guild (ADG), known for his edgy yet traditional interpretations of qipaos and kebayas. Melinda Looi, president of Malaysian Official Designers Association (MODA) and an avant-garde designer with a huge international clientele. Bon Zainal, founder and advisor of the Malaysian Bumiputra Designers’ Association (MBDA), and an established image consultant and menswear designer. Rasta Rashid, president of the Malaysian Bumiputra Designers’ Association (MBDA) and designer of her brand Batek. Faisol Abdullah, who designed the most expensive dress in

Rizman Ruzaini’s co-founders, Rizman Nordin and Ruzaini Wan Jamil, are an emerging fashion powerhouse, fitting the glitterati with glamorous red-carpet couture while developing a strong ready-to-wear portfolio.

the world, valued at RM100 million and encrusted with 751 diamonds weighing over 1,100 carats. Other designers who have made a major contribution to the Malaysian fashion industry include Albert King, Alia Bastaman, Ezzati Amira, Fairuz Ramdan, Fizi Woo, Joe Chia, Nurita Harith, Rizman Ruzaini, Rumah Gahara by Nick Faisal, Syomir Izwa, and Variante. The late Sonny San, famed for his readyto-wear label Eclipse, was one of the early pioneers in home grown fashion. Malaysian Designers – East Malaysia In recent years, designers from the Borneo States of Sabah and Sarawak have had an increasing impact on the Malaysian fashion industry, mostly leveraging distinctly Bornean themes in their designs. Notable talents include: • Edric Ong, an architect turned designer known

FIZIWOO, combining the names of partners Hafizi Radzi Woo and Izree Kai Haffiz, is a cutting-edge fashion house that combines fine craftsmanship and top-quality madein-Malaysia manufacturing.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Tree of Life leather jackets by Sarawakian designer Edric Ong. Based on traditional Orang Ulu motifs, these upcycled leather jackets are hand-painted by Bidayuh artist Abot Gudang.

for his eco-fibre, naturally-dyed textiles and glow fashion bearing the traditional motifs of indigenous communities. Past President and Advisor of Sarawak Atelier Society, the organiser for the World Eco-Fiber & Textile Forum which includes the biggest fashion show in Sarawak. • Andy Sulaiman, originally from Kuching, is based in Kuala Lumpur. Produces stylish and sustainable menswear. • Von Jolly Couture by a Sarawakian duo popular for their grand ballgowns with a hint of ethnic motifs, and for dressing pageant queens. • Tanoti House spearheaded by Jacqueline Fong in Kuching sees a community of local artisans designing and producing stunning woven fabrics using ancient songket brocade

•

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Sereni & Shentel is a fun accessory brand created by Sarawakian duo Sereni Linggi and Shentel Lee. Their eyebrow-raising headbands have appeared in Gossip Girls and Desperate Housewives.

weaving techniques. Sereni & Shentel, whose eyebrow-raising headbands have appeared in Gossip Girls and Desperate Housewives. Bremen W, Sabah’s avant-garde headwear designer. Hardi Roman, an awardwinning pageant and uniform designer and pageant organiser from Beluran, Sabah. Melinda Omar, whose Sarawak-inspired elegant fashion under her label MELOR have adorned catwalks in Indonesia, Thailand and Uzbekistan as well as appeared in digital fashion week. Gavroche, a menswear label by the ever-wellsuited Arzmy Hargreaves who has designed corporate uniforms for the Sarawak TV channel.

Other notable names from East Malaysia include: Anna Sue, known for her

trendy pieces is an award winning designer; Datin Melia Gelen’s label De’ Miya Pua is known for her ethnic chic fashion using the traditional pua kumbu; Wynka, a feminine RTW fashion label from Kuching also available in Kuala Lumpur; Yacutha, an eclectic brand by a stylist

Melinda Omar’s Sarawak-ínspired MELOR designs have adorned catwalks in Indonesia, Thailand and Uzbekistan as well as appearing in Digital Fashion Week.

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turned designer whose fashion is also available in Kuala Lumpur; Wan Bainun, whose modest fashion has been shown in Jakarta and Hong Kong; Ben Nazry, well-experienced in tailoring elegant gowns; Lentara Astana features gowns and jackets incorporating Iban Pua Kumbu ceremonial textiles; Rozie Khan for her elegant ball gowns; Paul Carling for his beauty pageant gowns; Keith Sim for his artistic urban wear; Luisa Michael for bridal wear based in KL; and Livan Gallery for unique beaded fashion. Brands, Outlets & Manufacturers Up to 2020, the Malaysian clothing and fashion industry contributed more than 1.3% of the country’s GDP. Malaysian brands are no strangers to the international market; many have created a strong presence and are very much admired internationally. Some of the more notable examples are listed below.

Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines. Created for the tropics and inspired by the grand romance of the colonial era, it offers timeless designs for both men and women. The Padini Group is a leader in the multibillionringgit textile and garment industry with nine labels and retail outlets in 330 freestanding stores, franchised outlets and consignment counters in Malaysia and around the world. The Voir Group Malaysia has expanded from basic ladies’ apparel to offer five distinct sub-brands under its own VOIR label, as well as new brands Applemints, Diadora, G&H, Soda and South China Sea, all sold throughout the country.

Hajaba, a ground-breaking pioneer and trend-setter, has become the leading brand in Malaysia’s fast-expanding Muslim fashion sector in. Ms. Read focuses on sizes 12 to 24 with outlets throughout Malaysia, a presence in Singapore and expansion driven by the inspired slogan, “Ms Read For Curvy Women”. FashionValet is a premier online retailer of Asian fashion brands, shipping internationally to over 50 countries and with physical stores in the Klang Valley. Fashion Industry Movers and Shakers For Malaysia’s fashion industry to thrive, it needs personalities from within and without who

Eclipse The late Sonny San’s devotion to feminine, modern aesthetics has not changed since its inception. Eclipse’s defining dresses, uber-chic shoes and accessories for women of all ages have expanded the brand as far as Russia. British India has over 40 outlets across Malaysia,

Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week was created in 2013 showcase for Malaysian designers’ ready-to-wear collections, presenting local talent and creativity to journalists and buyers around the world. Inset: KL Fashion Week Founder Andrew Tan.

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make things happen. Fortunately, the country is blessed with many expert fashion journalists, bloggers, entrepreneurs, impresarios and industry advocates. The following are particularly notable for the length and scope of their contributions. Dato’ Leela Mohd Ali is CEO and Trustee of Yayasan Budi Penyayang Malaysia (PENYAYANG), an NGO that leverages the popular appeal of the fashion industry to assist the less fortunate. She spearheads the Nyonya Kebaya Travelling Exhibition, featuring the late Tun Endon Mahmood’s vintage nyonya kebaya collection and the “Malaysia Batik Crafted for the World Movement” devoted to ensuring the growth and progress of the batik industry. Andrew Tan is the creator of Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW) which offers a platform for Malaysian designers to present and showcase their ready-towear collections, with the hopes of highlighting the strengths and creativity of Malaysia’s Fashion Industry to both local and international consumers. Gillian Hung also known as MaMa G. After decades in the Design and Fashion Retail industry, she established

W humg.click – under her company, HUNG, to provide an e-commerce platform for International and local brands to help one another in business expansion around the world. Dato’ Raja Rezza Shah is the founder of the Islamic Fashion Festival, which debuted in Kuala Lumpur in 2006 and is now a global phenomenon. Vicky Fong, a lifestyle journalist and renowned fashion show choreographer from Kuching, Sarawak is the official choreographer for the World Eco-Fiber & Textile (WEFT) Forum & Fashion Show. She has also coordinated the presentation of Malaysian fashion in shows across Germany, Thailand, Hong Kong, Macau and Central Asia. Fashion Industry Organisations The Malaysia Official

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Designer Association (MODA), led by its President and prominent designer Melinda Looi, works on behalf of Malaysia’s foremost fashion designers. It represents the interests of fashion designers, providing a platform for them and nurturing the growth of the industry. Other designer bodies include the Malaysian Bumiputera Designers’ Association (MBDA) with more than 200 members. The Malaysian Textile Manufacturers Association (MTMA) is the recognised national representative body for the textile and apparel industry, working closely with the Malaysian Knitting Manufacturers Association (MKMA), the Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers Association (MFMA) and the Malaysian Retailers Association (MRA).

Event choreographer and craft entrepreneur Vicky Fong at the 2019 World Eco Fiber and Textile (WEFT) International Fashion Show, held in Kuching.

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SHOPPING

PAVILION KUALA LUMPUR 168, Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2118 8833 (Concierge) T (03) 2118 8835 (Dining Concierge) W pavilion-kl.com

IN BRIEF Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is an award winning, world-class shopping mall with over 700 vibrant stores and eight lifestyle precincts.

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Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

haven of casual international options; Beauty Hall, for the best pampering treatments with an exclusive array of spas, beauty centres and more for men and women and Tokyo Street, an awardwinning precinct, offering a piece of Tokyo in the heart of Bukit Bintang. In addition, Pavilion KL’s street front showcases flagship boutiques from around the world. A concierge service is provided for both shoppers and diners. The magnificent Crystal

Prince Hotel & Residence Jalan Conlay

HOW TO GET THERE MRT: A 3-minute walk to the Pavilion-Bukit Bintang Station. Monorail: Bukit Bintang (5 mins) or Raja Chulan (10 mins). Bus: KL “Hop on Hop off” tour bus plus Rapid KL B102, B103, B110, B113. Taxi: Metered taxi rank at Couture Pavilion entrance.

which showcases luxury global fashion and designer brands; Connection, the entertainment and chill-out zone that has a good selection of cafés and restaurants, a first-of-its-kind experience Dadi Cinema, and Red Box Plus karaoke; Fashion Avenue, with bistros, cafés and the latest fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands; Gourmet Emporium, with a food court and restaurants which offer culinary delights from around the world; Dining Loft, a dining

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LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the heart of bustling Bukit Bintang is Kuala Lumpur’s leading shopping and lifestyle district. Abundant parking is available, including valet parking.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, the defining authority in fashion, dining and urban leisure.

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MAIN FEATURES This 1.61 million sq ft shopper’s paradise, located in the city’s most vibrant commercial district, offers eight distinct precincts which make it a truly onestop shopping and lifestyle destination. These include; Centre Court, a popular hub for launches, festive events and entertainment activities; Couture Pavilion,

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Street front duplexes are a unique design feature of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, the first mall to introduce such a visionary retail design in Malaysia.

Fountain is located at the Bukit Bintang entrance. The fountain is a reflection of Malaysia’s multi-racial and culturally diverse society. Its highlight is the Bloom of Hibiscus, the national flower of Malaysia, a symbol of beauty, passion and progression. The three bowls represent Malaysia’s races and cultures living harmoniously in unity and ascending to signify the growing aspirations of the people. At 3.6m in height, it is Malaysia’s tallest Liuli Crystal Fountain. Pavilion KL has been the centre stage of many international events such as fashion festivals, festive celebrations and signature activities, including charity initiatives such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur’s ‘Charity At Heart’. Pavilion KL’s success as the defining authority in fashion, dining and urban leisure is recognized both regionally and internationally, as a recipient of over 47 prestigious awards for its outstanding features.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur’s Centre Court is a hub of engagement and excitement with high-octane launches, award-winning events and largerthan-life festival décor.

Gourmet Emporium, offering culinary delights from around the world.

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SHOPPING

BANGSAR SHOPPING CENTRE Level 11, Menara BRDB 285, Jalan Maarof Bukit Bandaraya 59000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2094 7700 W bsc.com.my

OPENING HOURS Daily, 10am~10pm

MAIN FEATURES Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC) first opened its doors in 1990 and has been extensively developed and upgraded over the years. If you are expecting the

the Klang Valley, while its specialised food and dining outlets are a magnet for expatriates of all nationalities. In other words, it’s a neighbourhood mall with a global clientele. The anchor tenant is BSC Fine Foods, a combination of supermarket, delicatessen and specialist grocer offering produce from all over the world. Shoppers can browse dozens of boutique fashion,

Bukit Damansara

Central Market

Bangsar Shopping Centre

HOW TO GET THERE Bus: Rapid KL 850 & T850 from KL Sentral Station. Train: Pusat Bandar Damansara (MRT), 500 metres. Car / Taxi / E-Hailing: 15 minutes from KL city centre.

same outlets as every other Malaysian mall, you are likely to be disappointed. BSC focuses on quality tenants with niche appeal and the result is a perfect mix of unique brands and independent local retailers, along with a fascinating selection of restaurants and bars. The mall is popular with the affluent local community, but also attracts shoppers and diners from all over

LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Pusat Bandar Damansara, 15 minutes from Kuala Lumpur’s city centre and 45 minutes from KLIA. Easy road access from Sprint Expressway, Federal Highway and the New Klang Valley Expressway. Electric vehicle charging bays and parking valet service available.

An exterior view of Bangsar Shopping Centre, the focal point of a thriving upscale neighbourhood.

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IN BRIEF Bangsar Shopping Centre is the focal point of one of Kuala Lumpur’s most upscale neighbourhoods. It extends over 700,000sq feet and is home to over 170 shopping and dining outlets.

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The Bangsar shopping experience is enlivened by frequent exhibitions and promotions.

accessory and jewellery outlets and an almost endless succession of unique and hard-to-find specialist retailers, some of whom are exclusive to BSC with no branches elsewhere. There are also health, wellness and beauty outlets, dental clinics,

Seasonal shopping themes reflect Malaysia’s many festive occasions.

medical specialist clinics, a chiropractic clinic, dayspas and a gentlemen’s grooming centre. The 20-plus food and beverage outlets range from coffee bars and patisseries, through welcoming theme pubs and sophisticated bars,

BSC offers high-end dining possibilities selected from the world’s greatest cuisines...

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to fine dining restaurants showcasing the world’s greatest cuisines. Parents can shop and dine in peace while their children are entertained at the Jungle Gym, with educational play facilities suitable for toddlers aged below 2 and ages 2–12.

.. and a landscaped exterior layout for delightful alfresco dining.

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1 UTAMA SHOPPING CENTRE 1, Lebuh Bandar Utama Bandar Utama Damansara 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor T (03) 7710 8118 W 1utama.com.my

OPENING HOURS 10am~10pm (10.30pm on Friday and Saturday). IN BRIEF 1 Utama is the largest shopping mall in Malaysia and the 7th largest in the entire world. It sprawls over 5.59 million square feet and is home to over 700 retail outlets, 3 departmental stores and 2 cinemas, all under one roof and has 14,000 parking bays available.

MAIN FEATURES 1 Utama is parcelled up into themed zones. Highstreet features international clothing and accessory retailers and is abuzz with LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Bandar Utama Damansara, 20 minutes from Kuala Lumpur’s city centre and 45 minutes from KLIA. Easy road access from the Federal Highway, the LDP (Damansara-Puchong Highway) and the New Klang Valley Expressway.

hot fashions and the latest designer wear. Promenade delivers more uninterrupted shopping with the focus on street fashion and funky accessories. Food Street is also located here with numerous F&B outlets to satisfy all appetites. There’s always something happening at Oval, a uniquely designed concourse which forms one of the largest promotional and event spaces in any Malaysian shopping centre. Rainforest is a breathtaking indoor DAMANSARA PERDANA

conservatory, home to over 100 species of flora and fauna, with a koi pond, cascading waterfall, aquarium and rainbow suspension bridge. It is surrounded by F&B outlets, creating a unique al-fresco dining experience. Secret Garden is one of the largest rooftop gardens in the world, with over 600 species of rare tropical and temperate plants. Centre Court is anotherSprint High wa y concourse offering exciting promotions and events, while the adjacent Courtyard

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HOW TO GET THERE Bus: 1 Utama has its own transport hub serviced by ONECARD Express, Rapid KL, Aeroline, Five Star, Genting Express, Transtar and KLIA2 Skybus. Train: Bandar Utama (MRT) Car/ Taxi/ E-Hailing: 20 minutes from KL city centre.

An exterior view of 1 Utama, Malaysia’s largest shopping and lifestyle centre.

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features a one-stop supermarket for fresh produce, home décor and other necessities. The Ledge is a unique art space and gallery that occupies the sides of the floor ledges on the 3rd Floor. It is dedicated to promoting local artists and hosts monthly art exhibitions. The Entertainment Zone features two state-of-theart cineplexes with a total of 20 screens, a Crossfire arcade and family-friendly karaoke. Sports Zone is home to Asia’s largest indoor rock-climbing gym, a PADI 5-star scuba diving centre, a lifestyle gym and a 36-lane bowling centre. Even the roof is put to good use, with a futsal centre and Southeast Asia’s only automated baseball and softball centre. Over at 1 UTAMA E, the mall’s newest extension, adrenaline junkies will love the AirRider indoor skydiving centre and the double FlowRider outdoor surf centre.

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There’s always something happening at the Oval, the largest retail promotion and event space in Malaysia.

Centre Court, a delightful combination of event space, dining outlets and unique shopping possibilities.

Air Rider - the first mall-based skydiving wind tunnel in the Asia-Pacific region.

Rainforest at 1 Utama, a breathtaking indoor conservatory with over 100 resident animal and plant species.

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SHOPPING

DATARAN PAHLAWAN MELAKA MEGAMALL Jalan Merdeka 75000 Bandar Hilir Melaka T (06) 282 1828 W dataranpahlawan.com

IN BRIEF

Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall is both a historical landmark and a megamall, offering shopping, culinary delights and entertainment with a touch of history.

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HOW TO GET THERE Buses are available from Melaka Sentral. Bus No. 17 (SKA Sdn Bhd), Bus Code MP (Mahkota Parade), every 10 mins. Taxis and Grab Cars are easily available, a trishaw can be hired from Jonker Walk and a free shuttle service from Elements Mall connects with Melaka’s main historical sites.

the Portuguese, has been incorporated within the mall, which is laid out in five distinctive themed zones. The Gourmet Area surrounds the Padang, with a variety of al-fresco outlets serving sumptuous food. The Fashion Boulevard carries a huge range of international and local luxury brands. The Heritage Gallery is where shoppers can find arts and handicrafts of almost every

14-hectare area includes the historic Padang Pahlawan, the field where the country’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, declared Independence. It is also where former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad embedded his Vision 2020 into the historical Time Capsule, located within the mall. The remains of the Santiago Bastion, built by

LOCATION / ROUTE Dataran Pahlawan is located at Melaka’s busiest commercial hub, Melaka Raya, at the core of the Bandar Hilir heritage area along Jalan Merdeka. It is near to Melaka’s main historical sites; A’Famosa Fort, St Paul’s Hill, The Melaka Sultanate Museum, the Independence Memorial and the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A bird’s eye view of Dataran Pahlawan.

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MAIN FEATURES The Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall combines historical entertainment with the full facilities of a shopping mall. Its

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OPENING HOURS 10am~10pm daily, including weekends & public holidays.

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ethnic origin in Malaysia. Style Avenue features local boutiques offering contemporary fashion with a Malaysian twist. The fifth zone is a 5-storey building which offers a mix of shopping and dining from the ground floor to the 3rd floor and an Entertainment Zone with games arcades and a 10 screen cineplex on the 4th and 5th floors. The Mall is filled with over 600 retail outlets including major international labels. For culinary delights, restaurants and cafés serve a wide range of local dishes as well as international cuisine. Fast food restaurants, coffee corners and snack bars are also aplenty. The local coffee house or kopitiam is worth a visit as it adds a unique local experience to the coffee culture. The adjacent Hatten Square and Terminal Pahlawan are accessed via

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The mall’s layout is airy and spacious for a comfortable and stress-free shopping experience.

a 2-storey air conditioned pedestrian link bridge and encompasses Hatten

There’s always something going on at Dataran Pahlawan, like this vegetarian food promotion by one of the megamall’s tenants.

Hotel and Estadia Hotel with retail outlets and over 1,500 parking bays.

The Vision 2020 Monument, with the time capsule inserted by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad contained in the flower feature at the top.

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VIVACITY MEGAMALL KUCHING Jalan Wan Alwi 93350 Kuching, Sarawak T (082) 263 888 W vivacity.com.my

OPENING HOURS 10am~10pm daily

The Spring Shopping Mall

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HOW TO GET THERE Use Taxi or Grab Car. 10 minutes from city centre and Kuching International Airport.

international dishes. Family entertainment is provided by Rock ‘n’ Roll Karaoke and TGV Cinema, which features the first and only IMAX cinema in East Malaysia. Three atriums, rising from the ground to the 3rd floor provide flexible spaces for promotions, product launches, pop-up stores, concerts and community activities.

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LOCATION / ROUTE Vivacity Megamall is located in south central Kuching, perfectly positioned for easy access from the tourist district, the central business district, Kuching International Airport and the city’s most affluent residential areas.

Sarawakian businesses. More than 50 food and beverage outlets range from local specialities through global fast food and coffee chains to Chinese, Western, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Malaysian, Japanese, Korean and Thai fine dining. These are complemented by the Great@Viva Food Court, which offers a diverse selection of 100% halal local, regional and

MAIN FEATURES Vivacity Megamall is spacious, easy to get around and offers over 350 retail outlets on 5 levels, with a perfect balance of major international brands, household names, luxury goods outlets, healthcare and wellness providers, specialist niche retailers and uniquely

A panoramic view of Vivacity Megamall, showing the mall and the integral Jazz Suites development.

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IN BRIEF Vivacity Megamall is the largest premium shopping and lifestyle mall in Sarawak, offering leading international brands, world-class dining experiences, state-of-theart entertainment and an exclusive condominium and apartment suite development.

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The three atriums provide flexible spaces for promotions, product launches, pop-up stores, concerts and community activities.

Facilities include extensive covered parking, concierge service, plenty of ATMs, a nursing room, a surau and baby strollers and wheelchairs on loan. Levels 6 to 14 are occupied by Jazz Suites @ Vivacity, comprising 672 luxurious condominiums and suites, a boutique hotel and a Lifestyle Pavilion with pool, gym and leisure facilities.

The mall is optimally laid out, with plenty of escalators and elevators strategically located to minimize walking distances.

Great @ Viva, Vivacity Megamall’s stylish halal food court, offers endless dining experiences.

Leading the way in family entertainment: TGV at Vivacity offers the first IMAX cinema screen in East Malaysia.

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CENTRAL MARKET SDN. BHD. Lot 3.04-3.06 Central Market Annexe Jalan Hang Kasturi 50050 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2031 0399/ 5399/ 7399 W centralmarket.com.my

OPENING HOURS 10.00am~9.30pm

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to numerous local designers and talents over the years. Many of the shops found in the main building today have been around since the 1980s. Hosting a wide array of traditional crafts, clothing, antiques, and artworks, these businesses have built a loyal following out of their knowledge and dedication to their respective trades. In 2022, Central Market began its transformation n la Ja Jalan Pudu

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Malaya Hotel Kuala Lumpur

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HOW TO GET THERE Buses and taxis are easily available. The Pasar Seni LRT and MRT stations are across the road while the Masjid Jamek LRT station is a short walk away.

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LOCATION / ROUTE Central Market is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and is within easy walking distance of Pasar Seni LRT station and Chinatown. It is 1.5km from the KL Sentral railway station that connects to both Kuala Lumpur International Airport and most LRT Stations.

trading hub and was a prominent landmark in colonial Kuala Lumpur. When the market was relocated in the mid 1980’s, the Malaysian Heritage Society successfully petitioned against the building’s demolition and it was declared a centre for Malaysian culture, heritage, art & craft. As one of the nation’s premier outlets for local creativity, Central Market has provided access

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MAIN FEATURES Central Market was built in 1888 by Malaysia’s famous tin miner and Chinese Kapitan, Yap Ah Loy. It served as the city’s main market and

The elegant Art Deco facade of Central Market, added when the market was modernised and expanded in 1937.

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IN BRIEF With over 100,000 square feet of retail space within a building that is over 130 years old, Central Market Kuala Lumpur is a national heritage site and a centre for Malaysian creativity and culture.

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Gospel Hall Church

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An interior view of Central Market. The design and layout provide abundant shopping and dining space while preserving the building’s original architectural features.

into a social hub for the Kuala Lumpur Creative & Cultural District (KLCCD). Taking a cue from its past as a wet market, the historic establishment is pivoting towards providing a wider range of local foods in addition to arts and crafts. This has resulted in the addition of cafés and restaurants specialising in heritage Malaysian cuisines and

Best of local scenes - here’s where events and celebrations are vibrant with vendors showcasing their unique products.

provisions. Adjacent to the Central Market building is Kasturi Walk, a pedestrianised street which hosts alfresco coffeehouses and pop-up markets. Providing refuge from the weather is a unique awning in the shape of the wau, the traditional Malay kite. The Central Market Annexe provides a platform for contemporary

The creative process - artists in the Central Market Annexe are happy to display their skills to visitors.

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art and currently houses a collection of eclectic art galleries. Art Lane, which connects the Annexe with the main building, features many local artists and is known for artist-audience interactivity. Visit Central Market any time of the year to experience and embed yourself into the mosaic of Malaysia’s vibrant, multicultural society.

Perfect for people watching - Kasturi Walk, a covered arcade packed with kiosks for bargain hunters and appetising street food.

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SHOPPING

PASAR SITI KHADIJAH Jalan Parit Dalam 15050 Kota Bharu Kelantan T (09) 747 2705 W mpkbbri.gov.my

IN BRIEF

Pasar Siti Khadijah is a busy market run mostly by women, selling fresh produce, dried food items as well as clothing and a range of local handicrafts.

and is an inspiration to the women of Kelantan. The 3-storey market is constantly abuzz with activity. The ground floor holds the “wet market”, which sells fresh produce like vegetables, local fruits, meat and the daily catch of seafood. The first floor has shops selling a variety of traditional local delicacies, including fish crackers or keropok, meat floss or serunding, and a local candy fudge called dodol. The second floor offers

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Grand Riverview

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HOW TO GET THERE The Kota Bharu bus station and a taxi stand are both within close proximity to Kota Bharu Trade Centre. The trishaw is widely used here and is a novel way to experience local transport.

of entrepreneurship. Construction began in 1983, with the foundation stone being laid by Tunku Razaleigh Hamzah, a Kelantan prince who also served as the country’s first Finance Minister. Backed by the Kota Bharu town council, it was completed and officially opened in 1985 by the Sultan of Kelantan. The market was known simply as the Buluh Kubu Market but took its present name in 1997, after the wife of the Prophet Mohammed who was an astute businesswoman

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LOCATION / ROUTE Pasar Siti Khadijah is right in the heart of Kota Bharu town. It is surrounded by major shopping outlets like Kota Bharu Trade Centre and is near Bazaar Siti Aisyah (formerly Bazaar Buluh Kubu).

The main entrance to Pasar Siti Khadijah.

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MAIN FEATURES With a history that includes the reign of the powerful warrior queen Che Siti Wan Kembang, it is little wonder that the women of Kelantan are strong, skilful and dedicated. They are known for their entrepreneurship and business acumen, and play an active part in local manufacturing and trade. Pasar Siti Khadijah is a well-known market that displays this spirit

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Pasar Siti Khadijah is the perfect place to buy authentic Kelantanese batik fabrics and clothing.

traditional clothes as well as a range of local handicraft items from Kelantan’s vibrant cottage industries. Kelantanese silverware is renowned for its intricate designs and artistic value. Batik production, songket

weaving, wood carving and keris making are also art forms that thrive here, along with giant kites known as wau and huge spinning tops (gasing), that are an integral part of local culture. All of these handicrafts make excellent

The vegetable section of the wet market is a riot of bright colours.

gifts and souvenirs. It is hard to miss the warm and friendly demeanour of the vendors as they chew the betel fruit while chatting and serving shoppers. The festive atmosphere at Pasar Siti Khadijah is definitely worth experiencing.

The market interior at a glance, showing all three floors.

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SHOPPING LISTING

JOHOR AEON BUKIT INDAH STORE & SHOPPING CENTRE 8, Jalan Indah, Johor Bahru T (07) 236 8071 AEON MALL KULAIJAYA PTD 106273, Persiaran Indahpura Utama Kulaijaya T (07) 663 7822 AEON MALL TEBRAU CITY 1, Jalan Desa Tebrau Johor Bahru T (07) 352 2220 ANGSANA JOHOR BAHRU MALL Pusat Bandar Tampoi Johor Bahru T (07) 235 1420 BATU PAHAT MALL Lot 2566, Jalan Kluang Batu Pahat T (07) 431 1233 BERJAYA WATERFRONT MALL 88, Jalan Ibrahim Sultan Stulang Laut, Johor Bahru T (07) 221 8000

Indahpura, Kulai T (07) 661 8888

Johor Bahru T (07) 331 1275

KLUANG PARADE 2, Jalan Sentul, Kluang Hp (012) 783 3797

SKUDAI PARADE Jalan Skudai Batu 10 Skudai T (07) 558 8996/ 8997

KOMTAR JBCC Johor Bahru City Centre Johor Bahru T (07) 267 9900 KSL CITY MALL 33, Jalan Seladang Johor Bahru T (07) 288 2888 KULAI CENTRE POINT 20, Jalan Besar Taman Mewah, Kulai T (07) 662 4888 MALL OF MEDINI 4, Lebuh Medini Utara Medini Iskandar Iskandar Puteri Johor Bahru T (07) 509 9484 MID VALLEY SOUTHKEY 1, Persiaran SouthKey 1 Johor Bahru T (07) 336 9288

CAPITAL CITY ENTERTAINMENT MALL Jalan Tampoi, Tampoi T (07) 244 8322

MYDIN MALL MUTIARA RINI Persiaran Jaya 1, Taman Mutiara Rini, Skudai Careline 1 300 30 8786

GALLERIA@KOTARAYA Jalan Trus, UTC, Johor Bahru T (07) 224 7568

PARADIGM MALL Jalan Skudai, Johor Bahru T (07) 231 3888

IKEA TEBRAU 33, Jalan Harmonium Johor Bahru T (03) 7952 7575

PELANGI LEISURE MALL Jalan Serampang Johor Bahru T (07) 335 2320

IOI MALL Lebuh Putra Utama Bandar Putra, Kulai T (07) 599 9929

PERLING MALL 3, Jalan Persiaran Perling Johor Bahru T (07) 241 3058

JOHOR BAHRU CITY SQUARE 106-108, Jalan Wong Ah f*ck, Johor Bahru T (07) 226 3668

PLAZA PELANGI 3, Jalan Kuning Taman Pelangi Johor Bahru T (07) 276 2216

JOHOR PREMIUM OUTLETS Jalan Premium Outlets

PLAZA SENTOSA Jalan Sutera, Taman Sentosa

SQUARE ONE SHOPPING MALL 1-1, Jalan Flora Utama 4 Batu Pahat T (07) 432 7899 SUTERA MALL 1, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/4 Skudai T (07) 558 9009 TASEK CENTRAL 2, Jalan Pendekar 16, Skudai T (07) 556 0899 THE SUMMIT BATU PAHAT 88, Jalan Bakau Condong Batu Pahat T (07) 432 6222 TODAY’S MALL ULU TIRAM 4, Jalan Kota Tinggi Ulu Tiram T (07) 861 0068 WETEX PARADE 69, Jalan Ali, Pekan Muar T (06) 954 4848 KEDAH ALOR SETAR MALL Kawasan Perusahaan Tandop Baru, Alor Setar T (04) 772 9233 AMAN CENTRAL Lebuhraya Darulaman Kampung Lubok Peringgi Alor Setar T (04) 735 8999 AMANJAYA MALL 1, Jalan Jati 1 Sungai Petani T (04) 440 0746 ANEKA JERAI PLAZA 1, Jalan Jati 1, Sungai Petani T (04) 440 0746 BILLION SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Pengkalan

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Sungai Petani T (04) 425 2223 CENTRAL SQUARE Jalan Kampung Baru Sungai Petani T (04) 423 8288 CERGAS JAYA DUTY FREE SHOPPING COMPLEX Zon Bebas Cukai Bukit Kayu Hitam T (04) 922 2611 CITY PLAZA ALOR SETAR Jalan Tunku Ibrahim Alor Setar T (04) 733 5992 JERAI PLAZA Taman Jerai Maju Gurun T (04) 468 1300 JITRA MALL Pekan Jitra 3 Pekan Jitra, Alor Setar T (04) 917 2748 KULIM CENTRAL 1, Jalan KLC 1 Kulim T (04) 491 2828 MYDIN ALOR SETAR 888, Jalan Alor Mengkudu Alor Setar T (04) 731 0476 PACIFIC HYPERMARKET Jalan Teluk Wanjah Alor Setar T (04) 734 3668

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STAR PARADE Jalan Teluk Wanjah Alor Setar T (04) 734 5286

LANGKAWI FAIR SHOPPING COMPLEX Persiaran Putra, Kuah T (04) 969 8100

VILLAGE MALL Jalan Legenda 1 Sungai Petani T (04) 421 8190

LANGKAWI PARADE A14-15, Pokok Asam, Kuah T (04) 966 7528

LANGKAWI BILLION DUTY FREE PREMIUM OUTLET 32&33, Jalan Mahawangsa 1 Kuah T (04) 967 2295 CENANG MALL Lot 2605, Jalan Pantai Cenang T (04) 953 1188 ELEMENT MALL Jalan Pantai Tengah Hp (012) 355 5429

LANGKAWI SAGA SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Pandak Mayah Pusat Bandar Kuah T (04) 969 8002/ 9 ZON DUTY FREE LANGKAWI Pantai Cenang T (04) 955 5300 KELANTAN AEON MALL KOTA BHARU Lembah Sireh, Kota Bharu T (09) 740 5859

HIG DUTY FREE MALL Jalan Penarak, Kuah T (04) 966 6005

BAZAAR BULUH KUBU Jalan Pintu Pong Kota Bharu T (09) 745 4000

IDAMAN SURI Taman Seri Berlian Kuah T (04) 966 6154

BILLION SHOPPING CENTRE (KB) Jalan Pasir Puteh, Kota Bharu T (09) 743 3221

JETTY POINT DUTY FREE COMPLEX Jetty Point, Kuah T (04) 966 7530/ 7973

GIANT SUPERSTORE TUNJONG Mukim Kota, Kota Bharu T (09) 740 6622

PEKAN RABU Jalan Tunku Ibrahim Alor Setar T (04) 733 5929 PETANI PARADE Taman Sejati Indah Sungai Petani T (04) 431 2175 RIVERFRONT CITY Jalan Mawar 3/ 2 Sungai Petani T (04) 425 6779 SENTOSA PLAZA Jalan Putera, Alor Setar T (04) 730 5555

One destination you should never miss when you visit Langkawi - the Jetty Point Duty Free Complex.

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KB MALL Jalan Hamzah, Kota Bharu T (09) 741 7887 KOTA BHARU TRADE CENTRE Jalan Buluh Kubu Kota Bharu T (09) 741 2861 MALL KUBANG KERIAN Jalan Raja Perempuan Zainab 1, Kubang Kerian T (09) 764 9407 PANTAI TIMUR SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Pintu Pong Kota Bharu T (09) 748 3221/ 2223

BANGSAR VILLAGE 1, Jalan Telawi Satu Bangsar Baru T (03) 2282 1808

KL EAST MALL 823, Jalan Lingkaran Tengah 2 KL Timur T (03) 7455 9528

BERJAYA TIMES SQUARE KL 1, Jalan Imbi T (03) 2117 3111

KL ECO CITY MALL 3, Jalan Bangsar T (03) 2283 2255

(See also page 142)

BREM MALL KEPONG Jalan Besar Kepong Jinjang Selatan T (03) 6250 4422 CAMPBELL SHOPPING COMPLEX Jalan Dang Wangi T (03) 2698 1181

KL GATEWAY MALL 2, Jalan Kerinchi Kampung Kerinchi T (03) 7452 8118 KWC FASHION WHOLESALE Jalan Gelugor, Pudu T (03) 9221 8081

PANTAI TIMUR SHOPPING CENTRE 4171-4179 Jalan Lebuhraya Rantau Panjang T (09) 795 3221

(See page 166)

LALAPORT BUKIT BINTANG CITY CENTRE 2, Jalan Hang Tuah T (03) 2731 3555

CHERAS LEISUREMALL Jalan Manis 6, Taman Segar T (03) 9132 2386

LOT 10 50, Jalan Sultan Ismail T (03) 2782 3566

PARKSON KOTA BHARU TRADE CENTRE Jalan Parit Dalam Kota Bharu T (09) 743 8818

DAMANSARA CITY MALL 6, Jalan Damanlela Bukit Damansara T (03) 2011 0228

MELAWATI MALL Jalan Bandar Melawati T (03) 4101 0888

PASAR SITI KHADIJAH

FAHRENHEIT 88 Jalan Bukit Bintang T (03) 2148 5488

(See page 168)

TESCO Lot 1828, Section 17 Bandar Kota Bharu T (09) 743 3366 KUALA LUMPUR 1 SHAMELIN SHOPPING MALL 100, Jalan 4/91, Cheras T (03) 9285 4990 ALPHA ANGLE SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan 3/27a, Wangsa Maju T (03) 4149 5288 AVENUE K SHOPPING MALL 156, Jalan Ampang T (03) 2168 7888 BANGSAR SHOPPING CENTRE

(See page 158)

CENTRAL MARKET

GLO DAMANSARA SHOPPING MALL 699, Jalan Damansara Taman Tun Dr. Ismail T (03) 7733 7231 GREAT EASTERN MALL 303, Jalan Ampang T (03) 4259 8090 HARTAMAS SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Sri Hartamas 1 T (03) 6201 6553 IKEA CHERAS 2A, Jalan Cochrane Maluri T (03) 7952 7575 INTERMARK MALL The Intermark 348, Jalan Tun Razak T (03) 2166 8170

MID POINT PANDAN INDAH Jalan Pandan Indah 1/25 T (03) 9226 8968 MID VALLEY MEGAMALL Lingkaran Syed Putra T (03) 2938 3333 MYTOWN SHOPPING MALL 6, Jalan Cochrane Seksyen 90, Cheras T (03) 2710 0057 NU SENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Tun Sambantan Brickfields T (03) 2786 8080 PAVILION KUALA LUMPUR

(See Page 156)

PEARL SHOPPING GALLERY 1, Jalan Klang Lama T (03) 7983 3311 PERTAMA COMPLEX Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman T (03) 2697 0468

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

PLAZA LOW YAT 7, Jalan Bintang Off Jalan Bukit Bintang T (03) 2148 3651 PUBLIKA SHOPPING GALLERY 1, Jalan Dutamas T (03) 6211 7877 QUILL CITY MALL 1018, Jalan Sultan Ismail T (03) 2603 1018 SEMUA HOUSE Off Jalan Masjid India T (03) 2693 5899 SETAPAK CENTRAL 67, Jalan Taman Ibu Kota Setapak T (03) 4143 5576

WANGSA WALK MALL 9, Jalan Wangsa Perdana 1 Bandar Wangsa Maju T (03) 4142 8888 LABUAN FINANCIAL PARK LABUAN Jalan Merdeka T (087) 419 477 ONE STOP DUTY FREE Victoria Point Jalan OKK Awang Besar T (087) 421 178 SKY PARK DUTY FREE Financial Park Complex Jalan Merdeka T (087) 422 562 MELAKA

SOGO 190, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman T (03) 2618 1888

AEON BANDARAYA MELAKA 2, Jalan Lagenda Taman 1 T (06) 281 6398

STARHILL GALLERY 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang T (03) 2782 3800

DATARAN PAHLAWAN MELAKA MEGAMALL

SUNGEI WANG PLAZA Jalan Sultan Ismail T (03) 2148 6109 SUNWAY PUTRA MALL 100, Jalan Putra T (03) 2786 9333 SUNWAY VELOCITY MALL Lingkaran SV Sunway Velocity T (03) 2786 3970 SURIA KLCC Kuala Lumpur City Centre T (03) 2382 2828 THE GARDENS MALL Lingkaran Syed Putra Mid Valley T (03) 2297 0288 THE WELD 76, Jalan Raja Chulan T (03) 2162 3580 VIVA MALL 85, Jalan Loke Yew T (03) 9281 1998

(See page 162)

ELEMENTS MALL MELAKA Jalan Melaka Raya 23 Hatten City T (06) 286 2666 FREEPORT A’FAMOSA OUTLET Jalan Kemus Simpang Empat, Alor Gajah T (06) 552 8961 FRESCO JASIN 2982, Pusat Bandar Baru Jasin Hp (012) 356 1305 HATTEN SQUARE Jalan Merdeka Bandar Hilir Melaka T (06) 282 1828 LOTUS’S MELAKA CHENG 1, Jalan Inang 3 Taman Paya Rumput Utama Helpline 1300 13 1313 MADAM KING’S DEPARTMENT STORE Jalan Bunga Raya T (06) 283 4353

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MAHKOTA PARADE Jalan Merdeka T (06) 282 6151 MELAKA MALL Lebuh Ayer Keroh T (06) 232 3773 MYDIN MALL JASIN BESTARI Section 1 Bandar Jasin Bestari T (06) 521 0834 MYDIN MALL MITC Hang Tuah Jaya Ayer Keroh T (06) 231 3007 THE SHORE SHOPPING GALLERY Jalan Persisiran Bunga Raya T (06) 288 3366 NEGERI SEMBILAN AEON MALL SEREMBAN 2 112, Persiaran S2B1 Seremban 2 T (06) 601 5643 ANGSANA SEREMBAN MALL Jalan Kuala Pilah Plaza Ampangan Seremban T (06) 762 8910 CENTREPOINT SEREMBAN Jalan Dato’ Siamang Gagap Seremban T (06) 763 9889 MYDIN SENAWANG 110, Jalan BPS 7 Taman Senawang Indah Seremban T (06) 675 8867 NILAI 3 WHOLESALE CENTRE Pasar Borong Nilai 3 T (06) 799 3883 PALM MALL Jalan Sungai Ujong Seremban T (06) 765 6073 REGINA MALL Jalan Pantai, Port Dickson T (03) 8023 3666

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SEREMBAN PRIMA Jalan Dato’ Bandar Tunggal Seremban T (06) 764 8282 TAMPIN SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Besar, Tampin T (06) 441 2007 TERMINAL 1 SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Lintang, Seremban T (06) 767 3193 PAHANG BERJAYA MEGAMALL KUANTAN Jalan Tun Ismail Sri Dagangan, Kuantan T (09) 508 8188 EAST COAST MALL Jalan Putra Square 6 Kuantan T (09) 565 8600 GENTING HIGHLANDS PREMIUM OUTLETS Genting Highlands T (03) 6433 8888 GIO MALL A91, Jalan Tun Ismail Kuantan T (09) 515 8058 KUANTAN CITY MALL Jalan Putra Square 6/1

Kuantan T (09) 531 6776 KUANTAN PARADE Jalan Haji Abdul Rahman Kuantan T (09) 513 4388 MENTAKAB STAR MALL 1, Jalan Star City 1 Mentakab Hp (013) 683 2452 SERAMBI TERUNTUM Jalan Tanjung Lumpur Kuantan T (09) 534 8115 SKY AVENUE Resorts World Genting Genting Highlands T (03) 6101 1118 TEMERLOH MALL Off Jalan Jaya Temerloh T (09) 296 2888 PENANG 1 AVENUE MALL 182, Jalan Magazine T (04) 261 1121 ST

AEON MALL BUKIT MERTAJAM Jalan Rozhan Alma Seberang Perai Tengah Careline 1 300 80 2366

ALL SEASONS PLACE Lebuhraya Thean Teik Air Itam T (04) 829 3999 DESIGN VILLAGE OUTLET Jalan Cassia Barat 2 Bandar Cassia T (04) 589 9888 GURNEY PARAGON MALL Persiaran Gurney T (04) 228 8266 GURNEY PLAZA 170, Persiaran Gurney T (04) 222 8111 ISLAND PLAZA 118, Jalan Tanjung Tokong T (04) 890 8228 KOMPLEKS BUKIT JAMBUL Jalan Rumbia T (04) 645 6788 MEGAMALL PENANG Jalan Baru Bandar Perai Jaya T (04) 399 1827 PENANG PLAZA Jalan Burmah T (04) 227 3272 PRANGIN MALL PENANG Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong George Town T (04) 262 2233

Genting Highlands Premium Outlets brings upscale shopping to this world-famous highland resort complex. 150 designer and name brand outlet stores offer dramatic savings.

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QUEENSBAY MALL 100, Persiaran Bayan Indah Bayan Lepas T (04) 619 8999 STRAITS QUAY Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Tokong T (04) 891 8000 SUNSHINE SQUARE 1, Jalan Mayang Pasir Bayan Baru T (04) 641 1111 SUNWAY CARNIVAL MALL 3068, Jalan Todak Pusat Bandar Seberang Jaya T (04) 397 9888 UDINI SQUARE Lebuh Tunku Kudin 3 Gelugor T (04) 291 5477 PERAK AEON MALL KINTA CITY Jalan Teh Lean Swee Off Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah Ipoh T (05) 548 6331 ANGSANA IPOH Jalan Hospital Ipoh T (05) 242 2370/ 371 D MALL SERI ISKANDAR Bandar Seri Iskandar T (05) 374 8918 DE GARDEN IPOH 3, Persiaran Medan Ipoh Ipoh T (05) 548 3689 IPOH PARADE 105, Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil Ipoh T (05) 241 0885/ 6 MYDIN MALL MERU RAYA Bandar Meru Raya Jelapang, Ipoh T (05) 528 6412 TAIPING MALL Jalan Tupai Taiping T (05) 808 8889

Anchored by a Hypermarket, the Mydin Mall Meru Raya is the leading onestop family shopping destination in Ipoh.

TAIPING SENTRAL MALL 36, Jalan Istana Larut Taiping T (05) 809 9333 TESCO KAMPAR Taman Kampar Perdana Kampar T (05) 466 6252 THE STORE 71, Jalan Kangsar Kuala Kangsar T (05) 776 5522 THE STORE 775, Jalan Ah Cheong Teluk Intan T (05) 622 2511 PERLIS ARKED NIAGA PADANG BESAR Jalan Padang Besar T (04) 976 6722 EMAS KERANJANG DUTY FREE 2, Jalan Baru Sadao Padang Besar T (04) 949 0550 GIANT SUPERSTORE KANGAR PT 4819, Jalan Raja Syed Alwi Kangar T (04) 970 4628 KOMPLEKS ARAU 2, Jalan Arau-Kodiang T (04) 986 1090

KAYANGAN SQUARE MALL Jalan Penjara Kangar T (04) 977 2616 PUTRAJAYA ALAMANDA Jalan Alamanda Precinct 1 T (03) 8888 8882 DPULZE SHOPPING CENTRE Persiaran Multimedia Cyberjaya T (03) 8689 5501 IOI CITY MALL IOI Resort City T (03) 8328 8899 MYDIN PUTRAJAYA BAZAAR 40-54, Jalan Diplomatik Precinct 15 T (03) 8890 3620 SOUQ Below Dataran Putra Precinct 1 T (03) 8888 9011 SURIA MALL PUTRAJAYA 1, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak Precinct 3 T (03) 9100 2566 TAMARIND SQUARE Persiaran Multimedia Cyberjaya T (03) 7728 0300

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SHOPPING LISTING

The IOI City Mall in Putrajaya delivers a shopping, dining and entertainment experience worthy of the nation’s administrative capital.

SABAH 1 BORNEO HYPER MALL Jalan Sulaman, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 448 000 CENTRAL SHOPPING PLAZA Jalan Banjaran, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 318 400 CENTRE POINT SABAH Jalan Centre Point Kota Kinabalu T (088) 246 900 CITY MALL KOTA KINABALU Lorong City Mall T (088) 484 408 GRAND MERDEKA MALL Lorong Merdeka Perdana Off Jalan Tuaran Kota Kinabalu Hp (015) 4876 1898 HARBOUR MALL Sandakan Harbour Square Sandakan T (089) 276 888 IMAGO MALL KK Times Square Phase 2

Off Coastal Highway Kota Kinabalu T (088) 275 888 INANAM MALL Lot 3, Kompleks Mutiara Inanam, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 532 178 KK PLAZA MALL Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu T (088) 221 979 KOMPLEKS KARAMUNSING Jalan Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 268 751 MEGALONG MALL PENAMPANG Pekan Donggongon Kota Kinabalu T (088) 712 792

TANJUNG ARU PLAZA Jalan Mat Salleh Kota Kinabalu T (088) 222 271 WARISAN SQUARE Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu Hp (012) 831 3360 WAWASAN PLAZA Lorong Wawasan Kota Kinabalu T (088) 231 773 WISMA MERDEKA MALL Jalan Tun Razak Kota Kinabalu T (088) 232 763/ 761 SARAWAK

OCEANUS WATERFRONT MALL Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu T (088) 273 550

AEON MALL KUCHING CENTRAL Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce Kuching T (082) 237 247

SURIA SABAH 1, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu T (088) 487 087

BINTANG MEGAMALL Lot 1264, Jalan Miri-Pujut Bintang Jaya, Miri T (085) 438 877

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Kuching T (082) 239 408 RIVERSIDE SHOPPING COMPLEX Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Kuching T (082) 233 351 SARAWAK HOUSE COMPLEX Jalan Kampung Nyabor, Sibu T (084) 323 255 SARAWAK PLAZA Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Kuching T (082) 412 150 Sabah’s newest retail attraction, the Imago Mall impresses not only with its great range of outlets, but also with its stunning waterfront location.

BOULEVARD SHOPPING MALL Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli Kuching T (082) 467 999 BOULEVARD SHOPPING MALL Lot 2528, Boulevard Commercial Centre, Miri T (085) 432 999 CITYONE MEGAMALL 1, Jalan Song, Kuching T (082) 532 888 CROWN SQUARE 88, Jalan Pending Kuching T (082) 346 699 DELTA MALL Lot 2831, Jalan Dr Wong Soon Kai, Sibu T (084) 325 133 GREEN HEIGHTS SHOPPING MALL Lorong Lapangan Terbang 2 Green Heights, Kuching T (082) 572 484

Rahim, Kuching T (082) 481 193 MOYAN SQUARE MALL Lorong Moyan Utama 1 Kuching T (082) 688 700 ONE JAYA THE LIFESTYLE MALL Jalan Song, Kuching T (082) 282 888 ONE TJ ICT SHOPPING COMPLEX Jalan Stutong, Kuching Hp (012) 886 6896 PARAGON STREET MALL 1, Old Airport Place, Bintulu T (086) 343 881 PARKCITY MALL BINTULU Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Bintulu T (086) 312 322 PERMAISURI IMPERIAL CITY MALL Jalan Merpati, Miri T (085) 419 818

SOON HUP SHOPPING COMPLEX Jalan Maju, Miri T (085) 427 899 ST3 SHOPPING MALL Jalan Simpang Tiga Kuching T (082) 281 555 STAR MEGAMALL SIBU Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman Sibu T (084) 215 833 THE IMPERIAL MALL Jalan Post, Miri T (085) 431 133 THE SPRING MALL Jalan Simpang Tiga Kuching T (082) 238 111 THE SUMMER SHOPPING MALL Jalan Dato Mohd Musa Kota Samarahan T (082) 673 448 TIMES SQUARE MEGAMALL Jalan Tun Hussein Onn Bintulu T (086) 338 888

HILLS SHOPPING MALL 8, The Hills Jalan Bukit Mata Interhill Place, Kuching T (082) 253 310

PERMY MALL Bandar Baru Permy Jaya Miri T (085) 491 889

TUN JUGAH SHOPPING CENTRE 18, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuching T (082) 253 308

HOCK LEE CENTRE Jalan Datuk Abang Abdul

PLAZA MERDEKA 88, Pearl Street

(See page 164)

VIVACITY MEGAMALL

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WISMA SABERKAS Jalan Tun Abang Hj. Openg Kuching T (082) 421 227 WISMA SANYAN 1, Jalan Sanyan, Sibu T (084) 349 772 WISMA SATOK Jalan Satok, Kuching T (082) 235 944 SELANGOR 1 UTAMA SHOPPING CENTRE

(See Page 160)

3 DAMANSARA SHOPPING MALL Jalan SS20/27 Petaling Jaya T (03) 7663 2888 AEON MALL BUKIT RAJA Persiaran Bukit Raja 2 Bandar Baru, Klang T (03) 3343 2166 AEON MALL BUKIT TINGGI 1, Persiaran Batu Nilam Bandar Bukit Tinggi 2, Klang T (03) 3326 2330 AEON MALL CHERAS SELATAN Lebuh Tun Hussein Onn Balakong T (03) 9080 3018 AEON MALL SHAH ALAM 1, Jalan Akuatik 13/64, Shah Alam T (03) 5523 6131 AEON TAMAN EQUINE SHOPPING CENTRE 2, Jalan Equine Seri Kembangan T (03) 8941 3700 AMCORP MALL Persiaran Barat Off Jalan Timur Petaling Jaya T (03) 7932 0022 AMPANG POINT SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Mamanda 3, Ampang T (03) 4252 1781

ATRIA SHOPPING GALLERY Jalan SS 22/23 Damansara Jaya Petaling Jaya T (03) 7733 5156 CENTRO MALL 8, Jalan Batu Tiga Lama Klang T (03) 3341 2011 CITTA MALL Jalan PJU 1A/48 Ara Damansara T (03) 7662 5000 DA MEN MALL 1, Persiaran Kewajipan USJ 1 Subang Jaya T (03) 8021 0222 DIGITAL MALL 2, Jalan 14/20, Petaling Jaya T (03) 7968 3311 EMPIRE SHOPPING GALLERY Jalan SS 16/1 Subang Jaya T (03) 5635 9818 ENCORP STRAND MALL 19, Jalan PJU 5/22 Kota Damansara T (03) 6143 1393 EVOLVE CONCEPT MALL D-2-7 Jalan PJU 1A/4 Ara Damansara T (03) 7831 9332 GATEAWAY@klia2 Terminal Klia 2 KL International Airport T (03) 8775 6500 GM KLANG WHOLESALE CITY Jalan Kasuarina 1 Bandar Botanic Capital Klang T (03) 3385 2300 IKEA DAMANSARA 2, Jalan PJU 7/2 Mutiara Damansara Petaling Jaya T (03) 7952 7575 IOI MALL 9th Mile, Jalan Puchong

Bandar Puchong Jaya T (03) 5882 8888 IPC SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan 2, Jalan PJU 7/2 Mutiara Damansara Petaling Jaya T (03) 7730 0333 JAYA 33 Jalan Professor Khoo Kay Kim, Seksyen 13 Petaling Jaya T (03) 7958 3388 JAYA SHOPPING CENTRE Jalan Semangat Seksyen 14, Petaling Jaya T (03) 7932 0958 KLANG PARADE KM2, Jalan Meru, Klang T (03) 3343 7889 KOMPLEKS PKNS BANGI Persiaran Bangi Bandar Baru Bangi T (03) 8920 0663 KOMPLEKS PKNS SHAH ALAM Persiaran Tasik, Shah Alam T (03) 5513 3845 MAIN PLACE MALL Jalan USJ 21/10 47630 Subang Jaya T (03) 8081 7896 METRO POINT COMPLEX Jalan Jelok 8, Kajang T (03) 8737 3759 MITSUI OUTLET PARK Persiaran Komersial Sepang, KLIA T (03) 8777 9300 OLE OLE SHOPPING CENTRE 7, Jalan Pinang A 18/A Shah Alam T (03) 5541 6118 ONE CITY USJ Jalan USJ 25/1A, Subang Jaya T (03) 5115 9923 PARADIGM MALL PETALING JAYA 1, Jalan SS7/26A Kelana Jaya

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Petaling Jaya T (03) 7801 1188 PLAZA ALAM SENTRAL Jalan Majlis, Seksyen 14 Shah Alam T (03) 2859 7095 PLAZA SHAH ALAM Jalan Tengku Ampuan Zabedah E 9/E, Section 9 Shah Alam T (03) 5510 4359

Quayside Mall forms the centrepiece of Gamuda Land’s twentyfive.7 township in Kota Kemuning, Selangor. Community-based mall developments are increasingly popular as they reduce travel time and expense for suburban shoppers.

QUAYSIDE MALL Persiaran Freesia Gamuda Kemuning 25.7 Kuala Langat T (03) 3132 7988

Shah Alam T (03) 7734 1165

SACC MALL Jalan Perbandanan 14/9 Shah Alam T (03) 5510 5400

SUBANG PARADE 5, Jalan SS 16/1 Subang Jaya T (03) 5633 2530

SELAYANG CAPITOL COMPLEX Selayang-Kepong Expressway, Batu Caves Selayang T (03) 6120 2771

SUMMIT SHOPPING MALL Persiaran Kewajipan USJ 1 UEP, Subang Jaya T (03) 8023 3493

SELAYANG MALL Jalan SU9, Taman Selayang Utama Batu Caves T (03) 6136 9430 SETIA CITY MALL 7, Persiaran Setia Dagang Bandar Setia Alam T (03) 3375 8788 SETIAWALK MALL Persiaran Wawasan Pusat Bandar Puchong Puchong T (03) 5882 2995 SHAW CENTREPOINT KLANG Jalan Raja Hassan Klang T (03) 3344 8066 SOUTH CITY PLAZA Persiaran Serdang Perdana Seri Kembangan T (03) 8948 1888 STAR AVENUE 3, Jalan Zuhal U5/179

SUNWAY GIZA MALL 2, Jalan PJU 5/14 Kota Damansara T (03) 6148 1600 SUNWAY PYRAMID SHOPPING CENTRE

(See page 128)

THE CURVE 6, Jalan PJU 7/3 Mutiara Damansara Petaling Jaya T (03) 7711 3636 THE MINES

(See page 130)

THE STARLING 6, Jalan SS21/37 Damansara Uptown Petaling Jaya T (03) 7730 7000 TROPICANA GARDENS MALL 2A, Persiaran Surian Tropicana Indah Petaling Jaya Hp (012) 715 8988

TERENGGANU GIANT KUALA TERENGGANU Jalan Padang Hiliran Chabang 3 Kuala Terengganu T (09) 631 9222 KEMAMAN CENTRE POINT COMPLEX Jalan Da’Omar Kemaman T (09) 850 2850 MESRA MALL Lot 6490 Jalan Kemaman-Dungun Daerah Kemaman Kemasik T (09) 864 9000 MYDIN EMPORIUM KUALA IBAI Lot 1584, Jalan Tok Adis Kuala Ibai Kuala Terengganu T (09) 617 1381 MYDIN HYPERMARKET GONG BADAK Jalan Gong Pak Damat Kuala Terengganu T (09) 662 7509 MYDIN HYPERMARKET KUALA TERENGGANU Jalan Sultan Mohamad Kuala Terengganu T (09) 662 7509 PASAR PAYANG Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin Pasar Payang 2 Kuala Terengganu T (09) 627 1111

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FLAVOURS OF MALAYSIA - FOREWORD

Malaysia’s cuisine is as diverse and as rich in heritage as our people. Our location at the Maritime crossroads of Asia has turned us into a culinary melting-pot. Our Malay, Chinese and Indian communities have brought together the great food traditions of East, South and Southeast Asia, while our role in the historic spice trade has added Arabian, Persian and Turkish influences. We have blended and transformed these elements into something that is uniquely our own. There is no single style that defines Malaysian cooking. Malay, Chinese, Indonesian, North and South Indian and Thai cuisines are recognised as distinct, yet in Malaysia they cross over and create a remarkable palette of flavours and textures, so much so that we like to think we invented fusion food. A perfect example is Nyonya cuisine. Created by the Peranakans or Straits Chinese, it brings together all the flavours and culinary techniques of Asia to create rich and spicy dishes that are simply exquisite. Traditional Malay cuisine, while heavily influenced by the rest of Asia, also has its own distinct regional variations, with the spiciness increasing exponentially as you move northward and eastward up the Peninsula. Malaysia’s greatest culinary attribute is that you can enjoy wonderful food wherever you are. Some of the greatest dishes are served at humble roadside hawker stalls, using recipes that have stayed in the same family for generations. You can also splash out in sumptuous Chinese restaurants as well as fine dining outlets representing the best of European and Japanese cuisine. If you get the opportunity, you should always try Malaysian home-cooked food. We are a nation of obsessive foodies and most of us know our way around a kitchen. Whether you get to enjoy sumptuous Nyonya treats in a Peranakan heritage house in Melaka, or fresh jungle greens and river fish in an Iban longhouse in Sarawak, the experience is unforgettable.

Datuk Redzuawan bin Ismail

FLAVOURS OF MALAYSIA A Culinary Melting Pot Malay Cuisine Chinese Cuisine Indian Cuisine Vegetarian Food From Around The States

The International Scene Beverages Deserts Fruits

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FLAVOURS OF MALAYSIA

A Culinary Melting Pot INTRODUCTION Malaysia is a melting pot of primarily Malay, Chinese and Indian people. Mix these basic ingredients together and add depth and flavor with liberal helpings of Orang Asli, Eurasians, Baba Nyonyas (Peranakan), Thais and Malaccan Portuguese. Season generously with ethnic groups from East Malaysia (Kadazandusun, Murut, Rungus and Bajau from Sabah, Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau and Orang Ulu from Sarawak, among a host of others). Stir

A map of Malaysia made up of spices and a spice bedecked national flag symbolise how the country’s identity is reflected in its cuisine.

over a gentle heat for a century or more, and the result is an extremely rich, colourful and flavourpacked national cuisine. Malaysian food offers a unique and diverse gastronomic adventure for all food lovers. Each community has its own preferred flavours, as

demonstrated by the ingredients found in their respective cuisines. And the recipes have intermingled over time, adding a whole host of fusion dishes to an already outstanding array of choices. For gourmets of every description, Malaysia is truly a food paradise.

Few countries can offer as much gastronomic diversity as Malaysia, with its rich fusion of indigenous and regional cuisines and ingredients.

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MALAY CUISINE Modern chefs of Malay cuisine have but one objective in mind – to capture the authentic tastes of a traditional kampung (village) feast. A signature dish of rustic Malay fare is rendang, meat stewed in coconut milk and spices until almost all the liquid evaporates, leaving the meat tender and flavourful. Every Malay dish is either made of rice or consumed with it. Nasi goreng (fried rice) comes in an endless variety of styles. The standard meal, however, is steamed white rice served with side dishes comprising meat or fish and vegetables. Ketupat (compressed rice) also forms the accompaniment to another Malaysian favourite, satay, skewered pieces of grilled, marinated meat. Perhaps the most iconic of Malay dishes is nasi

One of the best-known Malay dishes, rendang daging features beef stewed in coconut milk and spices until almost dry, leaving the meat tender and flavourful.

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Nasi lemak, fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, is probably the closest multicultural Malaysia comes to having a national dish.

lemak, fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf and served with cucumber, peanuts, anchovies and sambal (chili paste), with boiled eggs and fried or curried chicken as options. During the fasting month of Ramadhan, night bazaars

offer a huge variety of seasonal delights such as bubur lambok, a savoury rice porridge with meat and vegetables; ayam percik, a spicy grilled chicken dish; and ikan bakar (grilled fish). Best of all is the variety of Malay kuih (cakes) available from all over the country.

Ketupat palas (left) and lemang, just two of the many ways of preparing glutinous rice. The leaves in which the dishes are wrapped impart rich flavours to the rice.

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FLAVOURS OF MALAYSIA

CHINESE CUISINE Chinese cuisine is among the most prevalent in Malaysia, with Chinese food stalls seemingly around every corner. One of the most celebrated Malaysian Chinese dishes is char kuey teow, delicious flat noodles with bean sprouts, shrimp and fresh co*ckles stir-fried in a pan of various Chinese sauces. Other noodle dishes include wantan mee (with dumplings), curry mee and prawn mee, amalgamations of cuisines from all over China. Another gastronomic star is dim sum, (said to be the heart of Chinese cuisine), little dumplings, rolls and pastries served on a cart and with tea. Bak kut teh, introduced by Hokkien Chinese, is made by boiling pork ribs and intestines with a complex mix of herbs and spices, served with rice, soy sauce and fiery chillies. Plain steamed rice is served with meat and vegetable dishes in many forms, including

Yee sang, a popular dish eaten together with friends and family to celebrate the forthcoming Chinese New Year.

kung pao chicken, century egg, sweet and sour pork and char siew (barbecued pork). Diners wishing to enjoy the finest Chinese regional dishes, invariably

Dim Sum, primarily of Cantonese origin, comprises a selection of little dumplings, rolls and pastries served on a cart with tea for breakfast or lunch.

with delicious Malaysian influences, will find opulent restaurants in major towns and cities serving the best of Cantonese, Szechuan and Teochew cuisine.

Char kuey teow - natives of Ipoh and Penang agree to disagree over whose version is best.

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INDIAN CUISINE From the extensive use of herbs and spices, to the curries that enliven rice-based dishes, Indian cuisine is one of the biggest influences on Malaysia’s food culture. Nasi briyani is one of Malaysia’s top Indian offerings. Comprising basmati rice slowly cooked in a mix of spices and meat, it is served with a variety of spicy side dishes. Another local favourite is banana leaf rice, which sees rice being bathed in a mix of curries, with a variety of vegetables and meats on the side, all served on a banana leaf. The most uniquely Malaysian Indian dish is nasi kandar - rice topped with a mix of sauces and consumed with a variety of meats, fish, seafood and vegetables. Aside from rice, Indian cuisine also features breadbased dishes including the famous roti canai, which is tossed, stretched and grilled or fried flour-based

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A Malaysian Indian favourite, banana leaf rice is an all-you-can-eat feast of rice with a mix of curries and side dishes all served on a banana leaf.

dough; chapati, made of wheat flour; and thosai, made with rice and dhal. With light Malaysian meals, Indian influences can be seen in the pasembur, a

Roti canai, made from tossed, stretched and grilled or fried flour-based dough, can be a simple snack served with dhal, or as a substantial meal with side dishes.

mix of cucumber, tofu, potato, bean sprout, turnip and prawn fritter served in a thick nut sauce; and murtabak, a crepe with a meat-based filling.

A popular North Indian choice, tandoori lamb is flashroasted in a tandoor oven to retain all its flavours and served with naan bread, curry and condiments.

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FLAVOURS OF MALAYSIA

VEGETARIAN FOOD There are plenty of vegetarian options in Malaysia, especially in Chinese and Indian cuisines. Many restaurants will have signs denoting their vegetarian status, with some clearly indicating if their outlet also serves meat. Ovo and lacto vegetarians will enjoy a wide range of choices, but

strict vegans are advised to consult the “GoVeggie Malaysia” app, which showcases almost every vegetarian and vegan restaurant and also other restaurants that cater to plant-based options. You’ll be amazed at the kinds of vegetarian and vegan tastes, styles and presentations which have been born out of Malaysia’s

Indian vegetarian restaurants are popular in Malaysia, serving economical and tasty dishes such as briyani rice with chapatis, poppadoms and vegetable side dishes

fusion of culinary traditions. Living in Malaysia, you might even consider switching to a vegetarian lifestyle! Vegetarians should note, however, that in nonvegetarian outlets many vegetable-based dishes are commonly prepared with ingredients such as dried prawns, salted fish and belacan (prawn paste). If in doubt, always ask.

As well as local classics such as gado-gado, tempeh and bean curd, there is nowadays a global selection of meatfree choices, such as these delicious vegan tacos.

A sumptuous vegetarian buffet is often the highlight of a Hindu or Buddhist social, cultural or family gathering.

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FOOD FROM AROUND THE STATES A dish that transcends Malaysian borders is laksa, a fusion-style dish with Peranakan origins which exists in different varieties in different states. The thick rice noodle delight is served in a coconut curry broth, or a sour, fish-based sauce. Also available nationwide are light snacks like keropok lekor (fish fritters) and pisang goreng (banana fritters). The east coast states are renowned for their special rice dishes, such as nasi dagang, normal and glutinous rice mixed together and enjoyed with a creamy fish curry; and nasi kerabu, blue fragrant rice served with fried chicken or fish. In the northwestern states, culinary highlights are gado gado (salad served with peanut sauce), chee cheong fun (flat rice noodles in thick sauce) and mee sua, rice vermicelli cooked in red wine. In southern Malaysia, you will find mee bandung,

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Nasi Kerabu, blue-tinged fragrant rice served with spicy side dishes, is a popular dinner choice in the East Coast states of Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan.

yellow noodles in driedprawn-and-sweet-potato gravy, and lontong, which is compressed rice, tofu and other accompaniments served in a flavourful soup. Other standouts include ikan assam pedas (fish in spicy gravy), and the popular chicken rice balls of Melaka. The Peranakan (Baba Nyonya) culture originates from pre-colonial intermarriage between Chinese and Malays. This fusion is reflected in their cuisine, which includes incredibly rich curries as

Linopot, a traditional wrapped hill rice dish from the Kadazandusun people of Sabah. It is traditionally served with hinava, a raw fish salad, and various side dishes.

well as otak-otak, grilled fish paste wrapped in banana leaf. Malaysian Borneo offers even more diversity, with a top dish being Sabah’s nasi kuning, a turmeric-added version of the nasi lemak. Also famous is Sarawak’s manok pansoh (chicken steamed in bamboo tubes), kolo mee, and kek lapis (layer cakes). Other musttries are lemang (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo); and fermented rice wrapped in leaves called tapai.

Manok pansoh, chicken pieces steamed in bamboo tubes heated over an open fire, is the delicious signature dish of the Iban people of Sarawak.

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THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE Malaysia is increasingly regarded as a top international gastronomic destination, offering cuisines from around the world. Its major boulevards, shopping malls and hotels are replete with dining outlets featuring everything from Italian to Japanese cuisine, ranging from fast food to gourmet fare. For those with a palate for premium dining, Malaysia is the place to be. With gourmet establishments mushrooming across the country – especially in Kuala Lumpur – you’re never far away from restaurants with superior premium offerings, representing a diverse array of culinary traditions. A number of Michelinstarred restaurants have opened branches in Malaysia, including the legendary Nobu Kuala Lumpur and Taka by Sushi Saito. Leading hotel outlets also arrange residencies where visiting celebrity chefs from all over the world prepare their signature dishes. Malaysian chefs are also making their mark internationally, with three local restaurants, Dewakan and Nadodi in Kuala Lumpur and Gēn in Penang, ranked in the Top 100 in Asia. In conclusion – Malaysian food reflects the country and its people: harmonious blends of different cultures and an adventurous

Malaysians love their burgers, and can choose from humble street food Ramly Burgers, many global fast-food brands and the gourmet burger options pictured here.

spirit seeking new and rewarding experiences. If you’re a foodie, you’ve definitely come to the

Mediterranean cuisine is nowadays a fixture on Malaysian menus. Here grilled Spanish octopus with beetroot tzatziki and bottarga come together in a perfect marriage of Spanish and Greek influences.

right place; if you’re not, Malaysia might just turn you into one.

Kuala Lumpur’s international restaurant scene is bold and vibrant. This orange roughy with smoked peanut glaze and miso beurre blanc combines classic French and Japanese styles with local flavours.

Afternoon tea at the Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, a colonial tradition that Malaysians have enthusiastically embraced.

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BEVERAGES “Mamak” refers to local Tamil Muslims and is also a term used to denote the restaurants and stalls that are a favourite haunt for Malaysians for their daily drinks. These include the firm favourite teh tarik, literally “pulled tea”, black tea with condensed milk aerated by pouring from one receptacle to another, cooling it down nicely and giving it a frothy head. Variations of teas also include the teh si special, a three-layer tea with milk and brown sugar originating from Sarawak, teh-o (without milk) and teh-o kosong (without milk or sugar). You can also try Malaysia’s very own teas. In Peninsular Malaysia, the cool Cameron Highlands

Teh tarik (pulled tea) is the quintessential Malaysian drink.

is famous for its Cameron and Boh brands, while Sabah’s highlands also produce fine teas. The abundance of fruits also means that you have the option of enjoying a variety of juices, as well as wonderful thirst quenchers such as soy milk, sugar

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Tuak, Sarawak’s potent answer to sake, is now available throughout Malaysia and beyond thanks to these enterprising winemakers.

cane juice, cincau (sarsaparilla with black glass jelly) and coconut juice. If you’re in Sarawak, try the tuak, a homemade alcoholic drink of fermented rice.

City wine merchants offer a fabulous range of wines and liquors from around the world where connoisseurs can find any tipple their heart desires.

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DESSERTS The choice of desserts in Malaysia is almost endless. Ais kacang, a shaven-ice treat drenched in syrup, and crowned with toppings such as ice cream and green jelly can be found almost

anywhere. State-specific delights include Kelantan’s lompat tikam, which is made of rice flour; Terengganu’s custardy cake called akok; and Sarawak’s kek lapis, elegant layer cakes packed with a variety of flavours.

Kek lapis Sarawak (Sarawak layer cake) comes in a great variety of patterns and flavours, and all go equally well with strong, sweet Borneo coffee.

Other favourites include the Malay delights sago gula Melaka, puteri mandi, cucur keria, seri muka, kuih Makmur and kuih koci, as well as roti tisu, a sweet flatbread served in South Indian outlets.

Ais Kacang, Malaysia’s signature dessert, comprises shaved ice drenched in syrup, and crowned with toppings such as ice cream, sweet beans and green jelly.

Traditional Malay cakes (kueh) and confectioneries range from the ultra-sweet to the richly savoury, offering a flavour profile for every palate.

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FRUITS You can’t visit Malaysia without trying the renowned (or notorious) durian. Known as the ‘king of fruits’, the durian has become synonymous with adventurous eating in Southeast Asia, even appearing as a challenge on popular reality programme Fear Factor. With a thorny hide that needs peeling open with a cleaver, the durian contains

flesh-covered seeds with a taste that some have compared to custard, with a hint of almond. However, the overpowering smell is legendary – with some considering it highly malodorous. If durians aren’t to your taste, then not to worry – Malaysia has a wealth of popular tropical fruits for you to choose from, including mangosteen, starfruit, guava, papaya,

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pineapple, mango, bananas, watermelon, honeydew and rock melon, pomelo, the hairyskinned rambutan; ciku, duku and langsat, plus delicious lychee, longan, jackfruit and cempedak. Don’t forget to try the hundreds of unique local fruit species and varieties found only in Southeast Asia and widely available from farmer’s markets and roadside stalls.

Just a small selection of the huge variety of fresh fruits available in Malaysia. Even the keenest gourmet with extensive local knowledge will need years to try them all.

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NATURE, AGRICULTURE & PLANTATIONS - FOREWORD

Malaysia is one of only 17 megadiverse countries, thanks to our tropical location and unique geodiversity which have given rise to an incredible wealth of plant and animal species. This has made us a nature tourism and eco-tourism destination par excellence. This unique set of geographic conditions has also made our soil rich, fertile and productive, creating an ideal environment for the development of the agriculture and plantation sectors. Many Malaysians have agrarian roots, even though it may be generations ago. Our land and soil are things we feel passionately about. However, farming is no longer the career choice of the poor and uneducated. Modern agriculture requires advanced skills, and to attract the right people into our industry we must offer them suitable rewards. Rural incomes should rise dramatically as the global market increasingly demands high quality, sustainably grown foodstuffs and other agricultural products. Rural quality of life is also improving rapidly. Most of Malaysia’s farmers, breeders, fishermen and planters now have access to good modern roads, fast internet connections and all the amenities that enable them to keep in touch with city life. We are successfully eradicating the urban-rural divide and trying our hardest to ensure that the Malaysian countryside is a conducive place to live and work. Malaysia’s plantations and commodities sector is one of the most important contributors to our economy. We export over RM120 billion worth of commodity-based products annually, over 18% of the country’s total goods exports. We provide jobs and income for more than 750,000 employees and smallholders, and a further 250,000 jobs in value added manufacturing, more than 12% of the national workforce. Nowadays planters and downstream manufacturers are technocrats, comfortable with high technology and high finance. They are working together with the government to make Malaysia an internationally acknowledged centre of excellence for R&D, technology, services and product innovation. Because of our government’s enlightened policies for sustainable development of the sector, we look forward to a bright future as we strive to make plantations increasingly efficient, quality oriented and sustainable. Most industry players subscribe to No Deforestation, No Peat Development and No Exploitation as per the RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil).

Tan Sri Lee Oi Hian

CEO of Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad

NATURE AGRICULTURE & PLANTATIONS A Manifesto For Megadiversity Transforming The Green Economy Reaping A Golden Harvest Boh Tea Garden Sabah Tea Resort Malaysian Pepper Board National Elephant Conservation Centre Lake Kenyir Gua Kelam Recreational Park Nature, Agriculture & Plantations Listing

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NATURE

A Manifesto for Megadiversity Malaysia is one of only 17 megadiverse countries, thanks to its tropical location and unique geodiversity, which have given rise to an incredible wealth of plant species, more than 3% of the world’s total. Over 15,000 species are recorded, of which more than 300 have valuable medicinal properties, while researchers believe that far more exist. Many of the most interesting plants can be seen in Malaysia’s National Parks; Rafflesia, Amorphophyllallus or corpse flowers, pitcher plants and an incredible variety of orchids. The enormous plant variety has created habitats for an astonishing number of animal species, around 20% of the world’s total,

A tour boat passes coastal rock formations in Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, the largest protected area of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark.

probably between 15,000 and 20,000, with new species discovered every month. Almost 7,000 insects include the Rajah Brooke’s birdwing butterfly, the atlas moth, the empress cicada with its 30cm wingspan and some of the world’s largest beetles and stick insects. Malaysia boasts almost 200 amphibian species, ranging from Asia’s tiniest frog, the pea-sized Microhyla

A Rafflesia tuan-mudae blooming at Gunung Gading National Park, Sarawak. The largest flowers in the world, rafflesias can reach over a metre in diameter.

nepenthicola, to the giant river toad, which grows up to 30cm in length. Over 230 reptile species include all five marine turtles, more than a dozen land or freshwater turtles, countless snakes and 3 crocodiles, including the world’s largest reptile, the saltwater crocodile, which can reach over 6 metres in length. Almost 1,000 bird species have been recorded in Malaysia, which has become a major birdwatching destination with local operators conducting specialist birding tours. Ten species of hornbill can be seen at Belum-Temenggor (Perak) and Ulu Muda (Kedah), while Sabah and Sarawak are home to rare endemic species. More than 250 land and 100 marine mammal species make up 7% of the world’s total. Large carnivores include the Malayan tiger, common and clouded leopards and the Malayan sun bear. Notable

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A mother and juvenile Bornean orangutan enjoy a snack at the supplementary feeding station in sem*nggoh Wildlife Centre, Sarawak.

herbivores include two elephant subspecies, the Malayan tapir, various wild pigs, the seladang or wild ox, giant squirrels and the world’s largest civet, the binturong or bearcat. Other notable mammals include the bizarre moonrat, the colugo or flying lemur, the ant-eating pangolin, the tiny mouse deer, the rare Irrawaddy dolphin and the placid, sea-grazing dugong. The 25 primate species include the orangutan and the bizarre, long-nosed proboscis monkey, both found only in Borneo. Peninsular Malaysia offers langurs, gibbons and siamang and commonly seen long-tailed macaques. Malaysia has an excellent network of National and State Parks where many iconic species can be viewed. Taman Negara in Pahang, Royal Belum

State Park in Perak and Endau Rompin National Park in Johor are all noted for tigers, tapirs, Asiatic elephants and binturong (bearcat), as well as hundreds of bird species. The spectacular UNESCO Langkawi Geopark in Kedah boasts phenomenal rock formations and seascapes, Lake Kenyir in Terengganu is an angler’s and nature lover’s paradise, and most of the Malay Peninsula is dotted with fascinating cave systems. Many natural attractions are located in urban areas, such as Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur and the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia in Kepong, Selangor. In Sarawak, Bako and Kuching Wetlands National Parks are home to proboscis monkeys, orangutans can be viewed in sem*nggoh and Matang Wildlife Centres, and

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vast cave systems are found at Niah and Mulu National Parks. Mulu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also has the greatest concentration of bird and amphibian species in Malaysia. Sabah offers orangutans at Sepilok and proboscis monkeys and Bornean pygmy elephants in the Kinabatangan Wetlands, Danum Valley Conservation Area and Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to Malaysia’s highest mountain (4,095 metres) as well as many bird and orchid species found only on Kinabalu’s slopes. Even in the cities and resorts, the abundance of bird and insect species, along with thoroughly urbanized troops of long-tailed macaque monkeys, proves that nowhere in Malaysia is ever really untouched by Mother Nature.

Adolescent male tiger cubs Hebat and Wira pictured at Zoo Negara. The cubs are part of the zoo’s successful captive breeding programme for endangered species.

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AGRICULTURE

Transforming The Green Economy The agriculture industry is vitally important to Malaysia, providing food security, putting nutritious food on our dinner tables, playing a crucial role in rural development, creating employment and improving balance of trade. It is divided into two main sub-sectors, industrial commodities and agrofood. The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) oversees the agrofood sub sector while the Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities is responsible for plantation crops such as pepper, palm oil, rubber and cocoa. As of 2018, the agriculture sector contributed RM99.5 billion, or 7.5%, to Malaysia’s

GDP. It employs more than 1.5 million people, approximately 11% of the nation’s workforce. Almost 26% of Malaysia’s total land area is used for agricultural purposes, of which around 2.7% is arable land and the balance is mainly under permanent crops. Oil palm contributes 46.6% to the industry’s GDP, followed by livestock, fisheries and rubber at 11.4%, 10.5% and 7.3% respectively. This chapter deals with the agrofood sub-sector; plantation crops are described in the next chapter, Plantations & Commodities. Agriculture & Food Industries Rice remains the staple crop, with over half a million hectares under cultivation, producing around 2.5 million tonnes annually, or 70% of the country’s

Lush green paddy fields in Kedah, the state known as the rice bowl of Malaysia, which produces over 50% of the national crop.

requirements. The state of Kedah is the biggest single producer, accounting for almost half of Malaysia’s annual output. New rice varieties are continuously developed to offer higher yield, early maturation and better disease and climate resistance, as well as niche red rice varieties with high fibre and mineral content. Banana is amongst the dominant tropical fruits cultivated in Malaysia, which produces around 350,000 tonnes annually with local varieties the most popular. However, the Cavendish banana’s market share is increasing due to its better shelf life and higher resilience during transportation. The durian industry is booming, due to both local and international demand (mostly from China), with most Malaysian orchards growing the popular Musang King

Minister of Agriculture and Food Industries YB Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee (2nd left) and his Deputy YB Datuk Seri Haji Ahmad bin Hamzah (3rd left) meet with key paddy and rice industry stakeholders to promote the SMART LARGE RICE FIELD initiative at the Farmers Organization HQ in Kuala Lumpur.

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Water Cress Valley farm and restaurant, Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands. The country’s highland areas offer ideal conditions for growing temperate vegetables and herbs.

and MDUR88 varieties. Pineapples, rambutans, papaya, mangoes, starfruit and coconuts are also significant crops. A huge variety of rare fruits is grown by the informal sector and widely available at roadside stalls and farmer’s markets, although their export value is yet to be realised. Market gardening for vegetables, herbs and spices is a major sector, run mostly by smallholders and SMEs. Tropical varieties are grown throughout the country, while temperate vegetables and herbs are increasingly planted in highland areas of Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, although the country relies heavily on imports of onions, garlic and potatoes for climatic reasons. There is a growing trend towards organic farming in this sector, driven both by

consumer demand and industry entrepreneurship. The livestock sector is led by the highly developed poultry industry, although the ruminant industry (cattle, sheep, buffalo and goats) is mostly managed by smallholders and their self-sufficiency level (SSL) is still less than

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30%. The government has formulated various policies and strategies to improve the livestock ruminant and dairy industries with new livestock breeds and better husbandry methods. This will in turn provide better meat quality, reduce production cost and provide lucrative returns to small and mediumscale livestock farmers. Fisheries is also significant, as Malaysians consume 42.7 kg of fish and seafood per person during 2020. Malaysian fishermen landed around 1.38 million tonnes of fish in 2020, while the aquaculture sector produced RM3.11 billion in value of food fish and RM494 billion in ornamental fish. The Way Forward Malaysia’s historic success in developing the agricultural sector is

The government has formulated strategies to improve the livestock and dairy industries with new breeds and better husbandry methods. The high-tech Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang, Sabah, is a perfect example.

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AGRICULTURE

A Malaysian tuna carrier vessel operating in the Indian Ocean. Malaysians are among the world’s biggest consumers of fish.

remarkable, transforming large numbers of subsistence farmers and landless squatters into prosperous smallholders over the past two generations. Nevertheless, the government is determined to further develop the agricultural sector to enhance rural prosperity, increase food

security and offset food imports. The way forward will be formulated through the 12th Malaysia Plan, for the period of 2021 to 2025, which is expected to be the catalyst for the country’s modernised agrofood outlook. Subsequently, the National Agro-food Policy 2.0 (NAP 2.0), 2021-2030 will focus on food security, income of farmers and sustainability as the key objectives to steer the agrofood sector development in the next decade. Most of the world’s food is produced by ageing farmers and Malaysia is A sensor-equipped drone scanning young rice no exception. seedlings. Such technologies are part of the Young Agropreneur Program, training young The ministry has people to drive the Industrial Revolution 4.0 in embarked on the agrofood sector.

the Young Agropreneur Program to attract the nation’s youth to venture into agrofood and agrobased industry. The emphasis is on training young people to drive the Industrial Revolution 4.0 in this sector, enabling technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous robots, big data analytics and artificial intelligence for precision agriculture and farm management. MAFI has also undertaken efforts and initiatives to organize biennial mega events such as International Exhibition of Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Malaysia and the annual National Farmers’, Livestock Breeders’ and Fishermen’s Day. The International Exhibition of Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Malaysia (MAHA) is held every two years at the purpose-built Malaysia Agro Exposition Park in Serdang, Selangor. This popular, well-attended event aims to promote agricultural products to the local market and abroad through mobilization of operators, investors and government. Among its main objectives is to make Malaysia a centre of excellence in agriculture, food and agro-based industries; attract internal and external investments;

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showcase the latest agricultural technology and innovation; provide a stage for ministries, national and local government agencies and local and overseas businesses to showcase their products, technology, services and investment opportunities; and promote the country’s unique cultural and agro-tourism destinations. National Farmers’, Livestock Breeders’ and Fishermen’s Day (HPPNK) is held annually on August 6th. It was inaugurated in 1973 by former Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein to celebrate the contribution of farmers, livestock breeders and fishermen to the country’s development and food security. A variety of events are held throughout the country for participants to exchange ideas and experiences and get exposure to new business opportunities. Attending one of these events is the best way to meet producers directly and get an overview of their products and activities. Agricultural Sustainability While the organic food sector is growing steadily in Malaysia, it is also important to reduce the environmental impacts of mainstream agriculture. The government is promoting the increasing use of natural pesticides and biological

National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen’s Day (HPPNK) 2019 at Plaza Angsana, Johor Bahru. These events provide opportunities for producers to network and help to educate the general public about Malaysian agriculture.

pest control agents to reduce or even eliminate the use of chemical pesticides. New potential food crops are continuously being researched for food and feed alternatives for the future. These crops are reservoirs for important and valuable genes, offering new sources of carbohydrate, protein and other nutrients. Examples include sorghum, corn and jackfruit.

Urban agriculture is also being encouraged, where urban city folks can grow vegetables in their yard with the use of simple urban agri-kits or in more sophisticated indoor vertical or rooftop farming systems. Kits can be utilized to produce a variety of popular vegetables such as salads, pak choy, cucumbers and herbs simultaneously in one individual unit.

Vertical farming systems, such as these pak choy and mint growing kits from Victory Farm, are part of the government’s strategy to encourage urban agriculture.

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PLANTATIONS AND COMMODITIES

Reaping A Golden Harvest The plantation sector contributes approximately 60% of Malaysia’s total agricultural output and over RM100 billion annually to GDP. The Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities and its various agencies and industry councils are responsible for the overall development of the sector, covering palm oil, rubber, timber products, cocoa, pepper, sago and tobacco and kenaf. Palm Oil Malaysia is the world’s second largest palm oil producer and exporter, responsible for 26% of global production and 34% of exports, with a total of 5.78 million hectares under cultivation in 2020. Palm oil and palm-based products contributed RM73.25 billion to the country’s export earnings in 2020

and employed more than 4 million people along the industry’s supply chain, including more than half a million smallholders. The Malaysian Palm Oil Board, an agency under the Ministry, has implemented 709 technological breakthroughs since its formation in 2000, including high quality planting materials, best agronomic practices, modern milling and processing techniques, foods, nutrition, biomass, oleochemical products and biodiesel technologies. To ensure that development is balanced with the environment, the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme was implemented on 1st January 2015. The standards were developed in response to requests from, and in consultation with, industry stakeholders. MSPO requirements are applicable to the entire sector – independent smallholders, organised

Malaysia is the first country to produce and export certified sustainable palm oil, thanks to its MSPO certification scheme, which has been mandatory since 2020.

A typical rubber tree with a latex collection cup on a plantation in Sungai Buloh, Selangor.

smallholders, plantations and palm oil mills – and compliance has been mandatory since 1st January 2020. Rubber Malaysia is the seventh largest global producer of natural rubber and the world’s leading manufacturer and exporter of natural rubber and nitrile gloves, barrier contraceptives and rubber catheters. The total planted area of rubber is approximately 1 million

The Malaysian Palm Oil Board has implemented 709 technological breakthroughs since its formation in 2000, thanks to cutting edge scientific research.

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Inspectors from the Malaysian Timber Industry Board’s Industrial Development Department carrying out timber certification checks.

hectares, of which 93% is smallholdings and the rest is estates. In 2018, more than 600,000 tonnes of rubber were produced from tappable areas, contributing more than RM40 billion in export earnings in the form of natural rubber, rubber products, rubber woods and wood products. This makes rubber the country’s second most important plantation crop, as it helps to provide over 500,000 jobs in the upstream, midstream and downstream sectors. The Malaysian rubber industry is expected to enjoy steady growth as global demand continues to rise. Timber Timber is the third largest commodity sub-sector, providing employment for more than 165,000 people with export earnings of almost RM22.02 billion in 2020. Malaysia has evolved into a prominent global timber industry player

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The PEFC tag confirms that this table and chairs have been made from sustainably produced timber certified by the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC).

with established market networks and high-quality value-added products. The Malaysian furniture industry is the world’s 6th largest exporter, with a market presence in over 160 countries generating more than RM12.57 billion in 2020. Producers of plywood, veneer, boards and mouldings also contribute significantly. Cumulative exports of sawn timber in 2020 decreased by 27% in volume and 29% in value to 1,323,501 m3 totalling RM2.4 billion compared to the previous year. Malaysia is committed to Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) and has pledged to retain more than 50% of its land area under permanent forest cover at the 1992 UN Rio Earth Summit. SFM is promoted, among others, through the Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS), which provides independent audits of forest managers

and manufacturers or exporters of timber products. To date, 5.62 million hectares of forests have been certified under MTCS and a total of 2.62 million cubic meters of MTCS-certified timber and timber products have been exported to over 72 destinations. Other sustainability initiatives include forest plantations, permanent forest estates, rehabilitation projects and community managed forests, with low-impact extraction techniques such as heli-logging used where appropriate. Cocoa Cocoa is an important crop, especially for smallholders, with exports of cocoa and cocoa products earning RM6 billion annually. The current total planted area of cocoa is 5,900 hectares, producing about 1,000 tonnes of cocoa beans. Malaysia has the world’s sixth largest cocoa grinding industry, with a

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Cocoa is an important crop, with exports of cocoa and cocoa products earning RM6 billion annually. The photo shows a cocoa orchard with freshly harvested pods (left) and dry cocoa beans (right).

current yearly capacity of around 360,000 tonnes of cocoa beans. In the 12th Malaysia Plan, the country will continue to increase cocoa production through Good Agriculture Practices and cocoa planting intercropping with other economic crops. A cocoa trading hub will be established at Johor Port to ease the importation of cocoa beans. There are also programmes to increase farmers’ income by

producing premium cocoa beans with higher quality and fine flavour beans. Pepper Malaysia, or more precisely Sarawak with 98% of the national crop, is the world’s fifth largest producer of pepper. It produces approximately 30,000 tonnes annually, of which about 10,000 tonnes are being exported yearly with a value of approximately RM250

million and the balance used for downstream activities and local sale. It is primarily a smallholder crop, providing reliable and dependable cash income for more than 38,000 rural families. Many Sarawakian graduates from rural areas claim that their college fees were paid from their families’ pepper gardens, visits to which are also a popular tourist attraction. The Malaysian Pepper Board, based in Kuching, is active in promoting pepper and upgrading the quality of the crop, developing new and sustainable products such as organic pepper, and providing facilities such as steamsterilising plants. Sarawak Pepper is protected under Geographical Indication (GI) and is wellknown internationally for its quality and depth of flavour. Kenaf Kenaf is a new commodity crop and source of growth developed by the Government through the National Kenaf and

A pepper garden in Sarawak (left) and pepper fruits ripening (right). Known for its superb quality, Sarawak pepper commands a premium price in the global pepper market.

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Panoramic view of a kenaf plantation area in Chuping Valley, Perlis. Kenaf is set to become an important plantation crop in Malaysia.

Tobacco Board. It is a valuable fibre source ideally suited to Malaysia’s climatic and soil conditions. Various efforts have been implemented to upscale economic activities as well as promote industry growth through commercialization, both locally and internationally. The Kenaf Master Plan 2015-25 is promoting the industry value chain to be private sector driven and self-sustaining. The upstream industry comprises smallholders, cluster farms and plantations. Downstream industry development emphasises kenaf building materials (mainly

industrialized building systems or IBS), nonwoven, bio-composite, biodegradable utensils, green packaging, animal feed & bedding, and many others for domestic and export markets. Potential uses include high-value kenaf cellulose for advanced materials in medical, automotive and aviation applications. Kenaf will enable natural fibres integration in Malaysia via synergy and hybrid applications with other biomass and fibre sources. Sago Sago is a palm species ideally suited to marginal soils such as the shallow

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peat swamp land found in Sarawak. Sago starch, extracted from the palm trunks, was among the first agricultural commodities from Sarawak to penetrate the global market in the 1800’s. Sarawak is now the world’s leading producer, exporting over 40,000 tonnes of processed starch annually with a value of around RM90 million. The Sarawak Government is investing in research and capacity building, to increase productivity 6-fold from 15 logs per hectare to 100–150 logs over the next decade. Global demand is expected to increase: the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has recognised sago as “the starch crop of the 21st century” an important crop to address future starch shortages in the Asia Pacific Region. The industry's emphasis is on increasing productivity and sustainability, along with the long-term addition of downstream activities to strengthen the value of sago exports.

Sago has been referred to as the “starch crop of the 21st century”. The photo shows a stand of sago palms, harvesting of felled trees and transportation of logs to the river on wooden “rails”.

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BOH SUNGEI PALAS TEA CENTRE 39100 Brinchang Cameron Highlands, Pahang T (05) 496 2096 BOH TEA GARDEN Habu 39200 Ringlet Cameron Highlands, Pahang T (05) 493 1324 W bohtea.com

OPERATING HOURS Tue-Sun 8.30am to 4.30pm. Closed Mondays except for selected public and school holidays. IN BRIEF BOH Tea is the largest tea grower in Malaysia. Its plantation in Cameron Highlands covers over 2,965 acres. The two BOH Tea Gardens allow visitors to enjoy the spectacular scenery of lush green hillsides covered with hundreds of rows of tea bushes, while sipping on a cup of flavourful and aromatic tea. Factory tours are available free of charge.

Centre is an award-winning building and a unique display of contemporary architecture, purposefully designed to integrate with the natural landscape and surroundings. Its 20 foot overhanging balcony above the plantation is a stand out feature of the tea centre and a ‘must see’ when visiting Cameron Highlands. The tea centre also recently completed its new wing exten-

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HOW TO GET THERE Both tea gardens can be accessed by car from Brinchang (Sungei Palas Tea Centre) and Habu (BOH Tea Garden). There are also tour vans and buses that visit the tea gardens as part of group tours.

MAIN FEATURES Cameron Highlands has been the home of BOH Plantations and Malaysian tea since the company was established in 1929. It is one of the most fertile agricultural regions in Malaysia. The cool tropical climate with abundant rainfall and sunshine make Cameron Highlands ideal for growing teas of unique character. BOH’s Sungei Palas Tea

LOCATION / ROUTE The Sungei Palas Tea Centre is located in Brinchang and BOH Tea Garden is located in Habu (about 27km from each other). Sungei Palas Tea Centre is approximately 85km from Ipoh, Perak and 217km from Kuala Lumpur.

It is common to see tea pickers in the fields plucking the ripe tea leaves.

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The Sungei Palas Tea Centre overarching balcony lets you truly appreciate the beauty of nature while sipping on a cup of tea.

sion which offers additional picturesque views. The BOH Tea Garden in Habu is the largest and oldest of BOH’s tea gardens, spanning over 465 hectares. It is home to BOH’s first tea factory, built in the 1930s. Interestingly, the tea centre itself was built in 1949 during the Malayan Emergency (1948-1956) to house supplies for troops stationed in Cameron Highlands. These historic colonial buildings are a treasured heritage and exude a quaint country ambience. Hidden behind the factory is an excellent hiking trail which offers beautiful mountain views of

Boh’s Sungai Palas Tea Centre is a popular attraction for both local and international visitors to Cameron Highlands.

the tea gardens. Both tea centres’ factories also immerse visitors in a comprehensive discovery of tea, educating them on how tea leaves are turned into this delicious beverage. The

souvenir tea shops have a variety of BOH Teas for sale that cater to each individual’s tastes, so visitors can enjoy an aromatic and delicious cup of BOH tea in the comfort of their own home.

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SABAH TEA RESORT Km 17, Jalan Ranau Sandakan Kampung Nalapak 89309 Ranau, Sabah T (088) 440 882 (Kota Kinabalu Office) (088) 879 220 (Plantation Office) W sabahtea.net

IN BRIEF The Sabah Tea Resort offers a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of a tea plantation, to trek in the surrounding rainforest and escape from the city to a traditional longhouse or modern cottage room.

MAIN FEATURES Sabah Tea is the largest single commercial tea garden on the island of Borneo. It sits on a 6,200-acre land at an elevation of 693 metres (2,272 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by the world’s oldest and LOCATION / ROUTE It is located 82km from Kinabalu Park and 121km from Kota Kinabalu. By car: 2 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu. By bus: 2½ hours drive from Kota Kinabalu. HOW TO GET THERE By bus from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan/ Tawau/ Lahad Datu/ Semp*rna, request a stop at the Sabah Tea main gate. It is 5-10 minutes walk to the reception area. Taxis can be hired directly to Sabah Tea.

The plantation gardens, dominated by this giant teapot, look out over the lush green tea terraces.

most diverse rainforest. It is one of the few plantations in the world certified to produce organic tea, 100% free from pesticides, artificial

colouring and flavouring. It is also not blended with tea leaves from other plantations and therefore, maintains the consistency

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of quality and purity. Tea leaves are meticulously selected and controlled to produce a distinct taste with full body aroma. Visitors to the Tea Resort can learn everything about tea cultivation, including harvesting, packaging, brewing and identifying premium teas. For a chance to savour the range of teas grown here, adjourn to the Sabah Tea Restaurant. It offers freshly-made “tea pancakes” and an excellent range of dishes. The gift shop offers a selection of tea biscuits, tea chocolates, and tea gift packs. Some teas are sold only onsite. Overnight guests can enjoy the experience of a traditional Longhouse, complete with a cultural dance performed by the village children. Morning walks in the cool refreshing air offer a chance to enjoy the mesmerising sunrise view

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Enjoy a cool morning walk to see the sunrise over misty Mount Kinabalu.

of Mount Kinabalu. Guests can enjoy trekking along shaded jungle trails to get up close to the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia (when in bloom). Guided river walks are also popular. Several packages are available, including stopover trips with a short tour, a full day package and overnight stays such as the “Sabah Tea Adventure 2 Days, 1 Night” package,

A cup of refreshing and natural Sabah Tea.

winner of the “Best Tour Programme for Education Tourism” from Tourism Malaysia. A new package even focuses on environmental education, tree planting and discussions on global warming. Corporations can organise meetings here, with facilities for team building, games, batik painting, a tea school, mountain biking and rainforest camping.

Visitors learning hands-on how tea is made. Here they are hand-rolling the wok-roasted tea leaves to facilitate further fermentation.

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MALAYSIAN PEPPER BOARD Lembaga Lada Malaysia Lot 1115, Jalan Utama 93450 Kuching, Sarawak T (082) 331 811 W mpb.gov.my

IN BRIEF Pepper is the world’s most widely used spice for food flavouring. This is true of just about every cuisine. The plant requires a warm and wet tropical climate for optimum growth, making Sarawak most suited for pepper cultivation.

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Netherlands, Britain and France seeking to control trade in pepper and other spices from South and Southeast Asia. Local cultivation in Malaysia dates back to 1856. 98% of Malaysian pepper is grown in Sarawak and a combined total Utama n of 17,437 hectares of land in

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HOW TO GET THERE The best way to visit pepper farms is to drive there or to join a tour that includes a stop at a pepper farm.

satisfy the European demand for pepper. In Renaissance Europe, the pepper trade was monopolised by the Italian cities of Venice and Genoa, which led directly to the European “Age of Exploration”, followed by colonial expansion, with Portugal and later the

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LOCATION / ROUTE Pepper farms can be found in several areas in Sarawak particularly in Serian, Sri Aman, Betong and Sarikei.

A typical pepper garden in Sarawak. Note how the pepper plants are laid out in rows on a gently sloping hillside, rather like a vineyard. This is to ensure ease of harvesting as well as adequate drainage.

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MAIN FEATURES The pepper vine (Piper nigrum) is native to Southwest India, has been used in Indian cuisine for over 4,000 years and has been a valuable trade commodity since ancient times. It was used in Egyptian mummification rituals and was well-known in Ancient Greece, while the Roman Empire sent an annual fleet of 120 ships from Egypt to India’s Malabar Coast to

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Freshly harvested green pepper berries.

Malaysian Pepper Board senior officers visit a pepper farm in Betong, Sarawak. The information they gather will be used to help farmers improve the quality and increase the yield of their pepper plants.

the state is dedicated to pepper cultivation. In 2018, Malaysia produced 31,073 tonnes of pepper and ranked as the 5th biggest pepper producer in the world. 11,714 tonnes of this pepper were exported. The pepper fruit is a berry, pale green and soft in the early stage, but it turns dark green and hard as it matures. Each berry contains a single seed enclosed by a pulpy mesocarp. The commercial black peppercorn is the entire dried berry whereas the white peppercorn is just the seed. Pepper is one of the most important cash crops in Sarawak, supporting the livelihood of about 34,601 smallholders. The Malaysian Pepper Board (MPB) assists farmers by providing technical and advisory consultancy while helping to promote the commodity around the world.

Research and Development efforts are constantly undertaken to improve the productivity and quality of the crop, through better agronomic practices. To further promote the industry, MPB is constantly seeking innovative uses of pepper in culinary and non-culinary sectors. Currently, pepper is still widely exported as black and white pepper (berries and powder) in

Black pepper berries ready for packing or processing.

bulk packs. Retail packs of pepper and pepper products for both domestic and overseas markets come in various forms and brands including MPB’s own quality-certified “Saraspice” range, which also includes novelty premium products.

MPB’s range of pepper products, marketed under the SARASPICE brand name.

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NATIONAL ELEPHANT CONSERVATION CENTRE (NECC) Kuala Gandah 28500 Lanchang Pahang Hp (017) 368 8270 W wildlife.gov.my

OPENING HOURS Daily: 10.30am~4.30pm (Elephant Activity Area). Daily: 8am~4.30pm (Registration, Cafeteria, Interpretation Centre). Closed: 1st & 2 nd day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri. IN BRIEF The NECC, established in 1989 by the Malaysian Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan), provides a sanctuary for displaced and orphaned wild Asian elephants (Elephas maximus), raises public awareness and supports elephant research. It is also home to the Elephant Relocation Team, which captures displaced elephants and relocates them to suitable habitats. LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Krau Wildlife Reserve, the largest reserve in Peninsular Malaysia, 107km from Kuala Lumpur. HOW TO GET THERE Car/Taxi/Ride Hailing: East Coast Expressway Exit 816 (Lanchang) then follow signage (15mins). Public Transport: Express bus from Kuala Lumpur’s Pekililing Bus Terminal to Lanchang, then local taxi or ride hailing. Remember to book your ride back to Lanchang.

The entrance to the National Elephant Conservation Centre, headquarters of the Elephant Relocation Team.

MAIN FEATURES The NECC’s visitor activities are designed to raise awareness while allowing as much contact with the elephants as possible. After registration, visitors should check out the Interpretation Centre, to learn more about the NECC’s mission. It is recommended (but not compulsory) to hire a Nature Guide (fee varies according to package). The resident elephants are a mix of orphaned juveniles too young to be relocated and adult working elephants, trained to help capture problem wild

elephants for relocation. From 10.30am, visitors may enter the Elephant Activity Centre to view, feed and take photographs with the young elephants. Entrance is free, although donations are welcomed. An elephant conservation video is shown at 1pm and 1.30pm. At 2pm (3pm Fridays), the Elephant Crossing allows visitors to view and take photographs with adult elephants and their mahouts. This is followed by a conservation talk given by a mahout and his elephant. The final activity, from 3.15pm, is bathing with young

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Visitors meeting and feeding the working elephants who are such important members of the Elephant Relocation Team.

elephants. A nominal fee is charged for this activity and numbers are restricted to 100 people daily. Those not taking part in elephant bathing can watch the young elephants feeding. The centre has a small cafeteria and souvenir

shop, while food outlets and homestays run by villagers are found along the entrance road. There is also a gazebo where visitors can eat their packed lunches. Food and drink may not be taken inside the Elephant

Ceremonial elephant parade to celebrate World Elephant Day on 7th Sept. 2019. In the foreground is Gandah, the centre’s newest elephant calf, walking with his mother, Siti.

Activity Area. The centre has wheelchair access and disabled toilet facilities. Note: Elephant riding is not allowed. Visitors and elephants are separated by barriers and only elephants’ trunks may be touched.

Elephants need to bathe regularly to keep their skin healthy, an activity they always enjoy. Visitors are welcome to join in the fun.

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LAKE KENYIR Tourism Terengganu Level 1, Bangunan Marina Duyong Marina & Resort Pulau Duyong 21300 Kuala Terengganu T (09) 623 1553 W beautifulterengganu.com

IN BRIEF Lake Kenyir (Tasik Kenyir) is the largest man-made lake in Peninsular Malaysia and the second largest in mainland Southeast Asia, with a surface area of 260 square kilometres at high water level. It is a premier destination for lovers of nature and adventure. It contains 340 islands, 14 waterfalls and many rivers and rapids.

MAIN FEATURES Lake Kenyir is an ideal eco-tourism retreat LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the Hulu Terengganu area of Terengganu, Lake Kenyir lies on the western fringe of Taman Negara Malaysia, close to the borders of Kelantan in the west and Pahang in the south. The main entry is at Pengkalan Gawi, also an alternative gateway to Taman Negara. HOW TO GET THERE By road: Pengkalan Gawi is approximately 1 hour from Kuala Terengganu and Kuala Terengganu Airport, 5 hours from Kuala Lumpur via the East Coast Expressway, and 8 hours from Johor Bahru/Singapore. By Bus: Direct express bus services from Kuala Lumpur, Alor Setar, Kuala Perlis and Sungai Petani. Change at Kuala Terengganu from other destinations.

A view of Lake Kenyir in the afternoon. The lake is surrounded by dense rainforest and imposing limestone hills.

with excellent opportunities for freshwater fishing, bird watching, jungle trekking, cave exploring and mountain climbing. Canoeing, boating, jet skiing and shooting the rapids are among the water sports on offer. Nature lovers will enjoy the surrounding tropical rainforest, home to thousands of species

of local fauna and flora, including the endangered Asian elephant, Malayan tiger and Malayan tapir and 9 of Malaysia’s 10 hornbill species. Kenyir Elephant Conservation Village offers the chance to ride, bathe and get close to a herd of 13 rescued elephants. There are impressive caves with Neolithic artefacts and

Making new friends at the Kenyir Elephant Conservation Village.

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Babies of all ages can swim with the resident mahseer at the Kelah Fish Sanctuary.

spectacular stalagmites and stalactites, and mountain trails where wildlife encounters are always possible. It is also possible to trek from Lake Kenyir to Taman Negara, which involves several days of trekking and can only be done with an experienced guide. Other activities

include sport fishing (very popular, primarily for giant snakehead) and bird watching, with over 350 bird species in the area. Local facilities, each on its own island, include an Orchid Park, a Herb Garden with interpretive centre and reflexology path, a Butterfly Park and

Brightly painted houseboats are just one of Lake Kenyir’s many accommodation choices.

the Kelah Fish Sanctuary, where visitors can swim with mahseer fish. Most of these attractions can be visited through islandhopping tours. Accommodation is available for every budget and ranges from campsites to live-aboard houseboats to luxurious island resorts.

Many of the larger islands offer a selection of comfortable chalets.

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GUA KELAM RECREATIONAL PARK (Cave of Darkness) Jabatan Perhutanan Negeri Perlis Km 2, Jalan Kaki Bukit 01000 Kangar, Perlis T (04) 977 6626/ 976 5966 W forestry.perlis.gov.my

IN BRIEF Gua Kelam (Cave of Darkness) is one of the most interesting limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia, with some superb rock features, a fascinating history and the opportunity for ecoadventure. OPENING HOURS Open: Thursday-Tuesday, 9am~6pm Closed: Wednesday

MAIN FEATURES Gua Kelam Recreational Park is located in the Wang Mu Forest Reserve within the Perlis State Park. It is part of the Setul formation, the oldest carbonate rock formation in Malaysia and the region, which LOCATION / ROUTE 33km from Kangar and 500m from the town of Kaki Bukit. HOW TO GET THERE Car/Taxi/Ride Hailing: Federal Route 7 from Kangar or Federal Routes 194 & 79 from North-South Expressway (Changlun Exit) Bus: MyBus T11 from Kangar Express Bus Station to Kaki Bukit, then 10 minutes walk. Train: KTM Intercity to Padang Besar, then MyBus T11 to Kaki Bukit.

Visitor enjoying the panoramic view from the end of Gua Kelam, the Cave of Darkness.

extends offshore to Langkawi and was formed between 490 and 370 million years ago, 120 million years before the Age of Dinosaurs began. The Cave of Darkness is a 370-metre long limestone cave that visitors can enter from one end and exit from the other via a 2.5-metrewide wooden suspension

bridge that runs through the cave. Historically, the cave and its bridge were used to transport tin ore from a mine near the stream entrance, in the Wan Tangga Valley, down to Kaki Bukit for onward transportation. Today, the cave is well illuminated, with coloured lights picking out particularly

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The remains of the tin mining area in Gua Kelam.

interesting sights. Wooden walkways branch off the bridge at points of interest, allowing visitors to explore the cave and see some of the superb rock formations and remnants of the tin mining operation. This is a natural habitat for cavedwelling animals like bats,

snakes, spiders and a variety of insects and other invertebrates. The swirling sound of a subterranean stream can also be heard during the walk. The area is popular for cave expeditions and a camping site is available. Other facilities here include

Coloured lights are used to showcase the cave’s most interesting features, especially these limestone formations which are millions of years old.

a rest area, benches, an indoor hall, a cafeteria and washrooms. Tour guides are also available for both day and overnight trips. An on-site gallery showcases tin ore mining materials and equipment and other exhibits found within the cave.

Wooden walkways and viewing platforms branch off the main pathway at points of interest, allowing visitors to take a close look at the unusual rock formations.

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JOHOR DESARU FRUIT FARM Desaru Tropical fruit farm with guided tours, mini-zoo and bullock cart rides. Hp (010) 760 8686 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm ENDAU-ROMPIN NATIONAL PARK Entry Points: Kampung Peta, Selai Endau Rompin and Kuala Rompin The largest rainforest reserve in Southern Malaysia is home to gibbons, elephants, deer, tapirs, tigers, leopards, Sumatran rhinoceroses and over 230 bird species. T (07) 788 2812/ 922 2875 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm GUNUNG LEDANG (MOUNT OPHIR) Tangkak According to local legend, Johor’s highest peak, the 1,276m Mount Ophir, is the abode of a mythical princess. Its slopes are covered with species-rich rainforest. Gunung Ledang Resort (60 rooms) is ideal for training/ seminars and family outings. T (06) 977 2888 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm

JOHOR BAHRU ZOO Johor Bahru One of the oldest zoos in the country with over 100 animal species and daily animal shows. T (07) 223 0404 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm KAMPUNG SUNGAI MELAYU Johor Bahru Malay fishing village at the city’s edge. Offers homestays, cultural activities, eco-tours, birdwatching (600 plus species) and fishing. Hp (019) 704 5904 Open: Daily, activities 8.30am~5.30pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri (1 week) KOREF DESARU LEISURE FARM Kota Tinggi Malaysia’s first organic rice farm offers farm stays and adventure activities. Hp (012) 768 3149 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Closed: Chinese New Year (2 days) NASUHA HERBS & SPICE FARM Muar Herb & spice farm offering restaurant, spa, chalets,

guided tours & activities. T (06) 973 7231 Open: Wed-Mon, 10.30am~6pm Closed: Tue & Hari Raya Aidilfitri (2 days) OSTRICH FARM DESARU Kota Tinggi Working ostrich farm with ostrich rides for children. T (07) 826 5846 Open: Daily, 10am~6pm PULAU KUKUP NATIONAL PARK Pontian A RAMSAR wetland with extensive walkways and viewing towers for exploring one of the world’s largest uninhabited mangrove islands. T (07) 696 9355 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri (2 days) SINAR ECO RESORT Pekan Nanas Established in 2016, Sinar Eco Resort is located in Pekan Nanas, Johor, Malaysia. Nestled deep within an oil palm plantation, the resort is designed with an ecological concept and features a large variety of animals. Hp (014) 252 3678 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm SRI TANJUNG LEISURE FARM Pontian Eco-farm with minizoo, animal feeding, fruit orchard and educational tours. Hp (012) 701 3755 Open: Thu-Tue, 10am~5pm Closed: Wed, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year

A convoy of visitors enjoying a guided all-terrain vehicle tour at Desaru Fruit Farm, Johor.

SUNGAI LEBAM WETLANDS Desaru A vast mangrove swamp

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and conservation area for fireflies, visible from tour boats. Hp (012) 759 3468 Open: Daily, 8.30pm~11.30pm TANJUNG BALAU FISHING VILLAGE Kota Tinggi Historic fishing village with a fine beach, handson fishing trips and a Fishermen’s Museum. T (07) 884 3000 Open: Museum: Daily, 9am~6pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri (2 days) TANJUNG PIAI NATIONAL PARK Pontian The southernmost tip of mainland Asia is rich in mangrove forest species with excellent birdwatching from the walkways. Nearby villages are noted for seafood restaurants. T (07) 266 1301 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm TELUK SENGAT CROCODILE FARM Kota Tinggi The oldest crocodile farm in the country. Don’t miss the feeding sessions (inquire for feeding time). T (07) 895 5220 Open: Daily, 9am~6.30pm

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KEDAH CROCODILE ADVENTURELAND LANGKAWI Langkawi Malaysia’s largest reptile attraction with 4,000 crocodiles, croc training and feeding shows and an animatronic dinosaur park. T (04) 959 2559 Open: Daily, 11am-5pm, showtimes from 10.30am GUNUNG JERAI Yan The highest mountain in the northern part of the Peninsula (1,217 m) has 30,000 steps leading to the peak, with a resort and a forestry museum at the top. T (04) 735 3664 (Forestry Dept. Sungai Petani) Open: Daily/ 24hrs GUNUNG RAYA NATURE PARK Langkawi Langkawi’s highest peak, accessible by road or 5km trail. Attractions include Lubuk Sembilan Waterfalls, wildlife trails, teahouse, art gallery and museum. T (04) 966 7789 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

UK AGRO FARM Kluang Malaysia’s largest goat and sheep farm, with horse riding, sheep herding, farm stays and tours. T (07) 759 7555 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm

ISMAIL CHE KAQ NIPAH FARM Yan Yan Nipah palm plantation producing nectar from the world’s oldest palm species. Refreshing nipah drinks, sweetmeats and vinegar for sale. Hp (012) 435 5104 Open: Sun, Mon, Tue & Thu, 11.30am~6pm, Fri, 2.30pm~6pm Closed: Wed

ZENXIN ORGANIC PARK Kluang Organic farm offering guided tours, petting zoo and family activities. T (07) 759 5196 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5.30pm

KILIM GEOFOREST PARK Langkawi Malaysia’s oldest limestone landscape also features extensive mangroves packed with wildlife. Best explored on a guided tour, which includes the famous

A Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi trainer and one of the 4,000 resident crocodiles thrilling the audience at a daily feeding show.

Gua Kelawar (bat cave). T (04) 959 2323 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri LAGENDA LANGKAWI ON THE PARK Langkawi Folklore-themed recreational park depicting local legends with statues. Open: Daily/24hrs LAKE OF THE PREGNANT MAIDEN

(TASIK DAYANG BUNTING)

Langkawi (Access by boat) Langkawi’s largest lake is named for mythical Princess Dayang Sari who buried her stillborn child here. Local legend claims childless women who bathe here can subsequently conceive. Open: Daily, 6am~8pm LANGKAWI WILDLIFE PARK Langkawi Imposing walk-through aviary with many native and other species, as well as a mini zoo. T (04) 966 5855 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5.30pm

MARDI LANGKAWI AGRO TECHNOLOGY PARK Langkawi This 35-hectare park offers insights into hightech farming systems and fresh produce for sale. T (04) 953 2550 Open: Sun-Thu,

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8.30am~5pm Closed: Fri & Sat PEDU LAKE

(TASIK PEDU)

Padang Terap Kedah’s largest lake at 75sq km, offers birdwatching, fishing, kayaking and trekking. Accommodation at Seri Mahawangsa Boat House only. Hp (019) 436 4807 (Boat House Operator) TELAGA TUJUH Langkawi The “Seven Wells” waterfall system is one of Langkawi’s most famous attractions, with chances of viewing wildlife on the 45-minute trek to the top. T (04) 950 2828 Open: Daily/ 24hrs TOBIAR MANGO FARM Pendang Malaysia’s largest (40-hectare) mango farm offers fruit picking and tasting and tours by foot, bicycle and tram. Hp (019) 668 5393 Open: Sun-Thu, 7.30am~4.30pm Closed: Fri, Sat & Public Holidays TREE TOP WALK SUNGAI SEDIM Kulim Imposing 925 metre rainforest canopy walk. Other attractions include paintball, whitewater rafting and teambuilding activities. T (04) 490 1588 Open: Daily, 9am~5.30pm ULU MUDA ECO PARK Sik The salt licks in this remote forest draw some of the largest mammals in the Peninsula. Birdwatching is also unsurpassed. T (04) 772 8255 Open: Daily/ 24hrs

KELANTAN CHA CAVE Ulu Kelantan One of the most important archaeological sites in Malaysia, with significant remains of Hoabinhian and Neolithic peoples. Can be visited via a rafting trip down the Nenggiri River. T (09) 912 0235 Open: Daily/ 24hrs GUA MUSANG ETHNOBOTANY PARK Gua Musang Includes a herbal park, gallery, incubator centre for herbal-based SMEs, chalets, mini animal park, climbing and caving activities. T (09) 913 2200 Open: Sun-Thu, 8am~5pm Closed: Fri & Sat

superb coastal views and a charmingly rustic Malay fishing village. TAMAN NEGARA KUALA KOH

(See also Pahang)

Entry Points: Kuala Tahan Pahang (main) also Gua Musang/ Kuala Koh (Kelantan) Kelantan’s portion of the Peninsula’s largest park covers 1,013sq km. Activities include bird watching, jungle trekking, rafting, fishing, river expeditions and mountain climbing. T (09) 741 6240 (Wildlife Department Kelantan) Open: Daily, 9am~6pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha KUALA LUMPUR

GUNUNG STONG STATE PARK Dabong 219sq km protected forest with prominent mountain peaks, 7-tiered Jelawang Waterfall, Asian elephants, Malayan tigers, tapirs, and spectacular 225 millionyear-old limestone caves. T (09) 955 6055 A permit is required to enter the park

KL BIRD PARK Perdana Botanical Gardens One of Malaysia’s most popular attractions. The world’s largest freeflight aviary offers over 3,000 birds from more than 200 species, as well as unmissable bird shows and experiences. T (03) 2272 1010 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm

KUALA BESAR FISHING VILLAGE Kota Bharu Traditional Malay fishing village made famous by painter Khalil Ibrahim.

KL BUTTERFLY PARK Perdana Botanical Gardens The largest butterfly park in the world, with over 5,000 live butterflies in a perfectly recreated natural tropical habitat. Hp (010) 264 6957 Open: Daily, 9am~4.30pm

MIN HOUSE CAMP Kota Bharu Homestay and campsite with eco- and agrotourism activities, noted for firefly watching tours. Hp (013) 922 5440 Open: Daily, 8am~7pm SABAK BEACH Kota Bharu Site of the first Japanese action of WWII, this idyllic beach offers

KL FOREST ECO PARK Bukit Kewangan Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, a natural urban green lung, is famous for its Canopy Walk through lush tropical rainforest in the heart of the city. T (03) 2020 1606 Open: Daily, 7am~6pm

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PERDANA BOTANICAL GARDENS

(Formerly known as Lake Gardens)

Tasik Perdana Established in 1888 as the Lake Gardens, this 92 hectare recreational park offers jogging and walking trails, an ASEAN Sculpture Garden, a Deer Park, an Orchid Garden with over 800 species, a Hibiscus Garden dedicated to Malaysia’s national flower, a Herb & Spice Garden, a Herbarium a Cycad Island and various other tree and plant collections. T (03) 2276 0432 Open: Daily, 7am~8pm (Herbarium 8am~4:30pm) LABUAN KINA BENUWA MANGROVE ECOLOGY PARK Jalan Kinabenuwa Pristine wetland dedicated to the conservation of 16 species of mangrove. Boardwalks provide good opportunities for birding and wildlife spotting. T (087) 423 445 Open: Daily/ 24hrs LABUAN BIRD PARK Jalan Tanjung Kubong Three large geodesic domes dominate the park, home to a variety of native and nonnative tropical birds. T (087) 463 544/ 546 Open: Mon, 2pm~4.30pm Sat-Sun & Tue-Thu 9am~4.30pm Fri, 9am~11.30am & 2pm~4.30pm LABUAN BOTANICAL GARDEN Jalan OKK Abdullah This beautifully landscaped park has many mature trees originally planted by naturalist and colonial administrator Sir Hugh Low in the 1850s.

T (087) 408 600 Open: Daily/ 24hrs MELAKA CAPE RACHADO

(TANJUNG TUAN) RECREATIONAL FOREST

Tanjung Tuan This small coastal forest reserve has the oldest lighthouse in Malaysia. It is also the perfect place to watch migrating raptors. Hp (012) 390 5947 (Mohd Asrol Che Mud) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm MELAKA BIRD PARK Durian Tunggal This enclosed 1.8 hectare site with a skywalk is the largest bird park in Malaysia. T (06) 232 3900 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~4pm; Sat & Sun, 9am~5pm MELAKA BUTTERFLY & REPTILE SANCTUARY Ayer Keroh Home to over 200 local butterfly species and more than 400 other insect species, as well as a reptile sanctuary with huge saltwater crocodiles. T (06) 232 0033 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5.30pm MELAKA CROCODILE PARK Ayer Keroh Over 100 crocodiles from four species in natural surroundings. Activities include photo-sessions, crocodile feeding and a crocodile-and-snake show. T (06) 232 2350/ 9136 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm MELAKA TROPICAL FRUIT FARM Sungai Udang 65 acres of undulating terrain, with orchards, vegetable farm, lake, ponds, gardens, petting zoo, jungle trekking, camping and tree climbing.

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Farmstays available. T (06) 351 6916 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5.30pm Closed: Public Holidays MELAKA ZOO Ayer Keroh The second largest zoo in the country and the first to exhibit the rare Sumatran Rhinoceros features many animal species, animal shows and a Night Zoo experience. Toll Free 1800 222 900 T (06) 232 3900 Open: Day Zoo: MonFri, 9am~4pm; Sat & Sun, 9am~5pm Night Safari: Fri, Sat School & Public Holidays, 8pm~11pm NEGERI SEMBILAN JELITA OSTRICH SHOW FARM Seremban Working ostrich farm where visitors can experience feeding and riding an ostrich (certificates awarded) and shop for ostrich oil cosmetic products. Hp (013) 212 0074 T (06) 767 0707 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm KENABOI STATE PARK Jelebu 9,450 hectare forest reserve dotted with scenic waterfalls. Activities include trekking, picnicking, kayaking and rafting. T (06) 765 9849 Open: Daily, 7.30am~5pm PD OSTRICH & PET SHOW FARM Port Dickson Ostrich races (weekends only), ostrich rides and a petting farm with camels, donkeys, goats, peaco*cks, rabbits and other familyfriendly animals. Hp (018) 203 8682 Open: Daily, 9.30am~6pm

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Junior guests listen attentively to their guide at Starfresh Agro Park, an agricultural education and activity centre in Negeri Sembilan.

SKY LADDER PINEAPPLE FARM Lukut Pineapple plantation with petting zoo and bicycle and ATV rides. Hp (017) 617 3633 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm STARFRESH AGRO PARK Seremban Agricultural education, wellness & activity centre with conference facilities. Also offers fresh produce for sale. T (06) 679 4288 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm TITI ECO FARM RESORT Jelebu Eco-Resort offering farmstays on a working organic farm, set 300m above sea level. Day visits with farm tours by arrangement only. T (03) 7874 8122/ 8127 Open: Daily/ 24hrs Closed: Office is closed on Mondays PAHANG AGROTECHNOLOGY PARK MARDI Cameron Highlands A research station set up by the British in 1925, the park has a variety of roses, strawberries, citrus fruits, apples, pears and persimmons, and is divided into distinct gardens. T (05) 491 1255 Open: Wed-Mon, 8am~5pm Closed: Tue, except School & Public Holidays

BESERAH FISHING VILLAGE Kuantan Famous for its colourful traditional fishing boats and the buffalo carts used to transport their catch. Attractions also include a batik factory and seafood restaurants.

CHARAS CAVES Kuantan Limestone cave complex comprising eight caves, one of which is used as a Thai Buddhist temple and features an 8-metre reclining Buddha statue. Hp (013) 938 7541 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

BHARAT TEA PLANTATION Cameron Highlands Beautifully manicured tea bushes are swathed across the hills. Guided tours by appointment. T (05) 491 1133 Open: Mon-Thu, 8.30am~6pm Fri-Sun, 8am~7pm

CHERATING AGROTECHNOLOGY PARK Cherating The park has a variety of galleries covering topics including coconut farming, herb horticulture and beekeeping. T (09) 581 8180 Open: Mon-Thu, 8am~5pm Fri, 8am~12.15pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun, Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha

BOH TEA GARDEN HABU Cameron Highlands Largest and oldest of the BOH tea gardens, includes BOH’s first tea factory built in the 1930’s. Panoramic views and educational tours and activities. T (05) 493 1324 Open: Tue-Sun, 8.30am~4.30pm Closed: Mon, except School & Public Holidays BOH TEA GARDEN SUNGAI PALAS

(See page 204)

CACTUS VALLEY Cameron Highlands Commercial nursery with hundreds of varieties of cacti on display and for sale, as well as other ornamental plants. T (05) 4911 455 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm CAMERON HIGHLANDS BUTTERFLY GARDEN Cameron Highlands Over 40 species of live butterflies, as well as exotic beetles, stick insects, spiders, snakes, frogs and toads. T (05) 496 1364 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm

CHERATING TURTLE SANCTUARY Cherating The centre carries out turtle hatching programmes, conducts research and runs educational programmes on marine turtles. T (09) 581 9087 Open: Tue-Sun, 9.30am~4.30pm Closed: Mon & Public Holidays DEERLAND PARK Lanchang Home to Javan, Sika and Mouse deer. Other attractions are ostriches and a sun bear. Traditional herbs are also cultivated in the 4 hectare park. Hp (013) 988 1345 Open: Mon-Thu 10.30am~4pm Sat & Sun, 10.30am~5pm Closed: Fri FELDA RESIDENCE TEKAM Jerantut This resort offers visits to the Kota Gelanggi and Gunung Senyum Caves as well as local rubber and oil palm plantations.

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Activities include river rafting, jungle trekking and cave exploration. T (09) 471 8182 Open: Daily/ 24hrs FRASER’S HILL Raub Historic hill station noted for its Englishstyle colonial bungalows and cool mountain air. Popular for birding and hosts an International Bird Race every June. Attractions include quaint architecture, extensive unspoilt rainforest and many scenic waterfalls. T (09) 568 1623 GUNUNG TAHAN Taman Negara Pahang At 2,187m, Gunung Tahan is the highest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia. It is located entirely within Taman Negara Pahang and three guided trekking routes are offered. T (09) 266 1122/ 4152 KASIMANIS STRAWBERRY FARM Cameron Highlands One of the largest strawberry farms in Malaysia. Visitors can pick their own or buy ready packed strawberries and preserves. Hp (010) 386 7074 Open: Daily, 8.30am~6.30pm KENONG ECO FOREST PARK Kuala Lipis 3 hours by boat from Kuala Lipis, the park has waterfalls, mountain streams and various flora and fauna. Activities include caving, birding, camping, fishing and trekking. Prior booking required before visiting. T (09) 310 1550 (Forestry Dept. Malaysia) KOTA GELANGGI CAVES Jerantut

This limestone cave complex is amongst the best in the region, offering unique flora and fauna and spectacular rock formations. T (09) 471 8300/ 8450 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm KRAU WILDLIFE RESERVE Temerloh The largest wildlife reserve in Peninsular Malaysia (60,349ha) has been left untouched to preserve the ecosystem. Bird-watching, jungle trekking, camping and canoeing are permitted in the outer buffer zone. T (03) 9086 6800 (Wildlife Dept. Malaysia) LAKE CHINI Pekan Malaysia’s second largest natural lake at 5,026ha and the country’s only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Activities include boating, canoeing, trekking, fishing, camping, visiting orang asli villages. T (09) 568 1623 LAVENDER GARDEN Cameron Highlands Shopping and horticultural complex with lavender field, flower nursery and strawberry farm. T (05) 496 1208 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm MERAPOH CAVES Kuala Lipis Caver’s paradise with hundreds of limestone caves and several important archaeological sites. T (09) 568 1623 Hp (017) 907 4241 (Cave exploration guide) MOSSY FOREST Cameron Highlands Fascinating moss-covered cloud rainforest landscape. Tours available. Self-drive visitors must use 4WD. T (05) 491 1384 (Forestry Dept.)

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Hp (013) 674 1406 Open: Daily/ 24hrs NATIONAL ELEPHANT CONSERVATION CENTRE (KUALA GANDAH) (See page 210)

ORCHID & ROSE GARDEN Cameron Highlands Floral garden and farm with flowers, plants and produce for sale. Hp (017) 519 2383 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm RAJU’S HILL STRAWBERRY FARM Cameron Highlands Strawberry farm with free tours of the strawberry fields and processing plant. Hp (019) 575 3867 Open: Daily, 8am~6.30pm ROSE VALLEY Cameron Highlands This commercial flower nursery has over 450 types of roses as well as other unique flowers such as the gerbera, diamond, honeysuckle, camellia and more. Hp (012) 505 2883 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm SULTAN HAJI AHMAD SHAH AGRICULTURE PARK Kuantan 500-hectare site with orchards, arboretum, spice gardens, protected forest, greenhouses, recreational park, exposition concourse and campsites. Call first for permission to visit. T (09) 573 2194/ 512 1666 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm Closed: Weekends & Public Holidays TAMAN NEGARA KUALA TAHAN

(See also Kelantan)

Entry Points: Kuala Tahan Pahang (main) also Gua Musang/ Kuala Koh (Kelantan). Peninsular Malaysia’s

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A Malayan tapir captured by a camera trap while foraging at night in Taman Negara, Pahang. Wild tapirs are frequently spotted in this huge National Park.

largest and most important national park, this 4,343sq km tropical rainforest has crystal clear streams, spectacular rock formations, and countless species of flora and fauna. Facilities and activities include a canopy walk, Orang Asli settlement, campsites, fishing, trekking and salt licks where iconic large mammals such as elephants and tigers can be observed. T (09) 266 1122/ 4152 (Wildlife Department) Open: Daily, 8am~6pm TASIK (LAKE) BERA Bera The largest natural lake

in Malaysia, a RAMSAR wetland of international importance and the home of the Semelai Orang Asli tribe. Activities include angling, canoeing, jungle trekking, birdwatching and mud bathing. T (09) 246 4020 PENANG BATU MAUNG FISHING VILLAGES Bayan Lepas Batu Maung is a cluster of small fishing villages on the southeastern tip of the island. Attractions include the Penang War Museum and the Sam Poh Footprint Temple (said to contain the first footprint of Admiral Zheng He on Malaysian soil.) BUKIT PANCHOR STATE PARK Seberang Prai Recreation park brimming with wildlife, lush rainforest, extensive mangroves, a wetland boardwalk and a fascinating bat cave. T (04) 593 2977 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm

ENTOPIA BY PENANG BUTTERFLY FARM Tanjung Bungah Multiple award-winning, state-of-the-art butterfly farm, invertebrate research centre and nature learning facility, frequently voted Penang’s top visitor attraction. T (04) 888 8111 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm PENANG BIRD PARK Perai Two geodesic domes and two walk-in aviaries house almost 3,000 birds from more than 250 species, of which 150 are indigenous to Malaysia. T (04) 399 1899 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm Daily Bird Shows: 11.30am & 3.30pm PENANG BOTANICAL GARDEN George Town 30 hectares of gardens, waterfalls and ponds, populated with longtailed macaque (or rhesus) monkeys. One of the most popular attractions in Penang. T (04) 226 4401 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm PENANG NATIONAL PARK Teluk Bahang One of the world’s smallest national parks, it is nevertheless important as a nesting ground for marine turtles and is a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers. T (04) 881 3530 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm PENANG TROPICAL FRUIT FARM Teluk Bahang This 25-acre farm offers more than 200 varieties of tropical fruits, with farm tours every hour. Hp (012) 497 1931 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

The award-winning Tropical Spice Garden in Teluk Bahang has over 500 plant species from Malaysia and Asia and offers guided tours and educational activities.

TROPICAL SPICE GARDEN Teluk Bahang

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Award-winning 3.2ha spice garden with more than 500 varieties of flora from Malaysia and Asia. Also offers guided tours, night walks and cooking classes. T (04) 881 1797 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm UNESCO PENANG HILL BIOSPHERE RESERVE This 12,481-hectare reserve was announced by UNESCO in September 2021. It encompasses the timeless forests of Penang Hill, the State’s Forest Reserves, the historic Penang Botanical Gardens, Penang National Park, and coastal and marine ecosystems in an unbroken link from the hilltop to the sea. Its centerpiece is The Habitat Penang Hill, a fun, immersive, and educational experience for nature lovers of all ages. THE HABITAT PENANG HILL Jalan Stesen, Bukit Bendera George Town T (04) 826 7677 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm Sunset Viewing: Weekends, 9am~7pm PERAK BELUM FOREST RESERVE Gerik The largest untouched forest reserve in Peninsular Malaysia. Large mammal species such as elephants, rhinoceroses, tapirs and tigers and an immense wealth of flora make Belum very special. T (05) 791 6800 Open: Visits only via approved tour operators BERSIA GRAZING RESERVE Gerik Remotely located deer, buffalo and cattle breeding station offering farmstays, visits to Orang Asli villages,

The Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk, the highest publicly accessible viewing platform in Penang, is set within The Habitat Penang Hill at the heart of the newly-created UNESCO Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve.

angling on Temenggor Lake, and feeding and rounding up the cattle. T (05) 791 2131 (Gerik Veterinary Dept.) GUNUNG LANG RECREATIONAL PARK Ipoh Landscaped recreational park at the city’s edge with stunning limestone formations. It was created from a formerly devastated iron and tin mining area. T (05) 506 3088/ 208 3333 Open: Daily, 9am~4pm HOGA, GAHARU TEA VALLEY GOPENG Gopeng Malaysia’s first organic agarwood plantation, producing gaharu teas and other herbal products which are sold in the shop. Plantation tour available. T (05) 351 1999 Open: Daily, 9.15am~6pm Closed: Tue (except Public Holidays) INFOTERNAK FARM Kuala Kangsar Research and show farm and farmstay with cattle, goats, deer, ostriches and rabbits. Fresh milk and meat for sale. T (05) 598 1552 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays

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KUALA GULA BIRD SANCTUARY Kuala Kurau Part of the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, with over 160 species of birds, together with otters, dusky-leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques and ridgeback dolphins. T (05) 890 2207 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~1pm & 2pm~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays MATANG MANGROVE FOREST RESERVE Taiping The world’s best-managed sustainable mangrove forest. Attractions include charcoal factory, bird watching and fireflies. T (05) 807 2762 (Larut and Matang District Forest Office) Open: Daily, 8am~6pm REFARM Kampar 26-acre organic recreational farm, with resort, petting/feeding zoo, trekking and farmstay activities. Hp (012) 502 6115 Open: Wed-Mon, 9am~6pm Closed: Tue, except School & Public Holidays RIVER TERRAPIN BREEDING CENTRE Bota Hatchery and information centre for these endangered reptiles. From

Hoga Gaharu Tea Valley is Malaysia’s first organic agarwood plantation, producing exotic herbal products which are available for sale.

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November to February, migrating terrapins can be seen swimming upstream to lay their eggs. T (05) 376 2726 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~4pm Closed: Weekends & Public Holidays SAHOM VALLEY RESORT ECO & AGRO PARK Kampar Eco-challenge and farmstay centre focusing on organic farming and nature conservation. Hp (012) 488 2480 Open: Daily/ 24hrs SEGARI TURTLE CONSERVATION & INFORMATION CENTRE Lumut Turtle sanctuary with hatchery working to conserve green turtles, conduct research and run marine turtle educational activities. T (05) 255 4061 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm TAIPING LAKE GARDENS Taiping The oldest public gardens in Malaysia (1880), built around an abandoned tin mine, with 10 lakes, landscaped gardens and heritage buildings including the Old Residency and the Raja’s House. T (05) 808 0777 Open: Daily/ 24hrs TAIPING ZOO & NIGHT SAFARI Taiping This 14 hectare zoo focuses not on the number of species but on their quality of life, with a successful breeding record as evidence. The Night Safari offers the chance to view nocturnal animals by artificial moonlight. T (05) 808 6577/ 804 1045 Open: Daily, 8.30am~6pm Night Safari: 8pm~10pm

TAMAN BOTANI PERAK Taiping Colourful and well-planned botanical garden adjacent to Taiping Lake Gardens. T (05) 808 0777 Open: Daily, 8.30am~7pm TEMENGGOR LAKE Hulu Perak Largest man-made lake in Perak has a wide variety of flora and fauna and a population of 5,600 Orang Asli people of the Temiar, Jahai and Kinchu tribes. A popular angling and birding destination with species not seen elsewhere. TEMPURUNG CAVE Gopeng One of the largest natural limestone caves in Peninsular Malaysia, over 3km long with a 1.6km river passage featuring spectacular rock formations. Hp (012) 529 2426 Open: Daily, 9am~4pm PERLIS GUA KELAM

(KELAM CAVE) (See page 214)

PERLIS HERBAL FOREST Kangar A 12-hectare living museum of plants, herbs and spices. Educational tours allow visitors to learn about the valuable properties of these plants. T (04) 976 5966 Open: Sat-Thu, 8am~5pm; Fri, 8am~12pm & 3pm~5pm PERLIS STATE PARK Wang Kelian This 5,000 hectare park, part of the 500 million year old Setul rock formation, is home to more than 600 plants, 200 birds, 70 mammals and 35 reptiles species. T (04) 977 6626 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm

SNAKE & REPTILE FARM PERLIS Kangar Malaysia’s only snake farm, established by the Institute of Medical Research to facilitate research into anti-venoms. Over 30 species, many of them poisonous, are on display, along with other indigenous reptiles. T (04) 976 8511 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~5pm; Fri, 9am~12pm & 2.45pm~5pm Closed: Hari Raya Aidilfitri (3 days) & Hari Raya Aildiladha (3 days) TASIK MELATI

(MELATI LAKE)

Kangar Delightfully landscaped lake park in the state capital with more than 150 islets that can be reached by boat. It is stocked with fish and also has many lotus flowers. TIMAH TASOH LAKE Padang Besar On the way to Padang Besar, this man-made lake is a beautiful scenic area ideal for bird watching. PUTRAJAYA PUTRA PERDANA PARK Precinct 1 Located at the highest point in Precinct 1, this 70ha landscaped park is home to the Istana Melawati and the Mercu Tandu or Putrajaya Landmark. T (03) 8000 8000 Open: Mon-Fri, 7am~8pm Sat & Sun, 7am~10pm PUTRAJAYA BOTANICAL PARK

(TAMAN BOTANI)

Precinct 1 Malaysia’s largest botanical garden, with extensive collections and themed walks, covered walkways,

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

tram service, bike rental, gazebos, picnic shelters and an exquisite Moroccan Pavilion. T (03) 8887 7770 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm PUTRAJAYA WETLANDS Precinct 13 The first man-made wetland in Malaysia and the largest in the tropics (2,100ha). Includes the 138ha Wetland Park, 18-metre heigh lookout tower, plant nursery, nature trails, interpretation centre, flamingo pond, picnic areas and more. T (03) 8887 7774 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm TAMAN SAUJANA HIJAU Precinct 11 Attractive 41 hectare park covering a ridge and three rolling hills, divided into a European Garden, Oriental Garden and English Garden. T (03) 8887 7770 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm TAMAN WAWASAN

(METROPOLITAN PARK)

Precinct 2 Bordering the Putrajaya Lake in Precinct 2, Taman Wawasan offers an aviary, three themed adventure playgrounds, a lakefront promenade and jogging trails. T (03) 8887 7770 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm

The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre near Sandakan is a rescue and rehabilitation facility for the world’s smallest bear species. Visitors can view 40-plus residents in their natural habitat.

SABAH BATU PUNGGUL Sapulut A 260 metre limestone massif with caves deep in the rainforest. Rafflesia and wild orchids are found nearby. Contact Sabah Tourism Board for tour operators and homestays. T (088) 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board) Open: Daily/ 24hrs BORNEAN SUN BEAR CONSERVATION CENTRE Sandakan A rescue and rehabilitation facility for Malayan sun bears, the world’s smallest bear species. Visitors can learn about sun bears and observe the 40-plus residents in their natural habitat. T (089) 534 491 Open: Daily, 9am~3.30pm CROCKER RANGE PARK Tambunan The park is more than 300m above sea level and offers rivers, rapids and interesting flora and fauna. Accommodation available. T (088) 523 500 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA Lahad Datu One of the foremost tropical rainforest research and education establishments in Southeast Asia. Activities include bird watching and treks to view Borneo pygmy elephants. Prebooking required. T (088) 212 844 Open: Daily, 7am~7pm DESA DAIRY FARM Kundasang Modern dairy farm producing most of Sabah’s milk. Visitors may view milking and milk processing. T (088) 889 562 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm

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GARAMA WETLAND Beaufort Mangrove wetland, ideal for spotting proboscis monkeys and fireflies from boat cruises. Contact Sabah Tourism Board for list of operators. T (088) 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board) Hp (016) 832 2940 (Sabah Tourist Association) Open: Daily, 2pm~7pm GOMANTONG CAVES Sandakan Two cave complexes famous for edible birds’ nests and spectacular views of millions of bats leaving the caves at sunset. The area is rich in bird life, and wild orangutans are frequently seen. T (089) 561 527 Open: Sat-Thu, 8am~1pm & 2pm~5pm; Fri, 8am~11.30am & 2pm~5pm KINABALU PARK Kundasang Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site is centered on Mount Kinabalu (4,095.2m), the highest peak in the Malay Archipelago. Vegetation includes endemic pitcher plants, rafflesia and more than 1,200 orchid species. The 351-plus bird species include 39 that are endemic. Main attractions are the Kinabalu Peak Climb, trekking, birding, butterfly watching and visiting the botanical gardens. Facilities include accommodation, restaurants, shops and an information centre. T (088) 523 500 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm KLIAS WETLAND Beaufort Mangrove wetland with high density of proboscis monkeys as well as crocodiles, small reptiles and birds. Contact

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orangutans, proboscis monkeys, Malayan Tigers, etc., in open enclosures. T (088) 765 793/ 710 Open: Daily, 9.30am~4.30pm

The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary was started as a hobby activity by local plantation employees and has blossomed into a safe haven for more than 60 monkeys.

Sabah Tourism Board for list of operators. T (088) 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board) Open: Daily, 2pm~7pm KOTA KINABALU WETLAND RAMSAR SITE Kota Kinabalu This 24ha mangrove conservation area in the heart of Kota Kinabalu hosts more than 30 mangrove species, 90 resident and migratory birds and five reptile species. T (088) 246 955 Open: Tue-Sun, 8am~5pm Closed: Mon LABUK BAY PROBOSCIS MONKEY SANCTUARY Sandakan Privately run mangrove forest sanctuary with around 60 proboscis monkeys in residence. Viewing platforms, interpretation centre and accommodation on site. T (089) 672 133/ 134 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm Feeding times: 9.30am 11.30am, 2.30pm, 4.30pm LOK KAWI WILDLIFE PARK Penampang Large (112ha), family friendly wildlife park with Borneo pygmy elephants,

LOWER KINABATANGAN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Sukau This 27,000ha wildlife sanctuary offers views of large mammals in the wild, including Borneo pygmy elephants, 10 primate species including orangutans and proboscis monkeys, 8 species of hornbills as well as resident and migratory birds. Many operators run eco-lodges in the area. T (088) 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board) Open: Daily/ 24hrs PORING HOT SPRINGS Ranau Natural hot springs perfect for soothing sore muscles after the peak climb, with abundant flora and fauna nearby. Facilities include a rainforest canopy walk, accommodation and food stalls. T (088) 486 430/ 878 801 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm RAFFLESIA INFORMATION CENTRE Tambunan The rainforest here is set aside for the conservation of the unique Rafflesia flower. Guides are available to take visitors to flowering plants. T (088) 899 589 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~3pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 8am~1pm RAINFOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE Sandakan Hands-on rainforest learning experiences. Attractions include canopy walkway, plant discovery garden, nature trails, rainforest

exhibition, night walk, birdwatching, education programs and more. T (089) 533 780 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm SABAH AGRICULTURE PARK Tenom This 200ha site offers a collection of over 1,500 orchids, a Crops Museum, various educational gardens, a Bee Garden & Museum and a mini zoo. T (087) 737 952 Open: Tue–Sun, 9am~5pm Closed: Mon SABAH TEA GARDEN

(See page 206)

SANDAKAN CROCODILE FARM Sandakan The largest crocodile breeder in Malaysia with over 3,000 reptiles at all stages of development. Offers crocodile shows, mini zoo and children’s park. T (089) 660 666 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm SEPILOK ORANG UTAN REHABILITATION CENTRE Sandakan The world’s largest orang utan sanctuary, established in 1964 to return orphaned apes to the wild. Facilities include information centre, gallery and cafeteria with accommodation available on-site or at nearby lodges and homestays. T (089) 633 587 Open: Daily, 8am~12pm & 2pm~5pm Feeding times: 10am & 3pm TABIN WILDLIFE RESERVE Lahad Datu Situated on the Dent Peninsula, the area is home to Sabah’s three largest mammals, the Borneo pygmy elephant, Sumatran rhinoceros and tembadau (wild ox). Campsite and resort on site.

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T (088) 267 266 (Sabah Wildlife Department) Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~2pm Closed: Weekends TUARAN CROCODILE FARM Tuaran Large crocodile farm in Sabah with over 1,000 specimens. Daily crocodile shows as well as cultural performances. T (088) 793 377 Open: Daily, 8.30am~5.30pm TURTLE ISLAND PARK Sandakan These three islands are famous for the green and hawksbill turtles which lay their eggs on the beaches. The main island offers an information centre and hostel accommodation. T (089) 213 320 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm (Overnight visits advised) WESTON WETLAND PARK Beaufort Mangrove wetland similar to Garama and Klias but offering accommodation and a range of tour packages. T (088) 212 121 (Sabah Tourism Board) Open: Daily/ 24hrs SARAWAK BA’KELALAN Limbang Home to the Lun Bawang people, Ba’kelalan is a collection of villages on an elevated plateau, noted for irrigated rice and fruit cultivation. Together with the neighbouring Kelabit Highlands, it offers some of the best treks in Borneo. T (085) 434 181/ 180 (Visitor Information Centre Miri) BAKO NATIONAL PARK Kuching Bako features seven distinct plant ecosystems

and is known for the extraordinary variety of its natural scenery, plant life and wildlife. Overnight stays recommended to catch the proboscis monkeys feeding in the mangroves. T (082) 248 088 (Visitor Information Centre Kuching) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm BAKO-BUNTAL BAY Kuching This rich estuarine and mangrove ecosystem is an Important bird area with a huge variety of migratory waterbirds, as well as Irrawaddy dolphins, estuarine crocodiles and proboscis monkeys. Local operators can arrange birding, dolphinspotting and crocodile watching tours. T (082) 248 088 (Visitor Information Centre Kuching) BATANG AI NATIONAL PARK Lubok Antu Located in the headwaters of the Batang Ai Hydro Lake, the park is dedicated to primate conservation, has the highest density of wild orangutans in Borneo and is known for its “Red Ape Trail”. Arrange tours with local travel agents, staying in nearby Iban longhouses. T (082) 248 088 (Visitor Information Centre Kuching) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm GUNUNG GADING NATIONAL PARK Lundu The park sprawls across four jungle-clad mountain peaks, with crystal clear streams and waterfalls. Main attraction is viewing rafflesia flowers from the many attractive trekking trails. Phone to check if rafflesias are in bloom.

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T (082) 735 144 Open: Daily, 8am~3pm GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARK Baram Sarawak’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 544sq km of primary rainforest and contains the most spectacular cave system in the world, including the world’s largest natural chamber (Sarawak Chamber), largest cave passage (Deer Cave) and Southeast Asia’s longest cave (Clearwater Cave). Attractions include four spectacular show caves, the famed Bat Observatory, the longest tree-based walkway in the world and challenging treks to Mulu Pinnacles and Gunung Mulu T (085) 792 606 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm Minimum 1 night stay required JONG’S CROCODILE FARM & ZOO Kuching Sarawak’s largest crocodile farm offers daily crocodile feeding shows, a minimuseum and mini-zoo. T (082) 863 570 (farm) Open: Daily, 9am~5pm Feeding Demo daily, 11am & 3pm KELABIT HIGHLANDS Miri A mountain valley over 1,000m above sea level, home to the Kelabit people, its cool climate, scenic rice fields, traditional longhouses and rugged mountain scenery make it one of the best trekking destinations in Malaysia. T (085) 434 181/ 180 (Visitor Information Centre Miri) KUBAH NATIONAL PARK Kuching This rugged sandstone and

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shale ridge, just a short drive from Kuching, boasts one of the widest selections of palms and orchids in Borneo, and is also home to the world’s smallest frog. Hp (011) 6572 9232 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~5pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 7.30am~4.30pm KUCHING WETLANDS NATIONAL PARK Kuching Sarawak’s only RAMSAR site is an important breeding area for marine species as well as proboscis monkeys, silver leaf monkeys, estuarine crocodiles and a range of birdlife. Accessible only via organized cruises. T (082) 242 289 (CPH Travel) Open: Daily, 8am~8pm LAMBIR HILLS NATIONAL PARK Miri Just a short drive from Miri, Lambir is acknowledged to be the world’s single most complex and diverse forest ecosystem. Nonscientists will appreciate the waterfalls and trekking trails. Hp (011) 6572 9433 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm LOAGAN BUNUT NATIONAL PARK Miri Sarawak’s largest natural lake (65ha) expands and contracts with the level of the surrounding rivers, creating a unique ecosystem. Highlights include the unique fishing methods of the local Berawan people, rich birdlife and abundant mammals including Bornean gibbons. T (085) 434 181/ 180 (Visitor Information Centre Miri) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm MALAYSIAN PEPPER BOARD (See page 208)

MALUDAM NATIONAL PARK Betong The largest intact peat swamp forest in Borneo with the world’s only viable population of redbanded langurs, as well as proboscis monkeys, crocodiles and rich birdlife. Contact local travel agents for village homestay for tours. Hp (019) 888 7361 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm MATANG WILDLIFE CENTRE Kuching Rehabilitation centre for endangered species, especially orangutans, that have been orphaned or kept illegally. Also has a series of rock pools, a swimming area, picnic and camping spots and scenic natural trails. T (082) 374 869 Hp (011) 6572 9228 Open: Daily, 9am~12pm & 2pm~4pm NIAH NATIONAL PARK Miri A birthplace of civilization, inhabited for over 40,000 years, Niah is possibly the most important archeological site in Southeast Asia. Attractions include the spectacular Great Cave and Painted Cave, trekking trails, impressive bat and swiftlet swarms and an informative Archaeological Museum. T (085) 737 450/ 454 Open: Daily, 8.15am~3pm PULAU TUKONG ARABANUN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY Kuching These two tiny islets are important nesting sites for colonies of bridled terns and black-naped terns. Boats may approach but landing is not permitted. Hp (012) 891 2400 Open: Daily/ 24hrs

PULONG TAU NATIONAL PARK Miri This vast, almost 60,000ha park includes the Kelabit Highlands and Sarawak’s highest mountains, Gunung Murud and Batu Lawi. Very rich in plant species, especially pitcher plants and orchids. Sumatran rhinoceros and clouded leopards have been sighted. T (085) 668 921 Open: Mon-Fri, 8am~6pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 9am~3pm SAMA JAYA NATURE RESERVE Kuching Kuching’s 40ha green lung reserve is popular with joggers and also includes a fitness trail, Timber & Bamboo Museum, Forest Biology Museum and Botanical Garden. T (082) 365 194 Open: Daily, 7am~11am & 2pm~6pm sem*nGGOH NATURE RESERVE Kuching Formerly an Orangutan rehabilitation centre,

sem*nggoh Nature Reserve near Kuching, formerly an orangutan rehabilitation centre, is now a research centre and home to over 20 semi-wild orangutans. Visitors may view daily feeding activities.

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sem*nggoh is now a research centre and home to over 20 semi-wild orangutans. Visitors can watch the orangutans at feeding times and view the rainforest species and native fruit trees along the trail. Day visitors only. T (082) 618 325/ 324 Open: Daily, 8am~10am & 2pm~4pm Feeding Times: 9~10am & 3~4pm SIMILAJAU NATIONAL PARK Bintulu This almost 9,000ha coastal park offers golden sandy beaches, rocky headlands and jungle streams bordered by dense green forest. Turtles and estuarine crocodiles are the signature species, along with abundant birdlife. Hp (019) 861 0998 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm TALANG-SATANG NATIONAL PARK Kuching Sarawak’s first marine national park, dedicated to sea turtle conservation. Its four islands receive 95% of turtle landings in the state. Visit on organized boat tours; other islands are restricted to participants in Sarawak Forestry’s Sea Turtle Conservation Programme. T (082) 248 088 (Visitor Information Centre Kuching) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm TAMAN TUMBINA BINTULU Bintulu This combined botanical garden and zoo covers 57ha and features a variety of plant species, native animals, Malayan tigers and a butterfly park. T (086) 337 709/ 710 Open: Daily, 8.30am~4.30pm

The Fairy Cave near Bau is an impressive limestone cave reached by a steep concrete staircase. The large main chamber has a Chinese shrine at the entrance.

TANJUNG DATU NATIONAL PARK Kuching Located at the far western tip of Sarawak, Tanjung Datu’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters make an idyllic escape. Visit as a day trip from nearby village homestays or on an organized tour with local travel agents. T (082) 248 088 (Visitor Information Centre Kuching) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm USUN APAU NATIONAL PARK Miri Usun Apau offers the highest and most impressive waterfalls in Malaysia, as well as rich biodiversity. The Park may only be visited by arrangement with the local Kenyah community. T (082) 610 088 (Sarawak Forestry Corporation) WIND CAVE & FAIRY CAVE NATURE RESERVE Bau Wind Cave: This tubular limestone cave has a 1,000m plankwalk so visitors may easily view the spectacular rock formations and the nesting

bats. Popular picnic and swimming area outside. Fairy Cave: This is a larger and more impressive limestone cave. Ascend a steep concrete staircase to enter a large main chamber with a Chinese shrine at the entrance. Hp (011) 6572 9290 Open: 9am~4pm SELANGOR BUKIT MELAWATI

(MELAWATI HILL)

Kuala Selangor Prominent hill with panoramic views of the Straits of Malacca. Attractions include a ruined fortress (Kota Melawati), hilltop tram ride, working lighthouse, Kuala Selangor Historical Museum and resident silver leaf monkeys. T (03) 3289 1439/ 1549 Open: Mon-Fri, 9am~4.30pm Tourist Tram: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 9am~6pm FARM IN THE CITY Seri Kembangan Award-winning agro/eco theme park with multiple wild and domestic animal exhibits. Strong emphasis on wildlife conservation education and awareness-

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its spectacular views. T (03) 4285 7000 Open: Daily, 6am~7pm KUALA SELANGOR NATURE PARK Kuala Selangor The park comprises 250 hectares of coastal mangrove swamps, home to 130 species of birds. T (03) 3289 2294 Open: Daily, 9am~6pm KUAN WELLNESS ECO PARK Tanjung Sepat Eco-agro fruit farm with mini zoo and edible bird’s nest processing. T (03) 3148 1126 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

A hiker is rewarded by the stunning sunset view from Bukit Tabur, one of the highest points in the Klang Gates Quartz Ridge. Selangor’s boldest geological feature is just minutes from Kuala Lumpur city centre.

raising for all ages. T (03) 8941 2099/ 3099 Open: Mon-Fri, 10am~6pm Sat, Sun & Public Holidays, 9.30am~6pm Closed: Tue FIREFLY PARK RESORT Kuala Selangor Chalet-style resort dedicated to comfortable viewing of the Selangor River’s spectacular fireflies . Hp (013) 388 6310 Tours: Nightly, 8pm~10.30pm (weather permitting) FOREST RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF MALAYSIA (FRIM) Kepong One of the world’s leading institutions in tropical forestry research. The grounds include a recreational site with guided tours, education programs, canopy walk and forest trekking trails. Occupying a 600-hectare area, FRIM is surrounded by the Lagong

Hill Forest Reserve. It used to be a mining site, but has since been turned into a forest and research centre opened to public. T (03) 6279 7000 Open: Daily, 8am~5pm Closed: Sat, Sun & Public Holidays (office only) KAMPUNG KUANTAN FIREFLIES PARK Kuala Selangor The mangrove trees here come alive at night with the incandescent glow of thousands of fireflies. Get a close-up view from hand-paddled sampans. T (03) 3289 1439/ 1549 (Kuala Selangor District Council) Open: Daily, 7.30am~10.30pm KLANG GATES QUARTZ RIDGE Ampang The longest quartz ridge in the world (16km) and a geological site of international importance. Popular with hikers for

MALAYSIA AGRO EXPOSITION PARK (MAEPS) Serdang Agro-tourism and lifestyle park attached to Malaysia’s largest agriculture showground. Attractions include fishing, orbing (inflatable), kayaking, animal park and equine centre. T (03) 8948 4699/ 4380 Open: Mon-Fri, 8.30am~5.30pm Closed: Sat & Sun PAYA INDAH WETLANDS Dengkil This 3,200-hectare wetland sanctuary is home to 210 residential and migratory bird species and 26 mammal species, including four Nile hippos. Activities include horse riding, cycling and crocodile feeding. T (03) 8768 7616 Open: Daily, 8am~6pm; Fri, 8am~12pm & 2.45pm~6pm SELANGOR FRUITS VALLEY Rawang Vast 646-hectare tropical fruit farm with familyfriendly outdoor and adventure activities, pick-

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your-own fruit harvesting, animal attractions, treks, trails and more. Hp (012) 343 2971 or 344 5033 Open: Sat-Thu, 9am~4pm Closed: Fri SHAH ALAM NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN Shah Alam Large (817ha) botanical park with thematic gardens, four seasons temperate house, aviary, and cultural village. Activities include archery, horse-riding, ATV-ride, Skytrex and Fly Fishing. T (03) 5510 6922/ 7048 Open: Tue-Sun & Public Holidays, 7.30am~4.30pm Closed: Mon TAMAN TASIK SHAH ALAM Shah Alam Popular city park with lakes, jogging trails, children’s playground, petting zoo and kayak rental. T (03) 5522 2834 Open: Daily/ 24hrs ZOO NEGARA Ampang The National Zoo is the largest and most modern zoo in Malaysia, with over 5,000 specimens from almost 500 species. Highlights include animal shows and an impressive aquarium. Hp (018) 233 1200 Open: Daily, 9am~5pm

with official permission. T (09) 844 4169 Open: March – September Daily: 8am~5pm PELADANG SETIU AGRO RESORT Setiu Rustic agro resort focusing on educational and team-building activities. Facilities include chalets, hostel, floating restaurant, swimming pool, campsite, mini bird park. T (09) 620 5368 RANTAU ABANG TURTLE & MARINE ECOSYSTEM CENTRE (TUMEC) Dungun Rantau Abang is only one of 6 beaches in the world visited (nowadays rarely) by giant leatherback turtles. The beach is now a Turtle Sanctuary with hatchery and an informative visitor centre. T (09) 845 8169 Open: Sun-Wed, 9am~4.30pm; Thu, 9am~3pm Closed: Fri, Sat & Public Holidays SEKAYU RECREATIONAL FOREST Hulu Terengganu Lush jungle-clad hills, a

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fruit orchard, mini zoo, bird park, flower garden and a waterfall with seven cascades are among the attractions here. Accommodation available. T (09) 666 7473 (Terengganu Forest Dept) Open: Daily, 8am~5pm TAMAN PERTANIAN NEGERI Hulu Terengganu Terengganu State Agriculture Park comprises an orchard, recreation centre, farm and fishing pond, as well as educational displays. Activities include horse riding, cycling and boating. T (09) 681 1345/ 1233 Open: Daily, 10am~3pm TAMAN ZETY ROSES Kampung Tanjung Aur The largest lowland rose nursery in Malaysia. As well as plants and blooms, rose-growing materials, gardening supplies and rose-themed products are offered for sale. Hp (014) 963 6891 Open: Sat, 8.30am~6pm Sun-Thu, 8am~6pm TASIK KENYIR

(See page 212)

TERENGGANU MA’ DAERAH TURTLE SANCTUARY Kerteh A critical nesting location for all of Malaysia’s marine turtle species. The sanctuary collects eggs, incubates and releases hatched turtles, as well as conducting research. Casual visitors and volunteers are welcome

A colourful riot of rose varieties in full bloom at Taman Zety Roses, the largest lowland rose nursery in Malaysia. As well as plants and blooms, rosethemed products are offered for sale.

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THE SPORTING LIFE - FOREWORD

It gives me great pleasure to introduce the chapter on Malaysian sports. As a keen amateur sportsman in my youth, I understand the amount of dedication and sacrifice required to become a winner in top-class competitive sport. My sincere congratulations go out to every Malaysian who has performed creditably on the world stage. However, I would also like to point out that successful athletes do not achieve pre-eminence by their own efforts alone. There is a veritable army of people who dedicate their lives to selflessly supporting the sporting dreams of others, from the parents who help to mark out school soccer pitches to the members of the Olympic Council of Malaysia and various other international, national and local sports bodies. They are all volunteers, they are mostly unpaid, frequently unthanked, and yet they keep volunteering, helping and encouraging the dreams and aspirations of our future champions. Fortunately, Malaysia has a great many of these dedicated and big-hearted people, and we are equally lucky to have a government which has built on this great tradition of volunteerism and gotong royong (communal self-help) to create some of the best sporting facilities in the region, host some of the most prestigious sporting events and develop some of the most advanced training and support programmes. The best thing about sport in Malaysia, though, is that you don’t have to be an elite athlete to enjoy it. Our golf courses welcome humble hackers, our parks are full of pick-up soccer games, and our Hash House Harriers plunge happily through the jungle come rain or shine (hashing was invented in Malaysia, by the way). If you love sport, you will love Malaysia, and we Malaysians will love you too.

Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Mohamad Norza Zakaria President of the Olympic Council of Malaysia

SPORTS The Sporting Life A Passion For Sport Sepang International Circuit Le Tour De Langkawi Penang Bridge International Marathon The Borneo Ultra-Trail Marathon Flying For Fun Sports Listings Stadiums & Sports Complexes Sports & Recreation Associations

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A Passion for Sport Sport has been an important part of Malaysian culture and identity since ancient times. Formal silat (martial art) schools were recorded as early as the 5th Century CE, while sepak takraw (kick volleyball) was widely played in 15th Century Melaka. Long before the Colonial Era, villages and towns in Kelantan and Terengganu competed against one another at main gasing (top spinning), kite flying and various martial sports. In Sabah, the Bajau people held horse races and regattas in the time of the Brunei Empire and in Sarawak the

Orang Ulu raised wrestling to an art form when Borneo was still unknown to Europeans. During the 19th Century, British administrators and expatriates formed numerous sports clubs and associations and introduced a wide variety of sports that were taken up enthusiastically throughout Malaysia, especially athletics, badminton, cricket, football, hockey, golf, rugby and tennis. Although club membership was initially restricted to Europeans and a small Malaysian elite, locals and foreigners soon began playing and competing together on the sporting field.

Sepak Takraw action: Team Malaysia (foreground) in action against Thailand at the Titiwangsa Indoor Stadium, Kuala Lumpur.

The British also introduced organised sport in schools, enabling league fixtures to be established even in small towns throughout the country. The first international competitions developed at the turn of the 19 th Century from annual contests among the Straits Settlements, Hong Kong and Ceylon (Sri Lanka), and friendly soccer matches between Malaysian teams and those from abroad. The Federation of Malaya Olympic Council was created in 1953 and recognised by the International Olympic Committee in 1954. Following the formation of Malaysia in 1963, it was merged with the Olympic Committees of Sabah and Sarawak to form the Olympic Council of Malaysia, which represents Malaysia at the Olympic, Asian, Commonwealth and Southeast Asian Games. Malaysia first participated at the Olympic Games in 1964, and has sent athletes to every Summer Olympics since then, except for the American-led boycott of the 1980 Moscow Games. Malaysian athletes also debuted at the Summer Paralympic Games in 1972 and the Winter Olympics in 2018. Malaysian ablebodied athletes have won a total of 13 Olympic medals; 9 in badminton, 2 in diving and 2 in cycling. The most successful is Lee Chong

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Wei with 3 silver medals in badminton. Malaysians have a passion for sport which transcends all racial and religious boundaries, and nowadays, despite increasing urbanisation, most Malaysians can access amenities such as public parks, health clubs and sport complexes in order to pursue sport and recreational activities. This passion is reflected by the Government, which formed the Youth and Sports Ministry in 1972 to

oversee the development of sport in the country. The ministry invests heavily in developing sports facilities and future athletes and together with the sports associations, volunteers, commercial sponsors, media, umpires, referees, coaches and of course the dedicated athletes and their supportive families has placed the country firmly on the international sporting map. With a wealth of talent among its diverse population, Malaysia looks forward

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confidently to building on these strong foundations to emerge as a major sporting power on the world stage. MALAYSIAN SUCCESS STORIES Badminton Malaya won the inaugural Thomas Cup (men’s team world championship) in 1949 and has since won five times and been runnerup nine times. Malaysians have also won 6 silver and 3 bronze Olympic medals

Former World No 1 Lee Chong Wei ends his dazzling career by winning the 2018 Malaysian Open. Inset: All England Open Badminton Champion 2021, Lee Jia Zia, at the Arena Birmingham, UK.

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Former World Champion, World No 1 and double Olympic medallist Azizulhasni Awang winning the Men’s Keirin at the 29th SEA Games (2017).

since badminton became an Olympic sport in 1992, as well as 8 silver medals from the BWF World Championships. Lee Chong Wei was ranked World No 1 for 199 consecutive weeks from 2008 to 2012, the fourth Malaysian player after Rashid Sidek, Roslin Hashim and Wong Choong Hann to achieve the ranking and the only one to hold it for more than a year. Bowling Malaysian lawn bowlers have an impressive record at the highest level. Siti Zalina Ahmad is the only woman to win two Commonwealth Games

singles titles, as well as a pairs gold with partner Emma Firyana Saroji. Safuan Said was the first Asian to win the men’s singles in the 2008 World Outdoor Championships. The country’s ten-pin bowlers are in a class of their own. Shalin Zulkifle, former International Bowler of the Year, is the first woman ever to win the World Tenpin Masters (against male opposition); Esther Cheah holds 16 international gold medals, including 3 from the World Tenpin Bowling Championships; and Siti Safiyah Amirah Abdul Rahman and Sin

Li Jane became the first Malaysians to win on the United States' Professional Tour (2017). Syafiq Ridhwan Abdul Malik is the first Malaysian to win the Bowling World Cup. Cycling Track cycling is an authentic Malaysian success story, pioneered by keirin specialists Josiah Ng - the first Malaysian to reach an Olympic final and win a Commonwealth Games gold - and Azizulhasni Awang, former World no 1, World Champion and Olympic silver (2020) and bronze (2016) medal winner. Their legacy is

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being carried forward by Mohd Rizal Tisin, Fatehah Mustapa and Jupha Somnet, whose training has been boosted by the opening of the new National Velodrome at Nilai. Malaysia currently hosts five UCI-sanctioned international cycling competitions, with more to follow. They are the Tour de Langkawi (UCI2. HC, see page 243 ), Tour De Peninsular Malaysia (UCI2.1),Tour de Iskandar Johor (UCI2.2), the Asia Mountain Bike Series

(2 legs, Kuching & Kota Kinabalu) and the Asian BMX Championships. Diving Malaysian women lead the way in diving. Pandelela Rinong became the first Malaysian woman to win an Olympic medal, claiming bronze in 10-metre platform diving in the 2012 Summer Olympics. In 2016 she won silver in the 10-metre synchronised platform with Cheong Jun Hoong, and in 2021 won the individual 10-metre

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platform at the FINA Diving World Cup in Tokyo. Pandalela and Jun Hoong also delivered gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, while Nur Dhabitah Sabri clinched 2 golds at the 2019 Asian Diving Cup. Equestrian (See page 292)

Football (Association) Football is Malaysia’s most popular team game and spectator sport. It has recently been reorganised into a 4-tier

Pandalela Rinong Pamg, Malaysia’s first woman Olympic medallist and reigning World Cup Champion in 10-metre platform diving.

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league structure, with two professional leagues (Malaysian Super League, Malaysian Premier League, 12 clubs each), a 3rd tier amateur and semi-pro league (Malaysian M3 League, 14 clubs) and a 4th tier comprising clubs from 19 regional leagues. The national men’s team is ranked 158th in the world and 32nd in Asia while the women’s team is ranked 88th in the world and 18th in Asia. Golf (See page 252)

place in the uneven bars event in the 2019 Ukraine International Cup. Hockey (Field) After football, hockey is one of Malaysia’s more popular team sports, with the top players competing in the 8-team Premier Division of the Malaysia Hockey League. The national men’s team is ranked 12th in the world and 2nd in Asia, while the women’s team is ranked 21st in the world. Horse Racing (See page 307-309)

Gymnastics Malaysian women also shine in the gymnasium and Farah Ann Abdul Hadi leads the way with 5 Southeast Asian Games gold medals and first

Martial Arts Boxing remains popular in Malaysia despite the emergence of other martial arts. The country’s most notable boxer is Sapok

Biki, who won the Light Flyweight gold medal at the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur. Silat, a martial art originating from Indonesia and Malaysia, is a fullbody fighting discipline incorporating strikes, grappling and throwing in addition to weaponry. It is widely practised in the country and is growing in popularity worldwide. Malaysia ranks third of 23 countries in the list of all-time medal winners in the World Pencak Silat Championships. Wushu is popular among Malaysian Chinese, and Malaysia is ranked 8th in the world, with 81 medals (including 17 golds) from the World Wushu Championships since 1997. Muay Thai, historically

Artistic gymnast Farah Ann Abdul Hadi at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta. She later won 3 Golds at the 2019 SEA Games in the Philippines.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

popular in Malaysia’s Thai-influenced northern states, is rapidly growing in popularity as a sport in its own right and as a component of Mixed Martial Arts, which is enjoying a similar boom. Malaysia dominates Karate in the region, finishing top of the medal table at the 2017 Southeast Asia Games and 3rd in the alltime Asian Games table. Syakilla Salni Jefry Krisna achieved the World No 1 ranking in women’s kumite under 55kg and Madhuri Poovanesan was ranked World No 1 (Under 21) under 50kg in 2019. Malaysia has been prominent in Taekwondo since the heyday of multiple gold medalist Sarah Chung in the 1990s and Malaysians have since won multiple medals at the Asian Games and finished second in the medal table at the 2017 Southeast Asian Games. Motor Sports Motor sports have been popular in Malaysia since the first motor vehicles arrived in the country. Sepang International Circuit (see page 242) is the leading motorsports venue, with its Formula One circuit, hosting the Malaysian MotoGP, FIM Asian Grand Prix, ENI FIM Superbike World Championship and the FIM World Touring Car Cup. The national hall of fame

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Women’s Karate under 50kg Kumite Gold medallist Madhuri Poovanesan competes in an elimimation bout during the 2019 SEA Games. Inset: Prem Kumar won the Men’s under 55kg Kumite at the same event.

includes: Karamjit Singh, the first Asian driver to win the Production Car World Rally Championship 2002; Alex Yoong the first Malaysian Formula One driver (2001-2 season); and Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, the first Southeast Asian to compete in MotoGP. Netball Netball is promoted widely in schools and the national team has an impressive track record, winning two golds each in the Asian Netball Championship and Southeast Asian Games. They have a highest finish of 11th in the Netball World Championships.

Paralympic Sports The country has made stunning progress in sports for disabled athletes since the Paralympic Council of Malaysia was formed in 1989. Malaysian athletes have delivered 6 gold, 4 silver and 6 bronze medals at the Summer Paralympics and five have set world records in their respective disciplines, with Abdul Latif Romly breaking the T20 long jump world record 3 times on the same day to win Malaysia’s third gold at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Abdul Latif became the first Malaysian to defend his Paralympic title,

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Sepak Takraw Sepak takraw, a form of kick volleyball played by teams of 3 with a woven rattan ball, has been played in Malaysia since the 15th century Malacca Sultanate. It is thrilling, dynamic, spectator friendly and one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The Malaysian men’s team is ranked number two and the women’s team number three in the ISTAF World Rankings.

World record holder Abdul Latif Romly on his way to winning the Men’s Long Jump T20 Final in the 9th Para Asean Games, National Stadium KLSC, September 2017.

taking gold at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. The 2020 Paralympics produced Malaysia’s most impressive performance; along with Abdul Latif, Bonnie Bunyau Gistin won the men’s 70kg powerlifting gold with a new world record of 228kg while Cheah Liek Hou became Malaysia’s first Paralympic badminton champion with the men’s singles SU5 gold. Reinforcing Malaysia’s powerful presence in powerlifting, Jong Yee Khie delivered silver in the men’s 107kg with a personal best of 237kg, while Chew Wei Lun achieved Malaysia’s

first boccia medal, with a hard-fought silver in the mixed individual BC1. Rugby (Union) Rugby is a popular team sport in Malaysia, with over 40,000 registered players, 300-plus clubs and 600plus schools involved in the game. The Malaysian national team is currently ranked 49th internationally and 6th in Asia in the IRB World Rankings. They have not yet qualified for the Rugby World Cup but are making steady progess, winning the Southeast Asian Games Rugby Sevens gold medal in 2017.

Squash Malaysian Squash is synonymous with Nicol David, acknowledged as the Greatest Woman Player Of All Time by the Professional Squash Association (PSA). She won the World Junior Championship twice and from August 2006, she was the world number one player for a recordbreaking 108 consecutive months, winning a record eight World Open Championships and five British Opens. Only her retirement in 2019 ended her 14 year 9 month unbroken run in the world top 20. But Malaysian squash is not a onewoman show; Ong Beng Hee attained the men’s number 7 world ranking in 2001 and Mohd Azlan Iskandar reached the men’s world top 10 in 2011. The men's national team has reached the quarter finals of the World Team Championship six times

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Undoubtedly Malaysia’s finest female athlete, Nicol David was voted Greatest Woman Player Of All Time by the Professional Squash Association (PSA).

and won the Asian Team Championships three times. The women's national team has won one silver and four bronze medals at the same tournament and won the Asian Team Championships seven times.

model. The first chapter outside Malaysia was formed in Singapore and The Hash spread through the Far East and the South

Pacific, Europe and North America. Nowadays there are some two thousand chapters in all parts of the world including Antarctica.

UNIQUELY MALAYSIAN – THE HASH HOUSE HARRIERS The Hash House Harriers, a casual running group was formed in Malaysia in 1938 by British colonial officers and expatriates who began meeting on Monday evenings to run, following the traditional British paper chase or "hare and hounds”

The hashers follow the paper trail let by the “hares” at this hash run organised by the Petaling Hash House Harriers.

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SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT Jalan Pekeliling 64000 KLIA Selangor

T (03) 8778 2200 W sepangcircuit.com IN BRIEF Sepang International Circuit is the leading motorsports venue in Malaysia, housing a Formula One and MotoGP circuit, world-class Go-Kart Circuit, Off-Road Park and the National Automobile Museum. OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri, 9am~6pm (non-race days).

MAIN FEATURES Sepang International Circuit (SIC) was home to the F1 Malaysian Grand Prix until 2017. Events currently held here include the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix, FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR), FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) and many national and regional motorsports

A birds-eye view of Sepang International Circuit.

competitions. The 5.543 kilometre circuit boasts covered grandstands seating 60,000 people. 18 Corporate Suites are available for private booking. Activities include Circuit Driving Experience, 4 x 4 Driving, Go Karting and Motorcycling. Other facilities include a Motocross Track, Motorsport Park, South Paddock, Paddock Chalets, Running Track, Fishing Pond, Cycling Trail, Digital Showroom and the Driving Experience Centre. The SIC Circuit Tour offers a look behind the scenes,

including the Race Control and Timekeeping Rooms and the Winners’ Podium. Recently launched drive-in activities include seminars, movies and graduation ceremonies. SIC is an excellent venue for trade shows, conferences and events, including private parties, wedding receptions, concerts, festivals and celebrations. The four airconditioned Paddock Club halls (capacity 700 persons each), the glass-walled Media Centre and the Rooftop and Helipad all offer spectacular views of the track.

MotoGP riders duel for position in front of packed stands. The Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix is one of the best-attended events of the global motorcycle racing season.

They’re off! The start/finish straight grandstands let spectators get close to the racing action.

LOCATION / ROUTE Adjacent to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), about an hour’s drive from the city. HOW TO GET THERE From KL Sentral station, KLIA Ekspres or Transit to KLIA and a taxi from there. During major events, Rapid KL Bus services run from KLIA 2, KL Sentral and KLCC.

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LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI Human Voyage (M) Sdn Bhd Unit 165-5-12 5th Floor, Wisma Mutiara 165, Jalan Sungai Besi 57100 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9222 0786

IN BRIEF Asia’s biggest cycling road race was launched in 1996 and has since become a top ranked international 2HC stage race, aspiring to join the UCI World Tour calendar in the near future. DATE Held annually every February. The 2021 race was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022 race is expected to take place on schedule. LOCATION / ROUTE Throughout Malaysia. Start and Finish vary every year. HOW TO GET THERE The race passes through many states and is mostly held on major roads, so access is easy via car, taxi or public transport. In 2020, the race’s 8 stages traversed 7 states (Kedah, Pahang, Perak, Penang, Sarawak, Selangor, Terengganu) as well as Kuala Lumpur, while the pre-race Criterium took place in Sabah.

MAIN FEATURES Le Tour De Langkawi (LTDL), named for its original starting point, is the leading UCI 2HC multiple stage race in Asia and a topranked race in the UCI Asia Tour Calendar.

The winners of the 2020 Le Tour De Langkawi: from left Muhamad Nur Aiman Mohd Zariff (Malaysia, Team Sapura, King of the Mountains), Danilo Celano (Italy, Team Sapura, Overall Winner) Max Walscheid (Germany, NTT Pro Cycling, Highest Points Classification) and Yevgeniy Fedorov (Kazakhstan, Vino - Astana Motors, Overall Asian Rider).

The course usually covers over 1,400km with a climb to almost 1,700m. The tour is an important prelude to the European road racing season, and many top teams take part every year, including some world-class outfits. A sporting spectacle which combines sprinting and climbing elements, the race offers an excellent opportunity to get to know Malaysia. It showcases a wide variety of spectacular scenery and introduces spectators to the pleasures of Malaysian hospitality.

The peloton thins out during the long uphill slog at the end of the Penang Bridge crossing, towards the end of Stage 6 of the 2020 race.

Riders pass the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club during the final Stage 8 of LTDL 2020, the famed Langkawi Loop.

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PENANG BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL MARATHON Level 52, Komtar George Town 10503 Penang T (04) 650 5133 W penangmarathon.gov.my

IN BRIEF Southeast Asia’s premier road race for both elite athletes and fun runners, the Penang Bridge International Marathon has been held annually since 1985 on the third Sunday of November. Over 25,000 people take part every year. LOCATION / ROUTE Penang Bridge and Coastal Highway. Start/Finish at Queensbay Mall, Bayan Lepas, Penang. Penang is easy to reach by road, rail or air from Kuala Lumpur and other major cities and enjoys direct flights from many locations worldwide. HOW TO GET THERE Taxi or bus from Penang International Airport or Batu Ferringi beach resorts. Shuttle from Georgetown Jetty to the Start/Finish point. Certain hotels provide additional shuttle services.

MAIN FEATURES The Penang Bridge International Marathon is named for one of the longest straights in road racing - the entire 13.5km length of the Penang Bridge. As well as attracting elite athletes from all over the world, the race is also hugely popular with the local community and makes

One of the longest straights in athletics - the entire 13.5km length of the Penang Bridge - attracts top runners from all over the world.

a great day out for all the family. The event comprises a full marathon, a half marathon and a 10km run. There are men’s and women’s races at all distances, with both open and veteran categories. The 10km run also has a junior category for runners aged 13 and above from 2020.

They’re off! The 1:30am start is for both sporting and safety reasons. Cooler conditions allow elite athletes to set faster times, while fun runners can finish before the day heats up.

(From left) PBIM deputy chairman Dato’ Syed Mohamad Aidid presents trophies and mock cheques to Full Marathon Men’s Open winners Stephen Mungathia Mugambi (3rd), James Tallam (2nd) and Moses Kiptoo Kurgat (1st), all from Kenya, together with YAB Chow Kon Yeow (Chief Minister of Penang), YB Yeoh Soon Hin (Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy and PBIM Chairman) and Bernard Lagat (PBIM2019 Ambassador and 5-time Olympian and 13-time medallist at World and Olympic levels).

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BORNEO ULTRA-TRAIL MARATHON Borneo Ultra Trails Sdn Bhd 2nd Floor, Unit No. 1 Block F, Metro Town Jalan Bunga Ulam Raja 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Hp (010) 933 4800 W borneoultra.com

IN BRIEF The Borneo Ultra-Trail Marathon (BUTM) is designed to test trail runners physically and mentally on challenging courses running through the “Valley of Hanging Bridges”, overlooked by the majestic Mount Kinabalu.

MAIN FEATURES The Borneo UltraTrail Marathon is rated under the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) and is a qualifier for other large international trail runs. It is held annually in early March and has grown steadily over the years, with competitors from 40 different countries in

The Borneo Ultra-Trail Marathon’s long ascents are punishing but pass through some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular mountain scenery.

2019. Five courses are offered, from 9km to 100 miles with elevation gains between 300 and 8,000 metres, to accommodate runners of most ages and abilities. The challenging courses are set over the ridges and river valleys surrounding Kiulu. Participants will experience remote villages, jungles, village trails and hanging bridges amidst a landscape of paddy fields and steep ridges. For runners who can’t make

it in March, BUTM’s equally demanding sister race, the TMBT Ultra-Trail Marathon, is held annually in September.

Tired but happy - the 2019 100km category winners celebrating at the prize presentation.

LOCATION / ROUTE The race courses run through Sabah’s Kiulu Valley, starting and finishing at the village of Pekan Kiulu. The nearest airport is Kota Kinabalu, with direct flights from many destinations worldwide. HOW TO GET THERE Kiulu is 1 hour from Kota Kinabalu. A shuttle service will operate to and from the start/finish area.

Traditional hanging bridges are a major feature of the race, and provide safe crossings of fast-flowing rivers and jungle streams.

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Flying For Fun MALAYSIA SPORTS AVIATION FEDERATION (MSAF) D3A-1G Jalan PJU 1A/46 Pusat Perdagangan Dana 1 Petaling Jaya, Selangor T (03) 7842 6595 W msaf.gov.my

Established on 31st May 2003, the Malaysian Sports Aviation Federation (MSAF) is the governing body for all sports aviation activities in the country and acts as liaison between the private sector (operators) and Government agencies to make sports aviation safer and more affordable. The MSAF actively promotes aviation sport in Malaysia and conducts activities such as air shows and carnivals to encourage a higher level of competition in the individual disciplines and to raise standards to an international level. The MSAF is a member of the Federation of Aeronautic International, Switzerland. Disciplines under the

A Johor Flying Club Robinson R44 helicopter en route from Senai to Malacca. Note the iPad running Garmin Pilot, ensuring precise navigation.

MSAF are: 1) General Aviation under 5,700kgs: Single Engine, Twin Engine & Turbines (Jets) 2) Non-Certified Aircraft: Experimental Aircraft, Kit Planes, Microlights, Ultralights & Trikes 3) Para Related: Parachute (Including FreeFalling), Motorised Paraglider, Hang Gliding / Paragliding 4) Aeromodelling: Planes

(including Aerobatics), Helicopters & Blimps 5) Lighter Than Air: Hot Air Balloons & Air Ships Flying Clubs in Malaysia JOHOR FRAS FLYING CLUB Senai International Airport Johor T (07) 599 5290 W fras.com.my JOHOR FLYING CLUB Senai International Airport Johor T (07) 599 1255 W johorflyingclub.com MELAKA KELAB PENERBANGAN 4B MALAYSIA HANGAR KP48 Lapangan Terbang Batu Berendam T (06) 317 9543 Hp (013) 684 5163 NEGERI SEMBILAN

Pilot and passenger soar over the rainforest in a tandem paraglider flight operated by Negeri Sembilan Sports Aviation Club.

NEGERI SEMBILAN SPORTS AVIATION CLUB (PARAGLIDING) Bahau T (06) 601 4953

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Two hot air balloons on an early morning flight. Inset: Izzati Khairudin of AKA Balloons with passengers. She and her sister Atiqah are Malaysia’s first female balloon pilots.

Hp (019) 666 0998 E [emailprotected] PAHANG OXBOLD PT Gate C of De Rhu Beach Resort Hp (019) 663 8336 W oxbold.com

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School students experiencing a flight simulator (top) and learning how aircraft fly (bottom) during an educational visit hosted by Sabah Flying Club.

FAS UDARA FLYING CLUB D'nest Aviation Hanger T (03) 7805 2895 W fasclub.com

MALAYSIAN PARAMOTOR ASSOCIATION Petaling Jaya Hp (013) 206 9234 W malaysianparamotor.com

SABAH SABAH FLYING CLUB T (088) 484 049/ 406 W sabahflyingclub.org.my SELANGOR AIR ADVENTURE FLYING CLUB (AAFC) Light Aircraft Hangar Site Hp (013) 723 2345 W airadventureflying.com EAA SPORT AVIATION CLUB, MALAYSIA Petaling Jaya Hp (012) 330 2070 W eaamalaysia.com

7,000 feet over Southeast Asia on a cross-country flight in a Cessna 172M. True to its name, Air Adventure Flying Club offers more than just flying lessons.

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STADIUMS & COMPLEXES JOHOR GUDANG INDOOR STADIUM Kawasan Perindustrian Pasir Gudang T (07) 252 3696 KOMPLEKS BELIA & SUKAN JOHOR Jalan Sentosa, Larkin Johor Bahru T (07) 222 3818 TAN SRI DATO’ HAJI HASSAN YUNOS STADIUM Jalan Dato Jaafar, Larkin Johor Bahru T (07) 224 7034 KEDAH KEDAH AQUATIC COMPLEX Jalan Gunung Keriang Alor Setar T (04) 733 7313 KOMPLEKS BELIA & SUKAN KEDAH Jalan Stadium, Alor Setar T (04) 733 4616 STADIUM DARUL AMAN Jalan Stadium, Alor Setar T (04) 733 7313 STADIUM SULTAN ABDUL HALIM Jalan Suka Menanti Alor Setar T (04) 733 7313 KELANTAN KOMPLEKS BELIA & SUKAN PANJI Jalan Panji, Kota Bahru T (09) 764 3005 STADIUM SULTAN MUHAMMAD IV Jalan Mahmood, Kota Bahru T (09) 747 1123 KUALA LUMPUR K.S.N PUSAT TENIS NASIONAL Jalan Tuanku Abdul

Halim, Bukit Tunku T (03) 6206 5181

Avenue, Serindit T (06) 285 9700

KOMPLEKS BELIA & SUKAN (W.P.K.L.) Jalan Kampung Pandan T (03) 9200 8870

STADIUM HANG JEBAT (STATE STADIUM) Paya Rumput, Kerubong T (06) 336 4517

KOMPLEKS SUKAN BUKIT KIARA Jalan Bukit Kiara T (03) 2095 4209

STADIUM HANG TUAH Jalan Hang Tuah T (06) 336 4517

NATIONAL SQUASH CENTRE Level 1, National Stadium Bukit Jalil T (03) 8992 0888 NATIONAL STADIUM BUKIT JALIL Kompleks Sukan Negara, Bukit Jalil T (03) 8992 0888 PUTRA INDOOR STADIUM (AXIATA ARENA) Bukit Jalil T (03) 8992 0888 STADIUM BOLA SEPAK KUALA LUMPUR Jalan Yaacob Latif Bandar Tun Razak T (03) 9134 5445 STADIUM HOKI TUN RAZAK Persiaran Jalan Duta T (03) 6206 1237 STADIUM MERDEKA Jalan Stadium T (03) 2070 2412 LABUAN LABUAN INTERNATIONAL SEA SPORTS COMPLEX Jalan Tanjung Purun T (087) 422 622 MELAKA KOMPLEKS BELIA & SUKAN MELAKA Jalan Tasik, Ayer Keroh T (06) 234 5900 MBMB HOCKEY STADIUM Bukit Bandaraya Park

NEGERI SEMBILAN STADIUM TUANKU ABDUL RAHMAN (STADIUM PAROI) Jalan Merak, Seremban T (06) 766 7672 PAHANG STADIUM DARUL MAKMUR Jalan Dato’ Lim Hoe Lek, Kuantan T (09) 514 2637 STADIUM TUN ABDUL RAZAK Pusat Bandaraya Jengka T (09) 466 1600 PENANG CITY STADIUM Jalan Perak, George Town T (04) 226 2953 STADIUM NEGERI PULAU PINANG Simpang Empat, Seberang Prai T (04) 587 4951 PERAK INDERA MULIA STADIUM Persiaran Bulan, Ipoh T (05) 208 3333 STADIUM AZLAN SHAH Jalan Cecil, Ipoh T (05) 208 3333 STADIUM PERAK Jalan Kamaruddin Isa, Ipoh T (05) 208 3333 PERLIS STADIUM TUANKU SYED PUTRA 54A-B, Jalan Sekolah

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Derma, Kangar T (04) 976 1867 SABAH LIKAS SPORTS COMPLEX Jalan Kompleks Sukan, Likas Hp (016) 264 7202 STADIUM UMS Jalan UMS, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 320 000 TUN ADNAN SPORTS COMPLEX Jalan Teluk Likas, Likas T (088) 326 425 SARAWAK BINTULU MUHIBAH STADIUM Jalan Kidurong T (086) 254 072 KUCHING MBKS STADIUM Jalan Utama T (082) 354 200 STADIUM HOCKEY PETRA JAYA Jalan Stadium T (082) 442 286 SARAWAK HOCKEY STADIUM Jalan Tan Sri Datuk William Tan T (082) 442 286 SARAWAK HOCKEY STADIUM Jalan Padungan T (082) 243 081 SARAWAK STATE STADIUM Jalan Stadium T (082) 442 286 MIRI MIRI STADIUM Jalan Sukan T (085) 419 624 SIBU TUN ZAIDI STADIUM Old Airport Road T (084) 330 726

SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN AQUATIC CENTRE Jalan Aerobik 13/43 Shah Alam T (03) 5511 1648 MALAYSIA NATIONAL ICE SKATING STADIUM (MYNISS) 8, Jalan Damansara Empire City, Petaling Jaya Hp (017) 350 6173 PANASONIC SHAH ALAM SPORTS COMPLEX Persiaran Perkilangan, Shah Alam T (03) 5541 6933 STADIUM MAJLIS PERBANDARAN SELAYANG Jalan 2/2 Bandar Baru Selayang T (03) 6120 4903 STADIUM MALAWATI SHAH ALAM Persiaran Sukan, Shah Alam T (03) 5519 8133 TERENGGANU MBKT AQUATIC CENTRE Batu Buruk, Kuala Terengganu T (09) 631 0108 STADIUM SULTAN ISMAIL NASIRUDDIN SHAH Jalan Sultan Ismail Kuala Terengganu T (09) 620 3140 SPORTS ASSOCIATIONS MAJLIS SUKAN NEGARA (National Sports Council) Kompleks Sukan Negara T (03) 8992 9600 W nsc.gov.my OLYMPIC COUNCIL OF MALAYSIA Wisma OCM T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my AIKIDO Malaysia Aikido Association T (03) 8075 7010 W aikido-maa.com

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ARCHERY National Archery Association of Malaysia Hp (019) 488 8282 W masarchery.org ATHLETICS Malaysia Athletics Federation T (03) 2022 2634 W mafmalaysia.com BACKPACKING ABM Secretariat T (03) 2273 6870 W backpackingmalaysia. com BADMINTON Badminton Association of Malaysia T (03) 2011 2655 W bam.org.my BASEBALL Baseball Federation of Malaysia T (03) 2078 0055 W baseballmalaysia. wordpress.com BASKETBALL Malaysian Basketball Association T (03) 2078 0055 W maba.com.my BIRD WATCHING Malaysian Nature Society T (03) 2287 9422 W mns.my BODY BUILDING Malaysian Body Building Federation T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my BOXING Malaysia Boxing Federation Hp (019) 280 5975 W malaysiaboxing federation.com BRIDGE The Malaysian Contract Bridge Association T (03) 2170 2626 W mcba.org.my CANOEING Malaysia Canoe Association

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T (03) 4050 5177 W olympic.org.my CAVING Malaysian Nature Society T (03) 2287 9422 W mns.my CHESS Malaysian Chess Federation Hp (016) 338 2542 W malaysianchess.org CRICKET Malaysian Cricket Association T (03) 8070 8079/ 8075 W cricketmalaysia.com CYCLING Malaysian National Cycling Federation T (06) 283 0150 W mncf.my EQUESTRIAN Equestrian Association of Malaysia Malaysian Equine Council

(See page 313)

EXTREME SPORTS Extreme Sports Association of Malaysia T (05) 241 8177 W mesa.org.my FENCING Malaysian Fencing Federation T (03) 7873 0775 W fencingmalaysia.com FISHING Malaysian Association of Angling T (03) 2715 2810 W tourism.gov.my FOOTBALL Football Association of Malaysia T (03) 7873 3100 W fam.org.my GO-KARTING Motorsports Association of Malaysia E [emailprotected] W mam.org.my GOLF Malaysian Golf

Association T (03) 9283 7300 W mgaonline.com.my GOLF (LADIES) Malaysian Ladies Golf Association T (03) 2032 1577 W malga.org.my GYMNASTICS Malaysian Gymnastics Federation T (03) 8994 1006 W olympic.org.my HANDBALL Malaysian Handball Federation T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my HASHING Malaysian Hash Council Hp (012) 233 1708 W malaysianhashcouncil. com HOCKEY Malaysian Hockey Confederation T (03) 8998 6195 W mhc.org.my ICE HOCKEY Malaysia Ice Hockey Federation T (06) 651 2020 Hp (012) 396 3811 W mihf.my ICE SKATING Ice Skating Association of Malaysia Hp (017) 350 6173 W isam.my JUDO Malaysian Judo Association T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my KABADDI Kabaddi Association of Malaysia T (03) 2070 8587 W olympic.org.my KARATE Malaysia Karate Federation T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my

LAWN BOWLS Malaysian Lawn Bowls Federation T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my LIFE SAVING The Life Saving Society of Malaysia T (03) 7980 1549 W lifesavingmalaysia.org.my MOTORCYCLING Motorsports Association of Malaysia E [emailprotected] W mam.org.my MOUNTAIN CLIMBING Malaysian Mountaineering Association Hp (012) 374 1497 W pmm-mmscf.com MUAYTHAI Muaythai Association of Malaysia Hp (019) 216 7171 W facebook.com/ muaythai.malaysia NETBALL Malaysian Netball Association T (03) 2096 1445 W olympic.org.my PARACHUTING Malaysian Parachute Association T (03) 9284 0063 W facebook.com/ ParachutingMalaysia PARALYMPICS Paralympics Council of Malaysia T (03) 9201 0350 W paralympic.org.my PATHFINDERS Malaysia Nature Society T (03) 2287 9422 W mns.my PETANQUE Petanque Federation of Malaysia T (03) 2078 7648 W olympic.org.my PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORT SCIENCE

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AND MEDICINE Malaysian Association of Sports Medicine T (03) 4257 6998 W malaysiansportsmed. org.my POLO Royal Malaysian Polo Association Hp (012) 326 8058 W rmpa.org.my ROWING Malaysian Rowing Association T (03) 2615 4223 W rowing.org.my RUGBY Malaysian Rugby Union T (03) 2031 8336 W malaysiarugby.my SAILING Sailing Association Malaysia T (03) 2026 4524 W malaysiasailing.org SCUBA DIVING Malaysia Scuba Diving Association T (03) 7980 9902 W msda.my SEPAK TAKRAW Sepaktakraw Association of Malaysia T (03) 4131 3279 W sepaktakraw.org SHOOTING National Shooting Association of Malaysia T (03) 7846 1606/ 2473 W nsam-shooting.org.my SILAMBAM Malaysian Association of Silambam Hp (019) 226 0655 W silambammalaysia.org.my SILAT Malaysian National Silat Federation T (03) 6186 8303 W pesaka.my SNOOKER & BILLIARDS Malaysian Snooker &

Billiards Federation Hp (012) 555 5465 W msbf.com.my SOFTBALL Softball Association of Malaysia T (03) 2282 0820 W softballmalaysia.org SQUASH Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia T (03) 8999 3964 W malaysia-squash.org SWIMMING Amateur Swimming Association of Malaysia T (03) 8999 4088 W malaysiaswimming.org TABLE TENNIS Table Tennis Association of Malaysia T (03) 8996 1497 W ttam.com.my TAEKWONDO Taekwondo Malaysia (WTF) T (03) 2024 0293 W tkdmaswtf.com.my TENNIS Lawn Tennis Association Malaysia T (03) 6201 6173 W ltam.my

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WATER SKI & WAKEBOARD Malaysian Water Ski & Wakeboard Federation Hp (012) 387 7115 W mwwf.com.my WEIGHTLIFTING Malaysia Weightlifting Federation T (03) 2715 2810 W olympic.org.my WOMEN'S HOCKEY Malaysian Women’s Hockey Association T (03) 8998 6195 W mhc.org.my WOODBALL Malaysia Woodball Association T (03) 7783 3668 W woodball.org WUSHU Wushu Federation of Malaysia T (03) 7773 1730 W wushumalaysia.com YACHTING Malaysia Yachting Association T (03) 2026 4524 W sail-clubs.com

TENPIN BOWLING Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress T (03) 7492 3226 W mtbc.org.my TRIATHLON Triathlon Association of Malaysia T (03) 7874 1166 W malaysia triathlon.org VOLLEYBALL Malaysia Volleyball Association T (03) 2078 4888 W masvolley. org.my

The Sukma Games (Sukan Malaysia or Malaysian Games) is a biennial national multi-sport event involving young athletes who compete against one another according to their home state or Federal Territory. It provides a pathway for young sportspeople to graduate to Malaysia’s Olympic and other international teams.

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GOLF - FOREWORD

Golf is an age-old sport that has steadily made its way round the globe from the humblest of beginnings on the rugged coast of Scotland to Malaysia’s majestic and idyllic shores. Nowhere in the world is the sport more suited to the environment than in Malaysia, where it has been embraced by all and can be played on such a variety of layouts and environments. We have an enviable climate where golf can be enjoyed almost all year round and in numerous weather conditions, from the stylized urban golf layouts in the humid Klang Valley, to the mountainous resorts set in the cool hillsides, to the balmy breezes along the coast. An appetite for golf can be sated on our shores whatever your preference. World famous course designers have flocked to build signature courses here, which is testament to what is currently available, and now that these tracts have matured, the next positive step was to develop professional golf to a level worthy of being played on the likes of stand-out courses such as Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC). The year 2010 should be remembered by the golfing world with the birth of the Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM). It was formed with the aim of providing an institution for Malaysian golf professionals to hone their skills and prepare them to enter the world arena. The PGM provides regular tournament exposure on quality golf courses in the country. Visit our shores, play golf to your heart’s content and take some time out to watch PGM tournaments as they roll around the country week after week. It’s not often you’ll get to freely watch the stars of the future take centre stage before fame makes them unreachable when they arrive in Europe and America. This fine publication gives you just a taste of what’s in store during a visit to Malaysia …but don’t be afraid to explore deeper because there’s more excitement to be had for those looking for it. So come with your golf clubs and high expectations and you will relish every moment in Malaysia.

Tun Ahmad Sarji bin Abdul Hamid Chairman Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Sadly, Tun Ahmad Sarji passed away on 28th August 2021.

GOLF Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club Palm Garden Golf Club The Royal Selangor Golf Club The Els Club Desaru Coast Golf Listing

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KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (KLGCC) 10 Jalan 1/70D Off Jalan Bukit Kiara 60000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2011 9188 (general) T (03) 2011 1400 (golf registration) W klgcc.com

OPENING HOURS

First tee-off time: 7.10am Last tee-off time: 2.10pm (9 holes) - 5.30pm

experienced golfers who can strategise their round. The par-71, 5,713 metre wetlandsthemed East Course targets the more relaxed golfer, although the challenging back-nine will test highhandicappers, with straight hitting from the tee at a premium. Golf facilities include a world-class 3-tier 78-bay Driving Range with four target

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HOW TO GET THERE By car, taxi or Grab Car. Access via SPRINT Highway Kerinchi Link, Exit 2306 (INTAN) from city centre, Exit 2307 (Bukit Kiara) from KLIA.

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LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the forested hills of Bukit Kiara, 10 minutes from the city centre and 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

European Tour and LPGA Tour competitions, including the CIMB Classic from (20132018) and Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia (2010-2017). The multi-awardwinning West Course is an international championship par-72 course (6,405 metres) with perfectly balanced length, layout and toughness. It requires fierce concentration and will reward lan Datuk Sulaiman Ja

MAIN FEATURES KLGCC offers two immaculately kept courses that have hosted PGA Tour,

As the sun sinks low over Kuala Lumpur, KLGCC’s clubhouse offers a warm welcome to tired golfers.

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IN BRIEF Established in 1991, KLGCC is a 36-hole tournament standard course strategically located in the lush landscapes of Bukit Kiara, just eight kilometres from the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The East Course is ranked No 1 in Malaysia 2020 by Golf Digest International while the West Course was ranked No 1 back in 2019 as well as 20th place in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia. The Club also made it to the 82nd place in the Top 100 Platinum Golf and Country Clubs of the World 2020-2021.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The 317 metre Hole 4 on the East Course looks short for a par-4, but looks can be deceiving. The slightest inaccuracy from the tee can lead to disaster.

holes replicating selected holes on the West Course; a Golf Academy with more qualified teaching pros than some courses have holes; a well-stocked Pro Shop; and a Golf Tech Shop with resident club fitter. Other sports facilities

The West Course’s 328 metre par-4 Hole 12 is one of KLGCC’s most scenic holes, but requires a precision approach.

include squash, tennis and badminton courts, swimming pool, fitness centre and bowling centre. The Clubhouse, one of the highest-rated in Asia Pacific, impresses with 5 food & beverage outlets (all open to the public), a

The state-of-the-art 3-tier 78-bay driving range offers the closest possible approach to teeing-off on the course itself.

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members’ lounge, piano lounge, karaoke lounge, cigar lounge and extensive conference and banquet facilities for up to 400 guests. The club also offers a wellness spa, nail bar, mini-theatre and even a florist.

Marc Leishman, winner of the 2018 CIMB Classic with a record-equaling final round of 65, enjoys a selfie session with his fans.

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PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB IOI Resort City 62502 Putrajaya T (03) 8213 6333 (general) W palmgarden.net.my

IN BRIEF Palm Garden Golf Club is one of Malaysia’s leading public golf courses, with no membership required. Its challenging holes and delightful aesthetics make for a thoroughly enjoyable golfing experience. OPENING HOURS Daily, 7:30am~9pm

MAIN FEATURES Palm Garden Golf Club’s par-72, 18 hole, 6,027 metre course is designed by Australian course architect Ted Parslow and comprises the Eugenia Course (front 9) and Bismarck Course (back 9). The course is sandcapped with lots of undulations, mounds and swales, while the

The shady, welcoming entrance lobby of the Palm Garden Golf Club.

greens are moderately fast with a Stimpmeter rating of 9, resulting in a challenging and enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities. The greens are carpeted by Bermuda Tidwarf, while Hybrid Zoyzia is used for tee-boxes and fairways and Zoyzia Matrella species for the rough. Many natural boulders and rocks dug-up during course construction were re-sited around the course, while over 2,000 trees were transplanted, to create a course with delightful natural

LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the IOI Resort City development, between the South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE) and Putrajaya Precincts 12 and 13, about 20 minutes from Kuala Lumpur city centre and 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

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HOW TO GET THERE No public transport nearby, use car, taxi or Grab Car. Access via SKVE from ELITE Expressway and DamansaraPuchong Expressway (LDP).

aesthetics. The course has won multiple accolades, including the coveted Par Golf People’s Choice Top 3 award in three different categories. Clubhouse facilities include a 2-tier 24-bay Driving Range, a well-stocked Pro Shop and spacious air conditioned changing rooms. Two private VIP changing rooms are also available. Other sports facilities include a tennis court, an infinity swimming pool overlooking the course and a well-equipped gymnasium, along with a jacuzzi pool and

Putrajaya Botanical Garden

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The island tee box at the par-3 hole 14 showcases the course’s innovative landscaping.

sauna to relax and unwind in. After their round, golfers can refresh themselves with a cold drink at the Poolside Terrace or dine on sumptuous Malaysian and western cuisine at the R5ve Café. For golfers requiring luxurious overnight accommodation, the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel (5 stars) and the Palm Garden Hotel (4 stars) are only 5 minutes away.

An accurate approach shot is crucial at the par-5 hole 4, whose peninsular green is surrounded by bunkers and water.

The two-storey halfway hut offers refreshing drinks and a commanding view of both nines.

The Palm Garden course ends on a challenging note. Its signature hole, the par-4 18th, also features a hazard-packed peninsular green.

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ESTD 1893

THE ROYAL SELANGOR GOLF CLUB Jalan Kelab Golf Off Jalan Tun Razak 55000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9206 3333 W rsgc.com.my

HOW TO GET THERE No public transport nearby, use car, taxi or Grab Car. Access from KLIA via Maju Expressway. Nearest station is Tun Razak Exchange MRT, roughly 1.6 km from the clubhouse.

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LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the heart of the city, at the intersection of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Tun Razak, 5 minutes from the Bukit Bintang shopping district and the Petronas Twin Towers and 1 hour from KLIA.

were revisited in 2016, with the inaugural Maybank Championship Malaysia. Both the Old Course (6,742 yards) and New Course (6,605 yards) are challenging due to their considerable length. One of the highlights is the 18 th hole of the New Course, where golfers tee off to a majestic view of the PETRONAS Twin Towers. Clubhouse facilities include a 16-bay driving range, two

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MAIN FEATURES RSGC is the home of Malaysian Golf. The inaugural Putra Cup was held

here in 1961 with teams from Burma, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and South Vietnam competing together with host Malaya. The Malaysian Open was held at RSGC almost every year from its inauguration in 1962 through to 1986, returning in 1993 and 1994, and again in 2002 when it was part of both the European Tour and Asian Tour. The tours

IN BRIEF The Royal Selangor Golf Club (RSGC) has an illustrious history. Established in 1893, it is the oldest golf club in Malaysia and the fourth oldest in Asia. It is a walking course, open only to members. It has two challenging par-72 courses - the Old Course and the New Course - and the 9-hole Suleiman Course.

Aerial view of the Royal Selangor Golf Club, a 137-hectare green lung in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

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OPENING HOURS Driving Range: 7.00am~7.00pm First tee-off time: 7.00am Last tee-off time: 6.30pm

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KLFA Stadium

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The Royal Selangor Golf Club

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The welcoming RSGC clubhouse offers a wide range of amenities for golfers and their families; indoor and outdoor sports, his and hers hairdressers, massage, sauna, reading room, card room and four food and beverage outlets to suit every taste.

swimming pools (50m and 25m), seven grass tennis courts, five tennis hard courts, gymnasium and squash court. It also offers saunas, barbershop, ladies’ hair salon, men’s massage, ladies’ massage, Pro Shop, locker rooms, card room and reading

room. RSGC has four food & beverage outlets; the Main Lounge, 1893 Lounge run by Modesto’s, Men’s Bar and Rotunda and a Banquet Hall. Drink huts are located at the 6 th Hole Old Course, 14th Hole Old Course and 4th Hole New Course.

Hole 10 of the RSGC’s Old Course, a challenging Par-4 with a stunning backdrop.

The 137-hectare RCSG is one of the largest green areas in the city centre and home to a variety of flora and fauna. The 5.3 hectare RSGC Bird Sanctuary supports a diverse bird community, including egrets, raptors and kingfishers.

Datuk Ichiro Suzuki, RSGC’s most successful Club Champion with 10 Championship wins, in action on the Old Course.

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THE ELS CLUB DESARU COAST 4, Jalan Danau, Desaru Coast 81930 Desaru, Johor T (07) 878 0000 W elsclubmalaysia.com

OPENING HOURS Daily, 6.30am~10pm (according to facility). First tee-off time: 7.30am Last tee-off time: 3pm (18 holes), 5pm (9 holes). IN BRIEF The Els Club Desaru Coast offers two championship golf courses in a glorious seaside setting, each designed by a former World No. 1, for a total of 45 holes. It is managed by Troon Golf, an internationally acclaimed course management company, and is ranked among the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia by Golf Travel Magazine. LOCATION / ROUTE Located on the scenic Desaru Coast of southeast Johor, 70km east of Johor Bahru.

MAIN FEATURES The club comprises two distinct courses, the 27-hole Ocean Course designed by Ernie Els and the 18-hole Valley Course designed by Vijay Singh. Each course has its own well-appointed clubhouse, pro shop, grassed driving range with multiple target greens and short-game practice areas for chipping and putting. Both courses operate a golf-cart-only policy so caddies are not available. The Ocean Course overlooks the South China Sea and can comprise of any two of three 9-hole courses; Coast, Ridge and Lakes. They are all

inspired by Britain’s famous seaside links courses, with large rolling greens and firm run off areas designed to place a premium on a sharp short game. The Par-72 Valley Course is a completely different test. The layout is memorably dramatic, using the hill slopes to maximum effect, while small greens and sharp undulations mean that approach play must be precise. The club also features an Els Performance Golf Academy with its own 9-hole course and special facilities for junior golfers. Conference and event facilities are available for up

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HOW TO GET THERE 1 hour from Johor Bahru City Centre and Senai International Airport, 1 hour 40 mins from Singapore via Senai–Desaru Expressway (SDE). 4 hours 30 mins from Kuala Lumpur via North-South Expressway and SDE. Public transport: Regular bus services from Johor Bahru, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to nearby Desaru Coast or Bandar Penawar.

The imposing Clubhouse of The Els Club Desaru Coast - Ocean Course.

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THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The 397-metre par-4 hole 11 of the Valley Course; as challenging as it is spectacular.

to 280 guests at the Ocean Course Clubhouse and 120 guests at the Valley Course Clubhouse. Amidst the stunning ocean, lakes and jungles, it is possible to spot and experience an abundance of wildlife species in their natural habitat, such as lizards, otters, dusky leaf monkeys, crab-eating macaques and over 100 species of birds. For the nature-loving golfer, The Els Club Desaru Coast is truly an experience beyond golf.

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The Ocean Course hole 3 - Coast Course. Overshoot here and you will end up in the South China Sea. Inset: Custom on-course meal and refreshment stops can be arranged for groups of golfers.

The Els Performance Golf Academy, the only one of its kind in Malaysia and among the best in Asia.

The Valley Course clubhouse, fronted by the 9th green, also houses the Lembah Restaurant, Golf Shop, locker rooms and function halls. Inset: Dusky Langurs are frequently spotted wandering around the Desaru Coast area.

Hole 1 of the Ridge Course, one of the three 9-hole courses that make up the Ernie Els designed Ocean Course.

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GOLF LISTING

JOHOR AUSTIN HEIGHTS GOLF & HOTEL RESORT Johor Bahru T (07) 352 4300 Holes: 18 BATU PAHAT GOLF CLUB Batu Pahat T (07) 432 9221 Holes: 9 BUKIT BANANG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Batu Pahat T (07) 428 6001/ 5431 Holes: 18

GUTHRIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Layang Layang, Renggam Hp (013) 244 5393 Holes: 9 HORIZON HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Iskandar Puteri T (07) 232 3166 Holes: 18 IMPIAN EMAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Skudai T (07) 554 4747 Holes: 9

DAIMAN 18 GOLF CLUB Johor Bahru T (07) 351 6813 Holes: 18

IOI PALM VILLA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Bandar Putra, Kulai T (07) 599 9099 Holes: 27

FOREST CITY GOLF RESORT Gelang Patah T (07) 535 2288 Holes: 36

JOHOR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Johor Bahru T (07) 223 3322 Holes: 9

KLUANG COUNTRY CLUB Kluang Hp (012) 788 7552 Holes: 9 KUKUP GOLF RESORT Pontian T (07) 696 0963 Holes: 18 ORCHARD GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Kulai, Kota Tinggi T (07) 897 7934 Holes: 18 PALM RESORT GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Senai T (07) 599 2000 Holes: 54 PERMAS JAYA GOLF CLUB Johor Bahru Hp (016) 880 4087 Holes: 9 PONDEROSA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT BHD Johor Bahru T (07) 354 9999 Holes: 18 PORESIA COUNTRY CLUB Johor Bahru T (07) 596 4311 Holes: 18 SEBANA COVE RESORT Pengerang T (07) 826 6688 Holes: 18 SEGAMAT COUNTRY CLUB Segamat T (07) 943 5968 Holes: 9 STARHILL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Skudai T (07) 558 8111 Holes: 36

His Highness Tunku Putera Johor receives a memento from Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin, Chairman of Perodua (Title Sponsor, left) and Datuk Ir A Sani Karim (Patron, right) for officially launching the 4-day World Amateur Golfers Championship 2018 in Johor.

TANJONG PUTERI GOLF RESORT Pasir Gudang T (07) 271 1888 Holes: 36 TANJUNG EMAS GOLF CLUB

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Langkawi T (04) 959 2700 Holes: 18 KELANTAN GUA MUSANG GOLF CLUB Gua Musang Hp (010) 407 1982 Holes: 9 KELAB REKREASI TENTERA DARAT Kota Bharu T (09) 787 8200 Holes: 9

Tun Amad Sarji congratulating Gavin Green, the first Malaysian (and the second youngest player ever) to win the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit, at the 2017 Johannesburg Open in South Africa.

Muar T (06) 952 1550 Holes: 18 THE ELS CLUB DESARU COAST

(See page 260)

THE LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Kulai T (07) 652 4388 Holes: 27 KEDAH 99 EAST GOLF CLUB Langkawi T (04) 967 1153 Holes: 9 CINTA SAYANG RESORT Sungai Petani T (04) 441 4666 Holes: 18 DARULAMAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Jitra T (04) 917 0001 Holes: 18 GUNUNG RAYA GOLF RESORT Langkawi T (04) 966 8148 Holes: 18

HARVARD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bedong Hp (013) 488 8503 Holes: 18 KELAB GOLF & REKREASI UNIVERSITI UTARA MALAYSIA Sintok T (04) 928 2684 Holes: 18 KULIM GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Kulim T (04) 403 2828 Holes: 18 PERMAIPURA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bedong T (04) 459 4000 Holes: 18 ROYAL KEDAH GOLF CLUB Alor Star T (04) 733 0467 Holes: 9 SUNGAI PETANI GOLF CLUB Sungai Petani T (04) 422 4894 Holes: 9 THE ELS CLUB TELUK DATAI

KELANTAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kota Bahru T (09) 748 2102 (Main Club House) T (09) 774 7474 (Golf Course) Holes: 18 ROYAL DARUL NAIM GOLF CLUB Kota Bharu T (09) 765 2203 Holes: 9 KUALA LUMPUR BUKIT JALIL GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Bukit Jalil T (03) 8996 1468 Holes: 18 KELAB GOLF PERKHIDMATAN AWAM Jalan Damansara, Bukit Kiara T (03) 7957 3344 Holes: 27 KELAB GOLF TITIWANGSA POLIS DI RAJA MALAYSIA Pusat Latihan Polis Jalan Semarak T (03) 2693 4964/ 4903 Holes: 9 KUALA LUMPUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (KLGCC)

(See page 255)

ROYAL MILITARY COLLEGE GOLF CLUB Kem Sungai Besi

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T (03) 9086 7436 Holes: 9

T (06) 233 2000 Holes: 27

THE ROYAL SELANGOR GOLF CLUB

BUKIT TERENDAK GOLF CLUB Bukit Terendak T (06) 331 8124 Holes: 9

(See page 258)

LABUAN LABUAN GOLF CLUB Membedai T (087) 412 711/ 712/ 810 Holes: 9 LABUAN INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB Jalan Sungai Pagar T (087) 468 468 Holes: 18 MELAKA A’FAMOSA GOLF RESORT Alor Gajah T (06) 552 0555/ 0888 Holes: 27 AYER KEROH GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Ayer Keroh

ORNA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Jasin T (06) 521 0333 Holes: 27 TIARA MELAKA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bukit Katil T (06) 231 2366/ 1111 Holes: 27 NEGERI SEMBILAN DICKSON BAY GOLF RESORT Port Dickson T (06) 661 9585/ 9599 Holes: 18 GEMAS GOLF RESORT

Gemas T (07) 948 2687 Holes: 18 KOTA SERIEMAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Nilai T (06) 790 7392 Holes: 18 NILAI SPRINGS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Putra Nilai T (06) 850 8888 Holes: 27 PORT DICKSON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Port Dickson T (06) 647 3586/ 3123 Holes: 18 ROYAL SERI MENANTI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Seri Menanti T (06) 497 9600 Holes: 18 SEREMBAN INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB

Come rain or shine, His Majesty the King supports officials and players during the CIMB Classic at KLGCC.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Seremban T (06) 677 5277 Holes: 18 STAFFIELD COUNTRY RESORT BHD Mantin Hp (018) 222 1919 Holes: 27 PAHANG AWANA GENTING HIGHLANDS GOLF AND COUNTRY RESORT T (03) 6436 9000 BENTONG GOLF CLUB Bentong T (09) 222 2585 Holes: 9 BERJAYA HILLS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bentong T (09) 288 8180 Holes: 18 FRASER’S HILL GOLF CLUB Fraser’s Hill T (09) 362 2129 Holes: 9 KELAB GOLF SULTAN AHMAD SHAH Tanah Rata T (05) 491 1256 Holes: 18

RAUB GOLF CLUB Raub Hp (019) 918 1965 Holes: 9 ROYAL PAHANG GOLF CLUB Kuantan T (09) 567 5811/ 5812 Holes: 18 ROYAL PEKAN GOLF CLUB Pekan T (09) 422 4139 Holes: 18 SELESA GOLF COURSE HILLHOMES RESORT Bukit Tinggi T (09) 233 0039 Holes: 18 TEKAM GOLF COURSE Jerantut T (09) 471 8301 Holes: 9 TUDM KUANTAN RECREATIONAL CLUB Kuantan T (09) 538 1908 Holes: 9 UNGKU NAZARUDDIN CAMP GOLF CLUB Kuala Lipis T (09) 312 2901 Holes: 9 PENANG

KELAB REKREASI SERI MAHKOTA Temerloh T (09) 277 7831 Holes: 18

BUKIT JAWI GOLF RESORT Seberang Prai Selatan T (04) 582 0759/ 0760 Holes: 36

LANJUT BEACH & GOLF RESORT Kuala Rompin T (09) 415 8888 Holes: 18

MOUNTAIN VIEW GOLF CLUB Seberang Perai Selatan T (04) 583 3777 Holes: 18

MAHKOTA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kuantan T (09) 573 9595 Holes: 18

PENANG GOLF CLUB Bayan Lepas T (04) 644 2255 Holes: 18

MARAN HILL GOLF RESORT Maran Hp (013) 937 4421 Holes: 18

PENANG GOLF RESORT Kepala Batas T (04) 578 2022/ 2050 Holes: 18

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PENANG TURF CLUB GOLF SECTION Batu Gantong, George Town T (04) 238 5226 Holes: 9 PERAK CLEARWATER SANCTUARY GOLF RESORT Batu Gajah T (05) 366 7433 Holes: 18 DAMAI LAUT GOLF & COUTRY CLUB Lumut Hp (019) 574 2113 Holes: 18 KELAB GOLF BRIGED UTARA Ulu Kinta Hp (012) 582 9515 Holes: 9 KINTA GOLF CLUB Batu Gajah T (05) 366 7270 Holes: 18 KUALA KANGSAR GOLF CLUB Kuala Kangsar T (05) 776 2396 Holes: 9 MERU VALLEY GOLF RESORT Ipoh T (05) 529 3300/ 3333 Holes: 27 ROYAL PERAK GOLF CLUB Ipoh T (05) 547 3266 Holes: 18 TELUK INTAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Teluk Intan T (05) 623 7421 Holes: 18 PERLIS PUTRA GOLF CLUB Kangar T (04) 976 9660 Holes: 18

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Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid, Chairman of Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) being inducted into the Olympic Council of Malaysia Hall of Fame on 24th January 2015 by OCM President YAM Tunku Tan Sri Imran Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Jaafar.

KINABALU GOLF CLUB Kota Kinabalu T (088) 251 615 Holes: 9

RANAU RECREATION & GOLF CLUB Ranau T (088) 874 173 Holes: 9

KUDAT GOLF & MARINA RESORT Kudat T (088) 611 002 Holes: 18

SABAH GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kota Kinabalu T (088) 247 533 Holes: 18

BRUMAS GOLF CLUB Hp (019) 813 8605 Holes: 9

MOUNT KINABALU GOLF CLUB Ranau T (088) 889 445 Holes: 18

SANDAKAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Sandakan T (089) 660 555/ 557 Holes: 18

DALIT BAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kota Kinabalu T (088) 791 188 Holes: 18

NEXUS GOLF RESORT KARAMBUNAI Kota Kinabalu T (088) 411 215/ 480 888 Holes: 18

SHAN SHUI GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Tawau T (089) 916 999/ 888 Holes: 18

KENINGAU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Keningau T (087) 331 113 Holes: 18

RAINTREE BEACH & GOLF RESORT Tuaran Hp (013) 284 8888 Holes: 18

SIGALONG GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Tawau T (089) 975 111 Holes: 18

PUTRAJAYA PALM GARDEN GOLF CLUB

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SABAH BORNEO GOLF RESORT Bongawan T (087) 861 888 Holes: 18

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

SUTERA HARBOUR GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kota Kinabalu T (088) 308 194 Holes: 27 TAMBUNAN GOLF CLUB Tambunan T (087) 773 114/ 115 Holes: 18 TAWAU GOLF CLUB Tawau T (089) 765 555 Holes: 9 TAWAU GOLF CLUB HOT SPRING COURSE Tawau T (089) 765 555 Holes: 18 SARAWAK BINTULU GOLF CLUB Bintulu T (086) 253 213/ 252 001 Holes: 18 DAMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Damai Beach, Kuching

T (082) 846 088 Holes: 18 EASTWOOD VALLEY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Miri T (085) 421 010 Holes: 36 MIRI GOLF CLUB Miri T (085) 416 786 Holes: 18 SAMARAHAN COUNTRY CLUB Kota Samarahan T (082) 366 266 Holes: 18 SARAWAK GOLF CLUB Kuching T (082) 440 966/ 443 398 Holes: 36 SIBU GOLF CLUB Sibu Hp (019) 892 2291 Holes: 18 THE HORNBILL GOLF & JUNGLE CLUB

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Kuching T (082) 577 930 Holes: 18 SELANGOR AMVERTON COVE GOLF & ISLAND RESORT Mukim Jugra T (03) 3123 3888/ 3800 Holes: 18 BANGI GOLF RESORT Bandar Baru Bangi T (03) 8929 9888 Holes: 18 BUKIT BERUNTUNG GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Bukit Beruntung T (03) 6021 0707 Holes: 18 BUKIT KEMUNING GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Shah Alam T (03) 5121 6412/ 7188 Holes: 18 BUKIT UNGGUL COUNTRY CLUB Dengkil

Slovakian players Jana Jank (publisher of golfing website golfandtravel.sk) and Tatiana Jantolakova are amused by the “Beware of Monkeys” sign at the World Amateur Golfers Championship 2019 in Sabah.

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T (03) 8920 2888/ 2188 Holes: 18 CAREY ISLAND GOLF CLUB West Estate, Carey Island T (03) 3326 6210 Holes: 18 DANAU GOLF CLUB University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi T (03) 8925 3030/ 1010 Holes: 18

ILSAS RECREATIONAL GOLF CLUB (IRGC) Kajang Hp (012) 382 7475 Holes: 9

KOTA PERMAI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Shah Alam T (03) 5122 3700 Holes: 18

KELAB RAHMAN PUTRA MALAYSIA Bukit Rahman Putra Sungai Buloh T (03) 6156 6870 Holes: 36

KUALA KUBU BHARU GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kuala Kubu Bharu T (03) 6064 2887 Holes: 18

DARUL EHSAN GOLF CLUB Taman Tun Razak, Ampang T (03) 4257 2333 Holes: 9

KELAB REKREASI TENTERA UDARA (ROYAL AIR FORCE RECREATION CLUB) Pangkalan TUDM, Subang T (03) 7831 5502 Holes: 18

GLENMARIE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Shah Alam T (03) 7803 9090 Holes: 36

KINRARA GOLF CLUB Puchong T (03) 8076 2100 Holes: 18

LEMBAH BERINGIN GOLF CLUB Lembah Beringin T (03) 6460 0016 Holes: 18 MONTEREZ GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Shah Alam T (03) 7846 5989 Holes: 18 ROYAL KAMPUNG KUANTAN CLUB

His Majesty the King (right) and former Maybank Chairman Datuk Mohaiyani Shamsudin (left) present Scott Held (Australia) with his winner’s cheque for the 2019 Maybank Championship held at Saujana Golf Club.

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Bukit Rotan T (03) 3289 1069 Holes: 18 SAUJANA GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Shah Alam T (03) 7846 1466 Holes: 36 SERI SELANGOR GOLF CLUB Petaling Jaya T (03) 7806 1111 Holes: 18 SUBANG NATIONAL GOLF CLUB Kelana Jaya, Petaling Jaya T (03) 7876 0388 Holes: 36 SULTAN ABDUL AZIZ SHAH GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Shah Alam T (03) 5510 5872 Holes: 27 SUNGAI LONG GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Kajang T (03) 9076 2233 Holes: 18 TASIK PUTERI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Rawang T (03) 6034 4722/ 4721 Holes: 27 TEMPLER PARK COUNTRY CLUB Jalan Rawang Rawang T (03) 6091 9617/ 9111 Holes: 18 THE MINES RESORT & GOLF CLUB Seri Kembangan T (03) 8943 2288/ 6268 Holes: 18 TROPICANA GOLF & COUNTRY RESORT Petaling Jaya T (03) 7804 8888 Holes: 27 VALENCIA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Sungai Buloh

The late Tun Ahmad Sarji (left), the then Chairman of Persatuan Golf Malaysia, presenting the PGM Tour Yearbook 2019 to UMW Holdings Berhad Chairman Tan Sri Hamad Kama Piah in appreciation of UMW Group’s generous sponsorship of PGM tournaments. Following Tun Ahmad’s demise, Tan Sri Hamad succeeded him as PGM Chairman.

T (03) 6156 0021 Holes: 9 TERENGGANU DESA DUNGUN GOLF CLUB Kampong Sura Hujung T (09) 848 1041 Holes: 18

T (09) 864 1188 Holes: 18 ROYAL TERENGGANU GOLF CLUB Kuala Terengganu Kuala Berang T (09) 622 9393 Holes: 9

GREEN ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Kuala Terengganu T (09) 616 3500 Holes: 18 KELAB GOLF DAN REKREASI PETRONAS Kemaman T (09) 864 0232 Holes: 9 KUALA TERENGGANU GOLF RESORT Kuala Terengganu T (09) 666 6836 Holes: 18 RESORT WORLD KIJAL Kemaman

Iain Steel, the first Malaysian golfer to compete in The Open Championship (1996) and the PGA Tour (1998). A former Malaysian PGA Champion, Iain is still an active member of the Asian Tour.

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WATERSPORTS - FOREWORD

Malaysia is blessed with enticing warm and safe waters, beautiful beaches, sheltered islands, spectacular coral reefs rich and abundant mangroves and rivers fringed by tropical jungles and traditional villages. Combine these stunning attributes with modern infrastructure and it is only natural that our country is a magnet for all water sports lovers. Whether visitors seek the thrill of competing in one of the many regattas held throughout the year, charter a yacht to explore our waters, to cruise, to snorkel or dive, take a fishing expedition or to kayak, jet ski, white water raft, or just to relax on one of our many beaches, Malaysia offers unrivalled year-round opportunities for all types of water sports in protected, welcoming and properly managed settings. The Government takes a proactive role in encouraging the development of supporting infrastructure for watersports and water-based leisure activities, whether it is in the form of marina development, event sponsorship, reduced import duties, streamlined entry procedures, setting safety standards or the funding of watersports training opportunities for young people. This ongoing commitment will enable Malaysia to build on its successes to date. Watersports activities are easily accessible throughout Malaysia, with our total coastline of 4,675km being one of the top-30 longest in the world. Even in those rare locations where the sea is not within easy reach, our rivers, lakes and reservoirs offer abundant watersports opportunities, from kayaking on Putrajaya’s city centre lake to rafting through the remotest jungles of Sabah and Sarawak. There is truly something for everyone, from total beginner to expert enthusiast, whatever your choice of sport. We welcome you to our piece of aquatic paradise and invite you to enjoy Malaysia more through our water sports!

Y.M. Tunku Soraya Dakhlah

Rear Commodore – Royal Langkawi Yacht Club Chairperson – Royal Langkawi International Regatta

WATER SPORTS Malaysia’s Rivers Lakes & the Sea Malaysia’s Islands Marine Parks in Malaysia A Diver’s Paradise World Class Sailing Events The Sarawak Regatta Sabah FCAS International Dragon Boat Race Royal Langkawi Yacht Club Pangkor Marina Royal Selangor Yacht Club Avillion Admiral Cove

Straits Quay Marina Penang Sutera Harbour Marina & Country Club Water Sports Listing Marinas and Yacht Clubs Charters Cruises Ferries & Jetties

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Malaysia’s Rivers, Lakes and the Sea Water is everywhere in Malaysia. The country has 4,800km of coastline, the 29th longest in the world, which is remarkable considering it is ranked only 66th by land area. The coastline encompasses Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak on the northeast coast of Borneo and 878 islands of various sizes. High tropical rainfall also ensures an abundance of rivers and lakes. Rivers Malaysia’s 180-plus river basins were, until the 20th century, the primary means of communication. They remain so today in the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak, whose indigenous communities identify closely with their home rivers. Many rivers are important sources of green hydropower and also supply 98% of the country’s drinking water. They are also major tourism assets,

Pulau Sibu, off the Johor coast, is typical of Peninsular Malaysia’s many fine tropical beaches bordering the South China Sea.

appealing to nature lovers for their unique mammal and bird species, to anglers for hard-fighting fish such as giant snakehead and mahseer, and to adventure sports enthusiasts for

world-class kayaking and whitewater rafting. The longest are Sarawak’s Rajang River (563km), Sabah’s Kinabatangan River (560km) and Peninsula Malaysia’s Pahang River

Sri Aman’s famous benak (tidal bore), cresting to 2 or 3 metres along the Batang Lupar in Sarawak, is the venue for a unique annual watersports festival.

The Kinabatangan River is Malaysia’s second longest river at 560 kilometres and is home to a wide variety of bird, reptile and mammal species as it winds its way across Sabah to the Sulu Sea.

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(459km). Even the country’s capital is named after two rivers; it grew from the point where the Gombak and Klang Rivers meet, hence the name Kuala Lumpur (muddy confluence). Lakes Malaysia has over 90 natural and man-made lakes. Naturally-formed lakes such as Tasik Bera and Tasik Chini in Pahang have long provided a livelihood to indigenous communities and a safe habitat for many waterbird species, while the oxbow lakes of Sabah are popular ecotourism destinations. Sarawak’s remarkable Loagan Bunut, which dries up every year, is even gazetted as a National Park. Man-made lakes are also abundant; recreational lakes in the Klang Valley and Perak, created from former tin-mine pools, offer boating and angling facilities. The 695sq km Bakun Hydropower Reservoir in Sarawak, the largest man-made lake in

Taming Malaysia’s rivers: the Sungai Sarawak Regulation Scheme, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, protects Kuching from devastating floods.

Southeast Asia, is being developed for ecotourism and aquaculture, while the former record-holder, Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu, has become a major ecotourism destination. The Sea Malaysia’s extensive mangroves and coral reefs provide rich marine habitats, so fishing has been important since prehistoric times. The fisheries industry supports a workforce of more than 110,000 and the annual catch, including aquaculture, is over 1.5 million tonnes. A strategic location on the Straits of Malacca means maritime

Temenggor Lake is a man-made lake and second largest in Malaysia.

trade also has a long history. The Sultanate of Melaka founded the world’s first dedicated trade entrepot as early as 1424 AD and the tradition continues today. Malaysia is home to two of the world’s top-20 busiest container ports, Port Klang and Tanjung Pelepas. Tourism is another major beneficiary of the extensive coastline. Pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters attract tourists to the coasts and islands, with accommodation ranging from homestays to 5-star resorts offering both relaxation and recreation, including world-class yachting, windsurfing and scuba diving.

LNG Seri Cenderawasih, a Malaysian-flagged liquid natural gas tanker, is the proud inheritor of a maritime trade tradition dating back almost 600 years.

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Malaysia’s Islands With 800-plus islands and over 4,600km of coastline, Malaysia is a fantastic island destination, offering vibrant cultures, spotless white sand beaches, unique nature conservation sites and world-class yachting and scuba diving centres. Langkawi, in northwest Peninsular Malaysia, is a multifaceted holiday destination with worldclass infrastructure, duty-free shopping and Southeast Asia’s first UNESCO Global Geopark. Penang, the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, offers a fascinating history, mix of cultures, dynamic arts scene and incredible cuisine. Further south, Pangkor is a mountainous island with beautiful, secluded beaches and world-class resorts. The east coast is an island-hopper’s paradise to suit every budget, with world-class beaches, clear waters and pristine coral reefs. Most popular are the Perhentians, Pulau Redang and Pulau Tioman. Smaller islands have fewer facilities but are ideal for getting away from it all. Almost half of Malaysia’s 878 islands are located off Sabah, whose State Government has gazetted six island clusters as Marine Parks (see next page), including world-famous dive destinations, stunning beaches and marine wildlife attractions.

Pangkor Laut, a small privately-owned island off Pangkor Island in Perak, offers luxurious and secluded resort facilities.

The Federal Territory of Labuan, southwest of Kota Kinabalu, is a bustling International Offshore Financial Centre with duty free shopping, some fine beaches and attractive water villages. In Sarawak, Pulau Bruit, Malaysia’s second largest

island, is an Important Bird Area (IBA). Talang Satang National Park off Kuching is devoted to turtle and bird conservation. Day trippers may visit the largest island, Satang Besar, to view the turtle hatchery and for diving and snorkeling.

Three of the five islands that make up Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, a popular weekend retreat offshore from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

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Marine Parks in Malaysia Peninsular Malaysia Department of Marine Parks Malaysia W marinepark.dof.gov.my Many islands off Peninsular Malaysia are Marine Parks, with the waters around them protected by law. Four (4 islands) are located off Kedah in the northwest and 35 off the east coast states of Terengganu (13 parks, 26 islands), Pahang (9 parks, 14 islands) and Johor (13 parks, 27 islands). These include famous destinations like the Perhentians, Redang, Tioman, Rawa and Sibu, perfect for diving, snorkeling and windsurfing. A further 3 Marine Parks are located off Labuan Federal Territory.

Pulau Sapi, the smallest and arguably the most beautiful of the five islands in Sabah’s Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu’s offshore playground.

Sabah Sabah Parks W sabahparks.org.my Sabah’s six Marine Parks include Pulau Sipadan, one of the world’s greatest dive destinations (see page 277). Tun Sakaran Marine Park’s 8 islands offer diving, a giant clam farm and Sea Gypsy villages. Turtle Islands Park, off Sandakan, comprises three

small islands where marine turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Near Kota Kinabalu, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s five islands provide diving, snorkeling and beachcombing, while Pulau Tiga Park was formerly the setting for the Survivor reality TV series. The recently gazetted (2016) Tun Mustapha Marine Park covers more than 50 islands and at almost 900,000 hectares, is the largest protected marine area in Malaysia. Sarawak Sarawak Forestry W sarawakforestry.com

Pulau Rawa Marine Park off the cost of Johor offers crystal clear waters, sun-kissed beaches and extensive coral reefs for diving, snorkelling, seakayaking and simple relaxation.

Most of Sarawak’s protected waters are extensions of terrestrial National Parks, with two exceptions. Talang Satang National Park near Kuching is devoted to marine turtle and seabird conservation, while Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park is an emerging dive destination.

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A Diver’s Paradise By Stewart Forbes

The Coral Triangle, a marine region that spans parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste, is home to more coral reef species than anywhere else on Earth. The region has the greatest coral reef fish diversity with 37% (2,228) of the world’s species (6,000) and 56% of those in the Indo-Pacific region (4,050). This abundance of marine life, combined with good infrastructure and ease of access, has made Malaysia one of the top dive destinations in the world. Diving in Malaysia is suitable for all levels of divers as waters are generally calm and reefs are protected. The East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia can be dived from April to October, as water conditions during the northeast monsoon can be rough. In East Malaysia, Sabah has a year-round diving season with peak visibility from March to May. Sarawak’s diving season is April – September. Peninsular Malaysia The islands and small archipelagos situated off the East Coast in the South China Sea include the Perhentians, Lang Tengah, Bidong, the Redang group, Kapas, Tenggol, Tioman

Moray eels and other reef dwellers provide a spectacular sight for visiting divers.

and Aur, along with a number of inshore islands. All offer beach and boat dives to extensive coral reef environments along with a wide variety of marine life.

Numerous beach resorts and dive centres can be found on these islands. East Malaysia East Malaysia offers

A colourful but venomous lionfish (genus Pterois) parades along the reef in search of small prey.

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species or huge schools of pelagic fish.

Exotic marine life such as the tiny pigmy seahorse (Hyppocampus bargibanti) can be found in the soft corals adorning reef walls off Sipadan Island.

more adventurous dive opportunities. The MiriSibuti Coral Reefs National Park in Sarawak offers shore-based diving from Miri over pristine patch reefs, as well as some interesting wrecks. The Kuching area has some easy reef dives and a few wrecks. The islands off southeast Sabah offer world-class wall and ‘muck’ diving at

Divers drift effortlessly along Sipadan Island’s reef walls, enjoying the abundance of corals and other marine life.

Green, leatherback and hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay eggs along the Malaysian coast every year.

Mataking, Kapalai, Mabul and of course Sipadan, which regularly features in global ‘top ten’ dive site lists. North of Sandakan, tiny Pulau Lankayan features reef and wreck diving. Layang Layang, in the South China Sea 300km north of Kota Kinabalu, has deep dives of up to 130ft (40m) as well as large pelagic species, notably hammerhead and whale sharks. All these sites feature tremendous biodiversity, whether it is reef fish and macro

Learn To Dive Learning to dive in Malaysia is easy and safe because water conditions are almost always favourable, 26-30 degrees Celsius all year with good underwater visibility. Major dive certification agencies such as CMAS, PADI, NAUI and SSI are represented at the various dive centres and resorts, providing a wide range of quality training and certification. MSDA (Malaysia Scuba Diving Association) promote the dive industry in Malaysia, while MSAC (Malayan Sub Aqua Club), Malaysia’s longest established dive organisation (60 years old in 2019), represents Malaysia within CMAS (World Underwater Federation) and issues CMAS international certification.

All set for a day of reef exploration on Pulau Kapas, Terengganu.

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Yachts rounding a mark in the Royal Langkawi International Regatta in Langkawi’s Bass Harbour.

World Class Sailing Events By Dato’ Richard Curtis

Malaysia is now established as a top Asian destination for sailing, attracting yachtsmen from across the world. From world class competitive events to weekend club activities in keelboats and dinghies, yachtsmen, whether professional or amateur, in Malaysia are spoilt for choice. Malaysia’s oldest established keelboat regatta, now in its 30th year, is the Raja Muda Selangor

International Regatta organised by the Royal Selangor Yacht Club in association with UK’s Royal Ocean Racing Club. This week long series of passage races up Malaysia’s West coast is considered one of Asia’s most

tactically challenging. Next is Royal Langkawi Yacht Club’s Royal Langkawi International Regatta, which offers highly competitive day racing, across all keelboat classes as well in dinghies in and around

H.R.H. Sultan of Selangor, Patron of Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta, and H.H. Raja Muda of Selangor on stage with the winning crew of the 30th RMSIR, “The Next Factor” holding up the prestigious, Raja Muda Trophy, designed by Garrards, the British Crown jewellers.

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Langkawi’s 99 islands. Since 2003, East Malaysia has hosted its own sailing event, the Borneo International Sailing Challenge that takes yachts from Miri to Labuan finishing in Kota Kinabalu, which attracts mostly yachts cruising in the area. For cruising yachtsmen, Malaysia’s Sail Malaysia group offers two exciting options targeted at yachts planning to visit Malaysia to enable them to cruise in company with logistics support in place. One event, Sail Malaysia Passage to Langkawi, is for yachts heading north to Langkawi from Singapore and the other, Passage to the East Yacht Rally, is for yachts seeking to explore West and East Malaysia. Outside of this, Royal Selangor Yacht Club

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Y.M. Tunku Soraya Dakhlah, Rear Commodore of Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, on stage with a winning crew at the 2020 Royal Langkawi International Regatta.

organises regular weekly fleet, match and dinghy racing in and out of Port Klang whilst the Malaysian Yachting Association itself or through State Yachting Associations train up Malaysia’s youth

Yachts racing to and away from the rounding mark in the Royal Langkawi International Regatta in Langkawi’s Bass Harbour.

sailors and organise regular competitive events sometimes with invited international participation. For more information and contacts visit: rmsir.com, langkawiregatta.com or sailmalaysia.net.

Racing downwind under spinnakers in the Royal Langkawi International Regatta in Langkawi’s Bass Harbour.

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THE SARAWAK REGATTA Kuching Resident’s Office (Organiser) Level 7, Sarawak Islamic Complex Lorong P. Ramlee 5 93400 Kuching, Sarawak T (082) 507 051 W regatta.sarawaktourism.com

IN BRIEF

One of the oldest sports events in Malaysia, the Sarawak Regatta is a popular longboat racing competition of great historical and cultural significance.

DATE

Held annually, late October or early November

MAIN FEATURES The Sarawak Regatta was inaugurated by Rajah Sir Charles Brooke as an outlet for rival tribes’ competitive instincts and has been held annually since 1872. So important was the regatta during the Brooke era that a launch was sent to outlying districts to bring government officers to Kuching. The early regattas were restricted to traditional longboats

Ancient rivalries are re-enacted in a friendly, sporting spirit at the Sarawak Regatta, as the crowd cheers the racers on from the Darul Hana Bridge.

and war canoes, but nowadays the programme includes power boats, water skiers and jet skis. There is even a “Tourist Race” for visitors unafraid to get their feet wet. The Sarawak Regatta has now been joined by the Sarawak International Dragon Boat Regatta, held over the preceding weekend,

to form the 10-day Kuching Waterfront Festival, with accompanying trade fair, food fair, concerts and dance performances. The regatta is very wellattended; come early to get a good vantage point on the Kuching Waterfront, the Darul Hana pedestrian bridge or the boardwalk on the river’s north bank.

LOCATION / ROUTE Sarawak River, facing the Kuching Waterfront. HOW TO GET THERE Taxi/ride hailing from Kuching International Airport. Kuching Waterfront is a short walk from city centre hotels.

Landas team manager Abdullah Julaihi receives the 2019 “King of the River” trophy as (from left) Sarawak’s Youth & Sports Minister, Chief Minister and Governor look on.

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SABAH FCAS INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT RACE Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah, 7th Floor, Karamunsing Complex 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 253 433 W sabahdragonboat.com

IN BRIEF Held on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar (which usually falls from late May to mid-June), the Sabah FCAS International Dragon Boat Race celebrates the 2000year history of the Duanwu Festival, honouring the great poet Qu Yuan and the dragon spirit of the Chinese people.

MAIN FEATURES Formerly a local tradition among Sabahan Chinese, the race has grown to become an IDBFsanctioned international competition, attracting elite crews from all over Asia; 89 local and international teams took part in the 2019 race. It is a

The drummers work as hard as the paddlers, pounding out the stroke rhythm and driving the race tempo.

The short 200 and 800 metre dragon boat courses make for exciting neck and neck racing.

major community event and a great day out for all in the family. Visitors can enjoy two days of thrilling racing as the multicoloured long zhou (boats decorated with ferociouslooking dragon heads) compete

to the beat of pounding drums. Delicious local delicacies are offered from the stalls set up along the bay, most notably the tasty zongzi rice dumplings which were originally eaten in memory of Qu Yuan.

LOCATION / ROUTE Likas Bay, Kota Kinabalu. Unobstructed views of the races available from the shoreline along the bay. HOW TO GET THERE Taxi or bus from Kota Kinabalu International Airport to Likas Bay. From city centre or Kota Kinabalu Waterfront, City Bus 1A.

Sabah Governor Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Juhar Mahiruddin gets the 2019 race underway by hitting the ceremonial gong.

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ROYAL LANGKAWI YACHT CLUB Jalan Dato Syed Omar 07000 Kuah, Langkawi Kedah Darul Aman T (04) 966 4078 W langkawiyachtclub.com

IN BRIEF The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club (RLYC) is an award-winning marina and the main sailing hub for Peninsular Malaysia’s northwest coast region. It is a well-equipped port of call for sailors, with full club facilities. It is also the venue for the annual Royal Langkawi International Regatta.

MAIN FEATURES The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club opened in 1996 and has since become a premier cruising destination in the region. 234 berths cater for vessels up to 83.5 metres, draft from 3 to 10 metres. LOCATION / ROUTE The Club is situated in the main town of Kuah on the southeast coast of Langkawi Island. It is the mid-point marina between Singapore and Thailand. Position: N 06° 18.2’ E 99° 51.1’ VHF: Channel 69 HOW TO GET THERE 2 minutes’ walk from Kuah Ferry Terminal, 30 minutes’ drive from Langkawi International Airport and 1 hour from the Kuala Perlis jetty to Kuah.

A mast head view of the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club’s marina, with the elegant clubhouse in the background.

Facilities include electricity supply (single & 3 phase up to 100A), wi-fi, shower and toilet, swimming pool, maintenance services, diesel refuelling, laundry, telephone, fax, postal and parcel services. Hospitality features include Charlie’s Bar & Grill and the 46-room Langkawi Yacht

Club Hotel. The adjacent Fisherman’s Wharf Langkawi offers more exciting dining, shopping and entertainment outlets, including karaoke, gym, spa and a cigar lounge. The club was awarded Best Asian Marine Yacht Club 2008 by the Christophle Asia Boating Awards.

The Royal Langkawi International Regatta provides spectators with some of the best yacht racing in Southeast Asia.

The poolside, with its splendid harbour view, is the perfect location for al-fresco gatherings.

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PANGKOR MARINA Pangkor Marina Sdn Bhd Marina Island Km1, Teluk Muroh 32200 Lumut Perak Hp (016) 550 4088

IN BRIEF Pangkor Marina is a full service marina catering to serious boaters living near or visiting the Straits of Malacca.

MAIN FEATURES Nearby Lumut is the home base of the Royal Malaysian Navy, so Pangkor Marina has a proud seafaring tradition to live up to. It achieves this with a comprehensive range of facilities and services for

Pangkor Marina caters to a wide range of vessels, from local leisure craft to serious ocean cruisers.

boaters. 65 wet berths and 150 hardstands are available for vessels up to 20 metres, maximum draught 3 metres. Other facilities include a Sea Lift (max 45 tons), forklift, crane, engine re-power & service, prop & shaft service,

painting, sandblasting, pressure wash, etc. Guest amenities include showers, library and free wifi. There is a popular seafood restaurant directly adjacent and a hotel, convenience store and food outlets just across the street.

LOCATION / ROUTE Located on Marina Island Pangkor, opposite Pangkor Island at Teluk Muroh, Lumut, Perak. It is built on reclaimed land connected to the mainland by a 400 metre causeway. Entry Point: N 04º 12.655’ E 100º 35.100’ Position: N 04º 12.699’ E 100º 36.030 VHF: Channel 69 HOW TO GET THERE From the mainland: Federal Route 5 from Teluk Intan (south) or Federal Route 60 from Taiping (north). Taxi from Lumut Bus Terminal (15 mins). Direct Marina Island bus services from various locations – transnasional.com.my. From Pangkor Island: Pangkor Marina is 100m from Marina Island Ferry Jetty (10 mins).

Pangkor Marina is located along a protected breakwater, providing a natural defence from threatening wind and high seas. Pangkor Island is visible in the background.

The Spacious Layout of the berths provides plenty of sea room for manoeuvring.

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ROYAL SELANGOR YACHT CLUB (RSYC) Jalan Shahbandar 42000 Port Klang Selangor T (03) 3168 6964 W rsyc.com.my

OPENING HOURS Daily 9am~12 midnight

IN BRIEF RSYC is the largest and most active members’ yacht club in the country, with the premier venue for competitive yachting, fishing and water-based sports in Selangor and the Klang Valley. The club is the proud organiser of the Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta, Southeast Asia’s most challenging offshore yacht racing event. LOCATION / ROUTE Located close to the mouth of the Klang River in Port Klang, Malaysia’s largest port. Entry Point: Cardinal buoy “TAIL” (N 03° 0.406’ E 101° 21.219’) – steer portward to Red lateral buoy “S.AGAS” (N 02° 59.759’ E 101° 22.536’) then Red lateral buoy “SK1” (E 3° 0.179’ E 101° 23.302’) Position: N 03° 00.30’, E 101° 23.30’ VHF: Channel 72, Call sign RSYC HOW TO GET THERE By car, Kuala Lumpur 45mins, KLIA 1 hr, Johor Bahru/Singapore 4hrs. Public Transport: Local bus to Klang Sentral (30mins) for all major destinations. KTM Komuter train from Port Klang Station to KL Sentral (1hr 25mins)

The RSYC clubhouse, with the fully serviced club berth pontoons in the foreground. Additional berthing pontoons are available across the river.

MAIN FEATURES RSYC is sheltered and accessible in all weathers, but due to its 5-metre tidal variation berthing is advisable close to slack water. It provides a limited number of berths for

visiting yachts up to 36 metres – advance booking is recommended. Facilities include refuelling, repairs & maintenance, haul-out, showers, free wi-fi, pool, restaurant and bar, 24-hour security.

RSYC operates a fleet of Farr 25 Platu boats for club competitions and sail training. They are also available for daily hire.

The clubhouse terrace overlooking the Klang River. A must-visit for boaters, the restaurant and bar are a social hub for the yachting community.

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ADMIRAL MARINA & LEISURE CLUB Admiral Marina & Leisure Club Batu 5 1/2 Jalan Pantai, Si Rusa 71050 Port Dickson Negeri Sembilan T (06) 648 2514 W admiralmarina.com.my

OPENING HOURS Daily 9am~6pm IN BRIEF Admiral Marina & Leisure Club is a premium full service marina with leisure and accommodation facilities. It is strategically located between Penang and Singapore at the narrowest point of the Straits of Malacca.

MAIN FEATURES Admiral Marina is spacious and well sheltered, accessible LOCATION / ROUTE Located at Tanjung Lembah in Port Dickson’s resort district, 8km south of Port Dickson town and 10km north of Cape Rachado lighthouse. Entry Point (Northern Approach): N 02° 28.76’, E 101° 50.68’ Entry Point (Southern Approach): N 02° 28.42’, E 101° 49.73’ Position: N 02° 28.75’, E 101° 50.40’ VHF: Channel 14 HOW TO GET THERE By car, Kuala Lumpur 1 hr 15 mins, KLIA 1 hr, Seremban 30 mins, Malacca 1 hr 30 mins, Singapore 3 hrs 30 mins. Buses to all destinations from Port Dickson Bus Terminal, accessible via local T32 bus.

A panoramic view of the Admiral Marina & Leisure Club basin, with Port Dickson in the background. Note the well-sheltered approach and entrance.

in all weathers, and provides a comprehensive range of facilities and services for boaters. 90 wet berths with water and electricity (up to 100A) are available for vessels up to 28 metres, maximum draught 6 metres. Other facilities include refuelling,

Travelift (max 30 tons), drydocking, light repairs etc. Guest amenities include showers, boater’s library, free wifi, pool, restaurant and pub, 24 hour security. Full resort hotel facilities and services are provided by the co-located Avillion Admiral Cove.

Traders’ Food Shop is well known for its excellent continental and local cuisine, served complete with a stunning harbour view.

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STRAITS QUAY MARINA 3F-G-1 Straits Quay Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Tokong, 10470 Penang T (04) 890 6521 W straitsquay.com

BUSINESS HOURS 9am~6pm daily.

IN BRIEF Straits Quay Marina is a privately-owned marina at the heart of the Straits Quay retail and entertainment complex at the northeast corner of Penang Island. LOCATION / ROUTE Located at Tanjung Tokong, between the beaches at Batu Ferringhi and the George Town World Heritage area. Entry Point: N 05º 27.500’ E 100º 18.900’ VHF: Channel 71 HOW TO GET THERE By Car or Taxi: 15 minutes from George Town, 20 minutes from Batu Feringghi, 35 minutes from the Penang Bridge, 45 minutes from Penang International Airport. By Bus: Rapid Penang No. 101, 102 (airport route) & 103.

The well-designed layout of the marina basin allows easy access and egress for boats while reducing walking distance from the berths to the extensive onshore facilities.

MAIN FEATURES The marina offers 40 pontoon berths for boats from 10 to 25 metres, draught 3 metres, and is regularly dredged to 4.5 metres. Advance booking is recommended. For boaters’ security, the marina basin is secured inside electronically operated access gates. All berths have potable water and 240V 32/63A electricity supplied

via pedestals. Amenities include a Boater’s Centre with showers and free wifi, laundry and dinghy storage. Refuelling is available from offshore barges. The upscale Straits Quay Marina Mall is directly adjacent and many of Penang’s favourite dining and entertainment outlets are either inside the mall itself or within easy walking distance.

Straits Quay Marina at night. The bustling waterfront is popular with diners and strollers.

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SUTERA HARBOUR MARINA & COUNTRY CLUB 1, Sutera Harbour Boulevard Sutera Harbour 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 318 888 (Resort) T (088) 308 111 (Marina) W suteraharbour.com

OPENING HOURS Daily 8am~5pm

IN BRIEF Sutera Harbour Marina, a world-class full-service marina with the only 5-Gold Anchor rating in Malaysia, is a major hub for yachting in Southeast Asia.

MAIN FEATURES Sutera Harbour Marina is well sheltered, accessible in all weathers and provides a comprehensive range of facilities and services. Average depth at LAT is 5 metres inside the LOCATION/ROUTE Located 2 kilometres southeast of Kota Kinabalu city centre, facing the South China Sea near the northern tip of Borneo. Waypoint 1: N 5° 59’, E 115° 59’ Waypoint 2: N 5° 59’, E 116° 00’ Position: N 5° 58.05’, E 116° 03.40’ VHF: Channel 71 Detailed arrival instructions on website. HOW TO GET THERE 5 minutes from Kota Kinabalu City Centre and 10 minutes from Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

Malaysia’s only 5 Gold Anchor rating has helped to make Sutera Harbour a very popular sailing destination. Advance booking of berths is essential.

basin and more than 7 metres outside the breakwater. It offers 110 wet berths with water, electricity and wi-fi for vessels up to 23 metres, 10 mega-berths for yachts up to 100 metres and 30 dry berths. Other facilities include refuelling docks (petrol & diesel), marine engineering

and electronic services and pump-out. Guest amenities include showers, launderette, pool, restaurants and bar, 24hour security. Full resort hotel facilities are provided by the co-located Sutera Harbour Resort, Malaysia’s largest integrated leisure development (see Page 267 & 342).

An idyllic setting: the marina is framed by the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, with Sutera Harbour Resort directly adjacent.

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MARINAS & YACHT CLUBS JOHOR PUTERI HARBOUR MARINA Puteri Harbour Satellite Clubhouse 79000 Iskandar Puteri T (07) 530 2122 SEBANA COVE GOLF & MARINA RESORT Mukim Pengerang 81600 Pengerang, Johor T (07) 826 6688 W sebanacoveresort.com SENIBONG COVE MARINA Persiaran Senibong 81750 Masai, Johor T (07) 382 0022/ 0388 W senibongcove.my KEDAH REBAK ISLAND MARINA Vivanta Rebak Island Resort Langkawi Pantai Chenang, Langkawi T (04) 966 5566 W vivantabytaj.com RESORTS WORLD LANGKAWI MARINA Tanjung Malai, Langkawi T (04) 955 5111 W rwlangkawi.com ROYAL LANGKAWI YACHT CLUB (See page 282) TELAGA HARBOUR MARINA Pantai Kok, Langkawi T (04) 959 2202 W telagaharbour.com LABUAN LABUAN PUBLIC MARINA Jalan Wawasan, Labuan T/ F (087) 581 820 NEGERI SEMBILAN AVILLION ADMIRAL COVE (See page 285) ROYAL PORT DICKSON YACHT CLUB

Rebak Island Marina, part of Vivanta Langkawi Resort, is a wonderfully scenic maritime gateway to the Andaman Sea.

Jalan Pantai, Si Rusa Port Dickson T (06) 647 1635/ 3505 W rpdyc.com.my PAHANG TIOMAN ISLAND MARINA Kampung Tekek, Pulau Tioman T (09) 419 1581 PENANG BATU UBAN MARINA Batu Uban, Gelugor T (04) 657 5428 STRAITS QUAY MARINA (See page 286) PERAK MARINA SANCTUARY RESORT SDN BHD Jetty Complex 1 Marina Island Teluk Muruh, Lumut T (05) 680 5888 W marinaisland.com

T (03) 8881 0648 W marinaputrajaya.com SABAH KINABALU YACHT CLUB 3A, Jalan Aru, Kota Kinabalu T (088) 240 070 W facebook.com/ kinabaluyachtclubofficial KUDAT GOLF & MARINA RESORT Jalan Urus Setia, Kudat T (088) 611 211 W kudatgolfmarinaresort. com SANDAKAN YACHT CLUB Jalan Buli Sim-Sim Sandakan T (089) 212 518 W sandakanyachtclub.com SUTERA HARBOUR MARINA (See page 287)

PANGKOR MARINA (See page 283) PERAK YACHT CLUB Kampong Lalang, Sitiawan Hp (016) 212 2577 W facebook.com/ westerntide PUTRAJAYA MARINA PUTRAJAYA 1, Jalan P5/5, Precinct 5 Putrajaya

Kudat Golf & Marina Resort at the tip of Borneo is Malaysia’s northernmost marina, flanked by the South China and Sulu seas.

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TAWAU YACHT CLUB Km1, Jalan Tanjung Batu Tawau T (089) 771 104 SARAWAK KUCHING SARAWAK MARINE DEPARTMENT EASTERN REGION Jabatan Laut Malaysia Sarawak Bahagian Barat Marina Kuching Pending-Isthmus Causeway Jalan Keruing, Kuching T (082) 484 159 KUCHING MARINA Tanjong Seberang Pending Point Sejingkat, Kuching T (082) 483 472

Jalan PDV2 Teluk Kemang 71050 Port Dickson Hp (012) 298 3533 W platinumcharters.com.my SIMPSON MARINE c/o Admiral Cove Marina Club 5th Mile, Jalan Pantai 71050 Port Dickson T (06) 647 6868 W simpsonmarine.com PENANG PEN MARINE SDN BHD 3A-1-12 Straits Quay Seri Tanjung Pinang 10470 Tanjung Tokong T (04) 899 8989 W penmarine.com

MIRI MARINA Marina Bay, Jalan Brighton, Miri T (085) 423 033

CRUISES

PIASAU BOAT CLUB c/o Sarawak Shell Berhad Lutong T (085) 655 313 W piasauboatclub.com

MUAR RIVER CRUISE Tanjung Emas Jetty, Muar T (06) 981 5517

SELANGOR PENINSULAR SAILING CLUB Marina Pulau Indah Jalan Star Finder Pulau Indah Hp (012) 369 2850 W peninsularsailingclub. com ROYAL SELANGOR YACHT CLUB (See page 284) TERENGGANU DUYONG MARINA & RESORT Pulau Duyong Kuala Terengganu T (09) 627 7888 W duyongmarinaresort.com CHARTERS NEGERI SEMBILAN PLATINUM CHARTERS SDN BHD

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TANJUNG EMAS JETTY Jalan Peteri Tanjung Mas Muar Hp (019) 665 8827 KEDAH STAR CRUISES LANGKAWI CRUISE CENTRE Porto Malai Langkawi T (04) 955 7000 W starcruises.com KELANTAN KELANTAN MiB RIVER CRUISE Jalan Kuala Beasar 15350 Kota Bharu T (09) 747 1222 Hp (017) 982 2466 MELAKA MELAKA RIVER CRUISE Melaka River Square Jetty Jalan Graha Maju T (06) 281 4322/ 23 W melakarivercruise.my

Penang-based Pen Marine is one of Southeast Asia’s leading yacht brokers, offering new and preowned yachts as well as charters and chandlery.

MELAKA RIVER CRUISE Taman Rempah Jetty Jalan Tun Mutahir T (06) 281 4322/ 23 PAHANG KUANTAN RIVER TOURS Jalan Tanah Putih, Kuantan Hp (011) 1647 1617 W kuantanrivercruise.com PENANG SWETTENHAM PIER INTERNATIONAL CRUISE TERMINAL (SPCT) Swettenham Pier George Town T (04) 210 2331 PUTRAJAYA PUTRAJAYA LAKE CRUISE Jeti Putra Jambatan Putra Precinct 1 T (03) 8881 0648 W cruisetasikputrajaya.com SARAWAK SARAWAK RIVER CRUISE Office: 1st Floor, Lot 42 Section 33, 124 Jalan Tabuan 93100 Kuching T (082) 240 366 W sarawakrivercruise.com FERRIES JOHOR BERJAYA WATERFRONT FERRY TERMINAL 88, Jalan Ibrahim Sultan

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Johor Bahru T (07) 221 1677 Ferry services: Johor Bahru – Batam Tanjung Pinang (Both Indonesia) W berjayawaterfront.com.my KUKUP FERRY TERMINAL Jalan Kukup Laut Kukup, Pontian T (07) 696 0076 Ferry services: Kukup – Tanjung Balai Karimun (Both Indonesia) MERSING FERRY TERMINAL Jalan Abu Bakar, Mersing T (07) 799 4811/ 8518 Ferry services: Mersing - Tioman MINYAK BEKU FERRY TERMINAL Jalan Minyak Beku Batu Pahat T (07) 428 5233 Return ferry service to: Selat Panjang and Bengkalis (Both Indonesia) PUTERI HARBOUR INTERNATIONAL FERRY TERMINAL Lebuh Bahtera Puteri Harbour Iskandar Puteri T (07) 560 0567 Return ferry service to: Batam and Tanjung Balai Karimun (Both Indonesia)

T (07) 791 3002 Resort boats/ ferries to local islands (Pulau Sibu, Pulau Tinggi, etc.) TERMINAL FERI PENUMPANG BANDAR MAHARANI BANDAR DIRAJA Penumpang Ferry Terminal Jalan Maharani Muar T (06) 952 2477 Return ferry service to Bengkalis, Indonesia KEDAH LANGKAWI FERRY SERVICES (a) Langkawi Head Office 37 & 39 Jalan Pandak Mayah, Kuah T (04) 966 9439/ 6316 (b) Counter in Kuala Kedah Passenger Jetty Kuala Kedah T (04) 762 6295/ 6296 W langkawi-ferry.com Ferry services: Langkawi – Kuala Kedah Langkawi – Kuala Perlis Langkawi – Penang via Pulau Payar Langkawi – Satun (Thailand) LABUAN LABUAN INTERNATIONAL FERRY TERMINAL

Jalan Merdeka, Labuan T (087) 581 006 Ferry services: Labuan – Brunei Labuan - Kota Kinabalu Labuan – Menumbok Labuan – Sipitang Labuan – Limbang Labuan – Lawas MELAKA ANJUNG BATU JETTY Km15, Kampung Seri Minyak Merlimau T (06) 261 0492 Ferry service to Pulau Besar ICQS FERRY TERMINAL Jalan Kota Laksamana T (06) 292 3326 Ferry services: Melaka to Dumai and Bengkalis (Both Indonesia) PAHANG TIOMAN ISLAND FERRY SERVICES Ferries from Mersing and Tanjung Gemok drop and pick-up passengers from village jetties at Kampung Salang, Air Batang, Kampung Tekek, Kampung Paya and Kampung Genting. W tiomanferry.com W ferrytioman.com W mersingtiomanferry.com

TANJUNG BELUNGKOR FERRY TERMINAL Bandar Penawar Kota Tinggi T (07) 827 6418 Ferry services: Tanjung Belungkor – Changi (Singapore) Tanjung Belungkor – Batam (Indonesia) W limbonganmaju.com TANJUNG LEMAN JETTY TERMINAL Tanjung Leman Mersing

Malaysia provides superb infrastructure for the cruise industry. Here Star Cruises’ SuperStar Gemini is seen docking at Langkawi Cruise Centre.

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PENANG LANGKAWI FERRY SERVICES PPC Building, Pesara King Edward, George Town T (04) 264 2088 W langkawi-ferry.com Ferry services: Penang – Langkawi via Pulau Payar PENANG CAR FERRY (a) Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal, Weld Quay George Town (Penang Island) T (04) 210 2363 (b) Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal, Butterworth (Mainland) T (04) 310 2363 PERAK LUMUT WATERFRONT JETTY Jalan Titi Panjang, Lumut T (05) 683 2188 Ferry services: Lumut – Pangkor Laut Lumut – Pangkor Island Resort PERLIS LANGKAWI FERRY SERVICES Kuala Perlis Ferry Terminal Persiaran Putra Timur Kuala Perlis T (04) 985 1899/ 2539 W langkawi-ferry.com Ferry services: Kuala Perlis - Langkawi

Semp*rna Speedboat services to Tun Sakaran Marine Park and Pulau Sipadan. SEMp*rnA WATERFRONT JETTY Jalan Kastam, Semp*rna Speedboat services to Pulau Mabul, Kapalai & Mataking

Port Klang T (03) 3101 1333 W bousteadcruisecentre.com TERMINAL PENUMPANG SOUTH PORT Jalan Syahbandar Port Kelang T (03) 3166 9900 Ferry services: Port Klang - Pulau Ketam

SARAWAK

TERENGGANU

KUCHING EXPRESS BOAT TERMINAL Jalan Pelabuhan, Kuching Hp (016) 889 3013 Daily express boat services from Kuching to Sarikei, Tanjung Manis and Sibu.

KUALA BESUT JETTY Jeti Kampung Kuala Besut T (09) 697 2753 Hp (019) 558 4736 Ferry services: Kuala Besut – Perhentian Islands W pulauperhentian.com.my

SIBU EXPRESS BOAT TERMINAL Jalan Khoo Peng Long Sibu T (084) 339 936 Express boat & speed boat services to Kuching, Sarikei, Tanjung Manis, Matu, Daro, Dalat, Kanowit, Song, Kapit, Belaga. Note: Sarawak has an extensive river transport network connecting small towns, villages and longhouses. The main jumping-off points are Sibu, Kapit and Marudi. The Visitor Information Centres in Sibu and Miri have up-todate timetables. T (084) 340 980 Sibu T (085) 434181 Miri

SABAH

SELANGOR

JESSELTON POINT FERRY TERMINAL Jalan Haji Saman Kota Kinabalu T (088) 240 709 Ferry services: Tuanku Abdul Rahman Park & surrounding islands Kota Kinabalu – Labuan Kota Kinabalu – Brunei

ASA NIAGA HARBOUR CITY TERMINAL Lot Pt600, Jalan Pelabuhan Port Klang T (03) 3165 9619/ 20/ 21 Ferry services: Port Klang - Dumai and Tanjung Balai Asahan (Both Indonesia)

SEMp*rnA TOURIST JETTY Kampung Bangau-Bangau

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BOUSTEAD CRUISE CENTRE Persiaran Pelabuhan Barat Pulau Indah

KUALA DUNGUN JETTY Jalan Pasar, Kuala Dungun Hp (012) 211 3872 Ferry services to Pulau Tenggol MARANG JETTY Jalan Lama, Marang T (09) 618 2366 (MGH Ferry) Hp (019) 983 9454 (Suria Link Ferry) Ferry services to Pulau Kapas MERANG JETTY Jeti Kampung Merang Merang Hp (011) 3138 3567 T (09) 669 6640 W merangjetty.com Ferry services to Pulau Redang & Lang Tengah PENGKALAN GAWI JETTY Tasik Kenyir, Kuala Berang Hulu Terengganu T (09) 666 8498 Tourist Information Centre, ferries & boat/ watercraft rentals for Lake Kenyir. SYAHBANDAR JETTY Jalan Sultan Zainal Abidin Kuala Terengganu T (09) 623 9923 Ferry services to Pulau Redang

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EQUESTRIAN - FOREWORD

My passion for horse-riding began late in life. It is more than exercise for me. It is communication with the most noble of animals – the horse. My love-affair with horses started in 1984 when I was presented with two horses by the President of Pakistan. At the same time Polis DiRaja Malaysia, decided to set up a mounted unit for crowd control. This facilitated the transport of my two horses to Malaysia. Since then I have ridden for leisure. Occasionally I have participated in endurance rides and carriage drives. I enjoy riding in different parts of Malaysia, be it in Bukit Kiara or in Putrajaya. Almost every year I would go to Argentina to ride on their endless pampas grasslands and in the Andean mountains. There has been great development of equestrian activities in Malaysia, with the increased number of equestrian centres and through equestrian events. I congratulate the Malaysian Equine Council, the Equestrian Association of Malaysia and the Royal Malaysian Polo Association on their success in promoting equestrian sport, and to the individuals and companies that have helped the development through the years. Malaysia has hosted world class sporting events such as the 5-star KL Grand Prix, 2006 FEI World Cup Jumping Final, 2008 FEI World Endurance Championships and the 2011 FIP Polo World Cup Asian-Australasian-African Championships. I have always believed that Malaysians can excel at equestrian sports because it is based on skill. For this reason I encouraged the development of equestrian sports in Malaysia. It is my hope that we will see Malaysians competing more alongside the very best in the world.

Tun Dr Mahathir Bin Mohamad Honorary President Perdana Leadership Foundation

EQUESTRIAN Dreaming of Gold Polo – Malaysia’s King of Games Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort Rider’s Resort Ceremonial Mounted Squadron Kuala Lumpur City Hall Mounted Unit Royal Malaysian Police Force Mounted Unit Selangor Turf Club Perak Turf Club Penang Turf Club Equestrian Listing Malaysian Equine Council & Equestrian Association of Malaysia

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Dreaming of Gold By Syed Omar Almohdzar President, Equestrian Association of Malaysia

As president of the Equestrian Association of Malaysia (EAM), I have many dreams. I chased my dreams as professional rider based in Europe, competing in the FEI World Cup Jumping Final and World Equestrian Games. Being ranked in the world’s top 100 riders has given me an appreciation of how best to achieve results. While I now dream on behalf of the EAM, the dreams are no less golden. Malaysia won five gold medals in equestrian events at the 2001 Kuala Lumpur Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) and has since dominated the sport in the region. We would not enjoy this dominance if not for Malaysia’s former Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. He recognized equestrianism as a skill sport that Malaysians could excel at. It was during Tun Dr. Mahathir’s years as Prime Minister that mounted uniformed units of Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur’s (DBKL) Unit Berkuda, Polis DiRaja Malaysia, and Skuadron Istiadat Berkuda were formed. Mounted Unit riders made a significant contribution to Malaysia’s first SEA Games gold medal. The jumping team at the 1995

Syed Omar Almohdzar, President of the EAM, riding in the FEI World Cup Jumping Final and World Equestrian Games in 2006.

SEA Games in Chiang Mai, Thailand, consisted of Quzier Ambak and three of DBKL’s riders: Ram Thalib, Omar Ghani and Shaiful Anuar. Quzier added another Bronze medal in the SEA Games in 1998. Another DBKL show jumper, Ruzailina Zainal Abidin now commands the DBKL Mounted Unit, the

first female officer to do so. Inclusion of equestrian sport in the national SUKMA Games for youth has left a legacy of facilities and competitions in almost every state. The Bukit Jalil Sports School has produced a series of SEA Games champions. Graduates include Edric Lee, a SEA

The 2001 SEA Games Showjumping team with their gold medals: Eric Koh, Quzier Ambak, Qabil Ambak and Azni Azhar.

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Malaysia’s dressage team that took Asian Games bronze at Guangzhou in 2010, L-R: Putri Alia Soraya, Diani Lee, Quzandria Nur and Qabil Ambak.

Games dressage gold medal in 2017, World Cup Jumper Nabil Ismail, SEA Games Jumper Ahmad Imtaz, and Asian Games Eventer Amir Zulkifle. Horse-culture is especially obvious in the states of Kelantan and Sabah, where the people have a special affinity with horses. They breed and race ponies in picnic races and more

formally in the FEI sport of Endurance. Competing on ponies from a young age, many of the children from these states have gone on to make their names as national riders, even branching out to become jockeys, polo players and instructors. Dato’ ‘Awang’ Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani popularized Endurance in Malaysia.

The first CSI 5 Star KL Grand Prix in 2003. Then Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad congratulates winner Khaled Al Eid from Saudi Arabia as event organizers Peter Imran Winton and Wan Zaleha Radzi look on.

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Starting at the World Endurance Championships in 1998, he went on to become the world’s topranked Endurance rider in 2001. It was a phenomenal feat that earned even a royal following. Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin of Terengganu has competed internationally. In 2008, Malaysia staged the FEI World Endurance Championship at the Terengganu International Endurance Park, where HRH competed as part of the Malaysian team. It followed the 2006 FEI World Cup Jumping Final held at Stadium Putra in Kuala Lumpur, and the CSI 5* KL Grand Prix series of international horse shows staged by Peter Winton and Wan Zaleha Radzi. These international horse shows laid the foundation that brought Malaysia to the very top of Southeast Asian equestrian sport. The summit was reached when Malaysia swept every equestrian gold medal at the 2017 SEA Games. Husref Jeremiah was a pioneer eventer who went from silver at the 1995 SEA Games, to bronze at the Doha Asian Games in 2006. Another eventer, Johari Lee, a silver medalist at the 2007 SEA Games in Thailand is now the Chief Riding Instructor of Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort. Malaysia has always enjoyed success in the

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Quzandria Nur winning the 2017 SEA Games dressage gold on home ground at 3Q Equestrian Centre near Kuala Lumpur.

glamorous events of Show Jumping and Dressage. The Ambak siblings burst onto the SEA Games stage in 2001. Quzier and Qabil combined with Azni Azhar and Eric Koh to win the Jumping team gold. Qabil also won the individual jumping, and dressage individual and dressage team gold, together with sister Quzandria Nur, Alia Soraya and Abdul Salim. With four gold medals, Qabil was crowned Best Sportsman of the 2001 SEA Games. Qabil again took individual jumping honors at the 2005 Manila SEA Games. At the 2007 SEA Games in Thailand, Qabil repeated his feat, winning the team and individual golds in both dressage and jumping. At the 2013 Myanmar SEA Games, Malaysian endurance riders took both golds. The team gold went to Mohd Bulkhari Rozali, Abdul Halim Alihan, Asri

Qabil Ambak is Malaysia’s most prolific equestrian. He has ridden in five Asian Games and SEA Games in both jumping and dressage, winning a total of 22 medals.

Abdul Aziz, and with Mohd Sulaiman Muda also winning the individual gold medal. Sultan Mizan made history, by winning both the individual and team gold in the 80km Endurance race, the first golds of the 2017 SEA Games. Mohd Bulkhari Rozali took silver. They shared team gold with Mohammad Fuad Hashim, who was third across the line. Praveen Nair took individual dressage honors at the 2013 SEA Games, then switched to jumping for the 2017 games. With Qabil

HRH Sultan Terengganu Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin (left), Mohd Bulkhairi Rozali and Mohammad Fuad Hashim (behind) celebrate their victory at the finishing line of the SEA Games 2017 80km Endurance event at Terengganu International Endurance Park.

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Ambak, Praveen, and the Ratnasingham siblings Sharmini and Neelan Jonathan again won gold. Sharmini was the darling of the show jumping, winning a second individual gold following her 2015 triumph in Singapore. In dressage, Qabil, Edric Lee, Quek Sue Yian and Quzandria took team gold, and Quzandria won the individual dressage gold, completing a clean sweep of equestrian medals for Malaysia. Malaysia has also done well at Asian level. Qabil and Quzandria took silver and bronze dressage medals at the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Games. Qabil again had an individual silver in dressage at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta. On the world stage, Malaysia’s team of Young

Riders & Juniors at the FEI Endurance World Championship finished a very creditable 5th in Italy in 2019. Our young riders improved on this with a silver medal finish at the 2021 FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Riders & Juniors at Ermelo, Netherlands. Qabil almost became the first Malaysian to ride at the Olympic Games. Based in Denmark, Qabil rode 12 international horse shows across Western and Eastern Europe to qualify for 2020 Tokyo games but was derailed by Covid-19 disruptions to event schedules as the Olympics were postponed a year. The Covid-19 pandemic made the past two seasons very challenging for equestrian sports worldwide. EAM pioneered

The 2006 FEI World Cup Jumping Final at Putra Stadium, Kuala Lumpur. This was the first time the event was held outside Western Europe or North America. It became the most televised equestrian event ever and was ranked by the FEI as the best Final ever.

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Dressage medals have been the most prolific at SEA and Asian Games for Malaysia. Brother and sister team Qabil Ambak and Quzandria Nur have led the charge. Qabil is firmly focused on qualifying for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, France.

a protocol for digitalized horse shows. To enable riders to compete without leaving their home clubs, cameras are set up so that dressage is judged remotely. A strong protocol for course designing is used to ensure fairness in jumping identical show jumping courses, with judging also done remotely. Malaysia always surprises you with what it can do. Our riders are preparing for another Asian Games assault at Hangzhou in 2022. Qabil’s Tokyo disappointment behind him, he has trained his sights on the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. An Olympic medal one day would be a dreamcome-true. As President of the EAM, it is a golden dream I am privileged to work towards.

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POLO

Malaysia’s King of Games By Peter Ibrahim Abisheganaden

“Let other people play at other things - the King of Games is still the Game of Kings” Inscription on an ancient stone tablet at a polo ground in Gilgit, Baltistan

No sport invokes romance like polo does – fastpaced action, powerful horses, fit players and an elite lifestyle between chukkas. The game itself is a challenging equestrian team sport that evolved from ancient competitions between groups of mounted warriors. Those who play or follow polo include royalty, world leaders and beautiful people from Hollywood to Bollywood. Polo was introduced to Malaya by the British in the late 1800s. The first club

HRH Tengku Abdullah Ahmad Shah, Crown Prince of Pahang, receives a polo trophy from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

formed was the Singapore Polo Club in 1886. The Royal Johor Polo Club reportedly took up the game in 1889. Selangor Polo Club was founded at Port Swettenham in 1902. Polo clubs at Butterworth and Penang followed soon after. From 1911, polo was played at the Selangor Turf Club at Ampang Road,

Their Royal Highnesses the late Sultan Iskandar of Johor and Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang line-up against HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (No. 4), in Singapore, circa 1966.

site of today’s PETRONAS Twin Towers. Iskandar Polo Club was founded at Kuala Kangsar in 1923 by Sultan Iskandar of Perak, himself a keen player. The Malayan Polo Association, now Royal Malaysian Polo Association (RMPA), was formed in 1922 as the sports’ governing body. In 1926, Sultan Iskandar presented polo ponies to Pahang’s Sultan Abu Bakar on the occasion of his engagement to Sultan Iskandar’s daughter, a condition of the marriage being that the bridegroom became a polo player. This started Pahang’s love affair with polo, with Sultan Abu Bakar founding the Royal Pahang Polo Club that year. In 1963, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, granted Selangor Polo Club a lease of 26 acres of land amidst

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abandoned tin-mining pools at Ampang Hilir. The club is now surrounded by high-rise buildings and is one of the last remaining downtown polo clubs in the world. Polo is still played there four days a week, weather permitting, during the 10-month season. Royal Pahang Polo Club inaugurated the Pahang Classic in the eighties, a high-goal tournament that brought some of the best players in the world to play in Pekan, Pahang. This 28goal tournament continued till the late nineties. His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah Shah, the 19th and current Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, was a founder of the RMPA International Polo League in 2005. An active player till 2015, he led the mighty Royal Pahang teams with style and great sportsmanship. The RMPA International League has been a resounding success. In addition to new patrons and players, the league has attracted players

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from Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, China, Chile, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Macao, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Uruguay and the USA. Southeast Asian Games Polo

Polo is truly the sport of kings. His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia in action at the Selangor Polo Club.

Malaysia has won every SEA Games Polo tournament: 1983 in Singapore, 2007 in Thailand, 2017 in Malaysia and 2019 in the Philippines. At the 2007 Games, the squad of Shaik Reismann, Saladin Mazlan, Adi Rizal Zamri, Tengku Ahmad

The then Minister of Youth and Sports, YB Khairy Jamaluddin (centre), led the Malaysian Polo Team to Southeast Asian Games success in 2017.

Shazril Ezzani, Hairezal Yahya and Dato’ Mohamed Moiz went unbeaten through the five-game championship, beating Singapore 8-3½ in the final. Malaysia dominated the 29th SEA Games, played at Taman Ekuestrian Putrajaya, in 2017. Veterans of 2007, Tengku Shazril and Shaik Reismann were the backbone of the team. For 17-year-old Abdul Rashid Hasnan, it was the start of a golden SEA Games journey. Mohd Zulhelmie Nadzar and Muhd Faizal also broke into the national team, together with then Minister of Youth and Sports Khairy Jamaluddin. Malaysia again went undefeated, defeating Thailand 9-8 in the final.

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held at the Royal Pahang Polo Club, with the finals at the Selangor Polo Club in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia recorded a historic win over New Zealand, but went out to eventual winners India. Malaysia again came close to qualifying at the 2017 World Championships qualifier, organized by RMPA at the Thai Polo & Equestrian Club, until New Zealand took their revenge for the 2011 defeat. The late, great Sunny Hale in action with her teammates at the Malaysian Ladies Polo Championships. L to r: Sarah Wiseman (ENG), Kirsty Hawkins (NZL), Sunny Hale (USA), Claire Brougham (ENG), Puan Seri Leah Hamdan (DEN) and Melissa Tiernan (GER).

Unable to fly out horses to Calatagan, Philippines, in 2019, Malaysia played horses generously lent by Dato’ Inigo Zobel. Shaik Reismann had an off-field role as Amran Selamat, Tengku Shazril, Rashid Hasnan and Mohd Shariezal beat home favorites Philippines 7-5½ in the final. In the B Division, Malaysia’s young team (average age 19) of Keith Teh, Imran Moiz, Zulhelmie Nadzar and Rashid Hasnan won all their qualifying games, falling only to experienced Brunei in the final.

most successful World Cup qualifying tournament ever staged, in terms of participating countries (7), horses (216) and largest budget. The tournament also served as the AsianAustralasian-African Championship, from which it took its name, and was

Ladies’ Polo Malaysia has hosted an international ladies’ polo tournament since 2012. The RSPC Pink Polo International Ladies Polo Tournament has featured local players such as Datin Nurul Noorajala, Jennifer Too, Deborah Bottreau, Shahida Hasan and Tengku Dr Uzira Uzir. Teams included the best lady

World Championships Malaysia hosted an FIP Polo World Championships qualifier in June 2011. Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Nigeria, India and Pakistan joined in making it the largest, and

Sarah Wiseman (ENG), Melissa Tiernan (GER), Claire Brougham (ENG) and Fazilla Filippi (MAS) celebrate winning the Malaysian Ladies Polo Championships.

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Pony Club UK’s achievement badges and Pony Club Tests. The Federation of International Polo has recognized KL Academy of Polo’s Youth Polo Camp in December 2020 as one of the best in the world. The King of Games

Hands up! The Pony Club at KLAP is the perfect place for young riders to build confidence and develop their equestrian skills.

players in the world, such as the late Sunny Hale, Lia Salvo, Hazel Jackson, Sarah Wiseman, and Marianella Castagnola. Kuala Lumpur Academy of Polo The KL Academy of Polo (KLAP), founded in 2019 by Peter Ibrahim

Abisheganaden, is based at The Selangor Polo Club. It offers riding and polo lessons, with the focus on youth development to produce the next generation of Malaysian players. KLAP also revived the Pony Club in Malaysia, reuniting the country with one of the world’s largest youth organizations. It offers the

From the ground to the horse, Kuala Lumpur Academy of Polo (KLAP) is responsible for developing a new generation of polo players in Malaysia.

The current Minister of Health, Khairy Jamaluddin, has also represented Malaysia in polo. Business titans who play include Dato’ Mohamed Moiz, Tan Sri Hamdan Mohammad, Singapore’s Asad Jumabhoy and Thailand’s Dato’ Harald Link. Malaysian royal polo players include His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Shah, who won a SEA Games gold medal in 1983, HRH Sultan Ibrahim of Johor, HRH Tunku Ismail, Crown Prince of Johor, HRH Tengku Hassanal Shah, Crown Prince of Pahang, HH Tengku Rahman Shah, Tengku Muda Pahang, HH Tengku Muhammad Shah, HH Tengku Ahmad Shah, of Pahang, HH Tunku Abdul Rahman of Johor, and HH Dato’ Seri Syed Amir Abidin of Perlis. However, the majority of polo players come from more modest backgrounds; some of our best players learned the game as grooms. The late Shariman Sarir rose to an international handicap of 6 goals before his tragic demise in 2006 at the young age of 29.

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BUKIT KIARA EQUESTRIAN & COUNTRY RESORT Bukit Kiara Resort Berhad Jalan Bukit Kiara Off Jalan Damansara 60000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2093 1222 / 2094 1222 W berjayaclubs.com

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LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, adjacent to the Sprint Highway. It is easily accessible via the Federal Highway and the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE).

Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort

The polo field is of international standard to showcase this exciting sport at its best, and uses an efficient drainage system and Bermuda hybrid Greenleas Park grass, to ensure rapid drying after rainfall. Guests and spectator facilities include a dedicated polo clubhouse. The sports complex includes a 12-lane computerised bowling alley, a fully-equipped fitness centre together with

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MAIN FEATURES The resort is set in 70 acres of lush greenery and comprises an equestrian centre, a polo field, a sports complex and a members’ clubhouse. The equestrian centre features the

largest indoor arena in Southeast Asia, complete with its own small clubhouse serving light refreshments. The arena regularly hosts show jumping and dressage competitions. The adjacent outdoor paddocks and stables cater for club horses and for livery services (grooming, feeding and shelter). The centre’s riding school offers lessons for novices as well as experienced riders.

OPENING HOURS Equestrian & Polo: 6.45am~10.45am 3.15pm~7.15pm Tuesday to Sunday. Closed Mondays & public holidays Sports Complex: 7am~8pm daily The Saddle Coffee House: 8.30am~9.30pm

With 70 acres of lush greenery, Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort is a paradise for horse lovers, with leisure rides, carriage driving, dressage, show jumping and polo.

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IN BRIEF Bukit Kiara is one of the leading equestrian centres in the country, with comprehensive facilities for show jumping, dressage, polo and leisure riding.

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a Japanese bath and sauna. There are also well-ventilated squash, badminton and basketball courts, six outdoor tennis courts and an archery field. The clubhouse offers a landscaped free-form swimming pool, an Olympicsize swimming pool, a scuba-dive pool and the Saddle Coffeehouse, which serves Malaysian-inspired fusion cuisine. The club’s Dewan Berjaya and Dewan Perdana halls offer full banqueting facilities.

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Hacking along a leafy pathway at Bukit Kiara: a delightful experience for both horse and rider.

Bukit Kiara’s outdoor show jumping course. The club holds regular competitions for riders to develop their skills.

Equine welfare is Bukit Kiara’s top priority, as this fourlegged resident would surely agree.

The elegant Bukit Kiara Clubhouse, set amid perfectly tended lawns.

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RIDERS RESORT SDN BHD The Legends Golf & Country Resort Lot 1302, Kebun Sedenak 81000 Kulai, Johor T (07) 652 5330 W ridersresort.com.my

IN BRIEF 25-room resort offering country hospitality in a luxurious setting. The main attraction is horse riding, with plenty of activities for non-riders, as well as golf at the adjoining Legends Golf and Country Club.

MAIN FEATURES Riders Resort offers 24 luxurious rooms and one suite located in and around the Manor House, set in 1,400 acres of rolling countryside. The facility is an equestrian paradise; 28 happy

The imposing Manor House offers guests a warm welcome.

and well-schooled horses and ponies and a group of expert instructors provide riding experiences for all ages and abilities. These range from pony rides for children to demanding trail rides for experienced riders.

Beginners can become riders in as few as six to eight lessons, learning to mount and dismount, walk, trot and canter. For those in a hurry, the 2-day ‘Learn to Ride’ course covers everything in the beginners programme plus a trail ride and

LOCATION / ROUTE The Legends Golf and Country Resort in Sedenak, 10km from Kulai, and 49km from the Second Link to Singapore. HOW TO GET THERE By Road: from Kuala Lumpur, 20 mins from the North-South Expressway (Exit 250, Sedenak), from Singapore, 15 mins from the North-South Expressway (Exit 252, Kulaijaya). Public Transport: KTM Intercity to Kulai Station, then take a taxi. Johor’s Senai International Airport is 40 minutes by car/ taxi.

All ages and riding abilities are catered for with safety being paramount.

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a certificate of completion. Courses are taught in groups of 3-4, with private lessons available on request. The 4-days/3-nights Children’s Riding Camp is ideal for youngsters wanting to learn about horses. Each child is assigned a horse or pony to look after, including feeding, grooming, stable management and learning how to ride. When not riding, the children are kept entertained with a host of other activities like nature treks, cooking classes, kite flying and ball games. Riders Resort has access to miles of treks and jungle trails, perfect for riding, mountain biking (bring your own bike) and hiking. Riders can choose from a number of adventure trails through palm oil plantations, virgin forests and the adjoining Sedenak National Park, lasting for one-and-a-half hours. Each trail is clearly marked and poses different challenges to the rider. Beginners are accompanied by guides

but are advised to have at least one riding lesson beforehand. Comprehensive livery and stabling facilities are available for riders’ own horses. Riders Resort is not just for riders. Golfers enjoy special guest green fees (no membership required) at the Legends Golf and Country Resort. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this award-winning course is one of the finest in Southeast Asia. Anglers will appreciate the fishing pond (tackle available for hire), while artistically-inclined guests may prefer Chinese brush painting lessons. After hours of physical activity, guests can relax in the Lodge’s outdoor jacuzzi or enjoy an invigorating traditional massage. At Rider’s Café, the award-winning chef serves up hearty farmhouse breakfasts, sumptuous barbeque lunches, Devonshire teas served on the verandah (Saturdays only) and gourmet dinners.

The award-winning Rider’s Café offers gourmet dining experiences.

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A guided trail ride through an oil palm plantation.

The fantastic European food is complemented by an extensive, carefully curated wine list, with wine-tasting sessions at weekends. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meals are available on request. The Resort offers a range of weekday and weekend packages for riders and non-riders; advanced booking is strongly recommended due to its popularity. It is also a popular venue for wedding receptions, seminars, conferences and team building retreats.

You don’t have to ride to meet the friendly horses.

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CEREMONIAL MOUNTED SQUADRON Royal Armoured Corps Sungai Buloh Camp 47000 Sungai Buloh Selangor Darul Ehsan T (03) 6156 1801 STABLE Ceremonial Mounted Squadron Stables Complex National Palace Jalan Duta Kuala Lumpur

The Ceremonial Mounted Squadron, Royal Armoured Corps, is responsible for all ceremonial duties involving the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) of Malaysia, as well as visiting foreign heads of state and dignitaries. The Squadron performs mounted guard duty at Istana Negara (National Palace) seven days a week, with the Changing of the Guard taking place every hour on the hour, eagerly awaited by hundreds of fascinated tourists.

KUALA LUMPUR CITY HALL MOUNTED UNIT Enforcement Directorate Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur Taman Tasik Titiwangsa Jalan Kuantan 53200 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4022 5923/ 5881

The Kuala Lumpur City Hall Mounted Unit is responsible for patrolling the main public parks and gardens under City Hall’s jurisdiction, enforcing park byelaws, preventing crime and assisting park users, as well as performing ceremonial duties at events in Kuala Lumpur. The unit also has a strong track record in equestrian sport, with many medal winners among its ranks.

ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE MOUNTED UNIT Federal Reserve Unit Headquarters Cheras, Selangor T (03) 9074 2222

The Royal Malaysia Police Mounted Unit is the oldest in the country. Its principal roles are crowd control, maintaining public order and public safety, crime prevention and ceremonial processions. Its 115 officers and 70 horses also compete successfully in national and international equestrian tournaments, bringing widespread recognition of the quality of the riders and their mounts.

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S ELANGOR

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SELANGOR TURF CLUB Jalan Sungei Besi 57100 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9058 3888 T (03) 9050 2346 (Riding School) W selangorturfclub.com

IN BRIEF The Selangor Turf Club, established in 1896, is the most popular horse racing venue in Malaysia. It offers on- and off-course flat racing, complete with on-course betting, as well as a public riding school. OPENING HOURS Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am~5.30pm. Closed weekends. Race Days: Race meetings are held every month, mostly over weekends. Race days start at 12 noon and end around 6pm. See website for fixtures. Equestrian: Riding Lessons Tuesday to Friday 6 sessions daily, Saturday and Sunday morning sessions only.

The Selangor Turf Club offers a thrilling day out for racegoers. This aerial view shows the 25,000-capacity grandstand, the race track and the outdoor training facilities.

spectators with a thrilling experience viewed from the 25,000-capacity grandstand and the air-conditioned enclosure. The main 25-metre race track caters for distances between 1,200 and 2,400 metres, with two elevated bends which enable horses to gallop safely at full speed. When no weekend races are scheduled, and on Wednesday and Friday evenings, live broadcasts of other Malaysian

or overseas races are shown. Other facilities include stabling for up to 1,100 horses, equine swimming pool, equine veterinary hospital and a public Equestrian & Sports Centre which offers riding lessons. The club also owns a worldclass cricket pitch, used for the 2004 Intercontinental Cup. Club premises are available for events and functions.

MAIN FEATURES The Selangor Turf Club’s extensive facilities are designed to provide race LOCATION / ROUTE 17km south of the city centre adjacent to the KL-Seremban Highway. HOW TO GET THERE By car: 15 minutes from city centre.

A young Malaysian showjumper and his mount honing their skills at the STC Equestrian & Sports Centre.

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PERAK TURF CLUB Jalan Raja Dihilir 30350 Ipoh Perak T (05) 254 0505/ 0804 W perakturfclub.my

OPENING HOURS Race Days: Saturday and Sunday 12pm~6pm IN BRIEF The Perak Turf Club traces its origins back to 1886 when the first race meeting was held at the then State capital, Taiping. The club itself was formed in Ipoh in 1926 with 450 members and has expanded over the years to become one of Southeast Asia’s leading thoroughbred racing venues.

MAIN FEATURES The Club sits on a 126-acre site which features training and racing tracks, a grandstand for 10,000 spectators, and is equipped with stables for 1,000 horses and an equine swimming pool. It also owns

A panoramic view of the Grandstand Building and the sprawling grounds of the racecourse.

and operates the nation’s only equine hospital. Races are held on up to 30 scheduled race days per year on Saturdays and Sundays. Notable classic and feature races include the Perak Derby,

the Coronation Cup and Perak Gold Vase. Live races from other local and overseas racing destinations are simulcast on weekends. Corporate boxes and function rooms are available for rental.

LOCATION / ROUTE Located in Ipoh, 15 minutes from Ipoh Airport, 15 minutes from Ipoh Railway Station and 20 minutes from the North-South Expressway (Exit 138). HOW TO GET THERE Car or taxi from airport or town centre.

Jockeys urging their mounts to produce one final burst as they approach the Perak Turf Club winning post.

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PENANG TURF CLUB Jalan Batu Gantong George Town, 10450 Penang T (04) 2385 288 W penangturfclub.com

IN BRIEF Malaysia’s oldest racing club, its spectator-friendly racetrack is complemented by a scenic Golf Course. OPENING HOURS Race Days: Wednesday and Friday 5pm~10pm, Saturday and Sunday 12pm~6pm

MAIN FEATURES Founded in 1864, Penang Turf Club is the oldest turf club in Malaysia, offering racegoers an excellent view from its covered and air-conditioned grandstands. It hosts six flat race meetings annually, with other races broadcast live

The scenic layout of Penang Turf Club, with its unique golf course encircled by the racetrack.

from Perak and Selangor Turf Clubs as well as Singapore, Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong and Macau. Corporate boxes and function rooms are

available. A unique feature is the 9-hole golf course, encircled by the racetrack, which is open all year except on-course race afternoons.

LOCATION / ROUTE Located in George Town at the foot of Penang Hill, 30 minutes from Penang International Airport, 30 minutes from mainland via the Penang Bridge and 25 minutes from the Penang Ferry Terminal. HOW TO GET THERE Car, taxi or ride hailing from airport or town centre. Public Transport: Rapid Penang Bus 304 or 306 to Jalan Scotland then 10 minutes’ walk.

A tightly-packed field races down the home straight with the finishing post in sight.

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KELANTAN ROYAL KELANTAN ENDURANCE STABLES Kampong Baroh Raja Gunung Bachok Hp (013) 922 2855 KUALA LUMPUR BUKIT KIARA EQUESTRIAN & COUNTRY RESORT

(See page 302)

KUALA LUMPUR CITY HALL MOUNTED UNIT

(See page 306)

MALAYSIAN ARMED FORCES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Pengkalan Tentera Udara Malaysia, Jalan Lapangan Terbang Lama T (03) 2141 9845 MOUNTED CEREMONIAL SQUADRON

(See page 306)

ROYAL MALAYSIAN POLICE FORCE MOUNTED UNIT

(See page 306)

MELAKA

His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, President of the Royal Malaysian Polo Association in the saddle. Al-Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Shah has played Polo since childhood, giving credence to the saying that “Polo is truly the sport of kings.”

JOHOR AMIGOS HORSE RIDING Jalan Tanjong Puteri 1 Pasir Gudang Hp (012) 796 6806 HOUSE OF FRIESIAN STUD Jalan Polo Leisure Farm Resort Gelang Patah Hp (018) 473 4427 RIDERS RESORT SDN BHD

(See page 304)

UTM EQUINE PARK Jalan Ladang Skudai T (07) 553 6343 KEDAH AMS EQUESTRIAN CLUB Mukim Relau Daerah Bandar Baharu Hp (016) 418 0544 ISLAND HORSES SDN BHD Seven Wells Waterfalls Langkawi Hp (012) 422 9699

PUSAT EKUIN LADAM MERAH Kampung Bukit Durian Paya Dalam Hp (013) 381 3311 NEGERI SEMBILAN A.S EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Lot 23, Kampung Rawa Hilir Lenggeng Hp (019) 354 4472 CAPE CAVALLHO 71150, Rembau Hp (012) 200 0012 SEREMBAN EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Lot 1504 Mukim Pantai Batu 6 Jalan Jelebu Seremban Hp (017) 312 0814

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PAHANG BERJAYA HILLS HORSE TRAILS Km 48, Karak Highway Interchange, Bentong Hp (016) 609 7089 BIDAISARI STABLES Kampung Cheringin Janda Baik Hp (011) 3229 3111 CAMERON HIGHLANDS EQUINE SPELLING STATION Ringlet, Pahang T (05) 495 6694 PAHANG EQUESTRIAN CENTRE Tanjung Lumpur, Kuantan T (09) 534 1695 Hp (012) 9397 745 PENN ENDURANCE & EQUESTRIAN CLUB Km 37, Jalan KuantanKemaman, Sungai Baging Cherating, Kuantan Hp (019) 467 2907 PENANG PENANG TURF CLUB

(See page 309)

PERAK PERAK EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION National Stud Farm Jalan Chemor Tanjung Rambutan, Ipoh Hp (012) 980 8246 PERAK TURF CLUB

(See page 308)

PUTRAJAYA TAMAN EQUESTRIAN PUTRAJAYA Precinct 5, Putrajaya T (03) 8000 8902 SABAH ROYAL SABAH TURF CLUB 48, Jalan Mat Salleh Kota Kinabalu T (088) 252 705

Traditionally clad Bajau horsem*n, the famous “Cowboys of the East”, display their riding skills on colourfully dressed horses during the Tamu Besar Festival, in Kota Belud, Sabah.

SARAWAK SARAWAK TURF CLUB (Racecourse) 8½Miles, Jalan Penrissen Kuching T (082) 612 572 SELANGOR 3Q EQUESTRIAN CENTRE 3, Sungai Serai, Kuang Rawang T (03) 6037 1095 (stables) Correspondence: Equestrian Promotion Sdn Bhd Petaling Jaya T (03) 7804 1822 AR RAUDHAH EQUINE CENTRE Kampung Bunga Raya Kuang Hp (012) 345 5033 BENUA EQUESTRIAN STABLES Seri Kembangan, Selangor Pusat Ekuin UPM Jalan Maklumat University Putra Malaysia Serdang, Seri Kembangan Hp (011) 5755 4202 DE DENGKIL STABLE & ARABIAN STUD FARM Kampung Seri Tanjung

Dengkil Hp (018) 318 7977 DENAI ALAM RECREATIONAL AND RIDING CLUB (DARC) 1, Jalan Elektron U16/100 Denai Alam, Shah Alam T (03) 7831 5561 Hp (010) 240 2606 SELANGOR TURF CLUB STC EQUESTRIAN & SPORTS CENTRE

(See page 307)

TERENGGANU TERENGGANU EQUESTRIAN RESORT (TER) Jalan Sultan Mahmood Kuala Terengganu T (09) 617 7755 TERENGGANU INTERNATIONAL ENDURANCE PARK (TIEP) Lembah Bidong, Setiu Kuala Terengganu Hp (012) 986 3101 EQUESTRIAN SERVICE PROVIDERS EQUESTRIAN PROMOTION SDN BHD 9 & 11, Block C, Jalan PJU 1/41, Dataran Prima

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Petaling Jaya T (03) 7804 1822 EQUESTRIAN SUPPORT SERVICES SDN BHD (Quarantine & Transport) Kuala Lumpur Hp (016) 201 7713 TACK SHOPS EQUINE KL 332A-G08, Plaza Ampang City, Jalan Ampang Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4260 2990 W equinekl.com MITAVITE ASIA SDN. BHD. Head Office: 75-77, Jalan Industri 4/2 Gopeng Industrial Park, Perak T (05) 357 6070 W mitavite-asia.com MITAVITE ASIA SDN. BHD. C/o Perak Turf Club, Block 7 Jalan Tambun, Ipoh, Perak T (05) 243 4889 MITAVITE ASIA SDN. BHD. C/o Penang Turf Club Jalan Batu Gantong Penang T (04) 828 5685 MITAVITE ASIA SDN. BHD. C/o Selangor Turf Club Jalan Sungei Besi Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9058 6386

PACIFIC HORSELAND (M) SDN BHD Bukit Kiara Resort Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2092 2276 PACIFIC HORSELAND (M) SDN BHD Taman Equestrian Putrajaya Jalan Kandang Kuda Precinct 5, Putrajaya T (03) 8881 1389 ZACK’S TACK Selangor Polo Club Jalan Ampang Hilir 5 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4253 5261 W zackstack.com BREEDING STATIONS ZAHHRA ARABIAN PARK 13/26, Tadisma Business Centre, Section 13 Shah Alam T (03) 5511 3354 POLO CLUBS BUKIT KIARA EQUESTRIAN & COUNTRY RESORT

(See page 302)

DEWAN BANDARAYA KUALA LUMPUR Direktorat Penguatkuasaan Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9171 9196

Three warmblood sports horses quietly munch hay while waiting to be unloaded. Malaysia has abundant expertise and resources to ensure horses are flown in safety and comfort to participate in events or to find a new home here.

KELANTAN POLO CLUB Bangunan Perbadanan Menteri Besar Jalan Kuala Krai Kota Bharu Kelantan T (09) 741 4500 ROYAL PAHANG POLO CLUB C/o Istana Abu Bakar Pekan, Pahang T (09) 422 7688/ 4587 SABAH POLO ASSOCIATION Harrington Road Luyang Phase 1 Kota Kinabalu Sabah Hp (016) 831 0168 TERENGGANU POLO CLUB 1969, Mukim Kuala Ibai Jalan Sultan Mahmud Kuala Terengganu Terengganu Hp (013) 983 8800 THE ROYAL MALAYSIAN POLO ASSOCIATION Block C1, Jalan PJU 1/41 Dataran Prima Selangor Hp (012) 326 8058 THE SELANGOR POLO CLUB 1, Lorong Kelab Polo DiRaja Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4256 4531

A legend in its own lifetime, Zack’s Tack is the resident Polo and Equestrian Shop at the Selangor Polo Club and has been catering to the Malaysian riding community for over 25 years.

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MALAYSIAN EQUINE COUNCIL Jalan MAEPS 1, Malaysian Agro Exposition Park 43300 Serdang Selangor T (03) 4022 1581 W myequinecouncil.org

The Malaysian Equine Council (Majlis Ekuin Malaysia) was launched in October 1992 by its Patron, Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad, to assist in the coordinated development and promotion of equine sports and activities in Malaysia. It acts as a consultative body to the government on equine matters, promotes the improvement of the overall standard of horsemanship and horse care, and promotes career development for equestrian professionals. It is registered with the Department of Skills Development to conduct courses under the National Dual Training System in Horse Care and Management and Farriery skills. The Council is currently located at the Malaysian Agro

Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) where it operates a training centre for various industry courses, as well as provision of riding lessons for beginners.

EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA A12-3A, Jalan Selaman 1/1 Dataran Palma, Jalan Ampang 68000 Selangor Darul Ehsan T (03) 4270 6847 / 4270 2467 W eam.my

The Equestrian Association of Malaysia (EAM) is the governing body for the development and promotion of equestrianism in the country, representing equestrian sports on the Olympic Council of Malaysia, the National Sports Council and the Malaysian Equine Council. The EAM selects and trains riders and teams for all

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equestrian events, including the South East Asian (SEA) Games, Asian Games, European Open Endurance Championship, World Endurance Championships, FEI World Cup Jumping Final and World Equestrian Games. It has organised two SEA Games (2001 & 2017), the World Cup Show Jumping Final (2006), the FEI General Assembly (2006), Show Jumping Grand Prix and the World Endurance Championships (2008). It also runs training and competitive events in Malaysia, including the FEI World Dressage and Jumping Challenges, FEI/ ART Children’s International Jumping Competition and FEI Preliminary Dressage Competition for Children. It conducts professional programmes including the FEI Level 2&2 Courses for Coaches, Endurance officials and Veterinarians.

The Individual Endurance medallists at the 2017 Southeast Asia Games, Kuala Lumpur. From left, Mohd Bulkhari Bin Rozali (MAS, Silver), HRH Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin of Terengganu (MAS, Gold), Khuntarap*rn Warit (THAI, Bronze). They are accompanied by YAB Dato’ Seri Haji Ahmad Razif, former Menteri Besar (Chief Minister) of Terengganu and HRH Sultanah Nur Zahirah, wife of the happy winner.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES - FOREWORD

MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATION OF HOTEL OWNERS

Malaysia has a long history of hospitality. Our modern hotelkeeping sector has its origins as far back as the late 1800s. Local entrepreneurs developed imposing new hotels around the peninsula and helped to make Malaya a must-visit destination for well-heeled tourists in the early 20th century. With the coming of independence in 1957, both tourism and trade grew rapidly. Some fine old colonial hotels across the country have been conserved and restored to preserve the social and cultural heritage. Today, the nation’s tourism industry, particularly the hotel sector, has emerged as one of the major contributors to Malaysia’s economic growth and development. The growing demand for impeccable service, world-class amenities and unparalleled facilities is more than satisfied in Malaysia by some of the finest hotels in Asia, offering their luxurious accommodation at very affordable prices by global standards. There has also been strong growth in the mid-market and budget sectors, so we can offer comfortable, welcoming accommodation to suit every pocket. Small boutique hotels and resorts have sprung up in unique locations, many of them starting life as humble family-run homestays and evolving into small jewels of the hotelkeeper’s art. The future also looks bright for the hotel sector. The number of hotel rooms in Malaysia has almost doubled over the last decade with more independent luxury properties and highend hospitality brands establishing a presence in the country. At the same time, the hotel market is diversifying, with our classic grand hotels being joined and complemented by themed lifestyle hotels catering to specific market needs.

Tan Sri Dato’ Teo Chiang Hong President Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners

HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES 5 Heeren Museum Residence Hotel The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi Tanjong Jara Resort Japamala Tioman Island Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa Hotel Listing

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR 5, Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin 50000 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2785 8000 W majestickl.com

IN BRIEF

MAIN FEATURES The original hotel building is now the Majestic Wing, with 47 luxurious suites LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the heart of the city between Kuala Lumpur Station and the Lake Gardens. Conveniently close to KL Sentral Station, National Museum, National Mosque, Central Market, Petaling Street market and a host of food, shopping and entertainment outlets. HOW TO GET THERE The hotel is only a 5-minute drive from KL Sentral Station, for effortless connections throughout the city and to the airport (28 mins via KLIA Express). The hotel’s own Majestic Line luxury shuttle connects frequently to KL Sentral, Starhill Gallery (Bukit Bintang) and Mid Valley Shopping Mall.

The historic facade of “The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur”, an important National Heritage Site as well as an oasis of luxury.

complements the art deco style of the original building and houses the remaining 253 rooms and suites, appointed in the height of decadent luxury and offering superb views of the adjacent Lake Gardens and the Kuala Lumpur skyline. Dining outlets include Contango, an interactive

that exude old world elegance, complete with 24-hour butler service and Majestic Club privileges, including the exclusive Majestic Club Lounge. The suites combine vintage charm with tasteful modern furnishings to create a perfect blend of past and present. The new Tower Wing Perdana Botanical Garden

Central Market Station

KL Bird Park

Tasik Perdana

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur d National mu Hisha Museum Sultan Jalan

KL Sentral Station

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The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur was built in 1932 in a hybrid of neo-classical and art deco styles, and soon became the social hub of the city. It later served as the National Art Gallery from 1984 until 1998. After some years of neglect it was meticulously renovated and expanded to 300 rooms and suites by the YTL Group. It reopened in 2012, rapidly regaining its status as a muchloved city landmark and National Heritage Site. It is a member of the Autograph Collection of iconic historic hotels.

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Royal Museum

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The spectacular lobby of the Tower Wing combines the best of modern architecture with the hotel’s colonial era history.

gastronomic experience with open kitchens presenting both Eastern and Western cuisine; Colonial Cafe, serving colonial cuisine created by Hainanese chefs; the Tea Lounge, for English afternoon tea with a Malaysian twist; and the Bar, which recaptures the atmosphere of British Malaya, complete with

What you see is what you get! Contago’s open kitchens offer a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

period co*cktails. The adjacent Smoke House embodies the delicious decadence of the 1930s, featuring a lounge and bar, private dining room with chef-on-call, cigar room and Truefitt & Hill gentlemen’s grooming salon. Other facilities include the exquisite Majestic Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness

The Tea Lounge, the perfect setting to enjoy an elegant afternoon tea.

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centre, swimming pool, private screening room and extensive conference and banqueting facilities for up to 1,500 guests. Last but not least, the one-of-a-kind Orchid Conservatory, with its rainbow collection of Phalaenopsis orchids, is perfect for engagements, anniversaries and bridal showers.

The one-of-a-kind Orchid Conservatory, with its unique collection of Phalaenopsis orchids.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

5 HEEREN MUSEUM RESIDENCE HOTEL 5, Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock 75200 Melaka WhatsApp: (+44) 77 8447 0290 T (06) 292 2225 W 5heeren.com

IN BRIEF This three-storey boutique hotel-cum-museum has been lovingly and painstakingly transformed from an authentic Peranakan shophouse built during Melaka’s colonial era. It has parking on-site and an in-house tea shop selling locally manufactured premium organic products.

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HOW TO GET THERE The hotel is easily accessible by foot or trishaw from the town centre.

Kampung Chetti

LOCATION / ROUTE Located on Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, formerly Heeren Street, in the heart of Melaka’s UNESCO World Heritage site.

River Cruise Taman Rempah Jetty

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MAIN FEATURES The hotel showcases the architectural beauty of the 19th Century homes built by the affluent Straits Chinese (known as Peranakan or Baba Nyonya) who lived on Melaka’s historic Millionaires’ Row. The owner took seven years to restore the former shophouse to the Straits eclectic architectural style of that period. Its

ambience. The 10 suites are divided into deluxe, family and river view categories. Each are individually decorated to capture the rich Peranakan cultural heritage and display the owners’ priceless Baba Nyonya antique collection. Intricate Victorian four-poster beds draped with delicate lace are used in four of the five deluxe suites (Oriental, Imperial, Mandarin, Victoria) while the Opium Pearl suite The front of the building, showing classic Peranakan features a traditional architectural detail. Chinese ‘opium bed’, said to be the guests’ most distinctive features include popular choice. high roofs, vintage majolica The Cheng Ho and Hang Li floor tiles, ornate blackwood Poh family suites are ideal mother-of-pearl inlaid for four persons and offer furniture, wooden fittings views of an open courtyard and a wide assortment of traditional artefacts and objets typical in Peranakan homes. The Grand Heeren Suite d’art, all of which lend it a features an original Peranakan unique historical sense and

Morten Village Bukit Cina

5 Heeren Museum Residence Hotel

Melaka River Park and Cruise

Little India

A Famosa Malacca

Ujong Pasir

Melaka Raya Portugese Settlement Melaka

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bridal bed. The two river view suites with private balconies overlook the iconic Malacca River. The luxurious Grand Boulevard Suite, accompanied by a bathtub, is also the owner’s favourite. Despite the old-world charm, all suites are equipped with modern amenities such as highspeed Internet, in-room safe, mini bar, satellite TV, en-suite bathroom and air-conditioning. All room rates include complimentary Peranakan breakfast with the rich flavours of exquisite Baba Nyonya cuisine. After opening in March 2017, this uniquely quaint hotel soon earned the coveted TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2018, 2019 and again in 2020. It is ideal for intimate family gatherings and groups of friends, as well as events such as wedding photo shoots. Its in-house tea shop sells premium 100% organic Made-inMalaysia HOGA Gaharu Tea.

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The elegantly appointed breakfast room, the perfect place to start a memorable day.

The ornately lacquered and inlaid opium bed in the Opium Pearl suite.

Experience luxurious old world ambience in the stunning Grand Boulevard Suite.

The view from the Harbour Suite, overlooking the historic Melaka River.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

TANJONG JARA RESORT Batu 8, Off Jalan Dungun 23000 Dungun, Terengganu T (09) 845 1100 W tanjongjararesort.com

IN BRIEF Tanjong Jara Resort is built amid a 17-acre coconut grove facing a crescentshaped beach of golden sand lapped by the South China Sea. It is designed to emulate the elegantly crafted istanas (palaces) of Malay sultans, for which it won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for architecture. Guests are assured of an experience that is unmistakably Malay.

MAIN FEATURES The resort’s 100 luxurious guest rooms overlook the sea and the tropical landscaped gardens. They range from 55 to 88 square metres in size and are intricately designed using rich local timber LOCATION / ROUTE Located near Kuala Dungun, Terengganu, 1hr 45mins from Kuantan and 4hrs from Kuala Lumpur via the East Coast Expressway (Kuala Dungun exit 827), 1hr 10mins from Kuala Terengganu via Federal Route 3. 7hrs from Johor Bahru/Singapore via Federal Routes 1&12 or Federal Route 3. HOW TO GET THERE The resort provides pickup services from KLIA, Kuantan, Kerteh and Kuala Terengganu airports.

Tanjong Jara Resort has an idyllic setting surrounded by swaying coconut palms.

and furnished with luxurious fabrics. Room amenities include a writing desk, powered safe, day bed, large open en-suite bathroom with

oversized bathtub, separate shower and two vanity units, as well as all the expected 5-star hotel facilities. Dining options are scenic Kuala Terengganu Airport

South China Sea

Kuala Berang Kenyir Lake

Hulu Terengganu

Tanjong Jara Resort

Kuala Dungun

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The imposing Anjung Rooms offer 88sq metres of exquisitely designed living space.

and informal. Di Atas Sungei, perched above a river leading to the South China Sea, serves daily breakfast and authentic Malaysian cuisine for dinner. The Nelayan, directly by the sea, offers an Asian and Western lunch menu. The poolside Teratai Terrace serves healthy salads for lunch and a selection of wines and co*cktails in the evenings. An exquisite selection of private dining experiences is also offered. Recreational facilities include two swimming

Inside an Anjung Room – luxury without limits and a panoramic sea view.

pools, two tennis courts, péntanque court and traditional Malay games such as top-spinning and sepak-takraw. Activities offered include cultural tours, walking tours, elephant sanctuary visits, cycling and river cruises. The resort’s own PADIcertified Dive Centre offers dive training, guided snorkelling and scuba diving in the magnificent Terengganu Marine Park. The Tanjong Jara Spa Village houses a stateof-the-art gymnasium and spa treatment

Space to relax - the beach never gets crowded at Tanjong Jara.

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programmes for beauty, relaxation, wellness and rejuvenation. The focus is on natural healing treatments, using timetested local ingredients and methods applied by the resident Malay traditional healers. Meetings and functions are catered for at the Conference Centre, conveniently situated near the lobby. It offers flexible meeting spaces for up to 100 guests, and is ideal for conferences, meetings, incentives, weddings and themed parties.

The beautifully landscaped entrance to Tanjong Jara’s Spa Village.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL 10, Lebuh Farquhar, Georgetown 10200 Penang T (04) 222 2000 W eohotels.com

IN BRIEF The Eastern & Oriental Hotel, affectionately known as “the E&O” was established by the Armenian Sarkies brothers in 1885. It became known as ‘’the Premier Hotel East of Suez’’, its distinctive Moorish-Colonial architecture and sweeping seafront making it a favourite with the rich and famous. Charlie Chaplin, Noel Coward, Douglas Fairbanks Sr., Mary Pickford, Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Herman Hesse number among its guests. Extensively refurbished in 2001 and 2019, it retains all the old-world style that make this an authentic Grand Hotel.

MAIN FEATURES The E&O comprises two wings set amid an 842-foot-long manicured garden that boasts the LOCATION / ROUTE Strategic seafront location, 20 minutes from Penang International Airport. Close to museums and galleries, food, shopping and entertainment outlets. Beach Street business district is nearby. HOW TO GET THERE Buses 103 (city centre circular) and 204 (Penang Hill) stop outside the hotel. Bus 101 (northern beaches & Penang National Park) is 3-4 minutes’ walk.

The elegant entrance to the E&O’s Heritage Wing. The unique Moorish-Colonial architecture makes it one of the world’s most visually distinctive hotels.

oldest java tree on the island, planted before 1885. The original building has been lovingly restored into the newly re-opened Heritage Wing. Its 100 exquisitely appointed suites come complete with personal butler service upon request and exclusive use of the garden. Heritage Wing privileges

include airport meet & greet, packing/unpacking and exclusive use of the garden swimming pool. The Victory Annexe, added in 2013, features 132 sea-facing suites with balconies. Designed with the modern global traveller in mind, they are luxuriously appointed with every possible amenity. Guest

Batu Feringhi

Tanjung Tokong

Penang National Park

Penang Hill Georgetown

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The exquisitely appointed premier garden suites adjoin directly to the hotel’s waterfront gardens.

facilities include 2 pools, gymnasium, business centre, the Emporium (retail outlet), limousine service, valet parking, E&O Gallery, Pañpuri Organic Spa and yoga classes. The Heritage Wing dining outlets reflect Penang’s rich colonial history. Palm Court serves Indian-inspired dishes in tiffin carriers, Chinese noodle favourites and casual Western fare. The

Swimming to the sound of the surf; the Heritage Wing Pool.

Java Tree offers refined Nyonya recipes and classic European cuisine. The adjacent Rattan Room is reserved for private dining, while Farquhar’s Bar mixes vintage co*cktails with a stunning view of Penang’s waterfront. At the Victory Annexe, Sarkies offers buffet-style local and international fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Planters Lounge serves continental

Comfort is the top priority, as demonstrated by this opulent suite bedroom.

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breakfast, lunch and dinner while the al-fresco Poolside Terrace has a spectacular view of the Andaman Sea. Events and functions are catered for by a dedicated meetings concierge. Facilities include the 800 capacity Grand Ballroom, the 400-capacity Macalister Ballroom and 10 elegantly appointed meeting rooms with stateof-the-art amenities.

The Andaman Sea just after sunset, as viewed from the Heritage Wing.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

L A N G K AW I LANGKAWI

THE RITZ-CARLTON LANGKAWI Jalan Pantai Kok, Teluk Nibong 07000 Langkawi Kedah T (04) 958 4888 W ritzcarlton.com/langkawi

IN BRIEF

The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi is a 5-star resort that combines ease of access with total seclusion in a pristine natural environment. It is very much at the boutique end of the resort spectrum, with only 119 luxurious rooms, suites and villas on a 50-acre site. Despite its modest guest capacity, it still manages to offer 4 restaurants and bars, a great selection of land and water-based activities and an award-winning over-thewater spa.

MAIN FEATURES The resort’s luxurious accommodation comprises 75 rooms, 15 suites and 29 villas set amidst sensitively landscaped gardens and oldLOCATION / ROUTE Idyllic beachfront location facing the Strait of Malacca and the Andaman Sea, surrounded by ancient rainforest. 10 minutes from Langkawi International Airport; 40 minutes from Kuah Jetty for passenger ferries from Kuala Perlis & Kuala Kedah (mainland), George Town (Penang) and Satun (Thailand); 35 minutes from Tanjung Lembung Port for car ferry from Kuala Perlis; 5 minutes from Telaga Harbour for passenger ferry from Ko Lipe (Thailand). HOW TO GET THERE Taxis are readily available.

A sumptuous view of The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi’s beachfront and rainforest, as seen from the Horizon lounge.

growth rainforest. All rooms and suites have private balconies, while each villa has its own private pool. The dining outlets take their inspiration from Malaysia’s rich cultural traditions. The casual Langkawi Kitchen features Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisines prepared in open kitchens and at live cooking stations. The Beach Grill borrows design elements from Malaysia’s traditional

hand–made fish traps and serves fresh seafood, international dishes, co*cktails and fine wines. Set on the water’s edge, Hai Yan features traditional Chinese seafood in a sophisticated setting, along with aged teas and boutique wines. The aptly named Horizon, an adultsonly lounge with panoramic views and its own swimming pool, offers an intimate setting to enjoy romantic

L A N G K AW I LANGKAWI

The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi Bohor Padang Mat Sirat

Ulu Melaka

Langkawi International Airport

Kedawang

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The extravagant Villa Kenari boasts the resort’s largest private pool and an expansive sundeck that overlooks the entire bay.

sunsets accompanied by fragrant Thai cuisine. Recreational facilities and activities include 2 pools, fitness centre, tennis court, jungle trails, Kid’s Club, sea kayaking and paddle boarding. Events and functions are catered for by a 400-capacity Grand Ballroom and an 80-seat salon/VIP room. For many guests, The Ritz-Carlton Spa is the highlight of their stay, with 6 individual pavilions, 3 of which are designed for couples, built directly over the water. The Spa offers a comprehensive range of treatments from The Ritz-Carlton global collection as well as traditional rituals inspired by indigenous healing and wellness ceremonies. It was awarded “World’s Best New Resort Spa” by World Spa Awards in 2018.

When one private pool is not enough, Villa Mutiara offers two, along with its own private beach.

Langkawi Kitchen – casual dining in the rainforest, inspired by traditional Borneo architecture.

Beachside private dining is an unforgettable experience.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

JAPAMALA TIOMAN ISLAND Kampung Lanting 86800 Pulau Tioman Pahang Darul Makmur T (09) 419 7777 W japamalaresorts.com

IN BRIEF Japamala Resort is an exclusive eco-friendly resort set amidst 11 acres of tropical rainforest and flanked by a quiet beach for privacy and seclusion. It promises a holistic blend of sumptuous gourmet treats, intimacy between man and nature and exceptional hospitality.

MAIN FEATURES Japamala Resort is Tioman’s only boutique resort and is owned and operated by Samadhi Retreats, a multiple-awardwinning boutique hotel group. The resort is designed to integrate with the natural terrain – the streams, steep cliffs and towering

A stunning view of the South China Sea, with Mandi-Mandi Restaurant in the foreground.

boulders on which some of its rooms are built. The resort’s 16 natureinspired villas and chalets are adorned with a chic fusion of rustic beauty and contemporary Asian flair. Each living space is fully equipped with modern comforts. The Seacliff Chalets are perched high on the cliff with stunning views of the crystal-clear

LOCATION / ROUTE The Japamala Resort is located at the southwest corner of Tioman Island, close to the village of Kampung Genting. HOW TO GET THERE By Road/Sea: drive to Mersing in Johor, take the ferry to Tioman and disembark at the Genting Terminal, where the resort provides a pick-up service. Guests can also opt for the Japamala boat service, which runs directly from Mersing Jetty to the resort.

South China Sea, while the Treetop Chalets, amidst the luxuriant jungle canopy, bring you as close to nature as it gets; trees are left to grow as part of the interior of the rooms. The 16 Villas are built in the style of charming Malay village homes, each with its own distinct theme. Three restaurants mark the resort’s great emphasis on quality dining. The beachfront

South China Sea

Kuala Rompin

Japamala Tioman Island Endau

Pulau Tioman

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Up in the rainforest canopy, the Treetop Chalets bring you as close to nature as it’s possible to get.

Tamarind Tioman now offers authentic Malaysian cuisine, Il Tiempo offers hearty and truly authentic Italian fare with a carefully curated wine selection, while Mandi-Mandi, built over the water, offers fresh and funky co*cktails to enjoy as the sun goes down. Japamala Resort is flanked by a quiet beach providing an idyllic setting

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Each of the Seacliff Chalets is positioned to provide uninterrupted panoramic views.

with privacy and seclusion. Those who love the sea can explore the resort’s underwater coral garden with the complimentary use of sea kayaks and snorkelling equipment. Trips to adjacent islands can also be arranged. Endorsing the concept of “responsible tourism”, no trees were felled during construction and only

second-hand timber was used. The resort also uses nonchemical products and methods of decomposing waste, while producing its own reverse osmosis drinking water from the river. The Japamala Resort’s philosophy is to create an ambiance that is one with nature and yet luxurious, making this a truly eco-luxe resort.

Japamala Resort’s pristine white sand beach is exclusively for the use of guests, offing privacy and seclusion.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

SHANGRI-LA’S TANJUNG ARU RESORT & SPA 20 Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru 88100 Kota Kinabalu Sabah T (088) 327 888 W shangri-la.com/kotakinabalu/ tanjungaruresort

IN BRIEF Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is probably the best-known luxury beach resort in all of Borneo. Its 498 contemporary-styled rooms and suites and its 6 restaurants and bars reflect Borneo’s rich cultural heritage. The extensive land and water-based recreational facilities make it an ideal family destination.

MAIN FEATURES The resort comprises two wings set amid 25 acres of manicured gardens. The Tanjung Wing provides commanding views of the South China Sea and the surrounding tropical islands. Its Horizon Club rooms offer a higher level of luxury and other privileges, including exclusive access to the Horizon Lounge. Kinabalu

Wing guests have the choice of a spectacular seascape or a stunning view of Mount Kinabalu. All rooms and suites have private balconies. The dining outlets reflect Borneo’s vibrant culture. Café TATU offers all-day dining in an open-kitchen layout with live cooking stations. Coco-Joe’s Bar & Grill is a beach side restaurant, serving refreshing co*cktails, fresh seafood and à la carte meals, with superb sea views. Shang Palace is renowned for its delectable dim sum and mouth-watering Cantonese and other Chinese specialities made from fresh local ingredients, subtly

influenced by Malay and Indian cuisines. The Borneo Lounge & Bar is perfect for relaxing drinks and light refreshments with live musical entertainment. The Sunset Bar, on its own private island at the end of Sunset Beach, serves a selection of unique Borneo-inspired co*cktails and mocktails. The Cool Box Ice Cream Bar’s choice of Banana Split and child-approved soft serve ice-cream will delight guests of all ages. Recreational facilities are family focused, and centred on a Water Play Area with theme park quality water slides for adults and children. Other

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HOW TO GET THERE Taxis are readily available at the main entrance.

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n LOCATION Su / ROUTE lta n Ism location, Idyllic beachfront a 10mins from Kotail Kinabalu International Airport and Ja from city centre. 10mins by boat to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

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An early morning view of Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, with Chi, The Spa and the Sunset Bar in the foreground.

Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Taman Sri Cassia

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Duplex family rooms offer sophisticated style for the parents and nature-themed fun décor for the children.

facilities include a 2,000 square metre swimming pool with tapered shoreline, infinity section, jacuzzi beds and kiddy pool, 9-hole pitch and putt golf course, jogging track, tennis courts, state-of-the-art health club and STAR Marina, offers watersports, diving, fishing, island transfers and luxurious sunset cruises. Whilst the children are busy

playing in the Cool Zone kids’ club, Chi The Spa is a haven for adults looking for some pampering. Meeting, conference and event facilities range from 10-seat board rooms to the 1,200 capacity Grand Ballroom. They can be combined in over 20 different permutations to cater for almost any size of gathering.

The trained instructors at the Cool Zone kid’s club conduct fascinating, nature-friendly activities for all age groups.

It’s all about the water, whether you’re relaxing on the edge of the infinity pool or having the time of your life in the Water Play Area.

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HOTELS & CONVENTION FACILITIES

MULU MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA Sungai Melinau P.O. Box 1145 98070 Mulu, Sarawak T (085) 792 388 W mulumarriott.com

IN BRIEF The Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa is an internationalclass nature destination and the only resort property adjacent to the world-famous Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World heritage Site. It is the ideal location from which to enjoy the “Ultimate Borneo Rainforest Experience”, amidst lush rainforest and some of the most amazing cave systems in the world. LOCATION / ROUTE Located on the banks of the Melinau River in the interior of Northern Sarawak, near the entrance to Gunung Mulu National Park. HOW TO GET THERE Air: MasWings flies to Mulu from Miri (30min), Kota Kinabalu (55min) and Kuching (1hr 35min). The resort provides transportation from Mulu airport (10mins). Boat: Express boat from Marudi to Long Terawan and local longboat to the park. This service is subject to water level and stream conditions. On Foot: Visitors may trek into the park via the Headhunters Trail from Limbang, overnighting in a local longhouse. A guide is essential. Contact a licensed tour operator for details.

Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa viewed from a nearby hilltop, with the Melinau River to the left.

MAIN FEATURES The resort is designed in the style of ethnic longhouses linked by a series of wooden walkways, constructed on stilts three meters off the ground. 101 tastefully designed nonsmoking rooms feature all the amenities one would expect from a world-class resort. Guest facilities include an inhouse gym, outdoor swimming pool and the Mandara Spa,

where guests can pamper themselves with Balinese massage, while the Ayus Wellness program offers a lifeenhancing retreat experience in tranquil rainforest surroundings. Activities include cave viewing and exploration, nature walks and all the attractions of the nearby National Park. The M Café combines the best of local and western cuisine, served in airconditioned

Bandar Seri Begawan

BRUNEI Miri Marudi

Lawas

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A view of the Great Room, showing the natural wooden flooring and structure which blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature.

comfort or al-fresco on the terrace. It is noted for its local signature dishes, especially ayam pansuh, chicken infused in herbs & spices, cooked in a bamboo tube over the glowing embers of a wood fire. The River Bar, open

Alena Murang, Sarawakian singer-songwriter and master of the lute-like sape, is a regular visitor. She is pictured here with the resort’s owners in the ballroom.

for lunch and dinner, offers light meals, snacks, co*cktails, freshly squeezed juices and even tuak, the local rice wine. Its open terrace provides a perfect setting to watch twilight envelop the jungle. The fully air-conditioned

The luxurious bedroom of the Presidential Suite.

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Ballroom can accommodate up to 200 people for dinner seating or 250 theatre style. It is fully equipped with the latest audio-visual facilities and is ideal for seminars, courses, conferences, incentive trips and corporate retreats.

Guests with a head for heights can view the rainforest canopy from the The Mulu Canopy Skywalk, at 480 metres the longest tree-based walkway in the World.

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HOTELS LISTING

GRAND BLUEWAVE HOTEL JOHOR BAHRU (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 221 6666

RAMADA HOTEL MERIDIN MEDINI (4*) Nusajaya T (07) 531 8888

GRAND PARAGON HOTEL (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 268 5222

RENAISSANCE JOHOR BAHRU (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 381 3333

AMARI JOHOR BAHRU (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 266 8888

HARD ROCK HOTEL DESARU COAST (5*) Desaru Coast T (07) 838 8888

AMERALD RESORT HOTEL DESARU (4*) Pengerang T (07) 824 3000

HOTEL JEN PUTERI HARBOUR (4*) Iskandar Puteri T (07) 560 8888

SAND & SANDALS DESARU BEACH RESORT & SPA (4*) Desaru Coast T (07) 822 2222

ANANTARA DESARU COAST RESORT & VILLAS (5*) Desaru Coast T (07) 828 0888

KSL RESORT JOHOR BAHRU (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 288 2999

ASEANIA RESORT PULAU BESAR (4*) Mersing Hp (012) 273 7822

LE GRANDEUR PALM RESORT JOHOR (5*) Senai T (07) 599 6000

BERJAYA WATERFRONT HOTEL (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 221 9999

LOTUS DESARU BEACH RESORT (4*) Desaru Coast T (07) 884 2800

CAPRI BY FRASER (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 277 0888

ONE&ONLY (5*) Desaru Coast T (07) 878 3400

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON HOTEL JOHOR BAHRU (5*) Johor Bahru T (07) 268 6868

PULAI SPRINGS RESORT (5*) Pulai T (07) 521 2121

Due to space limitations, we have only included a limited number of business class and luxury properties. Many more hotels, in all price categories, can be found on popular hotel booking and travel guide websites. JOHOR

SARI PACIFICA BEACH RESORT & SPA (4*)

(Luxury Boutique Resort)

Mersing Hp (012) 273 7822

SEBANA COVE GOLF & MARINA RESORT (4*) Pengerang T (07) 826 6688 THE KATERINA HOTEL (4*) Batu Pahat T (07) 433 7111 THE WESTIN DESARU COAST RESORT (5*) Desaru Coast T (07) 838 3333 THISTLE JOHOR BAHRU (5*) Johor Bahru T (07) 222 9234 TROVE JOHOR BAHRU (4*) Johor Bahru T (07) 272 8888 TUNAMAYA BEACH & SPA DESARU COAST (4*) Desaru Coast T (07) 833 8888 KEDAH CINTA SAYANG RESORT HOTEL (4*) Sungai Petani T (04) 441 4666

Designed by leading hotel architects Kerry Hill, the One&Only Desaru Coast Master One Villas leave nothing to the imagination.

GRAND ALORA HOTEL (4*) Alor Setar T (04) 770 8888

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TEMPLE TREE BOUTIQUE RESORT LANGKAWI (4*) Pantai Cenang Hp (017) 599 5935 THE ANDAMAN (5*) Teluk Datai T (04) 959 1088 THE DANNA LANGKAWI (5*) Pantai Kok T (04) 959 3288 THE DATAI LANGKAWI (5*) Teluk Datai T (04) 950 0500 Langkawi Kitchen, a fine-dining restaurant at the Ritz Carlton Langkawi, Kedah (Tropical Area Architects, 2017), winner of the Prix Versailles in 2018.

PARK AVENUE HOTEL SUNGAI PETANI (4*) Sungai Petani T (04) 431 7777 LANGKAWI ISLAND ADYA HOTEL LANGKAWI (4*) Kuah T (04) 960 8000 ALOFT LANGKAWI PANTAI TENGAH (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 952 5252 AMBONG POOL VILLAS (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 955 8428 ASEANIA RESORT & SPA LANGKAWI (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 955 2020 BAYVIEW HOTEL LANGKAWI (4*) Kuah T (04) 966 1818 BERJAYA LANGKAWI RESORT (4*) Burau Bay T (04) 959 1888 CAMAR RESORT LANGKAWI (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 952 4111 CASA DEL MAR LANGKAWI (4*)

Pantai Cenang T (04) 955 2388 DASH RESORT LANGKAWI (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 955 7171 FOUR SEASONS RESORT LANGKAWI (5*) Tanjung Rhu T (04) 950 8888 HOLIDAY VILLA BEACH RESORT & SPA LANGKAWI (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 952 9999 LANGKAWI LAGOON BEACH RESORT (4*) Kampung Padang Mat Sirat Hp (019) 989 1022 MERITUS PELANGI BEACH RESORT & SPA LANGKAWI (5*) Pantai Cenang T (04) 952 8888

THE FRANGIPANI LANGKAWI RESORT & SPA (4*) Pantai Tengah T (04) 952 0000 THE RITZ-CARLTON LANGKAWI (5*)

(See Page 324)

THE ST. REGIS LANGKAWI (5*) Pantai Beringin T (04) 960 6666 THE WESTIN LANGKAWI RESORT & SPA (5*) Kuah T (04) 960 8888 VIVANTA BY TAJ (5*) Rebak Island T (04) 966 5566 KELANTAN CROWN GARDEN HOTEL (3*) Kota Bharu T (09) 743 2228 CRYSTAL LODGE (3*) Kota Bharu T (09) 747 0888

OMBAK VILLA LANGKAWI (4*) Padang Matsirat T (04) 952 8181

GRAND RIVERVIEW HOTEL (4*) Kota Bharu T (09) 743 9988

RESORTS WORLD LANGKAWI (4*) Tanjung Malai T (04) 955 5111

H ELITE DESIGN HOTEL (3*) Kota Bharu T (09) 740 5757

TANJUNG RHU RESORT (5*) Ayer Hangat T (04) 959 1033

HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL & SUITES KOTA BHARU (4*) Kota Bharu T (09) 747 4004

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HOTELS LISTING

Kuala Lumpur Sentral T (03) 2723 1188 ANCASA HOTEL & SPA KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2026 6060 ANSA KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2146 5000 ASCOTT KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2718 6868

Hotel Perdana Kelantan in Kota Bharu uses motifs from Kelantan’s rich Malay heritage in its architectural design.

HOTEL IBIS STYLES (3*) Kota Bharu T (09) 740 8000 PERDANA HOTEL KOTA BHARU (4*) Kota Bharu T (09) 745 8888 THE GRAND RENAI KOTA BHARU (4*) Kota Bharu T (09) 746 2233 TOK AMAN BALI BEACH RESORT (4*) Pasir Puteh T (09) 691 8899 KUALA LUMPUR AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT TITIWANGSA (4*)

(Formerly Vistana KL Titiwangsa) Kuala Lumpur

T (03) 4042 8000

ALILA BANGSAR (5*) Brickfields T (03) 2268 3888 ALOFT KUALA LUMPUR SENTRAL (4*)

DYNASTY HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4043 7777 E&O RESIDENCES KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2023 2113 ELEMENT KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2771 3388 EQ KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2789 7777

ASCOTT SENTRAL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Brickfields T (03) 2727 9999

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2382 8888

BAYAN TREE HOTEL & RESIDENCE (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2113 1888

FRASER RESIDENCE KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2191 0888

BERJAYA TIMES SQUARE HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2117 8000

FURAMA BUKIT BINTANG (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2788 8888

CITIZEN M KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9212 6340

GRAND HYATT KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2182 1234

CONCORDE HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2144 2200 CORMAR SUITES KUALA LUMPUR (4*)

(Formerly Fraser Place Kuala Lumpur)

Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2181 2148

CORUS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2161 8888 DORSETT KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2716 1000 DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2172 7272

GRAND MILLENNIUM KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2117 4888 HILTON GARDEN INN (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2771 6888 HILTON KUALA LUMPUR HOTEL (5*) Kuala Lumpur Sentral T (03) 2264 2264 HOTEL MAYA (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2711 8866 HOTEL ROYAL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2148 6888 HOTEL STRIPES KUALA LUMPUR (5*)

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2038 0000 HYATT HOUSE KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Mont Kiara T (03) 6419 8688 IBIS KUALA LUMPUR CITY CENTRE (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2778 3333

MAISON BOUTIQUE THEME HOTEL (4*)

(Formerly Greystone Boutique Hotel)

Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2145 2929

MANDARIN ORIENTAL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2380 8888

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PAVILION HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2117 2888 PNB PERDANA HOTEL & SUITES ON THE PARK (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 7490 3333 PREMIERA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2615 1000

IMPIANA KLCC HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2147 1111

MELIA KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2785 2828

INTERCONTINENTAL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2782 6000

MERCURE KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 9224 3030

JW MARRIOTT KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2715 9000

MICASA ALL SUITE HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2179 8000

LANSON PLACE BUKIT CEYLON SERVICED RESIDENCES (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2725 8888

MOV HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2110 6820

RAMADA SUITES KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2938 9888

NOVOTEL KUALA LUMPUR CITY CENTRE (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2147 0888

RENAISSANCE KUALA LUMPUR HOTEL (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2162 2233

OAKWOOD HOTEL & RESIDENCE KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Ampang T (03) 2720 3888

ROYALE CHULAN KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2688 9688

LE MERIDIEN KUALA LUMPUR HOTEL (5*) Kuala Lumpur Sentral T (03) 2263 7888

OASIA SUITES KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2726 6788 PACIFIC REGENCY HOTEL SUITES (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2332 7777

Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, designed by A. Mariadass Architect in collaboration with YTL Design Group, won Malaysia’s most prestigious architectural award, PAM’s Building of the Year for 2019.

PULLMAN KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2170 8888 PULLMAN KUALA LUMPUR BANGSAR (5*) Bangsar T (03) 2298 1888

SERI PACIFIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4042 5555 SHANGRI-LA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2032 2388

PARK ROYAL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2147 0088

SHERATON IMPERIAL KUALA LUMPUR HOTEL (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2717 9900

PARK ROYAL SERVICED SUITES KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2084 1000

SOFITEL KUALA LUMPUR DAMANSARA (5*) Bukit Damansara T (03) 2720 6688

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HOTELS LISTING

SOMERSET AMPANG KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Ampang T (03) 2723 8888 SUMMIT HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2614 8000

THE MAJESTIC HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*)

(See page 314)

THE NOMAD SUCASA (4*) Ampang T (03) 4251 3833

SUNWAY PUTRA HOTEL (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 4040 9888

THE PEARL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 7983 1111

SUNWAY VELOCITY HOTEL (4*) Cheras T (03) 2726 3988

THE RITZ-CARLTON KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2142 8000

SWISS-GARDEN HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2785 1111

THE RUMA HOTEL & RESIDENCES (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2778 0888

TAMU HOTEL & SUITES (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2603 1999

THE SIGNATURE HOTEL & SERVICED SUITES (5*) Desa Sri Hartamas T (03) 6412 0888

THE BOULEVARD HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2295 8000 THE CHOW KIT HOTEL (3*)

(Boutique Hotel)

Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2778 6666 THE FACE SUITES (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2168 1688 THE FEDERAL KUALA LUMPUR HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2148 9166 THE FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2035 7333 THE GARDENS HOTEL & RESIDENCES (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2268 1188

THE KUALA LUMPUR JOURNAL HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2110 2211

THE ST. REGIS KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur Sentral T (03) 2727 1111 THE WESTIN KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2731 8333 TRADERS HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2332 9888 TRIBECA HOTEL & SERVICED SUITES (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2727 2288 VE HOTEL & RESIDENCE (4*) Bangsar South T (03) 2246 2888 VILLA SAMADHI (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2143 2300 W KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2786 8888

WP HOTEL (4*) Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2618 1188 LABUAN AIFA HOTEL (3*) Labuan T (087) 424 888 AZ HOTEL AND SERVICED APARTMENTS (3*) Labuan T (087) 581 333 BETA SERVICE APARTMENT (3*) Labuan T (087) 453 333 GRAND DORSETT LABUAN (5*) Labuan T (087) 422 000 LAZENDA HOTEL LABUAN (3*) Labuan T (087) 580 800 PALM BEACH RESORT & SPA (4*) Labuan T (087) 418 700 TIARA LABUAN (4*) Labuan T (087) 414 300 MELAKA 5 HEEREN HOTEL (3*)

(See page 316)

A’FAMOSA RESORT HOTEL (4*) (See page 134)

AMES HOTEL (4*) Ayer Keroh T (06) 318 3999 BAYVIEW HOTEL MELAKA (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 283 9888 CASA DEL RIO (5*)

(Boutique Hotel)

Melaka Town T (06) 289 6888

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337

NEGERI SEMBILAN AVILLION PORT DICKSON (4*) Port Dickson T (06) 647 6688 CORUS PARADISE RESORT PORT DICKSON (4*) Port Dickson T (06) 647 7600

The 5-Star Dorsett Grand Labuan offers comfort levels and banquet facilities befitting an international offshore financial centre.

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON HOTEL MELAKA (5*) Melaka Town T (06) 222 3333

SWISS GARDEN HOTEL (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 288 3131

HATTEN HOTEL (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 286 9696

THE MAJESTIC MALACCA (5*) Melaka Town T (06) 289 8000

HOLIDAY INN MELAKA (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 285 9000

THE PINES MELAKA (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 240 2323

HOTEL EQUATORIAL MELAKA (5*) Melaka Town T (06) 282 8333

THE SHORE HOTEL & RESIDENCES (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 282 8200

IBIS MELAKA (4*) Bukit Cina T (06) 222 8888

THE STRAITS HOTEL & SUITES (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 289 8555

LA CRISTA MELAKA (4*)

(Formerly Avillion Legacy Melaka)

Melaka Town T (06) 281 6868

TREASURES HOTEL & SUITES (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 775 5151

GRAND LEXIS PORT DICKSON (4*) Port Dickson T (06) 653 2000 KLANA RESORT SEREMBAN (4*) Seremban T (06) 766 7888 LEXIS HIBISCUS (5*) Port Dickson T (06) 660 2626 NILAI SPRINGS RESORT HOTEL (4*) Nilai T (06) 850 2288 PNB ILHAM RESORT (4*) Port Dickson T (06) 662 6800 ROYAL CHULAN SEREMBAN (4*) Seremban T (06) 766 6666 TASIK VILLA INTERNATIONAL RESORT (5*) Lukut T (06) 644 8888

LIU MEN HOTEL (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 288 1161 PHILEA RESORT & SPA (5*) Ayer Keroh T (06) 233 3399 RIVIERA SUITES MELAKA (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 288 9168 ROSA MALACCA (4*) Melaka Town T (06) 281 9888

Only 80 minutes’ drive from the city, Port Dickson’s Lexus Hibiscus Resort offers stunning luxury within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur.

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HOTELS LISTING

THISTLE PORT DICKSON RESORT (5*) Port Dickson T (06) 648 2828 PAHANG AC HOTEL KUANTAN (4*) (Formerly Vistana Hotel Kuantan)

Kuantan T (09) 517 8000

ANCASA ROYALE PEKAN PAHANG (4*) Kuantan T (09) 424 6600 AVILLION CAMERON HIGHLANDS (4*) Cameron Highlands T (03) 2262 0288 AWANA GENTING HIGHLANDS GOLF AND COUNTRY RESORT (4*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6436 9000 BUKIT GAMBANG RESORT CITY (4*)

(See Page 140)

CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORT (5*) Cameron Highlands T (05) 491 1100 CENTURY PINES RESORT (4*) Cameron Highlands T (05) 491 5115

The Smokehouse Hotel Cameron Highlands has been serving up traditional country house hospitality in a cool mountain climate since 1937.

Cameron Highlands T (05) 496 1777 FIRST WORLD GENTING (4*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6101 1118 GENTING GRAND HOTEL (5*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6101 1118 GEO RESORT & HOTEL (5*) Genting Highlands T (03) 9213 0830 GLORIA RESIDENCES (4*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6433 3888

CLUB MED CHERATING (3*) Cherating T (09) 581 9133

GRAND DARUL MAKMUR HOTEL (4*) Kuantan T (09) 511 8888

COLMAR TROPICALE BERJAYA HILLS (4*) Bukit Tinggi T (09) 221 3666

GRAND ION DELEMEN (5*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6433 2200

COPTHORNE HOTEL (4*) Cameron Highlands T (05) 496 1777 CROCKFORDS HOTEL (5*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6101 1118 EQUATORIAL CAMERON HIGHLANDS (4*)

HERITAGE HOTEL CAMERON HIGHLANDS (3*) Cameron Highlands T (05) 491 3888 HOLIDAY VILLA BEACH RESORT & SPA CHERATING (4*) Cherating T (09) 581 9500

HYATT REGENCY KUANTAN RESORT (5*) Kuantan T (09) 518 1234 LA VILLA BY HOLIDAY VILLA (4*) Cherating T (09) 581 9500 MANGALA RESORT & SPA (5*) Gambang T (09) 505 7788 MAXIMS GENTING (5*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6101 1118 MUTIARA TAMAN NEGARA RESORT (4*) Jerantut T (09) 266 3500 RESORT HOTEL (4*) Genting Highlands T (03) 6101 1118 ROYALE CHULAN CHERATING VILLAS (5*) Cherating T (09) 584 7333 SAMSURIA BEACH RESORT & RESIDENCE (4*) Kuantan T (09) 582 1111 STRAWBERRY PARK RESORT (4*)

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Cameron Highlands T (05) 491 1166 SWISS-BELHOTEL KUANTAN (4*) Kuantan T (09) 404 8888 SWISS-GARDEN BEACH RESORT KUANTAN (4*) Kuantan T (09) 548 8288 SWISS-GARDEN HOTEL & RESIDENCES GENTING HIGHLANDS (5*) Genting Highlands T (03) 9213 0777 THE CHATEAU SPA & ORGANIC WELLNESS RESORT (5*) Bukit Tinggi T (09) 221 3888 THE KASTURI RESORT (5*) Cherating T (09) 582 5000 THE LAKEHOUSE CAMERON HIGHLANDS (4*) Cameron Highlands T (05) 495 6152

AMAN TIOMAN BEACH RESORT (4*) T (09) 419 7788 BERJAYA TIOMAN RESORT (4*) T (09) 419 1000 JAPAMALA RESORT TIOMAN ISLAND (5*) (See page 324)

MINANG COVE RESORT & SPA (3*) T (07) 799 7372 PAYA BEACH SPA & DIVE RESORT (4*) T 1-800-81-8848 THE BARAT TIOMAN BEACH RESORT (3*) T (09) 419 3288 TIOMAN DIVE RESORT (3*) T (09) 419 1218 TUNAMAYA BEACH SPA & RESORT (4*) T (07) 766 8888 PENANG

THE SMOKEHOUSE (3*)

AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT PENANG (4*)

Cameron Highlands T (05) 491 1215

Bukit Jambul T (04) 646 8000

(Boutique Hotel)

(Formerly Vista Hotel Penang)

339

ANGSANA TELUK BAHANG PENANG (5*) Teluk Bahang T (04) 817 0888 BANANA BOUTIQUE HOTEL (4*) George Town T (04) 261 0718 BAYVIEW BEACH RESORT PENANG (4*) Batu Ferringhi T (04) 886 1111 BAYVIEW HOTEL GEORGE TOWN PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 263 3161 BERJAYA PENANG HOTEL (4*) George Town T (04) 227 7111 CAMPBELL HOUSE PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 261 8290 CHEONG FATT TZE - THE BLUE MANSION (4*) George Town T (04) 262 0006 CITITEL PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 291 1188

THE ZENITH HOTEL KUANTAN (4*) Kuantan T (09) 565 9595 VILLEA ROMPIN RESORT & GOLF (4*)

(Formerly Lanjut Beach & Golf Resort)

Kuala Rompin T (09) 415 8888

YE OLDE SMOKEHOUSE HOTEL & RESTAURANT (3*) (Boutique Hotel)

Fraser’s Hill T (09) 362 2226

TIOMAN ISLAND 1511 COCONUT GROVE JUARA (3*) T (09) 419 4888

A unique Victorian Era building, the Prestige Hotel Penang, complete with rooftop pool (inset), is a deserving winner of the 2020 World Luxury Hotel Awards.

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COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 297 2300 DOUBLE TREE RESORT BY HILTON PENANG (5*) Batu Ferringhi T (04) 892 8000 EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL (5*)

(See page 320)

EASTIN HOTEL (4*) Bayan Lepas T (04) 612 1111 EVERGREEN LAUREL HOTEL IN PENANG (5*) George Town T (04) 222 9988

ICONIC HOTEL (4*) Bukit Mertajam T (04) 505 9988 IXORA HOTEL PENANG (4*) Prai T (04) 382 8888 JEN HOTEL PENANG (5*) George Town T (04) 262 8331 JEREJAK ISLAND RESORT (4*) Pulau Jerejak T (04) 293 8331 LEXIS SUITES PENANG (5*) Bayan Lepas T (04) 628 2888 MACALISTER TERRACES HOTEL (4*)

FIG TREE HILL RESORT (4*) Bayan Lepas Hp (019) 362 0270

(Boutique Hotel)

FLAMINGO HOTEL BY THE BEACH (4*) Tanjung Bungah T (04) 892 7111

MARITIME LUXURY SUITE (4*) George Town Hp (017) 237 2191

G HOTEL GURNEY (5*) George Town T (04) 238 0000

George Town Hp (012) 484 0408

MUNTRI MEWS (4*) George Town T (04) 263 5125

G HOTEL KELAWAI (5*) George Town T (04) 238 0000

MUSEUM HOTEL PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 226 6668

GOLDEN SANDS RESORT PENANG (4*) Batu Ferringhi T (04) 886 1911

OLIVE TREE HOTEL PENANG (4*) Bayan Lepas T (04) 637 7777

HARD ROCK HOTEL PENANG (4*) Batu Ferringhi T (04) 881 1711

PALAQUINN HERITAGE SUITES (4*) George Town T (04) 227 1088

HOTEL MERCURE PENANG BEACH (4*) Tanjung Bungah T (04) 371 8888

PARKROYAL PENANG RESORT (5*) Batu Ferringhi T (04) 881 1133

HOTEL PENAGA (4*) George Town T (04) 261 1891

RAINBOW PARADISE BEACH RESORT (4*) Tanjung Bungah T (04) 899 9999

HOTEL ROYAL PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 226 7888

ROYALE CHULAN PENANG (4*)

George Town T (04) 259 8888 SHANGRI-LA’S RASA SAYANG RESORT & SPA PENANG (5*) Batu Ferringhi T (04) 888 8888 SUNWAY HOTEL GEORGE TOWN (4*) George Town T (04) 229 9988 SUNWAY HOTEL SEBERANG JAYA (4*) Prai T (04) 370 7788 THE BOUTIQUE RESIDENCE HOTEL (4*) George Town Hp (017) 556 7619 THE EDISON GEORGE TOWN PENANG (4*) George Town T (04) 262 2990 THE GURNEY RESORT HOTEL & RESIDENCES (4*) George Town T (04) 370 7000 THE HOMPTON BY THE BEACH (4*) Tanjung Bungah T (04) 373 3233 THE LIGHT HOTEL PENANG(5*) Seberang Jaya T (04) 382 1111 THE NORTHAM ALL SUITES (5*) George Town T (04) 370 1111 THE PRESTIGE HOTEL PENANG (5*) George Town T (04) 217 5888 THE WEMBLEY – A ST GILES HOTEL (4*) George Town T (04) 259 8000 VANGOHH EMINENT HOTEL & SPA (5*) Bukit Mertajam T (04) 548 6888

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341

VOUK HOTEL SUITES (4*) George Town T (04) 370 8333

LAUT (4*) Damai Laut T (05) 684 3333

YENG KENG HERITAGE BOUTIQUE (4*) George Town T (04) 262 2177

THE BANJARAN HOTSPRINGS RETREAT (5*) Ipoh T (05) 210 7777

DORSETT PUTRAJAYA (4*) Precinct 3 T (03) 8892 8388

BUKIT MERAH LAKETOWN RESORT (4*)

(See page 136)

THE HAVEN RESORT HOTEL (5*) Ipoh T (05) 540 0000

(Formerly Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside)

HOTEL EXCELSIOR IPOH (4*) Ipoh T (05) 253 6666

WEIL HOTEL (4*) Ipoh T (05) 208 2228

PERAK

HOTEL SFERA (4*) Seri Manjung T (05) 688 1000 IMPIANA HOTEL IPOH (4*) Ipoh T (05) 255 5555 KINTA RIVERFRONT HOTEL & SUITES (4*) Ipoh T (05) 245 8888 M ROOF HOTEL & RESIDENCES (4*) Ipoh T (05) 547 1777 MARINA HEIGHTS RESORT (5*) Lumut Hp (017) 535 3792

PERLIS FEDERAL HOTEL KANGAR (3*) Kangar T (04) 976 6288 HOTEL SERI MALAYSIA (3*) Kangar T (04) 977 1777 PUTRA BRASMANA HOTEL (3*) Kuala Perlis T (04) 985 5900 THE PUTRA REGENCY HOTEL (4*)

Kangar T (04) 976 7755 PUTRAJAYA

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON PUTRAJAYA LAKESIDE (5*)

2, Jalan P5/5 Precinct 5 T (03) 8890 0000

PUTRAJAYA PULSE GRANDE (4*)

(Formerly Shangri La Hotel)

Taman Putra Perdana Precinct 1 T (03) 8887 8888

THE EVERLY PUTRAJAYA (4*) 1, Jalan Amanda 2 Precinct 1 T (03) 8892 2929 THE SHAFTSBURY STELLAR (4*) Jalan Alamanda Precinct 1 T (03) 8861 9299 ZENITH HOTEL PUTRAJAYA (5*) 40, Jalan P8E 2/5

MERU SUITES AT MERU VALLEY RESORT (5*) Ipoh T (05) 525 3628/9 NOVOTEL TAIPING (4*) Taiping T (05) 820 8288 PANGKOR LAUT RESORT (5*) Pangkor Laut Island T (05) 699 1100 SUNWAY LOST WORLD HOTEL (4*) Ipoh T (05) 540 8888 SWISS-GARDEN GOLF RESORT & SPA DAMAI

The Haven, Ipoh’s all-suite resort hotel, has won 57 national, regional and global awards in its first 8 years of operation.

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Precinct 8 T (03) 8893 9993 SABAH 2 INN 1 BOUTIQUE HOTEL & SPA (3*) Sandakan T (089) 202 121 BORNEO RAINFOREST LODGE (3*) Danum Valley T (088) 267 637 HILTON KOTA KINABALU (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 356 000 HOTEL GRANDIS (4*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 522 888 HYATT REGENCY KINABALU (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 221 234 KOTA KINABALU MARRIOTT HOTEL (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 286 888 LE MERIDIEN KOTA KINABALU (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 322 222 NEXUS RESORT & SPA KARAMBUNAI (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 480 888 PROMENADE KOTA KINABALU (4*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 265 555 SABAH HOTEL SANDAKAN (4*) Sandakan T (089) 213 299

Gayana Marine Resort on Gaya Island, Sabah, strikes the perfect balance between comfort and environmental conservation.

SHANGRI-LA’S TANJUNG ARU RESORT & SPA KOTA KINABALU (5*) (See page 326)

SUTERA HARBOUR RESORT – PACIFIC SUTERA (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 318 888 SUTERA HARBOUR RESORT – THE MAGELLAN (5*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 318 888 SABAH ISLANDS RESORTS GAYA ISLAND BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT & SPA (5*) T (088) 380 390 GAYA MARINE RESORT (5*) T (088) 210 342

MABUL ISLAND MABUL WATER BUNGALOW (3*) T (088) 230 006 SIPADAN POM POM RESORT (4*) T (088) 484 083 SIPADAN WATER VILLAGE RESORT (3*) T (088) 257 669 MANTANANI ISLAND SUTERA @ MANTANANI ISLANDS RESORT & SPA (3*) T (088) 318 888 PULAU TIGA BORNEO EAGLE RESORT (5*) T (088) 380 390 SARAWAK

SABAH ORIENTAL HOTEL (4*) Kota Kinabalu T (088) 258 998

GAYANA ECO RESORT (5*) T (088) 380 390

SHANGRI-LA’S RASA RIA RESORT KOTA KINABALU (5*) Tuaran T (088) 792 888

KAPALAI ISLAND

CENTURY KUCHING HOTEL (4*) Kuching T (082) 455 143

SIPADAN KAPALAI DIVE RESORT (4*) T (089) 765 200

COVE 55 (5*) Santubong T (082) 846 068

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DAMAI BEACH RESORT (4*) Santubong T (082) 846 999 DAMAI LAGOON RESORT (4*)

(Formerly Damai Puri Resort & Spa)

Santubong T (082) 846 900 GOLDEN BAY HOTEL (4*) Bintulu T (086) 311 311

GRAND MARGHERITA HOTEL (4*) Kuching T (082) 532 111 GRAND PALACE HOTEL (4*) Miri T (085) 428 888 HILTON KUCHING (5*) Kuching T (082) 223 888 IMPERIAL HOTEL KUCHING (4*) Kuching T (082) 588 999 IMPERIAL HOTEL MIRI (4*) Miri T (085) 431 133 IMPERIAL PALACE HOTEL (4*) Miri T (085) 437 799

Miri T (085) 421 121 MULU MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA (5*)

(See page 328)

PARKCITY EVERLY HOTEL (4*) Bintulu T (086) 318 888 PERMAI RAINFOREST RESORT (4*) Santubong T (082) 846 490 PULLMAN KUCHING (5*) Kuching T (082) 222 888 PULLMAN MIRI WATERFRONT (5*) Miri T (085) 323 888 RH HOTEL (4*) Sibu T (084) 365 888 RIVERSIDE MAJESTIC HOTEL (5*) Kuching T (082) 247 777 SAMALAJU RESORT HOTEL (4*) Bintulu T (086) 291 999 STAY INN GATEWAY KUCHING (4*)

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(Formerly Ariva Gateway Kuching)

Kuching T (082) 250 958

THE CULVERT HOTEL RESORT (3*) Santubong T (082) 646 410 THE RANEE BOUTIQUE SUITES (4*) Kuching T (082) 258 833 THE WATERFRONT HOTEL (5*)

(Boutique Hotel)

Kuching T (082) 227 227 SELANGOR

ACAPPELLA SUITE HOTEL (4*) Shah Alam T (03) 5039 8888 ARMADA HOTEL (4*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7954 6888 AVANI SEPANG GOLDCOAST RESORT (5*) (Formerly Golden Palm Tree Iconic Resort & Spa)

Sepang T (03) 3182 3600

CONCORDE HOTEL SHAH ALAM (4*) Shah Alam T (03) 5512 2200

KINGWOOD HOTEL SIBU (4*) Sibu T (084) 335 888 MEGA HOTEL MIRI (4*) Miri T (085) 432 432 MERDEKA PALACE HOTEL & SUITES (4*) Kuching T (082) 258 000 MERITZ HOTEL (4*) Miri T (085) 417 888 MIRI MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA (5*)

Cove 55 on Sarawak’s Santubong Peninsula, winner of numerous international luxury awards, offers spectacular coastal views of the world-famous Bako National Park.

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CRYSTAL CROWN HOTEL HARBOUR VIEW (3*) Pelabuhan Kelang T (03) 3165 4422

GENO HOTEL (4*) Subang Jaya T (03) 5033 6666

CRYSTAL CROWN HOTEL PETALING JAYA (4*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7958 4422

GOLD COAST MORIB WATER THEME PARK RESORT (4*) Banting T (03) 3198 1028

CYBERVIEW RESORT & SPA (5*) Cyberjaya T (03) 8312 7000

HILTON GARDEN INN (4*) Puchong T (03) 8084 1299

DORSETT GRAND SUBANG HOTEL (5*) Subang Jaya T (03) 5031 6060

HILTON PETALING JAYA HOTEL (5*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7955 9122

e.CITY HOTEL @ ONE CITY (4*) Subang Jaya T (03) 5445 1111

HOLIDAY INN KUALA LUMPUR GLENMARIE (4*) Shah Alam T (03) 7802 5200

EASTIN HOTEL (4*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7665 1111

LE MERIDIEN PUTRAJAYA (5*) Sepang Utara T (03) 8689 6888

EMPIRE HOTEL SUBANG (4*) Subang Jaya T (03) 5565 1388 FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON PUCHONG (4*) Puchong T (03) 5891 8888

MARDHIYAH HOTEL & SUITES (4*)

(Formerly Grand Blue Wave Hotel)

Shah Alam T (03) 5511 8811

MOVENPICK HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTRE KLIA (5*) Sepang T (03) 8661 8661 NEW WORLD PETALING JAYA HOTEL (5*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7682 0000 NEXUS REGENCY SUITES & HOTEL (4*) Shah Alam T (03) 5103 2388

40minutes from Kuala Lumpur, directly on the fringe of Putrajaya, the 5-Star Cyberview Resort & Spa sprawls over 12 hectares of awardwinning landscaped gardens that make it a perfect city getaway.

ONE WORLD HOTEL (5*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7681 1111 ORIENTAL CRYSTAL HOTEL (4*) Kajang T (03) 8739 1888

PALACE OF THE GOLDEN HORSES (5*)

(See page 126)

PALM GARDEN HOTEL (4*) Sepang Utara T (03) 8943 2233 PHILEA MINES BEACH RESORT (4*) Seri Kembangan T (03) 8943 6688 PREMIERE HOTEL (4*) Klang T (03) 6625 6868 PUTRAJAYA MARRIOTT HOTEL (5*) Sepang Utara T (03) 8949 8888 QLIQ DAMANSARA (4*) Damansara Perdana T (03) 7623 8788 RIVERINE HOTEL & SUITES (4*) Pulau Carey T (03) 3123 3800 SAMA SAMA EXPRESS AIRSIDE TRANSIT HOTEL (3*) KLIA Sepang T (03) 8787 4848 SAMA-SAMA HOTEL KLIA (5*) KLIA Sepang T (03) 8787 3333 SHERATON PETALING JAYA (5*) Petaling Jaya T (03) 7622 8888 SOMERSET DAMANSARA UPTOWN (4*) Damansara Utama, PJ T (03) 7730 0888 SUMMIT HOTEL SUBANG USJ (4*) Subang Jaya T (03) 8023 3000 SUNWAY PYRAMID HOTEL (4*) Bandar Sunway T (03) 7492 8000 SUNWAY RESORT HOTEL & SPA (5*)

(See page 128)

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LANG TENGAH ISLAND D’COCONUT LAGOON (3*) T (03) 4252 6686 SARI PACIFICA BEACH RESORT & SPA LANG TENGAH (4*)

(Luxury Boutique Resort)

Hp (012) 273 7822

SUMMER BAY RESORT (4*) T (09) 633 9911 PERHENTIAN ISLAND – BESAR PERHENTIAN ISLAND RESORT (3*) T (09) 691 1111 Terrapuri Heritage Village, Penarik, is a remarkable conservation and repurposing project comprising 29 century-old Terengganu Malay houses.

THE ROYALE BINTANG THE CURVE (4*) Mutiara Damansara T (03) 7843 1111 THE ROYALE CHULAN DAMANSARA (5*) Mutiara Damansara T (03) 7959 9000 THE SAUJANA HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR (5*) Shah Alam T (03) 7843 1234 TUNE HOTEL KLIA2 (3*) KLIA Sepang T (03) 8787 1720 TERENGGANU BUKIT KELUANG BEACH RESORT (4*) Besut T (09) 695 4100 HOTEL GRAND CONTINENTAL KUALA TERENGGANU (4*) Kuala Terengganu T (09) 625 1888 PRIMULA BEACH HOTEL (4*) Kuala Terengganu T (09) 622 2100 RAIA HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTRE TERENGGANU (4*)

(Formerly TH Hotel &

Convention Centre)

THE BARAT PERHENTIAN (3*) T (09) 691 1288

Kuala Terengganu T (09) 668 6666

PERHENTIAN ISLAND – KECHIL

RESORTS WORLD KIJAL (5*) Kijal T (09) 864 1188

ALUNAN RESORT (3*) Hp (016) 448 8297

SUTERA BEACH RESORT (3*) Merang Setiu T (09) 653 1111 TANJONG JARA RESORT (5*)

BUBU RESORT (3*) Hp (016) 260 3547 MIMPI PERHENTIAN RESORT (4*) T (09) 697 7777

(See page 318)

REDANG ISLAND

TERRAPURI HERITAGE VILLAGE, PENARIK (3*) Setiu T (09) 624 5020

AYU MAYANG RESORT (3*) T (09) 630 2888

THE QAMAR PAKA (4*) Paka T (09) 827 3366 TERENGGANU ISLANDS RESORTS DUYONG ISLAND DUYONG MARINA & RESORT (4*) T (09) 627 7888 GEMIA ISLAND GEM ISLAND RESORT (3*)

(Boutique Resort)

Hp (019) 790 5110

LAGUNA REDANG ISLAND RESORT (4*) T (09) 630 7888 REDANG BEACH RESORT (3*) T (09) 623 8188 REDANG LAGOON (4*) T (09) 666 6020 SARI PACIFICA BEACH RESORT & SPA REDANG ISLAND (4*)

(Luxury Boutique Resort)

T (09) 630 7999

THE TAARAS BEACH & SPA RESORT (5*)

(Formerly Redang Island Resort)

T (09) 630 8888

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Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions Destination Malaysia Malaysia has evolved into one of Asia’s leading conference and convention destinations, ranked 33rd in the world, according to the ICCA’s 2019 statistics, and 9th overall in Asia Pacific. Kuala Lumpur is the best performing city, ranked 22nd in the world and 7th in Asia Pacific, ahead of Chicago, New York, Melbourne, Milan, and Vancouver. Malaysia’s secondbest performing city, Kuching in Sarawak, is ranked 221st in the world and 57th in Asia Pacific, a remarkable performance considering Sarawak has only had a convention centre since 2009. Third placed Penang is ranked 289th in the world, 69th in Asia Pacific, ahead of Adelaide, Ho Chi Minh City and Shenzen. Malaysia’s success is due to both location and attraction factors. Served by over 60 airlines connecting to more than 100 major cities worldwide, it has world-class

Malaysia’s Business Events sector enjoys the full support of the government. Here former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad officiates the opening of the Beyond Paradigm Summit 2019, held at MITEC.

infrastructure, hotels and conference venues. It is also a wonderfully diverse tourism destination, with a vibrant multi-ethnic culture, traditional hospitality to match, pristine natural attractions and superb man-made amenities, as can be seen throughout this book. These factors combine to create a meeting and conference location par

excellence, complemented by a dynamic corporate culture and a global political outlook. There are few places better than Malaysia to discover new dialogue partners, reveal valuable new perspectives and unleash new ways of thinking. Rewarding Malaysia Conferences attract more delegates if guests have

MyCEB offers a range of corporate incentive activities for all ages and interests. Here participants learn all about batik painting, bringing home their own creation as a wonderful souvenir.

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exciting pre- or postconference tours and activities to enjoy. Delegates’ families are happier to spend their vacation in a conference destination if they can enjoy fascinating leisure and shopping diversions while the spouse or parent delivers the keynote address. Incentive guests can experience anything from Borneo longhouse theme parties to a day at Legoland, and Malaysia also offers fabulous team building and educational experiences. There are few better ways to bond a team together than exploring Mulu’s cave system or climbing Mount Kinabalu, few faster routes to corporate environmental awareness than helping with elephant, orangutan or tiger conservation, and few better methods of creating cross-cultural understanding than eating and socializing together in the melting pot that is Malaysia. Best of all, Malaysia offers excellent value for money. According to the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitive Index 2019, it is ranked 5th globally for price competitiveness. The Venues Event organisers have an enviable choice of modern conference and convention centres around the country, complemented by many less conventional venues: beach

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Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) is the country’s largest venue. Its 45,000-plus sqm of exhibition space puts Malaysia firmly on the global mega-exhibition circuit.

resorts caressed by the South China Sea; rainforest retreats to get hands-on with nature; luxurious eco-resorts which act as gateways to UNESCO World Heritage Areas; and more. The nation’s largest venue is the game-changing Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), opened in 2017 and offering over 51,000 sqm of space with infinite possibilities. It is the third largest Business Events venue in Southeast

Asia, giving Malaysia the capability to compete and succeed in growing sectors, particularly the ‘mega-exhibition’ market for regional and international events attracting 100,000 visitors or more. It also caters for smaller conferences and conventions ranging from 200 to 20,000 delegates. The multiple awardwinning Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre is the 2nd largest in Malaysia with over 33,000 sqm of

The KLCC Convention Centre is a popular venue due to its ideal city centre location and its ability to host many types of exhibitions of various sizes.

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Penang’s Setia SPICE may be Malaysia’s first subterranean convention centre, but there’s plenty to see above ground, including the Aquatic Centre (left) and the 10,000 seat Setia SPICE Arena (foreground).

flexible space. Part of the Kuala Lumpur City Centre precinct, it is strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, with easy access to accommodation, local attractions, public amenities and transportation. The city and the surrounding Klang Valley are home to many more international-class event venues. The Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) in Kuching, Sarawak, is East Malaysia’s leading venue. Designed to reflect the rich natural elements of Sarawak, it is the first dedicated convention and exhibition centre in Borneo and has achieved considerable success in bringing local and international events, exhibitions, concerts and conventions to the state. Neighbouring Sabah expects to launch its own conference and exhibition

centre during 2020. Malaysia is also home to some remarkably innovative venues, such as the Subterranean Penang International Convention and Exhibition Centre (SPICE), opened in 2017. The first subterranean convention centre in Malaysia, the 4,500 sqm SPICE Centre also features a green park on its rooftop, aquatic centre, and the Penang International Sports Arena (PISA). Business Event Promotion & Facilitation Agencies Please note that alongside national convention and exhibition bureau MyCEB, only Sarawak and Penang operate their own convention bureaus. For other states, the respective state tourism boards or councils are happy to assist business event planners. The Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau

(MyCEB) was established in 2009 by the Federal Government to drive the growth of business events and act as a central hub for meeting and event planners wishing to bid and stage regional and international business events in Malaysia. MyCEB has launched several innovative programmes to position Malaysia as Asia’s business events hub. These include a promotional campaign on the theme “Malaysia Like Never Before”; the formation of an Industry Partners Programme (IPP); and the Kesatria Programme, which appoints corporate mentors to help raise the industry to even higher standards. MyCEB also offers a comprehensive range of support services to associations, corporations and event organisers: • Facilitating bids for regional and international

Their Royal Highnesses Sultan Sharafuddin and Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin of Selangor, accompanied by Selangor Chief Minister Dato’ Seri Amirudin bin Shari (centre) and YB Dato’ Teng Chang Khim at the 3rd Selangor International Business Summit.

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conventions, corporate meetings and incentives. • Advising and assisting meeting and event planners on availability of local products and services. • Assisting business event owners with selection of professional meeting and event Malaysia has hosted many world-ranked conferences. Here Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong (Queen of Malaysia) officiates the opening of the Soroptimist management International Convention 2019 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. companies. Kuching has risen from with remarkable success, • Providing nowhere to become the doubling the number of government liaison and country’s second most events in the state in its contacts. popular business event first year of operation, • Assisting with site location. from 1,251 in 2016 to 2,511 in inspections. Penang Convention & 2017. PCEB’s efforts were • Event promotion advice Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) recognised with the Gold and assistance. was set up by the Penang Award for ‘Best Convention • Providing promotional State Government in 2016. & Exhibition Bureau’ materials. PCEB has been actively category at the Malaysia • On-site event support promoting and developing Tourism Council Gold programme including business events in Penang Awards 2019. cultural shows, city tours and welcome kits for qualified groups. Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB), set up by the Sarawak State Government in 2006, was the first convention marketing agency in Malaysia. SCB’s successful strategy – combining professional conference bidding and support services with innovative promotions that focus on the destination’s particular strengths – has attracted business events by the thousands. Although only Malaysia’s 8th largest municipality, state capital

The Sarawak Convention Bureau’s success is built on promoting and bidding for original and innovative events, such as the Seeing Eye To Eye Conference 2019.

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CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRES LISTING

CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRES This section lists only dedicated convention and exhibition centres. Please note that many major hotels and resorts have their own extensive facilities. JOHOR PERSADA JOHOR INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE Jalan Abdullah Ibrahim Bandar Johor Bahru T (07) 219 8888 W persadajohor.com KEDAH LANGKAWI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE Jalan Pantai Dato Syed Omar, Langkawi T (04) 966 3575 W langkawiconvention.com KUALA LUMPUR CALVARY CONVENTION CENTRE Jalan Jalil Perkasa 1

Taman Teknologi Malaysia T (03) 8999 5532 W calvaryconventioncentre. com

South Tower, Mid Valley City Lingkaran Syed Putra T (03) 2289 8688 W mvec.com.my

CONNEXION CONFERENCE & EVENT CENTRE 7, Jalan Kerinchi The Vertical, Bangsar South T (03) 2386 9188 W connexioncec.com

WORLD TRADE CENTRE KUALA LUMPUR 41, Jalan Tun Ismail Chow Kit T (03) 2614 6999 W pwtc.com.my

KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE Jalan Pinang Kuala Lumpur City Centre T (03) 2333 2888 W klccconventioncentre.com MALAYSIA INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND EXHIBITION CENTRE (MITEC) Kompleks MITEC 8, Jalan Dutamas 2 T (03) 6206 0100 W mitec.com.my MATRADE EXHIBITION & CONVENTION CENTRE Menara MATRADE, Jalan Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah T (03) 6207 7077 W matrade.gov.my MID VALLEY EXHIBITION CENTRE Level 31, The Gardens

MELAKA MELAKA INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTRE Jalan Konvensyen MITC Complex Ayer Keroh T (06) 233 3330 W mitc.org.my PAHANG ATARIA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE Bukit Gambang Resort City Gambang Kuantan Hp (011) 1784 9178 W bgrc.com.my PENANG PENANG WATERFRONT CONVENTION CENTRE Operation Office:

Well connected by land, air and sea; the Sabah International Convention Centre in Kota Kinabalu (left).

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The first GBI certified Convention Centre in Malaysia, Setia City Convention Centre makes Setia Alam in Klang Valley, Selangor an attractive business event destination.

Udini Square Lebuh Tunku Kudin 3 Gelugor T (04) 370 9999 Please note: the convention centre is under construction until 2024. SETIA SPICE CONVENTION CENTRE 108, Jalan Tun Dr Awang Bayan Lepas T (04) 643 2525 W setiaspice.com PERAK IPOH CONVENTION CENTRE (ICC) Jalan Sultan Abdul Jalil Greentown, Ipoh T (05) 220 0000 W iccipoh.com PUTRAJAYA PUTRAJAYA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE Jalan P5, Presint 5 T (03) 8887 6000 W picc.com.my SABAH SABAH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE Tanjung Lipat Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens Kota Kinabalu T (088) 206 000 W siccsabah.com

SARAWAK BORNEO CONVENTION CENTRE KUCHING The Isthmus Jalan Keruing, Sejingkat Kuching T (082) 392 888 W bcck.com.my SELANGOR DEWAN CANSELOR TUN ABDUL RAZAK (DECTAR) Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Bandar Baru Bangi T (03) 8921 5555 W ukm.my IDEAL CONVENTION CENTRE, SHAH ALAM Corporate Tower, Level 5 Jalan Pahat L 15/L Section 15, Shah Alam T (03) 5031 3333 W facebook.com/idcc.my MALAYSIA AGRO EXPOSITION PARK SERDANG Persiaran Mardi-UPM Serdang T (03) 8948 4699 W maeps.com.my MINES EXHIBITION CENTER Level 2, MIECC, Jalan Dulang Mines Wellness City Seri Kembangan T (03) 8949 5400 W miecc.mines.com.my

SETIA CITY CONVENTION CENTRE Jalan Setia Dagang AG U13/ AG Setia Alam, Seksyen U13 Shah Alam T (03) 3359 5252 W spsetia.com SHAH ALAM CONVENTION CENTRE (SACC) Jalan Perbadanan 14/9 Shah Alam T (03) 5511 8858 W sacc.com.my CONVENTION BUREAUS MALAYSIA CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU (MyCEB) Level 9, Menara Z10 Jalan Alamanda 2, Putrajaya T (03) 8893 4500 W myceb.com.my PENANG CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU (PCEB) 14A & 16A (1st Floor) The Whiteaways Arcade Lebuh Pantai, George Town T (04) 261 6161 W pceb.my SARAWAK CONVENTION BUREAU (STB) Level 3, Plaza Aurora Jalan McDougall, Kuching T (082) 242 516 W businesseventssarawak. com

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MALAYSIA MEANS BUSINESS – FOREWORD

The abundance of opportunities prevalent in Malaysia’s economy continue to provide a strong foundation for foreign investments to grow and flourish. The Malaysian economy remains well positioned for recovery and to realise growth and new opportunities. The oil and gas sector in particular is starting to see improvements, with both profit and cash flow from operations demonstrating an encouraging trajectory. Nevertheless, most energy companies continue to take cautious steps in charting their growth, while remaining optimistic about the future and the prospects for a more sustainable recovery. Malaysia continues to be a competitive and attractive investment destination, and the established presence of many of the world’s leading oil and gas multinationals serves as a testimony to the enduring potential of Malaysia’s oil and gas resources. Returns from Malaysian investments have supported the growth of various global players, even as the landscape evolves to provide development opportunities for smaller companies. Malaysia’s location among the world’s most important sea routes provides excellent logistical advantages. The nation’s abundant natural and physical resources as well as regional growth corridors beckon investors in almost all business sectors. As the global energy transition continues to gather pace, driven by technological advancements and supported by societal and regulatory push towards attaining carbon neutrality, PETRONAS has stepped up to fulfil its responsibility to be part of Malaysia’s sustainable future. In this regard, the national oil company is working proactively to shape the country’s ambition to deliver low-carbon energy solutions that will provide the twin benefits of accelerating a just energy transition and stimulating economies. As a progressive energy and solutions partner enriching lives for a sustainable future, PETRONAS heartily welcomes partnerships within and outside Malaysia to achieve this goal that benefits both the people and the planet we live on.

Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik

President and Group CEO, PETRONAS

MALAYSIA MEANS BUSINESS Why Malaysia? Malaysia - the Global Halal Hub Malaysia’s Economic Regions – Opportunities in Every Area Malaysia is a Safe Country The Energy Sector A Resilient & Inclusive Financial System Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Architecture – New Horizons for Tropical Living

Property – An Investor Friendly Market Retire in a Tropical Paradise….For Less Education – Developing a Nation’s Greatest Asset Healthcare – Investing in Total Wellness Protecting the Environment The Media Scene Who’s Who – Crucial Contacts

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MALAYSIA MEANS BUSINESS

Why Malaysia? Historical Background Malaysia has attracted much attention in recent years as a business destination and investment location par excellence, but the roots of its success reach back more than 1,000 years. Archaeological research has shown that Santubong in Sarawak was a significant trading port as early as the 9th Century CE, and according to the Brunei Annals, there was a major Chinese trading settlement in the Kinabatangan region of Sabah from the 11th Century onwards, dealing mostly with the export of timber. However, Malaysia made its mark as a regional trading superpower with the founding of Melaka in 1402. In less than a hundred

years, Melaka rose to become a major trading port, largely due to its opendoor policy, its low taxes, its efficient administration and, most importantly of all, its strategic location at the junction of major maritime trading routes. However, Melaka fell to the Portuguese in 1511 and was subsequently held by the Dutch and the British, whose policies to control trade diminished Melaka's pre-eminence and, not surprisingly, the port fell into a long decline. Nevertheless, the early success of Melaka lingered in the folk-memory and gave the people of the Malay Peninsula a healthy appetite for trade, as attested by the later success of Singapore and Penang. This appetite for doing

business was reinforced by the massive migration of Chinese and Indians to Malaya during the Colonial Era, and, driven by the fortunes to be made in mining and commodities, Malaya became the world's leading producer of natural rubber and tin. With independence, the government wisely embarked on a policy of economic diversification, to avoid over-dependence on commodities and to provide new employment opportunities for the booming population. From the 1970s onwards, this focused on electrical goods, light engineering, and downstream activities such as furniture and latex products, later moving towards electronics and high technology

During the Colonial Era, Malaya dominated the world tin trade. Shown here is a typical late 19th Century tin mine in the Kinta Valley near Ipoh, Perak.

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Adding value – Malaysia is no longer just a simple rubber producer. It is nowadays the world’s largest manufacturer of both latex surgical gloves and barrier contraceptives. However, the latex used still has to be tapped manually using timehonoured methods.

manufacturing such as medical devices and aerospace. Increasing emphasis on the services sector

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Malaysia’s Top Glove Corporation Berhad is the world’s largest producer of surgical rubber gloves. The key to their success is constant innovation. This photo shows Top Glove’s R&D Centre and perfectly captures their tagline, “No Research, No Future”.

has, in recent years, created new opportunities in global business services, healthcare and communications, which coincided with Malaysia's emergence as a significant

oil and gas producer and the world's largest exporter of palm oil. These opportunities resulted in a diversified economy with a business-friendly government, abundant raw

PETRONAS President and Group CEO Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik (left) briefing Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Ismail Yaakob (centre) on PETRONAS’ operations and efforts in energy transition during the PM’s maiden visit to PETRONAS’ KL headquarters. Looking on are Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz (3rd right), PETRONAS Chairman Tan Sri Mohd Bakke Salleh (4th right) and PETRONAS Head of Group Strategic Communications, Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz (2nd right).

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MALAYSIA MEANS BUSINESS

At the heart of global affairs. Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob (centre) and Foreign Minister Dato’ Sri Saifuddin Abdullah (left) attending the 13th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM13), held via video conferencing in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. ASEM is an informal dialogue and cooperation platform between Asia and Europe. With its 53 members (30 European and 21 Asian countries plus the EU and the ASEAN Secretariat), it is the biggest international gathering of leaders after the UN General Assembly.

materials, a capable and determined workforce and a well-developed financial sector. Malaysia Today - The Facts at a Glance • Malaysia's economy has grown rapidly and continuously since independence, and its GDP per capita (PPP) reached an all-time high of US$28,634 in 2019 (average GDP per capita from 1990 to 2016 was USD18,757), making it an upper-middle-income country. • Malaysia is ranked 12th out of 120 countries by the World Bank Doing Business Report for 2022, and 2nd in Southeast Asia,

•

for ease of doing business. The Swiss Institute of Management Development (IMD) ranks Malaysia 25th worldwide for business competitiveness in 2021. Malaysia is rated 27th by the World Economic Forum in its Global Competitiveness Report 2019. According to UNCTAD, Malaysia is one of the world's top 25 trading nations (2020). Malaysia ranks 23rd out of 163 countries surveyed by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) for the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2021 report. Malaysia ranks 7th out of

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15 countries in the East Asia and Pacific Region and 54th out of 139 globally for Rule of Law, according to the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2021. These rankings have not been achieved at the expense of the natural environment. The Yale University Environmental Performance Index 2021 ranked Malaysia 75th out of 180 countries.

Malaysia's Success Political Stability & Leadership Malaysia has had, since achieving independence, a multi-party parliamentary system and a freely-

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The Selangor State Government, through Invest Selangor Berhad, hosted the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS 2021) from 18-21 November 2021 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. The Opening Ceremony was officiated by His Highness Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, Crown Prince of Selangor (centre), who represented HRH The Sultan of Selangor.

elected government. This has enabled successive governments to concentrate on development, and

long-range strategic planning, with ten successive 5-year Malaysia Plans implemented.

This predictability and consistency has provided a stable business environment and enabled investors to

Dr Li Churong, CEO of PROTON Holdings Berhad, launching the locally-produced version of the Proton X70 on 12 February, 2020. Based on the Geely Buoye, the X70 is the first premium SUV to be manufactured in Malaysia. Over 200 Proton engineers and technicians were involved in adapting Geely’s original design for Malaysia’s tropical conditions and drive-on-the-left traffic.

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Leading the way in dispute resolution. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law) Dato Sri Dr Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar (left) and Director of the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) Tan Sri Suriyadi bin Halim Omar launch the AIAC i-Arbitration Rules 2021 at Bangunan Sulaiman, AIAC’s Kuala Lumpur HQ.

develop their long-term plans and strategies. On the socio-economic front, there have been ongoing efforts to eradicate poverty. Successive Prime Ministers have supported policies to raise overall living standards and address

socio-economic imbalances. Vision 2020, introduced by Malaysia’s 4th Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, developed an economic road map for the country to become a developed nation by 2020. In 2018, opposition

The symbolic Bull and Bear do battle in front of the Bursa Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange) building.

coalition Pakatan Harapan unexpectedly unseated the Barisan Nasional and took power on a reformist agenda. The PH government collapsed in February 2020 to be replaced by the new Perikatan coalition which has in turn been replaced by an informal coalition of parties led by UMNO. This change of government at short intervals is untypical of Malaysian politics and is expected to normalise after the next general election. Nevertheless, despite political upheavals, each of the respective governments has focused on transparency, good governance, national unity and fiscal prudence as Malaysia continues to move towards developed nation status. Rule of Law & Legal Framework The Malaysian legal system is based on the British system, a legacy of the country's colonial history. The legal system provides a system of checks and balances which allows businesses to operate freely within specific parameters, and also to obtain prompt and fair legal redress should litigation prove necessary. However, recourse to the courts is not always needed. Alternate forms of dispute resolution are available. Individuals, governments and corporations may provide

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in their undertakings for mediation or arbitration utilising the rules of international arbitration agencies including those of the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) which uses the United Nations commission on trade law (uncitral) rules for arbitration minimally adjusted. The procedures to set up a company in Malaysia under the Companies Act 2016 are fairly simple; in fact, the World Bank ranks Malaysia as No.4 in East Asia & Pacific for ease of starting a business. However, statutory bodies such as the Companies Commission of Malaysia,

the Securities Commission and Bursa Malaysia have substantive powers conferred on them by Acts of Parliament to oversee, regulate and control the operations of companies. Malaysian companies are held to international standards of compliance and regulation through the Malaysian Code on Corporate Governance 2017. Remarkably, Malaysia ranks 2nd globally for protection of minority investors, according to the World Bank’s Doing Business Indicators for 2020. Malaysia is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and a signatory

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to the Paris and Berne Conventions and to the Agreement on TradeRelated Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), ensuring that intellectual property protection in the country is in line with established practices around the world. As a result, Malaysia is no longer seen as a haven for pirated goods, and several high-profile prosecutions have taken place for breach of intellectual property laws. It should also be noted that intellectual property offences are treated as criminal rather than civil matters, with the possibility of custodial sentences incurred.

Kuala Lumpur is a major regional finance centre, a fact that is reflected in its architecture. The City Centre skyline is dominated by the headquarters buildings of local and international banks and financial institutions.

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Economic & Financial Stability The Malaysian economy is now well diversified on a steady growth trajectory. The economy is operating close to full employment levels with generally low and stable inflation for decades. The managed float exchange rate regime with orderly market movements has also served the economy well. The international reserves of Bank Negara Malaysia amounted to USD115.2 billion as of 15 March 2022. The reserves position is sufficient to finance 6 months of retained imports and is 1.2 times the shortterm external debt. Meanwhile, the financial sector has advanced, becoming more resilient and moving from a growth enabler to growth driver in

the economy. Progressive banking, financial and insurance services have, together, become vital ingredients that have successfully contributed to the nation's balanced economic growth, including insulating the economy from the worst of the global financial crisis. Access to Finance According to the World Bank, Malaysia ranks 37th out of 190 economies for ease of getting credit. This is the result of multiple initiatives in building infrastructure for access to financing over the years, including the centralised credit reference information system (CCRIS). Borrowers can source their financing needs from 26 commercial banks, 16 Islamic banks and 6 development finance institutions as well

as the bond market, which is the largest in Southeast Asia. Malaysia is also the world leader in Islamic finance and has maintained its leadership in the global sukuk (Islamic bond) market, commanding 45.1% of global sukuk outstanding in December 2020. Islamic financial products are by no means restricted to Muslim individuals or businesses, and many secular organisations are discovering that Islamic financial products match their borrowing needs exceptionally well. Low Taxes & High Incentives The Malaysian government pursues a pragmatic taxation regime. For corporate tax, the current rates imposed on companies with paid-up capital of not

The ground-breaking ceremony for the Pelican Project, Intel’s new expansion facility in Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone, Penang. Intel celebrates its 50th anniversary in Malaysia in 2022 and plans to invest RM30 billion over the next 10 years. Showing off their spadework skills are MIDA CEO Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman (left), Penang Chief Minister Tuan Chow Kon Yeow (centre) and Intel Malaysia MD Chong Aik Kean (right).

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more than RM2.5 million are 17% for the first RM600,000 and 24% for the remainder of the balance, while the current rate for paid-up capital of more than RM2.5 million is 24%. In 2015 a Goods and Services Tax (GST) was introduced at a level of 6% to replace the previous 10% Sales Tax in a move towards a system of indirect taxation. In June 2018 all items under the GST were zero-rated to counter rising prices and provide relief for the lowerincome population. GST was replaced from September 2018 with a new Sales & Service Tax with most goods taxed at between 5% and 10% and services at 6%. Certain items essential for consumers or industries are rated lower or even at zero%. Tax incentives, both direct and indirect, are provided for in the Promotion of Investments Act 1986, Income Tax Act 1967, Customs Act 1967, Excise Act 1976 and Free Zones Act 1990. These Acts cover investments in the manufacturing, agriculture, tourism (including hotel) and approved services sectors as well as R&D, training and environmental protection activities. Direct tax incentives grant partial or total relief from income tax payment for a specified period, while indirect tax incentives are in the form of exemptions from import duty and excise

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The iconic MATRADE building, home of Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, Malaysia’s National Trade Promotion Agency. The MATRADE Exhibition and Convention Centre (MECC) is shown in the background.

duty. These incentives are available via the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Multimedia Development Corporation (MDEC), Ministry of Agriculture, Malaysian Islamic Financial Centre (MIFC), Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation and Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC). Further financial incentives are available from the respective state governments and the country's various development corridors and industrial parks (see page 368), many of which cater to specific types of industries. In addition, 13 Free Industrial Zones (FIZs) have been developed throughout the country to

provide for export-oriented industries. Companies in FIZs are allowed duty-free imports of raw materials, components, parts, machinery and equipment directly required in the manufacturing process. Commitment to Fair Trade As one of the world's Top-25 trading nations, Malaysia is committed to open and even-handed trade with its partners. It has progressively reduced import tariffs across the board, and has customs procedures which are in line with Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and ASEAN programmes. Paperless export transactions are available at major ports and airports, and an electronic data interchange provides

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The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, attending the 15th Langkawi International Aerospace and Maritime Exhibition 2019 (LIMA’19) at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Center (MIEC). His Majesty was accompanied by the then Commander of the Armed Forces, General Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin (left).

for the speedy clearance of cargo. Liberalisation in services is also being pursued with numerous sectors and sub-sectors having been opened up for foreign participation. Thus far, Malaysia has implemented seven bilateral FTAs and seven regional FTAs. A further two FTAs have been signed but await ratification, and one FTA is under negotiation. Language The official language in Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia, which is very similar to Bahasa Indonesia, facilitating business communications with

an important trading partner. English, however, is very widely spoken and remains a compulsory school subject and is the principal language of international trade and finance. A large percentage of the population is also proficient in Mandarin, as well as a variety of other Chinese dialects and Indian languages, enabling excellent communications with the world's two most populous business markets. Internal & External Security Malaysia has an effective security apparatus with professional armed forces who have distinguished themselves in several UN

peacekeeping scenarios. The country has defence pacts and agreements in place with major global partners and is widely regarded as a bastion of peace and stability in Southeast Asia. Malaysia also possesses some of the best intelligence apparatus in the region and hosts the Regional Centre for AntiTerrorism. Internal security is provided by a professional police force and supported by a variety of specialist agencies targeting corruption, intellectual property crime, border security and traffic regulation. Nevertheless, the Government continues

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to emphasise efforts to further reduce crime by strengthening all security agencies. A Young & Productive Workforce Malaysia is a relatively young country, with 69.6% of the population between the ages of 15 to 64 years of age (2021). Young Malaysians who enter the labour market have undergone at least 11 years of education up to secondary school level. Unemployment is low at 4.3% of the total labour force of 16.3 million as of November 2021. However, to ensure that all sectors of the economy can access the necessary

human resources and skill sets, immigration laws allow recruitment of essential labour from overseas. Foreign workers and expatriates currently amount to 7.34 million. To cater to the knowledge economy and skill-intensive industries and service, the Government is working closely with the private sector to develop best practices in education from nursery right up to university. After completing secondary school, there are 20 public universities, 47 private universities, 34 private university colleges, 10 foreign university branch campuses, 22 polytechnics, 37 community colleges and about 500 private colleges

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to choose from. As a result, there are 5.36 million graduates in Malaysia and over 250,000 degree or diploma holders enter the workforce every year. Malaysia's labour laws uphold the interests and spell out the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees. Industrial relations are generally harmonious, and trade disputes and strikes are rare. A minimum wage law for private sector employees establishes basic compensation for workers, and due to Malaysia's relatively low cost of living and modest wage inflation, payroll costs can be attractive to prospective Investors.

A bulwark against global terrorism. Attendees at the “Cross Regional Workshop for South and Southeast Asia on Strengthening National and Regional Legal Frameworks and Networks for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Leading to Terrorism” 2018, in which 25 nations participated.

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Young Malaysians who enter the labour market have undergone at least 11 years of education up to secondary school level, and over 250,000 tertiary students graduate every year.

Location & Transportation Malaysia straddles one of the world's most important sea routes and is positioned at the heart of Southeast Asia. It borders Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, and is well located for ease of access to East and Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East and Oceania. This strategic location makes Malaysia a busy transport hub for the rest of Asia and contributes to the development of world-class logistics, warehousing and transportation services to support the export of highvalue-added products and fast moving consumer goods. Malaysia's largest airport, the award-winning Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLlA), is made up of 2 terminals, the Main Terminal KLIA and klia2 Terminal 2 (page 422), which together handled some 36.1 million passengers and more than

1,000 tonnes of cargo in 2021, despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, it ranked as the 23rd busiest airport (by passenger traffic) in the world. KLIA is supported by an extensive network of regional and domestic airports (see page 426), all with well-developed air cargo facilities. Nevertheless, with Malaysia's great maritime trading history it is no surprise that 98% of the country's trade is still carried by sea, via an extensive network of international ports and cargo terminals. Port Klang and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas are amongst Asia's top ten seaports, while Bintulu in Sarawak is the world's busiest liquid natural gas (LNG) terminal. (See pages 452-459). The country's ports and airports are connected to major cities and growth

centres via an extensive network of modern and well-maintained highways, to provide efficient transportation of goods. Ports on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia are also connected by rail via the KTM network, which also extends north into Thailand, providing both bulk freight and container rail services. Further development of Malaysia's rail network will include linkages from Port Klang on the West Coast eastwards and north to Kelantan on the East Coast. Communications Malaysia has a worldclass telecommunications network, which has seen dramatic expansion and upgrading during the past decade. Both wired and 3G cellular telephone and data services are universally available in all significantly populated areas and along major traffic arteries in remoter regions. 4G and LTE services are widespread, while the government began to roll out 5G coverage in December 2021. The country’s goal is to have 80% of the population able to access 5G mobile coverage by 2024. Penetration for fixed broadband Internet services is over 39.9% as of June 2021, while mobile broadband coverage is around 127.4%, with some 45 million estimated internet users. Developments in ICT

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[From left] Dato’ Seri Amirudin Bin Shari, Chief Minister of Selangor, YAM Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Syed Anwar Jamalullail, Chairman, Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad, HRH the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Alhaj, and Mr. Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer, Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad officiating the launch of Nestlé’s first Plant-Based Meal Solutions manufacturing facility in ASEAN, and only its second in Asia.

generally have also stimulated growth in associated products and services including, gaming, animation, film and other multi-media products. A Final Word Malaysia's warm hospitality is not only extended to guests but businesses as well. Multinationals such as Shell, Intel, ExxonMobil, Nestle, Siemens and hundreds of other foreign investors have enjoyed decades of successful and profitable activity here. Their success stories attest to Malaysia as a safe and vibrant haven for business investment in Southeast Asia.

HRH the Sultan of Selangor (2nd right) and HRH the Queen Consort of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin (centre) during the Plant-Based Meal Solutions manufacturing facility tour.

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Malaysia - the Global Halal Hub Halal is an Arabic term used to identify items and actions that are permissible according to Islam. It is generally applied to the food, beverage, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, personal care and clothing industries. Certified halal products are also increasingly popular among nonMuslims, as they are produced according to stringent standards of quality, safety and hygiene. Developing the Halal Industry Malaysia enjoys a strategic location on the world's major trade routes and is ideally positioned to transport halal products to a vast and prosperous global market of over 2 billion Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. The Halal Industry Development Corporation (HDC) has been set up by the Government to develop and position Malaysia as the Global

The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2019 made history with the visit of His Majesty the King, Al- Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. It was the first time the event was graced by the reigning monarch of Malaysia.

Halal Hub, targeting local and foreign investors who wish to capitalise on the growing affluence of Muslim consumers worldwide. The HDC has created a network of 21 Halal Parks throughout the country, 13 of which have obtained the HALMAS accreditation for full compliance with HDC requirements. Total investment exceeds RM8 billion and each Halal Park is populated by a

community of manufacturing and service businesses that share advanced technologies, renewable energy resources and sustainable agricultural and manufacturing practices and technologies. Powerful Investment Incentives The HDC and the various state governments offer special incentives to encourage investors, especially those that

Datuk Hakimah binti Mohd Yusoff, Deputy Director General of JAKIM (centre), receiving the BrandLaureate World Halal BestBrands e-Branding Award 2021 from Dr KK Johan (left), World President of The World Brands Foundation, and Awards Organising Chairman Ibtisam Basri (right).

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leverage green technologies and local workforce and capabilities. Maintaining Halal Integrity The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is the agency tasked with certifying and enforcing halal certification nationally and for export, and their "Halal Malaysia" logo is widely recognised as a guarantee not only of compliance with religious requirements but also with the highest standards of food manufacturing and processing hygiene. JAKIM maintains a National Halal Directory, a list of halal restaurants and food & beverage outlets and a list of Approved International Applicants to enable consumers to make informed choices. Any business or product that bears the "Halal Malaysia" logo carries with it the full authority of the Malaysian Government that it is indeed completely halal. Halal e-Commerce DagangHalal, launched in 2007, is the world's pioneering halal businessto-business (B2B) trade platform. In 2013 it launched its Halal Verified Engine (HVE), a halal certificate verification system, and in 2016 it added its proprietary Halal Application Approval System (HAAS). DagangHalal is now partner to 42 halal certification

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bodies out of approximately 120 globally. In January 2018, it launched Meembar, an end consumer-targeted app that locates halal restaurants and hotels as well as mosques in different countries. Aladdin1, launched in January 2021, is an e-commerce platform for authentic halal products in a wide selection of categories. It currently operates in Malaysia and Laos, with a further 16 countries targeted in the near future. Halal Market Prospects The halal industry is expected to contribute 8.1 per cent to the country’s GDP and generate RM56 billion export revenue in 2025 compared to RM30.6 billion in 2020, according to the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) document released by the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) in September 2021. This will be achieved through a framework developed by the HDC under the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030 for the development of the country’s Halal industry for the next 10 years. The capacity and capability of the halal industry will be enhanced by upgrading the development of halal talent, establishing halal professional recognition, accelerating industry development, increasing product competitiveness,

Browsing Aladdin1, an authentic, halal-focused lifestyle products and service platform launched in January 2021.

and positioning Malaysia as a global halal hub. The halal supply chain will be improved, and existing distribution centres such as the Digital Free Trade Zone (DFTZ), Port Klang Free Zone (PKFZ) and halal e-commerce platforms would be leveraged to promote seamless connectivity of the halal supply chain. Malaysia will be promoted as a prime destination for halal investment through various international platforms, such as ASEAN, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Chambers of Commerce and Malaysian Overseas Missions.

An aerial view of the Selangor Halal Hub at Pulau Indah, adjacent to Port Klang. The first of its kind in Malaysia and globally, it received the Best Halal Hub Award at the Asia Halal Brand Awards 2019.

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Opportunities in every Area The Malaysian Government has prioritized balanced regional development and seeks to accelerate economic growth and elevate income levels in designated geographic areas. It has therefore established five regional economic corridors. As well as helping to facilitate economic and social development right across the country, these corridors also offer powerful incentives and excellent business opportunities to both local and foreign

Kuala Terengganu City Centre (KTCC) Drawbridge is one of many tourism attractions created by the East Coast Economic Region Development Council which brings spill over effect to the people in the East Coast.

investors. The five corridors are: Iskandar Malaysia in Johor; the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) covering the states of Kedah, Pulau Pinang and Perlis as well as Perak’s four northern districts; the East Coast Economic Region (ECER) covering the states of Kelantan, Pahang and Terengganu as well as Johor’s northern Mersing district;

the Sarawak Corridor for Renewable Energy (SCORE); and the Sabah Development Corridor (SDC). Each corridor consists of high-density clusters with sectoral and geographical advantages which will enable businesses to benefit from common resources and shared infrastructure, facilitate labour market matching, and contribute to knowledge sharing and business synergy.

The Northern Corridor Economic Region’s Chuping Valley Industrial Area is a premium thematic industrial park with excellent infrastructure and a comprehensive business ecosystem.

The mighty Bakun Hydropower Plant, at 2,400 MW the largest in Southeast Asia, is the primary driving force for the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy.

Iskandar Malaysia has a total cumulative recorded investment of RM341.4 billion since 2006, with the growing services sector bolstering manufacturing-based economy.

The Sabah Agro-Industrial Precinct in Kimanis, Papar, is an agro-processing hub to create and develop agrobased products, neutraceuticals and biopharmaceuticals.

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PERLIS THAILAND NORTHERN CORRIDOR IMPLEMENTATION AUTHORITY (NCIA) 1114, Jalan Perindustrian Bukit Minyak 18 Penang Science Park 14100 Simpang Ampat Pulau Pinang, Malaysia T (04) 502 0708 W ncer.com.my

The Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) is aimed at accelerating economic growth and transitioning to higher value-added and knowledgebased economic activities in the states of Kedah, Penang, Perak and Perlis in Peninsular Malaysia. The Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) is the regional development authority, leveraging on each state’s strengths to develop a world-class economic region and technology hub. NCIA drives NCER’s growth through high valueadded development programmes in six (6) economic clusters: Manufacturing, Services, Agribusiness, Petrochemical, Green Economy and Sustainable Mining. NCER’s business ecosystem has evolved over 40

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years in technology and engineering based industries, with a large and educated workforce, a sophisticated logistics network, a thriving business culture, and many multi-national corporations with their global networks and markets. Located within the Indonesia Malaysia Thailand - Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) at the strategic crossroads of Asia, NCER’s investors enjoy easy access to the 3.3 billion population of the fastest emerging markets in the world: ASEAN, India and China. NCIA provides special tax incentives for companies undertaking approved activities in stipulated sectors and facilitates human capital development programmes to address skills gaps and ensure the availability of a high-skilled workforce. The region is also renowned

for its diverse and historically rich tourism attractions. These include Lenggong Valley in Perak, a UNESCO Archaeological Heritage Site; the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage City of George Town in Penang; Asia’s first Geopark, Langkawi in Kedah; and Malaysia’s only semi-deciduous rainforest at Perlis State Park. NCIA has swiftly mobilised its post-COVID plans, with a three-pronged strategic approach to address the socioeconomic impact on the people and the region. This focuses on accelerating private investment growth, whilst prioritising strategic infrastructure development. NCIA is fully committed to mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak to ensure that the region remains resilient in the face of current economic challenges.

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ISKANDAR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (IRDA) #G-01, Block 8 Danga Bay Jalan Skudai 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor T (07) 233 3000 W iskandarmalaysia.com.my

Iskandar Malaysia is a booming economic region located in Johor, at the southernmost tip of mainland Asia. It covers 4,749sq km, over 6 times the size of neighbouring Singapore, sits on the world’s busiest shipping routes and is within easy reach of major Asian cities via Senai International Airport. The Iskandar

Regional Development Authority (IRDA) focuses on promoting nine economic sectors (although investors from other sectors are also welcome). These comprise five Core Sectors - Electrical & Electronics, Petrochemical & Oleo-Chemical, Food & Agro-Processing, Logistics and Tourism - and four Emerging Sectors, namely Creative, Healthcare, Financial and Education. Iskandar Malaysia’s generous land area, strategic location and abundant ready infrastructure have generated high levels of investor confidence. The region has registered cumulative committed investments of RM322 billion since its inception in 2006 until H1 2020. The top five inward investor countries are China, Singapore, USA, Japan, and Spain. The population is also growing rapidly, reaching 2

million by December 2018, largely driven by the 700,000 new jobs created since 2006 Major investors include BMW, Volkswagen, Maersk, Hirata, Celestica, Palsgaard, Dyson, Seagate, Hershey’s, Lotte, Pokka, IKEA, Legoland, MCM Studio, Renaissance, Holiday Inn, Thistle, Regency Specialist, Gleneagles, Thomson Medical, Marlborough College, Raffles University, Newcastle University and Shattuck St Mary’s. Smart City Iskandar Malaysia is the pilot for the development of smart cities in Malaysia, providing ease of doing business and integrating the Economic, Environmental and Social aspects of modern living. It is also the cornerstone of the Low Carbon Society agenda, which aims to create a region-wide, high-quality, low carbon lifestyle, emphasizing family and community ties and harmony with nature.

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EAST COAST ECONOMIC REGION (ECER Malaysia) East Coast Economic Region Development Council Level 3, Menara PjH 2, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak Precinct 2, 62100 Putrajaya T (03) 8885 0038 W ecerdc.com.my

The East Coast Economic Region (ECER Malaysia) aims to narrow economic disparities between the west and east coast regions of the country, creating a preferred destination for investment, working and living. It covers the states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang, and the district of Mersing in Johor, encompassing over 66,000sq km (51% of Peninsular Malaysia). With a population of about 4.8 million, it is envisioned to become a developed region by 2025, driven by six key economic clusters. These are: Tourism; Oil, Gas & Petrochemical; Manufacturing; Agriculture; Human Capital Development and Logistics & Services. The East Coast

Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) was established in 2008 to accelerate the region’s economic development through high impact initiatives, leveraging its rich natural resources, abundant land and worldclass tourism attractions. It is strongly supported by Federal and State Governments with investment-friendly policies across all sectors. The ECER Special Economic Zone (ECER SEZ), reaching from Paka in Terengganu to Pekan in Pahang, is the principal catalyst for growth and is ideally positioned to serve as the main gateway for investors to tap into the huge ASEAN, Asia Pacific and Far East markets. Nine industrial parks provide investors with easy access to industrial land, feedstock and utilities,

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with strong connectivity to Malaysia’s export hubs. ECER Malaysia realised a total of RM64.7 billion in investments between 2007 and 2018 under the original ECER Master Plan. Following the launch of the ECER Master Plan 2.0 (2018-2025) in 2019, the Region has realised an additional RM17.1 billion in investments. Notable investors include Arkema SA, CJ Cheil Jedang Corporation (Kerteh Biopolymer Park, Terengganu), Mercedes-Benz (Pekan Automotive Park, Pahang), BASF-PETRONAS Chemicals (Gebeng Industrial Area, Pahang), McCormick Global (Setiu, Terengganu), Rohm-Wako Electronics (Kota Bharu, Kelantan), Alliance Steel (Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, Pahang) and Petronas Gas Berhad (Kerteh, Terengganu).

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SABAH DEVELOPMENT CORRIDOR Sabah Economic Development & Investment Authority (SEDIA) Level 26–28 Tun Mustapha Tower Yayasan Sabah Headquarters Complex, Likas Bay P.O. Box 17251, 88873 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 418 999 W sedia.com.my

The Sabah Development Corridor (SDC) aims to transform this East Malaysia state into a gateway for trade, investment, leisure and lifestyle. SDC initiatives are guided by the recently completed SDC Blueprint 2.0, ensuring measures are in place post-COVID-19 to shift the Corridor initiative in line with the Shared

Prosperity Vision 2030 and Sabah Maju Jaya plan. SDC is scheduled to run until 2030, with aspirations to have a competitive, innovative and high-value economy, inclusive and balanced development, as well as a healthy and resilient natural ecosystem. The target is to bring in a further RM95 billion in private investment by 2030, to increase Sabah’s GDP by an additional RM20 billion, and to create an additional 70,000 new jobs. The Sabah Economic Development & Investment Authority (SEDIA) is the onestop authority tasked to plan, coordinate and accelerate the development of SDC. It uses a holistic approach to ensure everyone in the state benefits, in accordance with Malaysia’s adoption of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It focuses on leveraging Sabah’s existing assets; its strategic

location in the South China Sea, vibrant tourism industry, rich biodiversity, abundant oil and gas reserves and a well-educated, largely Englishspeaking workforce. SDC has attracted tremendous interest from local and foreign investors. As of December 2020, it had received RM190.88 billion of cumulative committed investments, of which RM85.68 billion were already realised. Consequently, Sabah recorded annual GDP growth of 8.2 percent for 2017, the highest in Malaysia, surpassing the national average of 5.9 percent. Moving forward, the SDC Blueprint 2.0 prioritises five strategic thrusts (STs), which cover the economy (ST2), social development (ST4) and environmental sustainability (ST5), while two more focus on the business ecosystem (ST1) and human capital (ST3).

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SARAWAK CORRIDOR OF RENEWABLE ENERGY (SCORE) Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) Level 5 & 6, LCDA Tower Lot 2879, The Isthmus Off Jalan Bako 93050 Kuching, Sarawak T (082) 551 199 W recoda.com.my

SCORE is the largest and most ambitious of Malaysia’s regional development corridors, undertaken to develop the Central and Northern Regions of Sarawak. It covers more than 100,000sq km, with a population of 1.3

million, stretching along the coast from Tanjung Manis to Limbang and extending into the surrounding areas and the hinterland. It is set to transform Sarawak into a high income economy by 2030, accelerating economic growth and development and enhancing quality of life for the people of Sarawak. It is managed and promoted by the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA). SCORE leverages on Sarawak’s abundant natural resources, especially its competitively-priced hydropower (20,000MW potential). This allows Sarawak to attract investments in energy-intensive industries and downstream manufacturing. In the coastal region, Samalaju serves as the heavy industry centre with a dedicated bulk materials port. Mukah is being developed as an education

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hub, research & development centre and a smart city. Tanjung Manis Economic Growth Area (T-MEGA) is being transformed into an industrial port city and halal hub. In 2017, three development agencies, namely Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA), Highland Development Agency (HDA) and Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA), were established under RECODA to transform the interior and hinterland of Sarawak. While SCORE welcomes all types of local and foreign direct investments, 12 priority industries and their associated downstream activities will be promoted and developed extensively. They are: steel, aluminium, oil & gas, glass (polysilicon), palm oil, fishing & aquaculture, livestock, timberbased, marine engineering, tourism, biotechnology and digital economy.

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Malaysia is a Safe Country Public security has been a priority in Malaysia ever since the 15th Century, when the Temenggong of Melaka (Malacca) and his Hulubalang (royal warriors) were responsible for enforcing the Sultanate’s law. The first modern police force was formed in the British possessions of Penang in 1807, and state police forces were later established as British colonial influence expanded. Over in Borneo, Rajah James Brooke formed a Sarawak Police Force in 1858, while the North Borneo Armed Constabulary was formed in Sandakan (Sabah) in 1882. The first centralized police force, the Civil Affairs Police Force,

The spacious Travers Police Station in Jalan Travers, Brickfields, allows for safe and comfortable distancing while providing prompt and efficient personal service.

was formed in Malaya in 1946, following the end of the Japanese occupation, and was granted a Royal Charter upon independence in 1958. With the formation of Malaysia in 1963, the Royal Federation of Malayan Police, the North Borneo Armed Constabulary and the Sarawak Constabulary were merged to form the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) or Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM). The Inspector-General of

A team from the Royal Malaysia Police K9 Unit demonstrating advanced working skills at the Police Training Centre (PULAPOL), Kuala Lumpur.

Police (IGP) is head of the RMP, reporting to the Minister of Home Affairs. He is based at RMP headquarters in Bukit Aman, Kuala Lumpur, and is assisted by the Deputy Inspector-General and ten Commissioners of Police heading ten departments – namely Management, Logistics & Technology, Criminal Investigation, Narcotics Crime Investigation, Internal Security and Public Order, Special Branch, Commercial Crime Investigation, Traffic Enforcement and Investigation, Crime Prevention and Community Safety, and Integrity and Standards Compliance. State level police contingents are headed by a Chief Police Officer, except for Sabah and Sarawak, who each have a Commissioner of Police. Each state comprises several police districts, each headed by an Officer in Charge of

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Police District (OCPD) whose rank depends on the district’s size and strategic importance. There are 156 police districts in the country, with 839 police stations and 21 substations, even in remote areas. Tourist Police, who all speak fluent English, are stationed wherever there are many foreign visitors. The regular RMP is assisted by Police Volunteer Reserves (PVR), Auxiliary Police, Police Cadets and civilian service elements. The public are also invited to participate in crime prevention through Neigbourhood Watch patrols, the App-based Volunteer Smartphone Patrol and the Peace Lady initiative, whereby designated Female Police Personnel (the “peace ladies”) encourage housewives and other stay-at-home residents to get involved in crime prevention. The

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Prepared to provide a rapid response. The RMP has a wide range of vehicles, vessels and aircraft to respond to crime and emergencies wherever they may happen.

Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) also helps to mobilise the public and the business community and raise awareness through various events and initiatives. Crime reduction is the RMP’s main priority, and it has targeted issues such as reducing index crimes, street crimes, public fear of crime, and increasing public satisfaction levels. The RMP also enjoys full inter-agency cooperation

Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Hj Abdullah Sani (2nd left) launches the Prevention of Commercial Crime (Online Crime) Campaign at Berjaya Times Square, Kuala Lumpur, on November 8, 2021. The campaign’s purpose is to promote community awareness of online fraud.

with the Malaysian People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA), the Department of Civil Defence (JPAM), and the Armed Forces. Further security is provided by a professional Fire & Rescue Department, the best-trained and equipped Armed Forces in the region, professional Immigration, Border and Marine Security agencies, and the Road Transport Department Malaysia which enforces road safety legislation.

Mrs. Biljana Milosevic, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross regional delegation, speaking at the Regional Maritime Security Operations Workshop 2019 (MaSO 2019).

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Malaysia’s Energy Landscape Since independence, Malaysia’s economy has diversified from agriculture and commodity-based, to manufacturing and services sectors, which in turn bolstered the country’s energy intensity, particularly oil and gas (O&G). A pillar to the nation’s economy, the O&G industry has been a key contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) since the 1980s, contributing 20 per cent in 2020. The O&G subsector encompasses

upstream (exploration and production), midstream (processing, storage and transportation of oil and gas to refineries and endusers) and downstream (refining and distributing of petroleum products). The country’s oil and gas reserves are the fourth and fifth largest respectively in the Asia-Pacific region, with 3.6 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 42 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves. Being a resource-rich nation, Malaysia’s dynamic O&G industry is active across the entire value chain – from upstream to downstream. Besides exploration and production, sales of crude oil and natural gas, the country has been one of the largest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG) globally since the 1990s and is ranked

PETRONAS’ largest downstream greenfield development, the 6,303acre Pengerang Integrated Complex in Johor, that houses oil refineries, naphtha crackers, petrochemical plants as well as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) import terminals and a regasification plant.

fourth largest in 2020 after USA, Australia and Qatar. More recently, the Malaysian government has expanded into alternative and renewable energy (RE) sources. RE has largely come from hydropower plants in Peninsular Malaysia as well as Sabah and Sarawak. The share of hydropower in the country’s electricity generation is around 11 per cent, but with less than 20 per cent of the technically feasible generation potential utilised to date, there is significant expansion already in the planning stages or under development. The hydropower sector has in the past largely been concentrated in Peninsular Malaysia, but due to its high rainfall and geography, the state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, is expected to experience the lion’s share of new developments. It is forecasted that 60 per cent of Sarawak’s power generation is to be sourced from hydropower, up from 35 per cent in 2012. Hydrogen has also emerged as an important part of the clean energy mix in ensuring a sustainable future as it emits zero CO2 when used. This makes it a critical energy vector to decarbonise the world, complementing other clean energy sources. Although a small molecule, the versatility of hydrogen as fuel, heat source and feedstock allow for the demand to further grow and be used in many

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other sectors such as transport, industries and power generation. Towards this end, Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) has been involved in producing grey and blue hydrogen as well as working with relevant stakeholders to explore the production of green hydrogen. In Kuching, Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) has launched Southeast Asia’s first Integrated Hydrogen Production Plant and Refueling Station, which is currently powering a small fleet of free-to-ride hydrogen fuel cell buses that service various routes in and around the city. Malaysia’s Energy Outlook Malaysia’s energy demand is projected to double between 2015 and 2040. Amidst accelerating energy transition, gas and renewable will play a bigger role in meeting the global energy needs.

Gas is more resilient than oil as growing share of electric vehicles (EVs), rising demand for sustainable fuels and increasing efficiency of the transport sector would erode the consumption of oil. Furthermore, the RE technology is expected to become cheaper and more accessible, enabling the country’s further growth into solar energy and hydro. As part of its energy transition plans for 2040, Malaysia is aiming to have 31 per cent of its total electricity mix being contributed by RE by 2025. It will then be scaled up to 40 per cent in 2035, according to the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (KeTSA) that was conveyed at The Special Meeting of ASEAN Ministers on Energy and the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan. Of the 31 per cent RE

Sarawak Energy Berhad’s Bakun Hydropower Plant, the largest in Southeast Asia, produces 2,400 MW of clean, renewable energy from a reservoir the size of Singapore.

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The first and single largest rooftop solar photovoltaic installation in Malaysia, a 685-kilowatt peak system installed on the 9,000sq metre rooftop of Suria KLCC shopping mall. It can produce more than 600 MWh of solar energy annually, enough to power up to 250 households.

target for 2025, Peninsular Malaysia is to account for 26 per cent, whilst out of the 40 per cent target for 2035, Peninsular Malaysia is to add 32 per cent of the total. High in solar potential, the RE capacity in Peninsular Malaysia is targeted to increase from 4.43 GW currently to 10.944 GW by 2035. KeTSA also plans to introduce utility scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) with a total capacity of 500 MW from 2030 to 2034, to support solar power generation. On the other hand, the power purchase agreements (PPA) for more than 7 GW of coal power plants will expire

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by 2033 and will be replaced mostly by gas and RE. This will help the country to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) targets presented at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), which enables the implementation of the Paris Agreement to bring down the carbon emissions intensity from the power sector by 45 per cent in 2030, compared to 2005 levels. Twelfth Malaysia Plan (RMK-12) The RMK-12 was announced at an opportune time as the nation recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. Setting a strategic direction for Malaysia’s development for the period 2021 to 2025, it aims to address current issues with strategic directions to achieve a sustainable economy focusing on rejuvenating economic growth; ensuring prosperity is distributed more fairly and equitably; and maintaining environmental sustainability. With the objective of achieving a “Prosperous, Inclusive and Sustainable Malaysia”, the third focus of RMK-12 accelerates the nation’s progress in moving towards a low-carbon nation, safeguarding

natural endowments, and increasing resilience against climate change. The green growth will be strengthened by a robust enabling environment and supported by a mindset change as well as behavioural shift. In addition, energy sustainability will be further enhanced by ensuring adequate supply of energy resources and related infrastructure, while RE as an alternative energy source will be augmented to complement energy efficiency measures. In moving towards a low-carbon nation which will address the energy trilemma of balancing energy security, energy equity and environmental sustainability, the industry will need to be prepared for and support RMK12. It is imperative to relook the business model and mindset shift

as energy transition is accelerating players to fast-track and step-out. Malaysia’s Energy Players PETRONAS is the custodian of Malaysia’s national oil and gas resources as well as a global energy and solutions partner. As Malaysia’s fully integrated petroleum corporation, the PETRONAS Group explores, produces and delivers energy to meet society’s growing needs through its core businesses. Gas Malaysia Berhad Gas Malaysia Berhad, a member of MMC Corporation Berhad, was established on 16th May, 1992 to sell, market and distribute natural gas as well as to construct, operate and maintain the Natural Gas Distribution System (NGDS) within Peninsular Malaysia.

In good or bad weather conditions and with meter-high waves, offshore facilities operate around-the-clock to ensure uninterrupted production of oil and gas. The photo shows one of PETRONAS’s facilities in the Betty-Bokor fields, offshore Sarawak, interconnected with pipelines.

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Gas Malaysia’s Operations Control Centre (OCC) is responsible for managing and providing appropriate response during emergencies as well as attending to enquiries related to gas facilities, gas pressure and related queries. Inset: A Gas Regulating Station at the head office in Shah Alam, Selangor.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) TNB generates, transmits and distributes electricity in Peninsular Malaysia. It is the largest publiclylisted power company in Southeast Asia with MYR 99.03 billion worth of assets. It serves over 8.4 million customers. Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) SESB generates, transmits and distributes electricity in the state of

Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan. Its main stakeholders are Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) (80%) and the Government of Sabah (20%). Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) SEB is an energy development company and electricity utility, Sarawak’s sole energy generator and distributor. Wholly owned by the Government of Sarawak, it presides

TNB’s Perai Power Station is one of the largest singleshaft combined cycle plants in Southeast Asia, with a capacity of 1,070MW.

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Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB), responsible for power generation and distribution in Sabah, is continuously upgrading its transmission network to ensure a reliable electricity supply for its customers.

over Malaysia’s largest hydropower generation capacity (3,542MW). Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) PETROS is an oil and gas exploration, management and distribution company established in 2017 and wholly owned by the Government of Sarawak. It is focused on maximising sustainable returns from Sarawak’s Oil and Gas Resources.

A TNB rigger at work stringing power transmission lines across the sea from the monopole tower at Pulau Besar, Melaka. A good head for heights is essential for this job.

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A Resilient and Inclusive Financial System By Anthony Dass

Malaysia has a resilient and inclusive dual financial system, with both conventional and Islamic financial products being offered side by side. A wide variety of financial products and services are offered to meet the evolving needs of businesses and households. These include savings, investment, financing and financial protection. The Malaysian financial system has been strengthened through consolidation and rationalization

since the beginning of this century. Following the Asian financial crisis in mid-1997, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM, Malaysia’s central bank), directed the merger of local banking institutions into ten anchor banks, which was completed in 2002. Further mergers were encouraged among the local banking institutions to ensure competitiveness with international banks. Building on the strong foundations and steady performance of the Islamic financial industry in Malaysia, the Malaysia International Islamic Financial Centre (MIFC) Initiative was introduced in August 2006 with the aspiration to make Malaysia a global Islamic finance marketplace. Recent developments in Islamic finance include value-based focus of the industry and greater efforts are being channelled towards three major areas – social resilience,

Bank Negara Malaysia’s KL Headquarters. Completed in 1970, the Central Bank Complex is one of the finest examples of the brutalist school of architecture in Southeast Asia.

climate resilience and business empowerment. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) BNM, the central bank, regulates the Malaysian financial system including both banking and insurance sectors. It plays a significant role in developing financial system infrastructure and in advancing the Government’s financial inclusion agenda. In its role as the central bank, it: • Promotes a sound, progressive and inclusive financial system. • Formulates and conducts monetary policy in Malaysia. • Regulates and supervises financial institutions which are subject to the laws enforced by it. • Is the sole authority for issuing currency and managing the country's international reserves. • Oversees payment systems as well as money and foreign exchange markets. • Acts as financial advisor, banker and financial agent of the Government. Banking intermediaries supervised by BNM comprise commercial banking institutions (including Islamic), investment banks (co-regulated with the Securities Commission) and development financial institutions. Insurance companies and takaful operators are also supervised by BNM. The central bank also regulates the foreign exchange and money markets

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and undertakes oversight of the payment system. For further information on the central bank’s roles, please visit the BNM website at W bnm.gov.my. Financial Services Malaysian financial institutions offer a full range of products and services to all economic sectors, businesses and segments of the society, including underserved groups and rural communities. Advances in financial technology (fintech) have led to the introduction of new business models and solutions that have contributed to the improvements in customer value and experience as well as financial institutions’ efficiency and risk management. As of June 2021, there are about 121 financial institutions offering a wide range of services within the Malaysian financial sector. There are also 14 approved Representative Offices of Foreign Banking Institutions which among others, conduct research on activities and business opportunities in Malaysia as well as maintain correspondent relationships with local financial institutions. Banking The banking sector breaks down as follows: 26 commercial banks of which

BNM Governor Datuk Nor Shamsiah Mohd Yunus (centre) conducts one of her frequent press briefings. Effective communication is a key priority for Malaysia’s central bank.

18 are foreign owned, 11 investment banks which are all locally owned, 17 Islamic banks of which 6 are foreign owned, and a comprehensive network of ATMs throughout the country. There are 6 development financial institutions that provide general development finance, as well as other Federal and State Governmentowned financial institutions that pursue specific development finance agendas. Insurance A total of 61 domestic and international insurers and takaful operators is made up of 25 life insurers/ family takaful operators, 26 general insurers/ general takaful operators and 10 reinsurers/ retakaful operators. They offer services through digital

channels, their branch office(s) and/or authorized agents. Insurance brokers are also available to arrange larger and more complicated risks. Pos Malaysia Besides its domestic and international mail, courier and logistics services, Pos Malaysia is a significant financial services provider. Through its network of over 600 post offices throughout the country including rural areas, it offers a wide range of basic financial services including cash deposit and withdrawal, money transfer and non-postal services such as bill payment, motor vehicle insurance, driving license renewal, road tax renewals, life insurance and financial services. As of FY2020, the retail transaction volume amounted to 44.3 million.

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Investment Services A wide range of investment and wealth management services are offered in Malaysia. Most major banks offer retail share dealing services and a wide variety of insurers offer investment products. Personal investment advisors and investment planners, whether attached to a company or working independently, are required to be fully trained and licensed. Fintech As the world embraces technology-based solutions to provide financial products and services, BNM has continued to encourage innovation in the market by enhancing a FinTech-friendly business environment for innovative financial services to grow. It has put in place the regulations to facilitate various financial-related businesses including banking, insurance, moneybroking, capital markets, credit token and Islamic finance to adopt FinTech in their products and services offerings. BNM has also set up the Regulatory Sandbox Framework to enable the experimentation of FinTech solution in a live environment, subject to appropriate safeguards and regulatory requirements. Digital banking Through the usage of agile technology platforms and

data analytics, digital banks are widening the range of banking products and services targeted towards solving Malaysian consumer pain points, particularly for the unserved and underserved consumer segments. Additional measures are in place to reduce barriers to entry, whilst allowing the respective banks to observe attendant risks. As of May 2021, the number of internet banking subscribers was 36.3 million for individuals and 1.7 million for corporate clients, with an overall 116.3% penetration rate. Mobile device banking subscribers stood at 66.8% penetration rate at the same time. Online banking transactions rose by 49% to 2.5 billion

transactions from 2019 to 2020 and the total number of e-payments grew 14% to 5.5 billion transactions. E-payments using Quick Response (QR) codes jumped 164% to 773,484 and e-remittance transactions conducted via licensed non-bank remittance service providers climbed to RM6.6 billion, accounting for 25% of total outward remittances. Remittance Services All banks provide remittance services. There are also 38 nonbank remittance service providers, inclusive of development financial institutions that are licensed to provide remittance services in Malaysia. The list of nonbank remittance providers

DuitNow QR is Malaysia’s national QR solution that allows merchants to accept payments from customers of different participating banks and e-wallets operators using a unified QR code.

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A global pandemic is no object to the Association of Development Finance Institutions Malaysia (ADFIM). They organised the virtual Global DFI Forum 2021 Malaysia, held in November, which was conducted entirely online and was a resounding success.

is published in the central bank’s website bnm.gov. my/existing-regulatees.

Bursa Malaysia Bursa Malaysia is one of the largest bourses in

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ASEAN, helping over 900 companies raise capital across 50 economic activities – whether through the Main Market for established large-cap companies, the ACE Market for emerging companies of all sizes, or the LEAP Market for up-andcoming SME companies. As an inclusive marketplace, it provides easy access to many investment products and services, connecting domestic and foreign market participants to all types of opportunities to help targeted audiences to expand or invest with impact. The diverse product range includes equities, derivatives, offshore and Islamic assets as well as Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Exchange Traded Bonds and Sukuk (ETBS).

Bursa Excellence Awards 2020 - BEST INSTITUTIONAL EQUITIES PARTICIPATING ORGANISATION (INVESTMENT BANK) 9 April 2021. From L-R : En Nik Azhan Nik Abdul Aziz, Head, Wholesale Client Solutions MY, Maybank Investment Bank Berhad, Datin Ami Moris, CEO, Maybank Kim Eng Group, Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO, Bursa Malaysia, Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman, Bursa Malaysia, Encik Fad’l Mohamed, CEO, Maybank Investment Bank Berhad, Encik Mohamad Yasin Abdullah, COO, Maybank Kim Eng Group, Mr Lok Eng Hong, Regional Head, Dealing, Maybank Investment Bank Berhad.

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Private Entities Reporting Standards (MPERS) - all of which are recognised as being of international standing. There is also abundant talent in the industry with the major multinational accounting, auditing, and consulting firms all having branch offices in Malaysia. In addition, there are a host of medium and small accounting firms operating on a smaller scale.

Tay Yu Hui, Director of Market Operations, and Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO of Bursa Malaysia, holding the awards for ‘Exchange of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Project of the Year’ at the Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence 2021. The Exchange was honoured for its robust pandemic response, sustainability and ESG work, climate action leadership, market access initiatives, and for fostering a conducive environment for innovation.

Securities Commission The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) is a statutory body reporting to the Minister of Finance. It is the sole regulatory agency in charge of capital market regulation and development. The SC is directly responsible for supervising and monitoring the activities of market institutions, including exchanges and clearing houses, and regulating all persons licensed under the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007. The SC’s core functions of rule-making, authorisation, supervision and enforcement provide a robust framework that

promotes market integrity and investor protection. It also continues to facilitate digital innovation as the next engine of growth to create a capital market that is accessible, agile and accountable. For further information on the SC’s roles, please visit W sc.com.my. Accountants, Auditors & Consulting Firms Malaysia pursues and requires a high standard of financial reporting. There are three types of accounting standards - Malaysian Financial Reporting Standards (MFRS), Private Entity Reporting Standards (PERS) and Malaysian

Foreign Exchange Policy Malaysia maintains a liberal foreign exchange policy, in line with its commitment to support a competitive economy through the creation of an environment conducive for trade, business and investment activities. Malaysian markets are easily accessible by global investors, with full mobility for the inflow and outflow of capital for investments. Non-residents are free to invest in any form of ringgit assets either as direct or portfolio investments and are also free to remit out divestment proceeds, profits, dividends or any income arising from these investments in Malaysia. In 2021, BNM further liberalised the foreign exchange policy to provide greater flexibility for businesses to manage their foreign currency obligations. The liberalisation was also aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s position in

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The Securities Commission Malaysia is situated in Kuala Lumpur’s scenic Bukit Kiara district. Its building structure is regarded as one of Malaysia’s masterpieces of high-tech and energy-efficient architecture.

the international global supply chain as well as supporting efforts in attracting foreign direct investment into Malaysia. Resident and nonresident travellers are free to carry into and out of Malaysia, foreign currency notes and traveller’s cheques of any amount on their person or in their baggage. The carrying of ringgit notes when travelling into and out of Malaysia is permitted up to USD10,000 equivalent. For further details, please see the Foreign Exchange Policy at W bnm.gov.my/fep Labuan International Business and Financial Centre Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) is a premier financial

hub for the Asia-Pacific region. It is regulated by Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA), a statutory body under the Ministry of Finance, Malaysia. Labuan IBFC presents a comprehensive midshore solution striking the ideal balance between client confidentiality and compliance with

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international best standards and practices. Its business-friendly environment, anchored by a simple tax system, is well-supported by a robust, modern and internationally recognised legal framework enforced by Labuan FSA. Labuan IBFC boasts a wide range of business and investment structures facilitating cross-border transactions and business dealings. These unique qualities offer sound options for regional businesses going global or global businesses looking at penetrating Asia’s markets. Strategically located in the heart of Asia Pacific, Labuan IBFC is well positioned to tap into one of the fastest growing regions in the world, presenting the perfect opportunity for businesses seeking to connect with Asia’s economies and beyond.

Labuan International Business and Financial Centre is a premier Asia-Pacific financial hub. Its wide range of business and investment structures facilitate cross-border transactions and dealings.

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ICT to Digital: Mainstreaming Digital into Malaysia’s Economy Background The history of Malaysia’s ICT sector began in 1961 when IBM opened a Kuala Lumpur office to service government clients. A semiconductor manufacturing hub in Penang followed in the early 1970’s with the arrival of Intel, HP, OSRAM, Hitachi and others. By 1980, semiconductors contributed over a third of all manufactured exports. The Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) was launched in 1996. A governmentdesignated zone in southern Selangor, including the towns of Putrajaya and Cyberjaya, it was designed to leapfrog Malaysia into the information age by attracting investors with tax incentives and facilities such as high-speed Internet access and proximity to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. The MSC successfully provided

The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) HQ in Cyberjaya, nerve centre for attracting investments, building local tech champions, catalysing digital innovation ecosystems and propagating diversity and inclusivity.

an accelerated path for foreign and domestic investments that sought to leverage Malaysia not only as a market, but also as a hub for the provision of services to regional and global clients. This early success story helped to create an ICT talent and business ecosystem that has grown to be one of the largest contributors to the economy. In 2020, the ICT sector

posted a GDP contribution of 22.6%, of which the e-commerce sub-sector contributed 11.5 %, together roughly RM 320 billion with 10.4% year-on-year growth. The industry employs approximately 1.2 million people with exports valued at RM 98.7 billion. Mobile broadband penetration is 127.4% (as of 3Q 2021); fixed broadband is

MDEC’s #MyDigitalMaker Fair empowers young Malaysians to be digital users and ultimately digital innovators. Public-private-academia collaboration helps ensure every child is digitally future-proof.

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IRIS Corporation Berhad’s IRIS Secure Document Solution– a comprehensive ecosystem for instant authentication and verification of certificates, converting traditional paper to electronic documents.

at 39.9%; in 2020, 86.6% of the population accessed the internet through a mobile platform and 82.2% subscribed to paytv services. The future is poised to be app-based, on-the-go delivery and delivered through a 5G platform. 62% of businesses have internet connections, and about 28% have an online presence. Only 15% utilize online platforms to export but official statistics do not yet reflect the quantum shift that came about as a result of COVID-19. In 2020 alone, 489,000 micro-SMEs adopted e-commerce and 378,000 SMEs were trained to utilize e-commerce platforms to replace or reduce physical contact with customers. Public sector adoption of cloud technology has also been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The need to utilize the internet for public service delivery and interaction has driven the growth of apps and online payment platforms. Enlightened legislation

has created personal data protection and privacy laws that are of the same standard as the EU. Fintech (financial technology) regulations outlined by the Securities Commission and the Central Bank are supportive of innovation while protective of users. The Digital Economy has become mainstream in Malaysia, permeating every facet of the economy and creating a vibrant experimental ecosystem that can be a springboard for the growth of digital enterprises in the ASEAN region. Malaysia is well on its way to becoming the digital heart of Southeast Asia. Policy & Regulation In February 2021, the Government launched the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (MYDIGITAL) with the goal of leveraging digital technologies to accelerate Malaysia’s path towards

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a high-income nation by 2030. Transformation is targeted at the three pillars of society: the public sector, private sector, and the citizenry. The National 4th Industrial Revolution Policy (4IR Policy), launched in July 2021, complements MYDIGITAL by targeting five foundational technologies, namely artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, blockchain, cloud computing and big data analytics, and finally, advanced materials and technologies. The 4IR Policy focuses its delivery on three main areas; global value chains (manufacturing, transportation and logistics), supporting socio-economic needs, and driving technology adoption. The supporting institutional framework to enable and grow the digital economy includes the Ministry of Communications

Home Minister Dato’ Seri Hamzah Bin Zainudin (centre) launches the RM1.16 billion National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) in April 2021. Implemented by IRIS Corporation, the project leverages artificial intelligence to enhance and streamline Malaysia’s internal and external security.

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A professional gamer test-drives the Microsoft Xbox Series X. The CPU and motherboard of the world’s most advanced games console are manufactured in Malaysia at Intel’s Penang facility.

and Multimedia (KKMM), the Strategic Change Management Office (SCMO) in the Economic Planning Unit, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and (in Sarawak) the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA). Promoting the ICT Sector The Digital Investment Office (DIO) is a collaborative platform between the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA, see page 414) and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC, see below) to coordinate and facilitate all digital investments (foreign and local) into the country.

Western Digital’s eco-friendly Caviar Green hard disk drive, manufactured at WD’s HGST facility in Sama Jaya, Sarawak.

The Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) Data Centre provides hybrid cloud services to help local businesses drive Sarawak’s digital transformation.

Aimed at strengthening coordination among all Investment Promotion Agencies, the DIO offers an agile incentives regime with optimised solutioning to meet investor needs including the MSC Malaysia initiative, Digital Ecosystem Acceleration Scheme, and bespoke solutions based on location. The DIO also offers talent facilitation including upskilling and reskilling subsidy programmes and structured freelancer and digital nomad communities. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) is focused on accelerating digital

economy growth and ensuring it is inclusive and rewarding for all, focused on the key drivers: empowering Malaysians with digital skills, enabling digitally powered businesses, and driving digital sector investments. It offers a wide range of training, education and investment support initiatives. At state government and city level, there is a wide range of government or semi-governmental agencies involved in investor promotion and management, each of which leverages on its location’s particular strengths. These

The Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) Digital Academy in Kuching, setting the gold standard for technical training in the digital economy.

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include Digital Johor, Invest Kedah, Digital Kelantan, Invest Melaka, Pahang State Development Corporation, Digital Penang, Invest Penang, Digital Perak, N9 Digital (Negeri Sembilan), Sabah Ministry of Science, Innovation and Technology (KTSI), Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), Invest Selangor, Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), TD1303 (Terengganu), Invest KL and GBS Iskandar. The vast Borneo Territory of Sarawak has long been a pioneer in ICT innovation and implementation, largely need-driven by its large land area and low population density. In 1991 the Sarawak Government founded SAINS, its own ICT systems integrator and solutions provider, making it the first state to successfully deliver e-government to its widely dispersed citizens. Since the setting up of the Sarawak

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The PIKOM Leadership Summit is an annual tech event engaging the industry to spur innovation, adoption of new technologies and new business models. Seen here are some of the key speakers from the November 2021 Summit with PIKOM Chairman Danny Lee (centre).

Multimedia Authority in 2017, many cutting edge initiatives have been implemented, including (among others) smart traffic lights that reduce journey times by 25%, the S-Pay Global e-wallet system, the Kuching Smart City Masterplan and the Sarawak Multimedia Authority Rural Telecommunication (SMART) network of rural telecommunication towers, the nation’s first multi-

A 100 Go Digital coaching session in partnership with Digital Johor. 100 Go Digital is an MDEC initiative to coach traditional Malaysian businesses to participate in the digital economy.

operator core network. Further ICT industry promotion and development in Malaysia is carried out by local and international chambers of commerce, professional bodies and academia, along with PIKOM (the National Tech Association of Malaysia), which also plays an important role in advocating policy reforms and acts as a channel for the voice of industry.

YB Khairul Shahril bin Mohamed (centre), Perak State Youth, Sports, Communications and Multimedia Committee Chairman, accompanied by Digital Perak and MCMC Perak officers, on a site visit to a new telecomms tower built under the JENDELA initiative in Hutan Melintang.

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Architecture New Horizons for Tropical Living Malaysian architecture has developed over the centuries in much the same way as the country’s cuisine, offering variety, colour, flavour and many international influences, yet sharing a uniquely Malaysian identity. Traditional Architecture Traditional Malay architecture adapts itself to the tropical climate, building on stilts to allow cooling ventilation and using local hardwood fastened without nails and decorated with ornate woodcarvings. Fine examples include the Old Palace of Seri Menanti (Negeri Sembilan, 1905), the Old Palace at Kuala Kangsar (Perak, 1927) and the kampung houses of Melaka and Terengganu (19th to early 20th centuries). Malaysia Chinese architecture uses traditional Chinese themes, such as Melaka’s 17th century Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, localised Baba Nyonya styles

Rumah Tok Su is an early 20th century traditional Malay house built for a wealthy village headman. It has been renovated and rebuilt in the centre of Alor Setar, Kedah.

like the colourful shophouses and townhouses of Melaka and Penang, and a fusion of Chinese and Western styles shown in elegant early 20th century mansions. Malaysian Indian architecture is essentially Southern Indian Hindu in style, such as the elaborate Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur, but more austere designs can be found in Sikh temples and Indian Muslim mosques such as the Masjid India (Kuala Lumpur, 1963).

Sarawak and Sabah are noted for their many styles of longhouses, entire villages under one roof built with timber or bamboo. Many Orang Ulu longhouses are decorated with delicate symbolic murals. Sabah is also noted for rustic water villages built on stilts along riverbanks and seafronts. Colonial Styles The earliest example of Malaysian colonial architecture is the Portuguese

The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum in Melaka, a stunning example of Peranakan (Straits Chinese) townhouse architecture dating from the mid-19th century.

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The living grass roof of Heriot Watt University by the Putrajaya Lake shore is the first of its kind in the country. Designed by Serina Hijjas of Hijjas Kasturi Associates, Malaysia’s first green campus was the winner of The Edge Malaysia-PAM Green Excellence Award 2017.

A'Famosa fort (Melaka, 1511, see page 102), of which only a small gateway remains. The nearby Stadthuys (1641), with its thick red walls, is the most imposing Dutch relic. The British introduced the Indo-Saracenic style, fusing Mughal, Moorish and NeoGothic elements from British India. Notable examples include the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (Kuala Lumpur, 1897), Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, the Ubudiah Mosque (Kuala Kangsar, 1917) and the Sultan Ibrahim Building (Johor, 1940). An especially practical British innovation was the ‘five-foot-

way’, a covered sidewalk shielding pedestrians from heat and rain. Modern Architecture Modern Malaysian architecture began with Stadium Merdeka (1957), then the largest stadium in Southeast Asia, built for the declaration of independence. By the early 1960s, the National Museum (1963), Parliament Building (1963) and National Mosque (1965) saw architects experimenting with flat and folded roofs, curvilinear concrete walls and sunshading devices suitable for the tropical climate.

Putrajaya’s serene yet spectacular Islamic Complex (RSP Architects, 2017) is inspired by the beauty and purity of light as described in the Holy Quran.

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In the 70s, large-scale housing developments mushroomed in Kuala Lumpur and its suburbs. High rise buildings such as the National Bank and broadcasting HQ Angkasapuri began to shape the KL skyline. Islamic and Malay themed styles emerged with the Dayabumi Complex (1984), Putra World Trade Centre (1985) and Bank Bumiputra’s HQ (1987). Architecture in Malaysia reached a peak with the Petronas Twin Towers, then the tallest buildings in the world (begun 1994, see page 88), Kuala Lumpur Tower (1995, see page 92) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport, (1997, see page 422). Putrajaya, the new garden city administrative capital, was developed alongside Cyberjaya, an IT and multimedia city. Rising environmental awareness led to awardwinning designs like the Energy Commission’s ‘Diamond’ building (Putrajaya, 2010) and Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia’s HQ (Bangsar, KL, 2017). Demonstrating that Malaysia seeks to balance the contemporary and historic built environments, George Town and Melaka, conserved for their unmatched socioarchitectural qualities, were recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Cities in 2008.

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Property An InvestorFriendly Market Malaysia has a vibrant property market, which is primarily driven by domestic demand. The country is 71% urbanised, according to the 2010 census, and more than 60% of Malaysians own their own homes, while most of the remaining 40% aspire to be homeowners. Investing in Malaysian real estate is straightforward and hasslefree as long as the prospective buyer does a little homework first. Ownership of property is clear and indisputable: Malaysia's National Land Code is based on the Australian Torrens System and stipulates the ownership rights of property buyers and the sanctity of property titles,

while contracts are written in English. Furthermore, the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966 not only regulates the business of housing developers but also protects the interests of house buyers. Nevertheless, any prospective buyer should appoint a qualified Malaysian solicitor to do the necessary title searches and conveyancing. In Malaysia, no limitation is placed on foreign buyers purchasing most freehold and leasehold properties regardless of whether they are landed or stratified. This includes industrial, retail and residential properties and commercial properties up to RM20 million. However, foreigners may not buy agricultural land, Malay Reserve land (in Peninsular Malaysia), Native Title land (in Sabah), Native Title land or Native Customary Rights (NCR) land (in Sarawak), or any other land gazetted exclusively for bumiputeras (Malays and other indigenous groups). Most State Governments have set a minimum purchase price threshold for foreigners at

Surrounded by pristine rainforest, the low-impact Setia Eco Templer Park offers English, Peranakan and Balinese inspired homes and has won many sustainability awards.

Located in the cool Genting Highlands, 1,000m above sea level, Tropicana Grandhill is the winner of the Best Condo Development (Malaysia) by the Property Guru Asia Property Awards (Malaysia) 2021.

RM500,000 and above, which varies according to individual state rules and guidelines (RM600,000 in Kuala Lumpur, and RM2 million in parts of Selangor). This is an effort to keep house prices affordable for local people. However, in Sarawak, some stratified properties, usually walk-up apartments, have been granted an exemption and are available for as little as RM200,000. The Penang Government has raised the minimum price

A lily pond in Monet Garden, an impressionist-inspired enclave in Sunsuria City, a 525-acre residential and educational complex built around the Xiamen University Malaysia Campus in Sepang, Selangor.

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threshold to RM2 million for the island and RM1 million for the mainland. A foreigner is required to obtain the respective State Government's approval for property purchase. This is not usually a problem as any property unlikely to gain approval will not be offered for sale to foreigners in the first place. Although foreign investors comprise only an average of 1% of overall transactions in the country annually, they are much more prevalent in Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Johor. An extensive range of residential property is available, ranging from old colonial buildings to the most modern upmarket condominiums, gated communities and bungalows with eco-friendly concepts. Foreign buyers are spoilt for value and choice, as the prices of these homes range from RM500,000 to RM5 million or more. New launches of top-end residential units are priced at RM1,000 per square foot (RM10,760 per square meter) and above in desirable Kuala Lumpur locations and usually include swimming pools, gym, tennis courts, etc. Older units and individual houses can frequently be purchased for much less. Many top Malaysian developers have won international accolades for their designs, master plans, sustainable building concepts, resort

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A highly liveable integrated township built on former quarry land in Kuala Lumpur, Desa Park City has received multiple accolades, including the FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence World Gold Award 2019.

developments and golf courses. Gold Award winners at the 2020 FIABCI World Prix d'Excellence include SP Setia (Office), Perdana ParkCity (Mixed-Use Development), and Sime Darby Property (Retail). To date, Malaysian developers have won more than 70 awards in this event, proving that Malaysian developers are on par with other international players. SP Setia also recently

clinched the top spot in The Edge Malaysia Top Property Developers Award (2020) for the fifth consecutive year, with the other top 9 developers being Sime Darby Property Bhd, Sunway Bhd, UOA Development Bhd, IJM Land Bhd, Gamuda Bhd, UEM Sunrise Bhd, IOI Properties Group Bhd, Mah Sing Group Bhd, Eco World Development Group Bhd, Tropicana Corporation Bhd and IGB Bhd.

The Winners of the 2021 EdgeProp Malaysia Sustainable Development Awards, from left: Sime Darby Property MD Datuk Azmir Merican, EdgeProp Malaysia editor-in-chief Au Foong Yee, former Malaysia Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin, Eco World Development Group CEO Datuk Chang Khim Wah and Matrix Concepts founder Dato’ Lee Tian Hock.

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Leisure Farm Iskandar is the first Green Building Index development in Johor’s Iskandar Malaysia economic corridor, offering luxury and tranquility in a world-class gated community.

Greater Kuala Lumpur remains the top choice for real estate locations amongst foreign buyers. New mega projects are emerging, such as the TRX and KL Metropolis, supported by infrastructure improvements in the city, such as the Mass Rapid Transit, river rehabilitation projects, and increased pedestrianisation of business and shopping districts. Further south, the Iskandar Malaysia growth corridor in Johor (see page 370) is strategically located to benefit from spillover from land-challenged Singapore. Iskandar Malaysia is three times the size of Singapore, twice the size of Hong Kong and has been identified as one of the catalyst developments to spur the growth of the Malaysian economy. Iskandar's Nusajaya offers bungalows and high-end condominiums with golf courses built by world-renowned architects and beachfront villas and condominiums with yachting & sailing

amenities. These are priced well within the means of middle-class Singaporeans and thus make excellent long-term investments. Northern Penang offers a wide selection of highend condominiums and landed properties and has long been a favourite of foreign buyers because of its historical setting and the proximity of world-famous beaches. It is particularly popular with "Malaysia my Second Home" (MM2H) buyers (see page 395) as its resort location enable properties to be easily let for short periods when the owners are not in residence. There are genuine bargains to be had in some of the less promoted locations. Melaka also offers heritage and spectacular coastal scenery, as does Negeri Sembilan, particularly around Port Dickson. The East Coast may be a few hours drive from Malaysia's main urban centres, but it makes a beautiful retirement destination for people who don't need to commute to

the office, with striking white sand beaches and tropical islands in abundance. In the far north, the legendary island of Langkawi in Kedah is also experiencing a minor property boom, with several developments targeting foreign buyers who like the idea of living beside the Andaman Sea. Across the South China Sea, Sabah is becoming an increasingly popular investment destination, with dozens of new developments that offer spectacular sea and mountain views, mainly located within easy reach of Kota Kinabalu. However, the best tip for the adventurous buyer may well be Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state. A late arrival to the overseas buyer market, the state is starting to catch up, with attractive sea-front developments in Damai and Miri and a good selection of affordable condominiums in Kuching, one of the most livable cities in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia’s long coastline makes it a paradise for sailors. Many costal and riverine locations offer waterside living in apartments or houses, with a place for one’s own boat right outside the front door.

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Retire in a Tropical Paradise… For Less Malaysia is home to a diversity of Asian cultures, where a multiracial populace lives in harmony. The country is a top-of-mind holiday destination offering lush tropical rainforests, golden sandy beaches, tranquil highland resorts, delectable cuisines, fabulous shopping experience, warm hospitality services and modern infrastructure. Some people love Malaysia so much that a week or two in the country is not enough. They want to call it home. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme is their answer. Participants are given a social visit pass and multipleentry visa. Over the years, the programme has received various accolades. International Living magazine has ranked Malaysia in its World’s Top Ten Retirement Havens Every year since 2012. It also

With its idyllic coastline and a climate of perpetual summer, Malaysia is ranked as one of the top global retirement destinations.

ranks Malaysia among the best for low-cost, high qualityhealthcare. Among the reasons Malaysia appeals to foreigners as a place to retire or live include its low cost of living but high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, economic and political stability and balmy weather. English is also widely spoken.

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Participants in the MM2H programme are provided with various incentives such as house and car purchases, and tax exemption on pensions and foreign income brought into the country. Citizens of countries recognised by Malaysia are eligible to apply for the programme, regardless of race, religion, gender or age. The application process is simple. Participants just need to fulfil a few financial requirements and other criteria upon application and approval. In order to attract more foreigners to join the programme, the MM2H OneStop Centre was established to address MM2H-related inquiries. For further details on the application process, terms & conditions and incentives, kindly visit W mm2h.gov.my.

Sun, sails and sea - life on the water beckons to active retirees.

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Education – Developing a Nation’s Greatest Asset The fundamental principles on which Malaysia’s national education system is based are reflections of the country’s colourful history and its multi-racial society. The Ministry of Education Malaysia (MoE) governs all national educationrelated matters from preschool to secondary level, while tertiary and other higher-level education is governed by the Ministry of Higher Education. Both ministries work together to provide all Malaysians with equal access to quality education, in order to develop a highlyskilled, knowledgeable and united population. According to Malaysia’s Department of Statistics, the literacy rate among the population aged 15-24 years in 2019 was 99.1% for males and 99.2% for females. The focus of national education system has always been on the development of well-balanced individuals, who are

Malaysia aspires to be an education convention hub. Here the former Prime Minister officiates at the opening of the 10th University Scholars Leadership Symposium.

not only equipped with the skills and knowledge that enable them to contribute to the development of the nation and beyond, but who have also internalised those skills and values needed to create good human beings and good citizens. The entire education system of Malaysia is governed by the National Education Philosophy, which guides and strengthens the national

education system in order to produce citizens who are united, progressive, disciplined, knowledgeable and talented in a variety of fields. In other words, citizens who can positively contribute to Malaysia’s mission to become a fully developed country. Pre-School The Government is committed to the development of pre-

Malaysia offers a wide choice of pre-school education, including alternative teaching methods like this Montessori kindergarten.

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Science education prioritises hands-on experience. This school observatory in Penang is a perfect example.

school education, and government- supported kindergartens and preschools can be found in every urban and suburban area in Malaysia, as well as in the majority of rural villages. The long-term objective is to provide quality pre- school education for every community in the country. In the private sector, parents have a wide choice of early education opportunities. These range from kindergartens and pre-schools run by religious groups, especially those attached to mosques, temples and churches, to international early education franchises and even popular alternative teaching methods such as Montessori pre-schools. Primary and Secondary Primary education is compulsory from Year One to Year Six and education

is provided free of charge in government and government–aided schools. Primary education begins at age 6+ and continues for 6 years, with children entering secondary school at the age of 12+, where they continue for 5 years until they sit for the Sijil Pelajaran Malayisa (SPM) or Malaysia Certificate of Education (MCE), equivalent to the GCSE ‘O’Level. The main medium of instruction in all schools in the National Education System which consists of government schools, government-aided schools and private schools is the Malay language except for Chinese and Tamil vernacular schools. Students with special needs (SEN) can enroll in government schools which provide inclusive education programmes or in special education schools according to the

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various types of disability. Education is provided even in the remotest areas, with primary schools accessible to every community in the country. In the effort of providing quality education for all, educational assistance is provided by the Ministry of Education for all students, especially those from low income families. Malaysia is also home to a variety of well-regarded international schools, which can be found in or near major urban centers. They mostly accept day students, and some also provide boarding facilities. The majority use English as the medium of instruction, although there are also Arabic, French, German, Japanese and Korean language international schools in Kuala Lumpur. Tertiary The Ministry of Higher Education’s vision is to deliver high quality tertiary education to produce excellent individuals for a prosperous nation, and based on current achievements they appear to be on target. The country has 20 public universities, of which five are researchbased universities with at least 32% postgraduate enrolment. These are supplemented by 36 polytechnics and 104 community colleges, which underline the

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The 2,200-acre campus of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), the leading education institution in East Malaysia. Inset: UNIMAS students meeting visiting NASA astronauts.

government’s commitment to life-long education. The private sector further provides a broad spectrum of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Universities, university colleges and branch campuses award their own or their parent university’s degrees, while many colleges offer accredited external degrees (usually from the UK, USA or Australia) and twinning or

exchange programs. The private sector offers 435 private higher education institutions consisting of 53 universities, 10 foreign branch campuses, 37 university colleges and 335 colleges. Whilst the majority of tertiary students are local, Malaysia is developing into a major international hub for higher education. The number of overseas students

Limkokwing University is leading the effort to turn Malaysia into a global Education hub.

studying in Malaysia is 93,478 students for Public and Private Higher Learning Institutions. Roughly one third of international students are from Indonesia and China, with the rest mostly from the Middle East, Africa and West Asia. However, Malaysian universities are increasingly recruiting students from sub-Saharan Africa, and there is also an emerging trend for students from developed countries to spend part of their undergraduate course in Malaysia or conduct postgraduate studies here. In view of this positive development, the government aims to achieve an enrolment of 250,000 international students by 2025. Students are attracted to Malaysia by affordable tuition fees, high standard of tuition, English as teaching medium, the

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Students at Malaysian universities enjoy frequent lectures from visiting experts, such as Christine Lagarde, Head of the International Monetary Fund from 2011 to 2019.

relatively low cost of living, personal safety and security, and the overall quality of life. The principal destinations for overseas students are Kuala Lumpur and Selangor although, Penang, Johor and Sarawak are also gaining importance as educational hubs. As a result, the country is already ranked 11th in the world by UNESCO for its appeal to students and expects to achieve a higher ranking in the near future. Professional and Vocational Training Malaysia has a very comprehensive range of technical and vocational institutions which cater for skills training and education from Level 1 until Level 8, including advanced technical and professional education and career development. These include international institutions, government

institutions, those run by professional or trade associations, and private sector training providers. Many are acknowledged as world-class centers of expertise in highly focused areas, such as the International Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance (INCEIF) and the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism

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(SEARCCT), while others are devoted to high quality professional skills training and certification, such as the Malaysian Institute of Diplomacy and Foreign Relations, Malaysian Maritime Academy, Malaysian Aviation Academy and Malaysian Tax Academy. Over 60 of these institutions work together through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), which aims to develop human resources and enhance technical cooperation between developing countries. More than 100 short-term specialized courses are offered by participating institutions, many of which are centers of excellence for training. Since its launch, more than 25,000 participants from 140 countries have benefited from the various programs offered under the MTCP.

The German-Malaysian Institute offers a fast-track pathway to Germany’s top technical universities.

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Healthcare Investing in Total Wellness Malaysia enjoys a global standard of healthcare, with life expectancies and mortality rates comparable with fully developed countries, largely because healthcare in Malaysia is comprehensive, inclusive, professional and affordable for all. Public Healthcare Public healthcare is undertaken by the Ministry of Health Malaysia. Over 4% of GDP spending is devoted to public healthcare, shared between the public and private sectors. This is provided through an extensive network of modern hospitals, medical universities, specialist centres and clinics. The government’s commitment to healthcare reaches far beyond the hospitals. A nationwide network of urban and rural health care facilities provides comprehensive primary health care services, including dental care. These primary care facilities cover the

The flying doctor service provides modern medical care to even the remotest communities in Sabah and Sarawak.

full range of health services from promotive, preventive, curative to rehabilitative and cover personal health care for the whole life course of an individual from pre-pregnancy, mother, child, adolescent, adult to elderly. Together they cover the entire country, including even the remotest communities in Sabah and Sarawak. Telemedicine is also widely used, enabling healthcare professionals in rural locations to provide international class diagnostic and treatment facilities. Government hospitals and clinics are also happy to treat non-Malaysians, and the fees

charged are extremely modest by international standards. Private Healthcare Malaysia offers literally hundreds of private hospitals and out-patient clinics with a full range of medical, surgical and dental services. These are supported by thousands of private medical and dental clinics, both general and specialist, all of which are licensed by or registered with the Ministry of Health Malaysia. Traditional and Complementary Healthcare There is a strongtraditional and complementary

Expert herbalists blending customers’ remedies to order at a typical Chinese herbalist’s shop.

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The impressive atrium-style lobby of the Prince Court Medical Centre in Kuala Lumpur, one of Malaysia’s leading private hospitals.

medicinesector, with treatments such as chiropractic and osteopathy available in major urban centres. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) plays an important role, andTCM practitionersand herbalists can be found throughout the country.The licensing of traditional and complementary medicine practitioners is under the purview of the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Council, Ministry of Health Malaysia. Healthcare Travel As well as providing elective healthcare to the local population, the private sector also caters to the

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Malaysia’s private hospitals invest heavily in patient comfort to make a hospital stay as pleasant as possible.

expatriate population and a growing number of health tourism patients. The main pull factor for these health travellers is a combination of high-quality care and very affordable charges. Interesting healthcare investment opportunities are also open to the right kind of investors. Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), currently under the purview of the Ministry of Health Malaysia, brings together the nation’s dual heritage of hospitality and medical innovation and is set to position Malaysia as the

preferred healthcare travel destination in the region. It is not only the promotional arm of the Government but also a referral service to put healthcare travellers and members of the Malaysian healthcare travel industry in touch with one another. Today, Malaysia is positioned as the Fertility and Cardiology Hub of Asia, the Cancer Care Centre of Excellence, Hepatitis C Treatment Hub of Asia as well as an International Retirement Living destination, while an increasing number of private hospitals offer expertise in fields such as oncology, robotic surgery, bariatric surgery,

Malaysian hospitals use the latest and most sophisticated equipment, whether for diagnostics, therapy or surgery.

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Rehab is an essential part of recovery, speeded by advanced physiotherapy equipment like this anti-gravity treadmill.

orthopaedics, dental implants, ophthalmology, neurology, aesthetic procedures and minimally invasive surgical procedures. These hospitals are regulated by the Ministry of Health and in most cases have internationally recognised accreditations such as Joint Commission International (JCI), which accredits healthcare organisations. Currently, 73 private hospitals in Malaysia are qualified and registered under MHTC. A committee consisting of representatives from both the private and government sectors stringently evaluates these medical providers to ensure that the standard of service and quality of medical care provided within the industry is continuously upheld. Hospital caregivers are also English-speaking, facilitating proper communication and interaction, while many are also fluent in other languages.

Malaysian medical specialists have been trained in some of the leading medical institutions in the world, especially in Australia, the United Kingdom, the USA and in Malaysia. Treatment is carried out in state-ofthe-art facilities that have been furnished to meet international standards. While the cost of medical care is skyrocketing in the USA and Europe, Malaysia offers quality and affordability with its favourable exchange rate and single price policy. According to Patients Beyond Borders, patients save between 60-80% for treatments in Malaysia compared to the US. Thus, many visitors end up paying less for treatment and an idyllic holiday than they would have paid for the treatment alone in their home country. Malaysia also offers some of the most luxurious resort spas in the world, the perfect environment in which to recuperate from a surgical procedure or course of treatment. Malaysia’s healthcare travel industry, branded as “Malaysia Healthcare”, promises Quality Care for Your Peace of Mind via a seamless end-to-end ecosystem. To achieve this, MHTC operates a number of specialised customer/ patient service facilities to assist healthcare visitors. The Malaysia Healthcare

Call Centre (+603 2726 8688) handles all medical travel enquiries. It operates Mondays to Fridays from 8am to 5pm Malaysian time, supporting calls and emails in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Bahasa Indonesia and Mandarin. Malaysia Healthcare representative offices have been set up in China, Indonesia and Vietnam for healthcare travellers seeking information on healthcare products and services available in Malaysia. Three Malaysia Healthcare Concierge and Lounge Centres operate from Gate 8 of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Arrival Hall, Level 3 of Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (klia2) Departure Area and Level 1 of the Penang International Airport Arrival Concourse. They provide a comfortable, wheelchairfriendly environment where medical visitors can relax and recuperate from their flight while waiting to be picked up by their respective medical providers. They also provide easy access to all the information needed in order to have a comfortable and fruitful stay. For visitors’ convenience, the Immigration Department of Malaysia have set up the eVISA (Medical) portal, which enables medical visitors to obtain all their immigration clearances and documentation online

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Malaysia goes all out to welcome healthcare visitors, with facilities such as the MHTC Concierge and Lounge centres at KLIA (pictured) and Penang International Airport.

before travelling to Malaysia. Visit W malaysiahealthcare. org for further information. Pharmacies Pharmacies can be found even in the smallest towns. Pharmacists speak fluent English and can dispense prescriptions, advise on minor medical issues, and supply a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins, supplements and other healthcare items. Availability of Medicines Visitors should note that the classification of medicines in Malaysia may be different to their home country. Some medicines that are OTC in their home country may be pharmacyonly or prescription-only in Malaysia, and vice versa. Uncommon drugs may not be available in smaller towns, so visitors should always carry their own personal supply of essential medication, providing

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Pharmacies are licensed by the Ministry of Health to supply controlled medicines and can be identified by the standard logo (see inset) displayed at the outlet.

those medications do not infringe on the laws of the country. Tourists are only allowed to bring in a onemonth supply of medicines for their own use upon entering Malaysia. Prices for most medicines are in line with or somewhat lower than international norms. Safety of Medicines and Healthcare Products The National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), under the Ministry of Health Malaysia, is responsible for ensuring the quality, safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products as well as the quality and safety of traditional products, health supplements and cosmetics marketed in Malaysia, through registration, licensing and post-market surveillance. It serves as the secretariat for the Drug Control Authority (DCA), the executive body which approves the use of these products

in the market based on evaluation by the NPRA. Veterinary Care Animal health is given as much priority as human health. The Ministry of Agriculture provides veterinary services to livestock breeders, as well as quarantine services, health screening and wildlife treatment and rescue. Private veterinary clinics located in all major towns offer modern healthcare facilities for pets and domestic animals. The various state SPCAs organise veterinary care for stray and rescued animals.

It’s not just humans who enjoy the finest medical care. A horse undergoes surgery at the Perak Turf Club’s high-tech horse clinic.

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Protecting the Environment By Professor Dato’ Dr Mazlin Bin Mokhtar, FASc & Dr Minhaz Farid Ahmed Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), UKM

Legislation and Regulation Malaysia is one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, blessed with an incredible number of endemic plant and animal species. To preserve this remarkable biodiversity, the Government of Malaysia has focused on legislating for environmental conservation since the 1960s. This process began with the 1st (1966-1970) and 2nd (1971-1975) Malaysia Plans, yielding the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (EQA 1974). Following the EQA

The 620-meter Skywalk at Sepilok’s Rainforest Discovery Centre near Sandakan, Sabah. It offers fabulous views of birds, flying squirrels and (occasionally) orangutans.

1974, the National Policy on the Environment 2002 (DASN 2002) was prepared and revisited and updated in 2021 by the Ministry of Environment and Water (KASA) to ensure environmental sustainability while driving for economic growth. The National Policy on Climate Change 2010 was also prepared in line with the EQA 1974 and DASN 2002 to combat uncertainties arising from climate change and manmade activities. As a signatory of the Paris

Minister of Environment and Water YB Dato’ Sri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (centre, with other VIPs) viewing the Opening Ceremony of the Virtual International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2020.

Agreement in 2015, the Government of Malaysia is determined to ensure comprehensive environmental governance for the country’s sustainable development journey while integrating both the “whole of government” and “whole of society” approaches. Therefore, KASA, in collaboration with the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), prepared the Environmental Governance Roadmap for the country during 2021. Entitled Environmental Sustainability in Malaysia 2021-2030, it addresses the four main themes of empowered governance, green growth, strategic collaboration and social inclusion and calls for a National Environmental Commission to harmonize policy implementations between Federal and State Governments. Similarly, the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021-2025) emphasises climate change adaptation and mitigation measures,

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prioritising nature-based solutions (NbS), circular economy, constructed wetlands and such like. All of these initiatives are required to conform to the Government’s Shared Prosperity Vision 2030, a commitment to achieve sustainable growth along with fair and equitable distribution so that no one should be left behind. A good example of this integrated policymaking is the incorporation of the National Water Sector Transformation 2040 (WST2040) programme into the 12th Malaysia Plan. This well-planned strategy addresses capacity and capability building within Malaysia while developing the country into a regional and global hub for water know-how by 2040. It also provides ample opportunities to invest in Malaysia’s water sector as well as generate income via

water-based eco-tourism, non-revenue water, demand management, groundwater exploration and other activities in line with the integrated water resources management (IWRM) framework. Malaysia is committed to Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects under the Kyoto Protocol and has set up the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) to encourage the buying, selling and financing of green technologies, especially in the energy, water, construction, housing, transport, waste, and manufacturing sectors. The Government also provides an Investment Tax Allowance for purchasing green technology equipment/assets and an Income Tax Exemption for providing green technology services.

Solar-powered barge Interceptor, operated by Dutch NGO Ocean Cleanup, scooping waste from the Klang River. Inset: Collected trash rolls up a conveyor belt to be dropped into dumpsters. The barge can collect 50 tons of waste daily.

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Businesses and Industries Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad has produced a Sustainability Reporting Guide to embed sustainability into the business activities of public listed companies in Malaysia. The guide helps the organizations to identify, evaluate and manage their material economic, environmental and social risks and opportunities and encourages them to take holistic approaches to these issues. For example, Heineken Malaysia Berhad announced a significant sustainability milestone by balancing more than 100% of the water used in its products in 2020. This water stewardship initiative was carried out through a partnership between Heineken’s SPARK Foundation and the Global Environment Centre (GEC), a Malaysian environmental NGO. Similarly, the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) Certification Scheme aims to ensure the green growth of the country to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals. Air Quality and Green Energy An increasing number of businesses and organizations in Malaysia are transitioning to the use of green energy and minimizing their carbon footprints. For further details on Malaysia’s

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Heineken Malaysia balanced its water used in production through various high impact water stewardship initiatives, including the construction of this 305-metre clay dyke at Raja Musa Forest Reserve.

green energy policies and initiatives, please see page 376, Energy. To reduce vehicle emissions and encourage consumer takeup of electric vehicles, the Malaysian Government in its 2022 budget announced a 100% elimination of all taxes on electric vehicles in the country, including import and excise duties, as well as road tax. The existing Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV) incentive programme already offers substantial cuts in excise duty for locally-assembled hybrid cars. NGOs Major local and global NGOs are working hard to conserve Malaysia’s environment and contribute to sustainable development. Some of the most notable include WWF Malaysia, the Malaysian Nature Society, the Global Environment Centre, Eco*knights, WCS Malaysia, Sustainable

Development Network Malaysia (SUSDEN), Wetlands International Malaysia and Sahabat Alam Malaysia (Friends of the Earth). Environmental Conservation Malaysia has many national parks and other totally protected areas in both natural and urban settings.

Those open to visitors are described on Pages 194195. The country possesses a remarkable number of UNESCO-accredited conservation sites. These include four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely Melaka (page 102) and George Town (page 104), Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca; Gunung Mulu National Park (Sarawak); Kinabalu Park (Sabah); and Archaeological Heritage of the Lenggong Valley (Perak). A further six sites are on the UNESCO Tentative List for inclusion as World Heritage Sites. Other UNESCO conservation sites include Langat UNESCO HELP River Basin (Selangor), Putrajaya UNESCO Ecohydrology Demonstration Site and Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark (Kedah), as well as three UNESCO Biosphere Reserves; Tasik

HRH Sultan Nazrin Shah of Perak cruising Tasik Temenggor with his guest, HRH Prince Charles, President of WWF-UK in 2017. The Prince also attended a briefing on the WWF-Malaysia Conservation Summit.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

YBhg Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohd Nor Azman Hassan, Dep. Secretary General MOSTI (left centre), YAM Dato’ Seri Zain Al-‘Abidin Ibni Tuanku Muhriz, brand ambassador for Malaysia Pavilion (centre) and Ts. Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor, CEO of the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC, right) with young entrepreneurs at Malaysia’s Expo 2020 Dubai celebrate International Youth Day event, held at MGTC.

Chini (Perak), Crocker Hills (Sabah) and Penang Hill (page 223). The 15 National Parks and Wildlife Reserves in Peninsular Malaysia are managed by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia (DWNP/ PERHILITAN), a department under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, and include the species-rich Taman Negara and Endau Rompin National Parks. A further 16 State Parks and Reserves in the peninsula are managed by their respective state authorities. Over in Borneo, the Governments of Sabah and Sarawak have sole responsibility for their respective protected areas. Sabah Parks, an independent statutory body, manages Sabah’s nine national parks and seven additional conservation areas and wildlife

sanctuaries. These include the renowned Kinabalu Park featuring Malaysia’s highest peak, and the Tun Mustapha Marine Park, at almost 900,000 hectares the largest multi-use marine protected area in Malaysia and one of the richest marine flora and fauna complexes in the world. A further 19 Forest Reserves are managed by the Sabah Forestry Department, while the Sabah Foundation

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manages Sabah’s two bestknown Conservation Areas for large mammals, Danum Valley and Meliau Basin. Sarawak has the largest number and largest land area of protected areas in Malaysia, a remarkable 47 National Parks, of which 13 are open to visitors. These include the world-famous Gunung Mulu with its extensive cave system and Niah, one of the birthplaces of modern human civilization in Southeast Asia. They are managed by the Sarawak Forestry Corporation, a corporatized statutory body under the Sarawak Government. Sarawak Forestry also manages 15 Nature Reserves (of which 8 are open to visitors) and 5 Wildlife Sanctuaries which are only open to bona fide scientific researchers. Together, these totally protected areas cover more than 867,000 hectares, or approximately 7% of Sarawak’s total land area.

The Global Environment Centre’s mangrove planting activity with school students at Tanjung Surat, Johor. Mangroves are a critical component of the coastal ecosystem.

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USEFUL INFORMATION

The Media Scene By Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai Group Advisor, The Star Media Group With updates by Dato’ Ho Kay Tat CEO, The Edge Media Group

The Malaysian media scene has a fair balance of the traditional and the new, operating on different platforms and in multiple languages. Visitors to Malaysia are bound to be impressed by the fact that the English language press is very vibrant, with a variety of titles published daily. English is also widely used on radio, television, cable TV and web-based social media. It is easy to stay connected to the rest of the world because of the wide availability of media resources, including extensive WiFi access in most areas. Over 20 newspapers are published, mainly in Malay, English, Chinese and Tamil. The most prominent include The Star, New Straits Times, The Sun,(English), Berita Harian, Utusan Malaysia (Malay), Sin Chew Jit Poh, China Press, Nanyang Siang Pau (Chinese), Tamil Nesan and Malaysian Nanbam (Tamil). Specialised publications like The Edge also offer insights into Malaysia’s business scene. The Star is the highestselling English daily, with a circulation exceeding 100,000 copies. There is also a plethora of online news portals, both free and subscription-based,

A special edition of “Temu Minda” (Meeting of Minds) broadcast from RTM’s Kuching studio to celebrate Malaysia Day 2020, featuring former Minister of Communications and Multimedia (now Foreign Minister, right) YB Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah and Sarawak cultural activists (L-R) Ezra Tekola, Alfanso Mckenzie Simon and Meldrick Anak Udos.

covering a wide variety of topics and political interests. The East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak each have their own regional newspaper industry. In Sabah, dailies include The New Sabah Times, The Daily Express, The Borneo Post (English), Utusan Borneo (Malay), Asia Times, See Hua Daily News and Overseas Chinese Daily News (Chinese). Sarawak offers The Borneo Post, The New Sarawak Tribune (English); Utusan Sarawak, Utusan Borneo and Harian Ekspres (Malay); and See Hua Daily News, United Daily News, International Times and Berita Petang (Chinese). State-owned RTM operates two free-to-air terrestrial TV channels,

as well as 32 radio channels nationwide. In East Malaysia, RTM radio also broadcasts in Iban (Sarawak), Kadazan (Sabah) and other indigenous languages through a network of regional and district stations. These indigenous language broadcasts have been crucial in bringing development to East Malaysia’s interior. The Media Prima Group, owner of The New Straits Times and Berita Harian, has a near-monopoly on free-to-air commercial broadcasting, with four national TV channels as well as three radio channels. Its only serious challenger is The Star Media Group, which also publishes The Star (see above). It owns two radio channels.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Malaysian newspapers, TV and radio stations obtain their news stories from a combination of in-house reporters, freelancers, syndication arrangements and agency feeds. The most important source of news content in Malaysia is BERNAMA, the national news agency, with over 300 journalists, photojournalists and other contributors. As well as operating as a full-service news agency, BERNAMA also operates a 24-hour TV satellite news channel (BERNAMA TV) and a 24-hour freeto-air radio news station (BERNAMA Radio 24). Astro, the only subscription satellite TV operator, has 3 million-plus subscribers with access to up to 156 TV channels, including 68 Astro-created and branded channels and 22 HD channels. Major international and sporting

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H.E. Mr Hiroshi Oka, the former Japanese Ambassador, demonstrating his broadcast communication skills during a visit to Sri Pentas, Media Prima’s main production facility for television, digital content and broadcasting.

events are telecast live and in HD. The expansion of the fibre-optic network into most cities and suburbs has allowed new players like Telekom Malaysia to offer TV packages via the Internet. It has also encouraged international streaming services to offer

packages to Malaysian consumers. There are more than a dozen active streaming services at the time of writing, including major players such as Disney, Netflix and Amazon Prime, as well as freemium and niche players focusing on local language and/or pan-Asian content.

Prime Minister’s Hibiscus Award winners for Environmental Journalism 2018, Kan Yaw Chong (Daily Express Sabah, 3rd left) and Andrew Sia Koon Siong (The Star, 3rd right) receiving their awards from the VIP members of the award’s technical committee.

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WHO’S WHO - CRUCIAL CONTACTS

MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES 1Malaysia One Call Centre 1MOCC Designed to make government services more accessible to the public, 1MOCC is a single point of contact call centre for all Federal Government ministries and agencies. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days in a week to respond to any public enquiry, complaint, suggestion or feedback via phone, short messaging system (SMS), fax, email and social media. T / SMS (03) 8000 8000 F (03) 8000 8001 E 80008000@1mocc. gov.my W malaysia.gov.my facebook.com/ myGovernment twitter.com/myGovPortal

COOPERATIVE W medac.gov.my MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND WATER W kasa.gov.my MINISTRY OF FEDERAL TERRITORIES W kwp.gov.my MINISTRY OF FINANCE W treasury.gov.my MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS W kln.gov.my MINISTRY OF HEALTH W moh.gov.my MINISTRY OF HIGHER EDUCATION W mohe.gov.my MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS W moha.gov.my

W motac.gov.my MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT W mot.gov.my MINISTRY OF WOMEN, FAMILY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT W kpwkm.gov.my MINISTRY OF WORKS W kkr.gov.my MINISTRY OF YOUTH & SPORTS W kbs.gov.my FOREIGN DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS IN MALAYSIA AFGHANISTAN T (03) 2161 6400/ 0287 W afghanembassy.org.my ALGERIA T (03) 2145 9604/ 2148 8159 W algerianembassy.org.my ARGENTINA T (03) 2144 1451 W emsia.mrecic.gov.ar

PRIME MINISTER’S DEPARTMENT W pmo.gov.my

MINISTRY OF HOUSING AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT W kpkt.gov.my

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD INDUSTRY W mafi.gov.my

MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCES W mohr.gov.my

AUSTRALIA T (03) 2146 5555 W malaysia.highcommission. gov.au

MINISTRY OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE AND INDUSTRY W miti.gov.my

AUSTRALIAN CONSULATE, KOTA KINABALU T (088) 267 151 E [emailprotected]

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE W mod.gov.my

MINISTRY OF NATIONAL UNITY W perpaduan.gov.my

MINISTRY OF DOMESTIC TRADE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS W kpdnhep.gov.my

MINISTRY OF PLANTATION INDUSTRIES AND COMMODITIES W mpic.gov.my

AUSTRALIAN CONSULATE, KUCHING T (082) 230 777 E [emailprotected]

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION W moe.gov.my

MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT W rurallink.gov.my

MINISTRY OF ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES W ketsa.gov.my

MINISTRY OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION W mosti.gov.my

MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND MULTIMEDIA W kkmm.gov.my

MINISTRY OF ENTREPRENEUR DEVELOPMENT AND

MINISTRY OF TOURISM, ARTS AND CULTURE

AUSTRALIAN CONSULATE, PENANG T (04) 226 8955 E [emailprotected] AUSTRIA T (03) 2030 0400 W bmeia.gv.at/kualalumpur AUSTRIAN HONORARY CONSUL, PENANG T (04) 398 3980 E [emailprotected] AZERBAIJAN

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

T (03) 4252 6800 W azembassy.com.my BAHRAIN T (03) 2728 3300 E kualalumpur.mission@ mofa.gov.bh BANGLADESH T (03) 2604 0946 W bangladesh-highcomkl. com BELGIUM T (03) 2162 0025 W malaysia.diplomatie. belgium.be BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA T (03) 2144 0353/ 0177 E [emailprotected] BRAZIL T (03) 2171 1420/ 1421 W kualalumpur.itamaraty. gov.br BRUNEI DARUSSALAM T (03) 8888 7777/ 9898 E kualalumpur.malaysia@ mfa.gov.bn BRUNEIAN CONSULATE IN SABAH T (088) 236 113 E kotakinabalu.malaysia@ mfa.gov.bn BRUNEIAN CONSULATE IN SARAWAK T (082) 417 616 E kuching.malaysia@ mfa.gov.bn CAMBODIA T (03) 4257 1150/ 3711 E camemb.mys@ mfaic.gov.kh CANADA T (03) 2718 3333 W malaysia.gc.ca CONSULATE OF CANADA IN PENANG T (04) 388 9900 E [emailprotected] CHILE T (03) 2161 6203 W chile.gob.cl/malasia

CHINA T (03) 2141 6732 W my.china-embassy.org CHINESE CONSULATE GENERAL IN KUCHING T (082) 240 344 W kuching.chineseconsulate. org COLOMBIA T (03) 2164 5488/ 5489 W malasia.embajada.gov.co/ CROATIA T (03) 2181 5037 E croemb.kuala-lumpur@ mvep.hr CUBA T (03) 2141 1710/ 2141 W misiones.minrex.gob.cu/ en/malaysia CZECH REPUBLIC T (03) 2166 2900/ 1900 W mzv.cz/kualalumpur DENMARK T (03) 2032 2001 W malaysia.um.dk ROYAL DANISH CONSULATE IN KOTA KINABALU T (088) 483 888 E [emailprotected] ROYAL DANISH CONSULATE IN KUCHING T (082) 243 752 E [emailprotected] ROYAL DANISH CONSULATE IN PENANG T (04) 264 3445 E dkconsulate@lio-partners. com

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W swazilandkuala lumpur.org FIJI T (03) 4257 6617/ 6618 W malaysia.foreignaffairs. gov.fj FINLAND T (03) 4257 7746 W finland.org.my HONORARY CONSULATE OF FINLAND IN KOTA KINABALU T (088) 431 336/ 337 E [emailprotected] HONORARY CONSULATE OF FINLAND IN PENANG T (04) 229 4300 E [emailprotected] FRANCE T (03) 2053 5500 W ambafrance-my.org HONORARY CONSULATE OF FRANCE IN KOTA KINABALU T (088) 393 199 E [emailprotected] HONORARY CONSULATE OF FRANCE IN KUCHING T (082) 415 588 E audry.wan.ullokgmail.com HONORARY CONSULATE OF FRANCE IN PENANG T (04) 642 2611 E nexuspg.admin@ gmail.com GAMBIA T (03) 2181 6331/1959 E embassyofthegambia [emailprotected]

ECUADOR T (03) 2163 5078/ 5094 E [emailprotected]

GEORGIA T (03) 2181 4562 W malaysia.mfa.gov.ge

EGYPT T (03) 4256 8184 W egyptembassy.org/ location/malaysia

GERMANY T (03) 2170 9666 W kuala-lumpur.diplo.de

ESWATINI (formerly known as Swaziland) T (03) 2163 2511

HONORARY CONSULATE OF GERMANY IN PENANG T (04) 263 2566 E [emailprotected]

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GHANA T (03) 4252 6995 W ghanacom.org.my

IRELAND T (03) 2167 8200 W dfa.ie/malaysia

HONORARY CONSULATE OF GREECE IN KUALA LUMPUR T (03) 2775 2388 W greece.org.my

ITALY T (03) 4256 5122 W ambkualalumpur.esteri.it/ ambasciata_kualaLumpur/it

GUINEA T (03) 4251 0661 W embassy-of-the-republicof-guinea.business.site HOLY SEE T (03) 4253 0500 E [emailprotected] HUNGARY T (03) 2020 1075/ 1076 W kualalumpur.mfa.gov.hu INDIA T (03) 6205 2350/ 2354 W indianhighcommission. com.my INDONESIA T (03) 2116 4017/ 4016 W kbrikualalumpur.org CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDONESIA IN JOHOR BAHRU T (07) 227 4188 W kemlu.go.id/johorbahru/ id/default.aspx CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDONESIA IN KUCHING T (082) 460 734/ 461 734 W kemlu.go.id/kuching/ CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDONESIA IN PENANG T (04) 226 7412/ 4686 E [emailprotected] CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDONESIA IN SABAH T (088) 218 600/ 219 100 W kemlu.go.id/kotakinabalu/ IRAN T (03) 4251 4824 W kualalumpur.mfa.ir IRAQ T (03) 2148 0555 / 0650 W mofa.gov.iq/kualalumpur

JAPAN T (03) 2177 2600 W my.emb-japan.go.jp CONSULATE GENERAL OF JAPAN IN KOTA KINABALU T (088) 254 169 W kotakinabalu.my. emb-japan.go.jp CONSULATE GENERAL OF JAPAN IN PENANG T (04) 226 3030 W penang.my.emb-japan. go.jp JORDAN T (03) 4252 1268/ 8549 W jordanembassy.org.my KAZAKHSTAN T (03) 4252 5999/ 6999 W mfa.gov.kz/kuala-lumpur KENYA T (03) 2603 3900 W kenyahighcom.org.my KUWAIT T (03) 2141 0033 E [emailprotected] REPUBLIC OF KOREA T (03) 4251 2336 W overseas.mofa.go.kr/ my-en/index.do KYRGYZSTAN T (03) 2163 2012 W kyrgyzembassy.my LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC T (03) 2148 7059 E [emailprotected]. my LEBANON T (03) 4251 6690 W kualalumpur.mfa.gov.lb LESOTHO

T (03) 4253 2162/ 2163 E [emailprotected] LIBYA T (03) 2141 1293 E [emailprotected] MALDIVES T (03) 2163 7244 W maldives.org.my MAURITIUS T (03) 2163 6301/ 6306 E [emailprotected] MEXICO T (03) 2164 6362 W embamex.sre.gob.mx/ malasia MOROCCO T (03) 2161 0701/ 0705/ 0708 E [emailprotected] MYANMAR T (03) 4251 6355/ 5595 W myanmarembassy-kl.org NAMIBIA T (03) 2164 6520 W namhckl.com.my NEPAL T (03) 2020 1898/ 1899 W nepalembassy.com.my NETHERLANDS T (03) 2168 6200 W netherlandsandyou.nl HONORARY CONSULATE OF NETHERLANDS IN MIRI T (085) 411 612 E [emailprotected] NEW ZEALAND T (03) 2078 2533 W nzembassy.com/malaysia NIGERIA T (03) 4251 8512/ 7843 W nigeria.org.my NORWAY T (03) 2171 0000 W norway.org.my HONORARY NORWEGIAN CONSULATE IN PENANG T (04) 226 3459 E [emailprotected]

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

OMAN T (03) 4257 7378/ 7375 E [emailprotected]. com PAKISTAN T (03) 2161 8877/ 8879 E [emailprotected] PALESTINE T (03) 4256 8905/ 8906 W palembassy.org PAPUA NEW GUINEA T (03) 4257 9260/ 5405 W pnghicomkl.my PERU T (03) 2163 3034/ 3035 E [emailprotected]

T (03) 4257 9825/ 9433 W embassies.mofa.gov.sa/ sites/malaysia SENEGAL T (03) 9200 1576/ 1579 E [emailprotected] SINGAPORE T (03) 2161 6277 W mfa.gov.sg/kl SOMALIA T (03) 2181 0303 W somaliembassy.com.my SOUTH AFRICA T (03) 2170 2400 E [emailprotected]

PHILIPPINES T (03) 2148 4233 W philembassykl.org.my

SPAIN T (03) 2162 0261/ 2163 0261 W exteriores.gob.es/ Embajadas/KualaLumpur

POLAND T (03) 2161 0805/ 0780 W kualalumpur.msz.gov.pl

SRI LANKA T (03) 2034 1705/ 1706 W slhc.com.my.

CONSULATE OF THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND IN KUCHING T (082) 413 877 E [emailprotected]

SUDAN T (03) 4256 9104/ 4251 6054 W sudanembassy-kl.org.my

CONSULATE OF THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND IN PENANG T (04) 507 8490 E Consularpoland.pg@gmail. com QATAR T (03) 4256 5552 E [emailprotected] ROMANIA T (03) 2148 2065 W kualalumpur.mae.ro RUSSIA T (03) 4256 0009 W malaysia.mid.ru HONORARY CONSULATE OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION IN PENANG T (04) 226 0127 E russianconsulate@gmail. com SAUDI ARABIA

SWEDEN T (03) 2203 0200 W swedenabroad.com/ kualalumpur SWITZERLAND T (03) 2148 0622 W eda.admin.ch/ kualalumpur SYRIA T (03) 4251 6364 W syrianembassy.com.my TAJIKISTAN T (03) 4265 4969/ 4709 W tajemb-my.org TANZANIA T (03) 4251 7604 W tanzaniahighcom mission.my THAILAND T (03) 2148 8004 W thaiembassy.org/ kualalumpur TIMOR-LESTE

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T (03) 4256 2046 E [emailprotected] TURKEY T (03) 2030 0100 W kualalumpur.emb.mfa. gov.tr TURKMENISTAN T (03) 2161 0421 E tkmembmalaysia@ gmail.com UGANDA T (03) 2078 2420 W kualalumpur.mofa.go.ug UKRAINE T (03) 2166 9552 W malaysia.mfa.gov.ua UNITED ARAB EMIRATES T (03) 4253 5221/ 5420 E kualaLumpuremb@mofaic. gov.ae UNITED KINGDOM AND NORTHERN IRELAND T (03) 2170 2200 W gov.uk/government/ world/Malaysia UNITED STATES OF AMERICA T (03) 2168 5000 W my.usembassy.gov URUGUAY T (03) 2031 3669/ 7669 E [emailprotected] UZBEKISTAN T (03) 4253 2406 W uzbekembassy.com.my VENEZUELA T (03) 2163 3444/ 3445 W malasia.embajada. gob.ve/ VIETNAM T (03) 2148 4036 W vietnamembassy-malaysia. org YEMEN T (03) 4251 1793/ 4252 2461 W yemenembassy.my ZAMBIA T (03) 2145 3512 W zhckl.com.my

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WHO’S WHO - CRUCIAL CONTACTS

ZIMBABWE T (03) 4266 8779 E zimkualalumpur@zimfa. gov.zw MALAYSIA EXTERNAL TRADE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (MATRADE) MATRADE Headquarters KUALA LUMPUR T (03) 6207 7077 E [emailprotected] W matrade.gov.my MALAYSIAN INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (MIDA) MIDA Headquarters KUALA LUMPUR T (03) 2267 3633 E [emailprotected] W mida.gov.my INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS COUNCILS, CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE & OTHER ASSOCIATIONS ADVANTAGE AUSTRIA T (03) 2032 2830 W advantageaustria.org/my AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA T (03) 2161 9008 W americanassociation ofmy.com AMERICAN MALAYSIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE T (03) 2727 0070 W amcham.com.my APEC BUSINESS ADVISORY COUNCIL (ABAC) T (03) 2095 1136 W abaconline.org ARAB MALAYSIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE T (03) 2181 8383 W amcc.com.my ASEAN BUSINESS ADVISORY COUNCIL (ASEAN-BAC) T (03) 6211 2511 W aseanbac.com.my

ASSOCIATED CHINESE CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY OF MALAYSIA (ACCCIM) T (03) 4260 3090 W acccim.org.my ASSOCIATION OF THE COMPUTER AND MULTIMEDIA INDUSTRY MALAYSIA T (03) 7622 0079 W pikom.org.my BRITISH MALAYSIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE T (03) 2163 1784 W bmcc.org.my

KOREAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MALAYSIA (KOCHAM) T (03) 2078 8787 W kocham.org.my MALAY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MALAYSIA (MCCM) T (03) 2633 2233 W dpmm.org.my MALAYSIA AUSTRALIA BUSINESS COUNCIL (MABC) T (03) 7960 9490 W mabc.org.my

CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES COUNCIL OF MALAYSIA T (03) 6286 7200 W cicm.org.my

MALAYSIA-BELGIUM LUXEMBOURG BUSINESS COUNCIL (MBLBC) T (03) 4108 1282 W mblbc.org

EAST ASIA BUSINESS COUNCIL (EABC) T (03) 6286 7320 W eabex.org/eabcorganization

MALAYSIA-CAMBODIA BUSINESS COUNCIL (MCBC) T (03) 2118 5082 E [emailprotected]

ENTERPRISE IRELAND Malaysia office is serviced from Enterprise Ireland office, Singapore T (065) 6804 9380 W enterprise-ireland.com

MALAYSIA CANADA BUSINESS COUNCIL Hp (012) 363 0799 W malaysia-canada.com

EU-MALAYSIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY T (03) 2162 6298 W eumcci.com FEDERATION OF MALAYSIAN MANUFACTURERS (FMM) T (03) 6286 7200 W fmm.org.my ITALY MALAYSIA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (IMBA) T (03) 2164 9931 W imba.org.my KOREA TRADE INVESTMENT PROMOTION AGENCY (KOTRA) T (03) 2117 7100 W kotra.or.kr

MALAYSIA-CHINA BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 2162 1948 W mcbc.com.my MALAYSIA-CHINA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE T (03) 9223 1188 W mccc.my MALAYSIA-EGYPT BUSINESS COUNCIL (MEBC) T (03) 2051 3524 E annuar@petronas. com.my MALAYSIA INDIA BUSINESS COUNCIL (MIBC) T (03) 9173 0355 W mibc.com.my MALAYSIA-INDONESIA BUSINESS COUNCIL (MIBC) T (03) 7622 8200

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

W asli.com.my MALAYSIA-JAPAN ECONOMIC ASSOCIATION (MAJECA) T (03) 2078 3788 W majeca.org MALAYSIA-KAZAKHSTAN BUSINESS COUNCIL (MKBC) T (03) 7801 0188 W mkbizcouncil.com MALAYSIA NEW ZEALAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE T (03) 2724 0354 W mnzcc.org.my MALAYSIA NORWAY BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 2171 0000 W mnbc.com.my MALAYSIA PAKISTAN BUSINESS COUNCIL (MPBC) T (03) 4251 9157/ 9158 W malpak.org MALAYSIA-PHILIPPINES BUSINESS COUNCIL (MPBC) T (03) 6195 1111 E fazlyaton.hussein@ alloymtd. com MALAYSIA-POLAND BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 4043 0940 W kualalumpur.trade.gov. pl MALAYSIA-SOUTH AFRICA BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 7710 3799 W jtkconsult.com.my/ msabc MALAYSIA-TURKEY JOINT BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 6204 9811 E [emailprotected] MALAYSIA TURKISH BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MTBA) T (03) 2143 2023 W mtba.co

MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATED INDIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (MAICCI) T (03) 2011 0478 W maicci.org.my MALAYSIAN ASSOCIATION OF HOTELS (MAH) T (03) 4251 8477 W hotels.org.my MALAYSIAN BUSINESS COUNCIL UAE (MBCU) T (03) 6204 9811 W mybc-uae.com MALAYSIAN DANISH BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 2713 6532 W mdbc.org.my MALAYSIAN DUTCH BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 2722 8335 W mdbc.com.my MALAYSIAN-FINNISH BUSINESS COUNCIL T (03) 2713 6532 W mfbc.org.my MALAYSIAN FRENCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY T (03) 2714 6151 W mfcci.com MALAYSIAN-GERMAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (MGCC) T (03) 9235 1800 W malaysia.ahk.de MALAYSIAN INTERNATIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (MICCI) T (03) 6201 7708 W micci.com MALAYSIAN IRISH BUSINESS NETWORK T (03) 2164 0616 W mibn.com.my MALAYSIAN-RUSSIAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION T (03) 9207 9700 W malruba.org

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MALAYSIAN SPANISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY T (03) 2148 7300 W lacamara.org.my MALAYSIAN-SWEDISH BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (MASBA) T (03) 2284 2851 W masba.my MALAYSIAN TURKISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY T (03) 4021 7945 W mtcci.org NATIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY OF MALAYSIA (NCCIM) T (03) 6204 9811 W nccim.org.my SAUDI COMMERCIAL OFFICE T (03) 2141 2653 E saudicommercial [emailprotected] SWISS–MALAYSIAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION Hp (012) 747 8799 W smba.org.my TAIPEI ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL OFFICE IN MALAYSIA T (03) 2161 4439 W roc-taiwan.org TAIPEI INVESTORS’ ASSOCIATION IN MALAYSIA T (03) 2274 6344 W tiam.com.my THE JAPANESE CHAMBER OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY MALAYSIA (JACTIM) T (03) 2142 7106 W jactim.org.my TRADE REPRESENTATION OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION IN MALAYSIA T (03) 4256 6646 W minpromtorg.gov.ru/en

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CONNECTIVITY – FOREWORD

The Strait of Malacca is one of the busiest trade routes in the world, carrying more than 80,000 vessels annually. Over 50% of seagoing ships ever built are said to have passed through it during the past 500 years. Our location astride this main shipping channel between the Indian and Pacific Oceans makes Malaysia a crucial logistics hub, ranked 2nd in ASEAN and 12th in the world for trade and connectivity. Malaysian shipping ports are among the busiest and most efficient in Asia, collectively ranking 4th in the world for container handling. The two largest, Port Klang and Port of Tanjung Pelepas, are ranked 12th and 18th respectively in the global Top-20. Port Klang alone handles more containers than all of India’s ports combined. Malaysian ports are also among the world’s fastest for vessel turnaround times, serving as transhipment hubs for the largest global container lines. Our airports provide advanced handling facilities for every type of cargo, and connections to over 1,000 destinations. These shipping ports and airports are connected by an extensive network of modern roads and railways to all major cities and industrial zones. Malaysia is also fortunate to have one of the most advanced logistics sectors in the world, integrating seamlessly with the manufacturing, distribution, wholesale and retail sectors to position the country as a global leader in digital logistics and online business. Our well-educated, highly trained, English-speaking workforce is flexible and multi-skilled, while industrial relations are excellent. Our government works closely with the private sector to facilitate investments in logistics and related services, and to develop ever more advanced transport and communications infrastructure. Many top logistics firms have chosen Malaysia as their base for Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean region, including the world’s largest retailer from China. In the following section, you will see precisely what has attracted these investors to Malaysia, and how well-connected our country is both domestically and internationally.

Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam

Group Managing Director, Westports Holding Berhad

CONNECTIVITY Malaysian Highways - Safer, Quicker and More Convenient Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Klia2 Airport Listing Malaysia Airlines MASKargo MASwings AirAsia Berjaya Air Firefly Malindo Air

Hornbill Skyways Sabah Air SKS Airways Flying Academies Aerospace and Aviation Malaysia by Rail Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur Klang Valley Rail Transit Map KTM – Malaysian Railway Sabah State Railway Eastern & Oriental Express Ports

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LEMBAGA LEBUHRAYA MALAYSIA KM-6, Jalan Serdang-Kajang 43000 Kajang Selangor Darul Ehsan T (03) 8738 3000

Malaysian Highways - Safer, Quicker and More Convenient Malaysia’s comprehensive closed toll expressway network is ranked as the best in Southeast Asia and the 4th best in Asia after

China, Japan and South Korea. Thirty highways with a total length of over 2,000 kilometres are in operation or under construction. They are mostly managed by private concessionaires and supervised by the Malaysian Highway Authority under the Ministry of Works. Malaysia’s highways offer direct links between major cities, reducing travel time and offering drivers a smooth ride. Some are part of the Asian Highway Network, an international project between Asian nations to develop their highway systems. Peninsular Malaysia’s North-South Expressway (NSE) is the nation’s longest expressway at

784km. Constructed between 1988 and 1994, it was the first major Malaysian infrastructure project with private sector involvement. Prior to the NSE’s construction, Federal or State roads built and maintained by the government provided the main linkages between various cities, towns and villages. The NSE runs from the Thai border at Bukit Kayu Hitam in the north to Johor Bahru at the southernmost tip of the Eurasian landmass. It connects Kuala Lumpur to all major towns and cities along Peninsular Malaysia’s western coast. The NSE is complemented by the North-South

The attractively landscaped Tanjung Malim Interchange on the North-South Expressway.

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A familiar northern landmark, the 13.5km Penang Bridge has been connecting the mainland and Penang Island since 1985.

Expressway Central Link (ELITE Highway), the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), the Seremban-Port Dickson Highway (SPDH), the Kulim-Butterworth Expressway (BKE), the Malaysia-Singapore Second link Highway (Secondlink), and the two Penang Bridges connecting Penang

Island to the mainland. The high concentration of highways in the Klang Valley caters to the estimated 4 million vehicles in the area. The most notable is the Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART), which doubles as a flood prevention system for parts of Kuala Lumpur. It is

The Ampang–Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) is the first elevated highway in Malaysia.

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Malaysia’s longest tunnel, Southeast Asia’s longest stormwater drainage tunnel and the world’s longest multi-purpose tunnel. Its success at simultaneously easing traffic congestion and preventing disastrous flash floods earned SMART the UN Habitat Scroll of Honour Award in 2010. Other major urban highways are: the Sprint Highway, the first double deck highway in Malaysia, connecting the major suburbs of Petaling Jaya, Damansara Jaya, Damansara Utama and Bandar Utama in the Klang Valley; the Damansara Puchong Highway (LDP) which runs 40km from Sri Damansara to Serdang, linking major townships along the way; the 7.4km Ampang Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH), connecting Ampang and

Kuala Lumpur’s UN award-winning Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART) is the world’s longest multi-purpose tunnel.

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The Overhead Bridge Restaurant at Ayer Keroh on the North South Expressway allows travellers to dine in comfort while watching the traffic.

Ulu Klang to the heart of the city; and the 26km Maju Expressway (MEX) which provides the shortest route between Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), Putrajaya, Cyberjaya and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLlA). Getting to the scenic East Coast is effortless, thanks to the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway and the 358km East Coast Expressway (LPT). Together they run

from Kuala Lumpur’s Middle Ring Road 2 all the way to Kuala Terengganu, connecting Genting Highlands, Temerloh, Mentakab, Kuantan, Chukai, Kemaman, Kerteh, Kuala Dungun, Kuala Berang and many popular resorts. Extensions are planned to Kota Bharu in the north and Johor Bahru in the south. Not every highway is private sector built and operated. The toll-free

One of the Malaysian Highway Authority’s Traffic Control Centres, where the flow of vehicles is constantly monitored and managed.

East-West Highway (Lebuhraya Timur-Barat) crosses the Titiwangsa Range, the mountainous spine of Peninsular Malaysia, reducing travel time between Grik, Perak, in the west and Jeli, Kelantan, in the east by several hours. Constructed by the Public Works Department (JKR) between 1970 and 1982, it was later extended to Kulim, Kedah, by 2005. With its hilly terrain, tunnels and elephant crossing signs it is one of Malaysia’s most picturesque routes. In East Malaysia, the Pan Borneo or Trans Borneo Highway, currently being extended and upgraded to a dual carriageway by JKR, links Sabah and Sarawak with Brunei and the Kalimantan region in Indonesia. When completed, the Malaysian portion will run 2,083km from Sematan in southwest Sarawak to Serudong in southeast Sabah, connecting to Lundu, Bau, Kuching, Serian (with a spur road to West Kalimantan), Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri, Brunei, Limbang, and Lawas in Sarawak and Sindumin, Sipitang, Beaufort, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Lahad Datu and Tawau in Sabah. In addition to its expressways, Malaysia also has an extensive 85,000km network of Federal and State roads which offer tollfree alternative routes. They connect virtually every town, city, suburb and village in

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

Help is never far away. Emergency telephones are located every 2 kilometres on all Malaysian expressways.

Peninsular Malaysia and most locations in Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysia’s longdistance highways not only get travellers to their destination safely but also offer a pleasant experience along the way. Rest & Service Areas are located every 50 to 80km with eateries, toilets, play areas, petrol stations, surau (Muslim prayer rooms), ATMs and payphones. They are continuously being upgraded to cater to the ever-increasing traffic, which can exceed 2 million vehicles over a busy holiday weekend. Two unique Overhead Bridge Restaurants, located at Sungai Buloh and Ayer Keroh along the NSE, give users the opportunity to dine in air-conditioned comfort above the traffic. Lay-bys are located every 25 to 50km along the highways and provide

parking, toilets, shelters and pay phones for travellers making a quick stop before continuing their journey. Most toll highways no longer accept cash and require prepaid electronic payment systems such as Touch ‘n Go, PLUSMiles and SmartTAG, while RFID payment stickers are also being introduced. Traffic information centres broadcast traffic information over the radio, electronic message boards and the Internet. Luminescent signs visible 24 hours provide vital information including directions and distance to exits. Additional signs identify rest and service areas, interchanges, federal roads, state roads and tourist destinations. The national speed limit is 110km/h on multi-lane expressways and 90km/h on Federal and State roads (unless otherwise indicated). These limits are lowered

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for built-up areas, strong crosswinds and certain road conditions. Enforcement cameras monitor vehicle speed and an Automated Enforcement System (AES) is being expanded nationwide by the Road Traffic Department (JPJ). Safety is a top priority. Regular maintenance is carried out rigorously to ensure road surfaces meet strict guidelines. There are streetlights at intersections and along dangerous stretches and “cats eyes” are placed on the road surface to guide travellers at night. Emergency telephones are located every 2km, and each highway has a hotline number for a 24-hour highway patrol service to render assistance to anyone in need. Malaysia’s highway networks are world class and travellers will find them a pleasant and convenient way to see the country.

PLUS Ronda highway patrol officers assist at a breakdown on the North South Expressway.

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KL INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 64000 Sepang, Selangor T (03) 8777 8888 W malaysiaairports.com.my

LOCATION / ROUTE KL International Airport (KLIA) is situated in Sepang district, 50km south of Kuala Lumpur. A good network of highways and expressways links KLIA to the rest of Peninsula Malaysia.

A380, its two terminals (see below) are equipped to handle a combined total of 75 million passengers annually. It is also one of the region’s major air cargo hubs, with an annual capacity of more than 1 million metric tonnes. Its three independent 4,000 metre runways can handle up to 78 aircraft movements per hour, managed by two control towers. Two passenger-friendly terminals, KLIA Main and klia2 (see next chapter) have a total of 161 passenger aircraft bays; 85 in KLIA Main including

are available to multiple locations throughout Malaysia and Singapore. Taxi: Airport Taxi counters offer regulated, coupon-based taxi, limousine and family van services to selected areas in Kuala Lumpur and surroundings. PLEASE NOTE: Extensive safety measures have been implemented to help mitigate the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Please refer to the KLIA website for full details.

MAIN FEATURES KLIA has been one of the world’s most popular airports since its opening in 1998. Designed to accommodate aircrafts as large as the Airbus Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi

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HOW TO GET THERE Car: From Kuala Lumpur via the North-South Expressway and Elite Highway, from Seremban and Melaka via the Nilai Interchange. Approximately 1 hour from KL and Petaling Jaya, and 45 minutes from Shah Alam. More than 6,000 parking bays are available plus valet parking. Train: The Express Rail Link (ERL) offers two high speed services. KLIA Ekspres is the fastest service between airport and city (KL Sentral) at 28 minutes non-stop, or 33 minutes to klia2 while KLIA Transit also stops at Bandar Tasik Selatan, Putrajaya & Cyberjaya and Salak Tinggi, taking 35 minutes to KL Sentral or 40 minutes from klia2. The KTM Komuter Batu Caves-Tampin line runs from Nilai Station to KL Sentral and 24 other destinations in the Klang Valley and Negeri Sembilan. Frequent connecting buses run from Nilai to KLIA with the combined journey from KL Sentral taking an hour. Bus: An express bus service operates from 5am-12.30am to and from KL Sentral. Stage Buses operate from 4.15am12.30am to Putrajaya and Nilai. Long-distance services

Rated one of the world’s greenest airports, KLIA’s design concept of ‘airport in the forest, forest in the airport’ extends far beyond the passenger areas.

Sepang F1 Circuit

klia2

KL International Airport

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The departure level of KLIA’s Main terminal.

38 remote bays and 76 in klia2 including 11 remote bays. The airport currently caters to over 60 airlines serving more than 120 direct destinations and connects to more than 1,000 indirectly. A state-of the-art baggage system with high speed conveyors, advanced electronic control and online screening at check-in ensures that passengers do not get delayed. Anjung Spotter, a 40-person observation deck on the airport’s perimeter, provides panoramic views to plane

Two Aerotrains carry international passengers to and from the Satellite Building in less than 3 minutes.

spotters and aviation enthusiasts. KLIA MAIN TERMINAL KLIA Main, the airport’s original terminal, opened in 1998. It comprises the Main Terminal Building and Satellite Building, linked by two aerotrains carrying up to 3,900 passengers hourly each way. All departure and arrival formalities are completed at the Main Terminal Building. Domestic boarding is at the Main Terminal Building and international boarding at the Satellite Building.

The Business Travellers Centre (BTC) at the Satellite Terminal. Business visitors staying 14 days or less are fast-tracked through strict COVID-19 screening, entering the county within hours.

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The passenger areas were designed with the concept of “Airport in the forest, forest in the airport”, where travellers are surrounded by green space. An entire section of rainforest was transplanted into the Satellite Building, popularly known as the “Jungle Boardwalk”. KLIA PASSENGER FACILITIES Services and amenities include plenty of restaurants, high quality duty-free shopping, abundant banks and

KLIA’s Calm Room is the centerpiece of The Butterfly Effect, a set of facilities catering to passengers with hidden disabilities such as autism.

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money changers, Wi-Fi in all passenger areas, multiple airline lounges and a Business Centre in the Satellite Building. The 24hour Tourism Information Centre in the Main Building provides among others hotel and transport booking. The Malaysian Healthcare Travel Council Medical Concierge and Lounge provides reception services and a rest area for medical visitors. Sama-Sama Express in the Satellite Building offers a restful stopover for transit passengers. The Butterfly Effect, a set of facilities catering to passengers with hidden disabilities such as autism, includes a Calm Room in KLIA Main and

The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council provides concierge and reception services as well as a lounge with rest area for medical visitors.

Sensory Walls throughout KLIA Main and klia2. Facial Recognition Technology allows passengers to pass through each touchpoint, from check-in to the boarding gate, minimizing physical contact. A

children’s playground, medical centre, passenger pick-up service, buggy service, luggage storage, smoking rooms and surau (prayer rooms) complete the extensive passenger facilities.

klia2 64000 KLIA Sepang, Selangor T (03) 8777 8888 W malaysiaairports.com.my

LOCATION / ROUTE klia2 is located just 2km from KLIA Main and is accessible via the same network of highways and expressways (see previous chapter). HOW TO GET THERE klia2 shares the same transport connections as KLIA (see previous chapter). All public transport services at klia2 operate to and from the Transport Hub, Level 1, gateway@ klia2 (see below). Inter-Terminal Transfer: A free 24-hour shuttle bus service operates between KLIA and klia2 at 10-minute intervals, also stopping at the Long Term Car Park. Passengers may also use the Express Rail Link (4 minutes, see previous chapter) during operating hours for a nominal fee.

The stylish Departure Hall entrance at klia2, designed for effortless access.

MAIN FEATURES klia2 is KL International Airport’s second terminal, with a design capacity of 45 million passengers per annum. To handle increased aircraft movements, its construction included

the world’s tallest airport control tower, standing 133.8 metres above ground. klia2 also has a Main Terminal Building for domestic arrivals and departures and a Satellite Building for international

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KLIA’s Contactless Security Screening System, using facial recognition technology, allows passengers to pass through each touchpoint, from check-in to boarding gate, with minimal physical contact.

arrivals and departures, linked by an airbridge with a moving walkway. Airlines represented include AirAsia and affiliates, Cebu Pacific Air, Indigo Airlines, Jetstar Asia, Scoot Tigerair. PASSENGER FACILITIES klia2 provides a remarkable level of services and amenities for a budget carrier terminal, including restaurants, duty-free shops, banks and money

The Self-Service Baggage Drop (SSBD) facility at klia2 allows an easier and faster travelling experience, with queue times cut by 50% or more.

changers, free Wi-Fi, an AirAsia Red Lounge, SamaSama Express (airside transit hotel), medical centre, passenger pick-up service, buggy service, luggage storage, shower facilities, smoking room and surau (prayer rooms). The Self-Service Baggage Drop (SSBD) facility allows an easier and faster travelling experience, with baggage drop queue time cut by 50% or more.

gateway@klia2, a bustling shopping, dining and service complex integrated into the airport’s second terminal.

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gateway@klia2 gateway@klia2, located between the drop-off area and Main Terminal Building, is a bustling integrated retail complex. Its 350,000 square feet of net lettable area is home to over 120 retail, F&B and services outlets catering to the needs of travellers and visitors, as well as the Transport Hub, Plaza Premium Lounge and two hotels.

Throughout klia2, all waiting and holding areas are designed for maximum passenger comfort and convenience.

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Penang International Airport.

AIRPORTS LISTING All airports in Malaysia are operated by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad except for Senai International Airport, Johor, and Tanjung Manis STOL Airport, Sarawak. MALAYSIA AIRPORTS HOLDINGS BERHAD T (03) 8777 7000 W malaysiaairports.com.my INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS SELANGOR KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL Airport (KLIA) T (03) 8777 8888 klia2 T (03) 8778 5500/ 01/ 02 SKYPARK TERMINAL SULTAN Abdul Aziz Shah Airport

Subang T (03) 7845 1717 JOHOR SENAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (07) 599 4500 Owned & operated by MMC Corporation Berhad T (03) 2071 1000 KEDAH LANGKAWI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (04) 955 1311 MELAKA MELAKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (06) 317 5860/ 5287 PENANG PENANG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (04) 252 0252

SABAH KOTA KINABALU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (088) 325 555/ 511 SARAWAK KUCHING INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (082) 454 242 MIRI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT T (085) 615 204 DOMESTIC AIRPORTS KEDAH SULTAN ABDUL HALIM AIRPORT Alor Setar T (04) 714 4126/ 5345 KELANTAN SULTAN ISMAIL PETRA AIRPORT

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Kota Bharu T (09) 773 7400 LABUAN LABUAN AIRPORT T (087) 416 007/ 415 PAHANG SULTAN AHMAD SHAH AIRPORT Kuantan T (09) 531 2123 PERAK SULTAN AZLAN SHAH AIRPORT Ipoh T (05) 318 8202/ 04 SABAH LAHAD DATU AIRPORT T (089) 881 033 SANDAKAN AIRPORT T (089) 667 786 TAWAU AIRPORT T (089) 950 777 SARAWAK BINTULU AIRPORT T (086) 339 163

Labuan Airport.

Marudi, Malaysia’s busiest stolport.

LIMBANG AIRPORT T (085) 212 090

Sabah Kudat

SIBU AIRPORT T (084) 307 770

Sarawak Ba’Kelalan Bario Lawas Long Akah Long Banga Long Lellang Long Seridan Marudi Mukah Mulu Tanjung Manis – owned and operated by Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation T (082) 473 000

TERENGGANU SULTAN MAHMUD AIRPORT Kuala Terengganu T (09) 667 3666 STOL AIRPORTS (Short Take-off or Landing) Peninsular Malaysia Pulau Pangkor Pulau Tioman Pulau Redang

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MALAYSIA AIRLINES Malaysia Airlines Berhad Administration Building Southern Support Zone, KLIA 64000 Sepang, Selangor Toll-Free: 1 300 88 3000 (within Malaysia) T (03) 7843 3000 (outside Malaysia) W malaysiaairlines.com

Malaysia Airlines (MAB), the national carrier, was founded in 1947 as Malayan Airways, renamed as Malaysian Airline System (MAS) in 1992 and re-established as Malaysia Airlines Berhad (MAB) in 2015. Operating from its KLIA base and secondary hubs in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, it flies to over 50 destinations throughout Malaysia, Asia, Oceania, United Kingdom and the Middle East. Its membership of the exclusive oneworld® airline alliance extends its connectivity to over 1,000 destinations across 150-plus countries, with access to more than 650 airport lounges worldwide. MAB is part of the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), a global aviation organisation comprising three focused business portfolios, namely

Malaysia Airlines’ superbly appointed business-class cabins offer first-class levels of comfort and service for the busy traveller.

Airlines, Aviation Services and E-Commerce & Travel Services. Under MAG, Malaysia Airlines seeks to develop and strengthen its brand by building on its proud track record of service excellence. It is emphasising the country’s rich traditions, cultures and cuisines across all customer contact points under its rebranding tagline “Malaysian Hospitality

Begins With Us”. Malaysia Airlines already has a solid base on which to build a truly global brand, having received more than 100 industry awards in the last decade. The Malaysia Airlines fleet comprises 47 Boeing B737 narrow-body aircraft and several types of Airbus widebody aircraft, including 21 A330s and six A350s.

A Malaysia Airlines Airbus A-350-900 in flight. This state-of-the-art “XWB” (extra Wide Body) airliner brings unsurpassed levels of comfort and efficiency to air travel in Southeast Asia.

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MAB KARGO SDN BHD (MASKARGO) 1M Floor, Core 2, Zone C Advanced Cargo Centre Kuala Lumpur International Airport 64000 Sepang, Selangor T (03) 8777 2020 W maskargo.com

MAB Kargo, the multiple award-winning air cargo division of the Malaysia Aviation Group, operates three A330-200F aircraft covering the world’s major cargo hubs. Together with the ample belly space capacity on Malaysia Airlines passenger fleet, it serves more than 100 destinations worldwide. It is based at KLIA’s Advanced Cargo Centre (ACC), a 108-acre complex located within a free commercial zone designed especially for MAB Kargo’s state-of-the-art cargo handling facilities, with a capacity of one million tonnes annually. Today, MAB Kargo has developed into a global brand by becoming one of the most trusted cargo carriers particularly in Asia. MAB Kargo also offers a comprehensive range of value-added products and services,

The very first shipment of COVID-19 vaccine to arrive in Malaysia. The MH Centigrade service ensures that pharmaceutical products arrive in perfect condition.

including comprehensive ground, express and security handling services; a dedicated Halal Logistics Zone (HAL Zone) for fully compliant shipping of halal products; a one-stop Perishable Centre for

time- and temperature critical cargo; MH Centigrade service to transport pharmaceutical, biologics and high-value perishable products; and a 6-star Animal Hotel complete with 24-hour veterinary care.

A family pet being checked into the 6-Star Animal Hotel to ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience.

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MASWINGS SDN BHD Malaysian Airlines/MASwings Administration Building Kota Kinabalu International Airport 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah P.O. Box 10194, 88802 Kota Kinabalu T (088) 515 450/ 515 448 W maswings.com.my/en

MASwings, East Malaysia’s first commuter airline, caters to the air travel needs of Sabah and Sarawak’s travellers by providing affordable fares, convenient schedules and connections within and across the two states in Borneo as well as the Federal Territory of Labuan. It supports the aspirations of Sabah, Sarawak and the Federal Territory of Labuan and contributes to the socioeconomic development of the region. MASwings also serves destinations in the BIMP-EAGA region such as Brunei, on code sharing and Tarakan (Indonesia). The airlines’ six DHC-6400 Twin Otter aircrafts operating out of Miri, form the Rural Air Services, providing a vital lifeline to some of the remotest rural communities in Sarawak. They fly regular scheduled services to 11 rural STOLports (STOL short take-off and landing) many of which are inaccessible by road. Being a subsidiary of the Malaysian Aviation Group, MASwings also links with Malaysia Airlines Berhad and Firefly for greater global connectivity.

The 19-seater DHC-6-400 Twin Otter aircraft provides a lifeline from Miri to some of the remotest rural areas in Sarawak.

The ATR 72-500 connects major towns and cities in East Malaysia.

MASwings was first incorporated on 17 May 2007. It was officially launched and started operations on 01 October 2007. As of today, MASwings serves a total of 23 destinations with main bases in Kota Kinabalu and Miri. MASwings fleet includes 8 ATR 72-500 and 6 DHC6-400 Twin Otter aircrafts and is supported with a total staff strength of close to 370 throughout Sabah, Sarawak and the Federal Territory of Labuan.

MASwings - on board comfort.

The friendly crew also pays special attention to its younger passengers, and ensures they feel welcome and safe during their journey.

MASwings is proud of the recognition and accolades awarded such as Sabah State Special Tourism Minister Award (2013), Sarawak State Hornbill Special Award (2013), Certificates From Viking Air Limited and Pratt & Whitney for MASwings Viking Twin-Otter (2017) and two awards from the Malaysia Book of Records (2018) for MASwings under the purview of the Ministry of Transport Malaysia being the Rural Air Services (RAS) operator.

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AIRASIA BERHAD RedQ, Jalan Pekeliling 5 Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA 2) 64000 KLIA Selangor T (03) 8660 4333 W airasia.com

AirAsia is the largest low-cost carrier in Asia and services an extensive network of more than 380 routes to over 140 destinations across Asia-Pacific. Since its inception in 2001, AirAsia has carried over 500 million guests via its hubs in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, India and Japan, and has grown its fleet from two aircraft to more than 260. AirAsia has made waves in air travel across the region by providing affordable air fares - true to its

An AirAsia female pilot doing co*ckpit preparation.

An AirAsia Airbus A320 in flight.

motto, “Now Everyone Can Fly” - sparking demand for air travel and opening up new destinations, routes and markets. The airline was a pioneer in using the internet and mobile phones for flight searches, bookings, check-in and ancillary services, and today boasts cutting-edge digital products such as its inflight entertainment and connectivity platform AirAsia WiFi, Asia’s money app BigPay and AirAsia BIG Loyalty programme. AirAsia’s network is well supported by AirAsia X, Asia’s first true long-haul, low-

AirAsia X Premium Flatbed is equivalent to a business seat on a full service carrier.

cost carrier, which operates from Kuala Lumpur to 27 destinations, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the Middle East, Australia and the US, as well as from Bangkok (Don Mueang), Thailand. AirAsia X was the first long-haul, low-cost carrier to introduce Premium Flatbed seats with standard business class specifications, installed across its Airbus A330-300 fleet. In Malaysia, AirAsia operates from its hubs in Kuala Lumpur (KLIA2), Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu, while AirAsia X operates from KLIA2. Among its accolades, the airline has been named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline 11 years in a row at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, known as the Oscars of the aviation industry. AirAsia has also been named the World’s Leading Low-Cost Airline for the sixth consecutive year at the 2018 World Travel Awards (WTA), where it also won the World’s Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew award for a second straight year.

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BERJAYA AIR SDN BHD Berjaya Air Hangar Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport 47200 Subang, Selangor T (03) 7847 3550/ 1338 W thetaaras.com/fly-me-away

Berjaya Air, Malaysia’s pioneering “Sun, Sea and Sand” airline, connects to Redang Island (Pulau Redang), a leading beach resort and leisure destination, from Subang (Kuala Lumpur’s conveniently located city airport). Berjaya Air has been flying to Malaysia’s spectacular tropical islands since 1989. Its Redang Island service operates all year round, which makes it by far the most convenient way to access the Redang Archipelago, especially during the high seas at the peak of the monsoon season. It flies 6 times weekly in high season and 3 times weekly in low season. The airline currently operates an ATR 42500 aircraft, equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and GPS navigation system, which is amongst the most environmentally friendly aircraft currently flying. The plane sports a special

Berjaya Air’s ATR 42-500 aircraft livery features a sea turtle with beautiful underwater scenery, reflecting the Berjaya Group’s commitment to sea turtle conservation.

livery featuring a sea turtle with beautiful underwater scenery, reflecting the Berjaya Group’s commitment to sea turtle conservation. It shares the name ‘Jojo’ with the resident turtle of the Taaras Beach & Spa Resort. Guests may have the opportunities to spot Jojo and swim with it if they go snorkelling or diving in the surrounding waters of the resort.

Fares are fully inclusive of free use of the SkyLounge by Naza at Subang Airport, in-flight refreshments, express boarding and 15kg baggage allowance. The flights are chartered from Berjaya Air by Berjaya Hotels and Resorts, with seats available on a flightonly basis, or as flight and accommodation packages in conjunction with Taaras Beach & Spa Resort.

The large cabin windows on the ATR 42-500 offer spectacular views of Malaysia’s dramatic East Coast scenery.

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FLYFIREFLY SDN BHD Lot R-01, 3rd Floor, CITTA Mall 1, Jalan PJU 1A/48 Ara Damansara 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor T (03) 7845 4543 (call centre) W fireflyz.com.my

Firefly, a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group, is a full-service short haul airline with many of the price characteristics of a low-cost carrier. Its main hubs are Subang Airport in Selangor (the regional city airport for Kuala Lumpur) and Penang International Airport. It operates a fleet of twin turboprop ATR 72-500 aircraft, optimised for fuel

One of Firefly’s new Boeing 737 800 jets alongside the company’s principal workhorse, the comfortable and practical ATR 72-500 (right).

efficiency, passenger comfort and safety and reliability. Firefly’s ATR 72s offer spacious cabins equipped with plush leather seats and soft ambient lighting for a more comfortable journey. Firefly focuses on two main markets: targeted niche destinations; and major domestic and regional destinations where passengers prefer the convenience of flying from

Although its routes are all under 2 hours, Firefly offers full cabin attendant service with in-flight beverages as well as pre-booked meals.

Subang, as well as Firefly’s hassle-free check in, fast and easy boarding and free 20kg baggage allowance. Its routes cover 8 destinations in Peninsular Malaysia. International flights to Singapore (Seletar Airport), phu*ket (Thailand) and Bandar Aceh (Indonesia) will resume when conditions allow. Firefly offers free in-flight service for snacks and beverages. A prebooked meal option is available at Subang, with pick up from the airport before boarding. During 2021, Firefly will launch jet operations out of Penang, connecting to Johor Bahru and to Kota Kinabalu and Kuching in East Malaysia. International jet services will be added as markets gradually re-open. Operations will commence with a fleet of three Boeing 737-800s, offering additional comforts and conveniences including aerobridge facilities, Malaysia Airlines Enrich points, seat selection, in-flight hot meals and many more.

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BATIK AIR Meritus @ Oasis Corporate Park B2-1-01 Jalan PJU 1A/2 Ara Damansara 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor T (03) 7841 5388 (call centre) W malindoair.com

Batik Air, formerly known as Malindo Air, is a Malaysianbased airline with main hubs at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Subang Skypark, the convenient KL downtown city airport in Selangor. Batik Air started its ATR72600 operations from Subang Skypark on 3 June 2013. By October 2018, the fleet had grown to 13 ATR72600 and 29 Boeing 737 NGs. The airline has also obtained the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and full IATA airline membership. The carrier operates scheduled passenger services throughout Malaysia, and to popular regional destinations. Since its first international flight - Kuala Lumpur to Dhaka, Bangladesh, 28 August 2013 - the airline quickly spread its wings to Thailand, India, Indonesia, Singapore, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka,

A state-of-the-art Batik Air Boeing 737-8 on the tarmac.

Australia, Pakistan and China, covering an extensive network of more than 50 routes. Batik Air prides itself in offering attractive fares, on-time flights and excellent customer service both on-ground and in-flight. Pre-Covid, Batik Air had 800 weekly flights. With the reopening of more international borders, after almost two years of global travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 crisis, Batik Air will ramp up its schedules with recommencement of services to destinations in Australia, China and India. It has plans to further expand its route network to cover more of the Asian region in the future. Batik Air takes pride in

its full service business model, whereby comfort is made available for all. With attractive fares and services comparable to full-service airlines, Batik Air has a growing presence as the ultimate choice for travellers young and old. Batik Air Malaysia codeshares with Turkish Airlines and Batik Air Indonesia, and interlines with Xiamen Air, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Turkish Airline, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, Air Mauritius, APG Airlines, Emirates, Royal Jordanian, Uzbekistan Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Pakistan Airlines and Eva Air.

Batik Air offers a fully inclusive meals and drinks service in its very well-appointed Business Class.

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HORNBILL SKYWAYS SDN BHD Corporate Office: Level 2 Bangunan Yayasan Sarawak Jalan Masjid, 93400 Kuching T (082) 415 737 W hornbillskyways.com Kuching HQ North Pan Hangar Kuching International Airport 93528 Kuching, Sarawak T

(082) 455 737

Miri Base Miri International Airport 98008 Miri, Sarawak T

(085) 611 066 (085) 616 400 New Hangar

Hornbill Skyways has been providing air travel to the remotest and most densely forested areas of Sabah and Sarawak since 1978. The Company’s HQ and principal operational base is at Kuching International Airport. It also maintains a base in Miri to serve the northern region of Sarawak, meeting the aviation needs of Miri/Mulu, Bintulu, Limbang and even Kota Kinabalu in neighbouring Sabah. Aircraft are available for passenger charter, sightseeing flights, aerial filming and photography, emergency medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and

Built for comfort: Hornbill’s state-of-the-art Bombardier Challenger CL605 executive jet.

aerial surveying (including aerial mapping, powerline surveys, timber surveys and geospatial imaging) as well as conventional and underslung freight/cargo transport with ground handling services. Hornbill Skyways is owned by Sarawak State Government agencies and one of its principal tasks is flying VVIPs, including the Governor and the Chief Minister. The company is uncompromising when it comes to standards of safety and quality and also provides back up equipment, comprehensive maintenance and associated ancillary assistance for its fleet. Its engineering facilities and personnel have the capacity to provide a wide range of maintenance, repair and ground handling services, all of which meet the strictest requirements of the Department of Civil Aviation of Malaysia. The Hornbill Skyways fleet

includes 10 rotary-wing and four fixed-wing aircraft. The helicopter fleet comprises two 6-seater Bell 206 L4 Long Ranger, one 4-seater Bell 206 B3 Jet Ranger, five twin engine Eurocopter EC135 with 5-seat executive layout and one twin engine Eurocopter EC155 with 5-seat executive layout. Fixed-wing aircraft include one 5-seater Beechcraft Super King Air B200 GT turboprop, two 8-seater Beechcraft King Air 350i turboprops and one 12-seater Bombardier Challenger CL605 executive jet.

Aerial Photography made simple: the Bell 206 L4 Long Ranger’s doors dismount quickly and easily.

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SABAH AIR AVIATION SDN BHD Sabah Air Building, Jalan Johor Off Jalan Selangor, Tanjung Aru 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 484 733 W sabahair.com.my

Sabah Air has been providing air charter services within Sabah and throughout Malaysia since 1975. Wholly owned by the Sabah State Government, its HQ and operational base is at Kota Kinabalu International Airport. It also maintains bases at Kuala Lumpur (Subang Airport), Sandakan Airport, Tawau Airport and Ipoh Airport. Aircraft are available for passenger charter, VIP transfer, skydiving, aerial filming and photography, Flying Doctor Services and MEDEVAC, Surveying, Aerial mapping, geospatial and digital imaging, as well as conventional and underslung cargo. Tourism services are also offered, including island transfers and aerial tours of Mount Kinabalu and the Kuala Lumpur Skyline. Sabah Air adheres to the strictest safety policies and complies rigorously with the

The rugged and adaptable GAF Nomad N22B gives Sabah Air easy access to many of Malaysia’s most remote airstrips.

requirements of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), not only with regard to its flying services but also its various engineering workshops and line maintenance facilities, including an in-house training school. It is the preferred charter airline for both State and Federal government agencies in Sabah, and is widely used by VVIPs, including the Head of State,

the Chief Minister and Cabinet Ministers. Sabah Air’s mixed fleet comprises 9 helicopters and 3 fixed-wing aircraft. These include 4 Bell 206 Jetranger, 4 Eurocopter AS355 twinengine, an Agusta Grand 109 twin-engine VIP transport, a Beechcraft 200 Super King Air, a GAF Nomad N22B STOL utility/commuter aircraft and a Gulfstream G-200 business jet.

Ready to fly anywhere. Sabah Air’s helicopter fleet can be reconfigured for land or marine operations, depending on client requirements.

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SKS AIRWAYS Unit 3.02, Level 3, Plaza DNP 59, Jalan Dato’ Abdullah Tahir 80300 Johor Bahru, Johor T (07) 332 5333 W sksairways.com

SKS Airways, a subsidiary of the diversified SKS Group, is Malaysia’s newest commercial airline, yet its unique business model harks back to the days when flying was still fun. The reason? SKS’s fleet of De Havilland Canada DHC-6-300 Twin Otter aircraft. This 19-seat twin-turboprop is well-known globally for toughness and reliability, with excellent Short Take Off and Landing (STOL) capabilities that enable it to operate comfortably from short airstrips. It is highly maneuverable, versatile, flexible, probably the most successful STOL airliner of all time. The Twin Otter is ideally suited for flying to the remote island getaways SKS is targeting in its route network that are otherwise only accessible by boat. A bonus is the relatively low cruising altitude and large windows, offering passengers superb

De Havilland Canada DHC-6-300 Twin Otter 9M-KIB, operated by SKS Airways, landing at Pangkor Island after the company’s maiden flight from Subang Airport.

views throughout their flight. SKS is the first operator to fly the Twin Otter commercially in Peninsular Malaysia, although it has been used very successfully in Sabah and Sarawak. SKS received its full Air Service Licence (ASL) from the Malaysian Aviation Commission (MAVCOM) effective Jan 1, 2022. It launched operations on 26 January 2022, with routes serving two of Malaysia’s most beautiful islands, from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport), to Pulau Pangkor in the Straits of Melaka

and to Pulau Redang in the South China Sea. An additional route is planned from Subang to Pulau Tioman from 1 May 2022. Passengers may use the SkyLounge at Subang Airport for a nominal fee. Each passenger is allowed one piece of hand baggage, (max 3kg) and up to 3 pieces of checked baggage (max 7kg combined). SKS’s Twin Otter aircraft are also available for charter, primarily to companies, special interest groups and associations, travel agents and tour operators.

Welcome to your island adventure! Passengers share the cabin space with the pilots on the Twin Otter, which adds a delightful personal touch to SKS Airways flights.

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Cargo Airlines All major airlines operating to and from Malaysia also offer cargo services, while many international cargoonly carriers serve KLIA and other international and regional airports. Malaysia also has a number of homegrown Cargo Airlines that leverage their specialist local knowledge and connections to offer highly competitive solutions to domestic and regional logistical requirements. MYJET XPRESS AIRLINE SDN BHD Star Avenue D-26-G D-26-1 & D-26-2 3, Jalan Zuhal U5/179 Commercial Centre Arena Bintang, Section U5 40150 Shah Alam Selangor T (03) 7734 1380

An M Jets International Kargo Express Boeing B737-800BCF freighter returning from Hong Kong to KLIA with a full payload. This daily KUL-HK service offers 5,000 cubic feet of cargo space on the main deck and 1,540 cubic feet for bulk cargo.

RAYA AIRWAYS SDN BHD Raya Complex Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport 47200 Subang Selangor T (03) 7884 9898 M JETS INTERNATIONAL SDN BHD Trading as Kargo Xpress Mezzanine Floor CS1 Cainiao Aeropolis eWTP Hub

FCZ KLIA Cargo Village Jalan KLIAS3, 64000 Sepang Selangor T (03) 8703 3008 WORLD CARGO AIRLINES SDN BHD 40, Jalan Warisan Sentral 2 KIP Sentral, Kota Warisan 43900 Sepang Selangor T (03) 8706 0206 Hp (012) 723 8272

World Cargo Airlines’ 9M-WCA was the first Boeing 737-800BCF freighter to be operated in Southeast Asia. With weekly flights to India, China and various Southeast Asian cities, it is driving WCA’s mission to become a major regional logistics player.

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Flying Academies In line with its growth as a major aviation hub, Malaysia nowadays has a welldeveloped aviation training sector. Eight flying academies offer a comprehensive range of professional fixed wing and helicopter pilot courses, while flying clubs (see page 246-247) offer private pilot (PPL) training. In addition, major aircraft manufacturers and training providers have set up simulator-based academies for training of existing pilots on various aircraft types. All facilities are fully regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia. CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY OF MALAYSIA 27, Persiaran Perdana Level 1-4 Blok Podium 62618 Putrajaya T (03) 8871 4000 W caam.gov.my ASIA AERONAUTICAL TRAINING ACADEMY SDN BHD (AATA) 17-01, Jalan Terminal 1 81400 Senai, Johor T (07) 595 5012 W aata.edu.my Fixed Wing Training HELANG FLYING ACADEMY SDN BHD Sapura Aero Hangers Senai Aviation Park 81250 Johor Bahru Johor T (07) 595 5279 W helangflyingacademy.com Helicopter Training

A new intake of students take their first steps to a professional flying career at Layang Layang Flying Academy.

IATAC cadets busy preparing for navigation sorties under the watchful eyes of their flight instructor.

HM AEROSPACE SDN BHD Jalan Kuala Muda Padang Matsirat 076100 Langkawi, Kedah T (04) 953 2000 W hmaerospace.com Fixed Wing Training

MAB ACADEMY 2, Jalan SS7/13, Kelana Jaya 47301 Petaling Jaya Selangor T (03) 7863 7500 W malaysiaairlinesacademy. com

INTERNATIONAL AERO TRAINING ACADEMY SDN BHD (IATAC) 14179-1, Off Jalan M44 Taman Merdeka 75330 Batu Berendam, Melaka T (06) 3192181/ 82 W iatac.edu.my Fixed Wing Training

AIRLINE PILOT, CABIN CREW & GENERAL AVIATION TRAINING MALAYSIA AVIATION ACADEMY (MAvA) Jalan Pekeliling 2 64050 Sepang Selangor T (03) 8777 9000 W mava.dca.gov.my Air Traffic Controller Training

LAYANG LAYANG FLYING ACADEMY SDN BHD Terminal 2, KKIA, Tanjung Aru 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 448 042 W layanglayangflying academy.com Fixed Wing & Helicopter Training

MALAYSIAN FLYING ACADEMY SDN BHD 13617-1, Off Lapangan Terbang Batu Berendam 75350 Melaka T (06) 337 9033 W mfa.edu.my Fixed Wing Training

Helang Flying Academy’s advanced Airbus EC120B FNTP II Helicopter Training Simulator.

Aspiring pilots getting their first hands-on experience of the training aircraft at IATAC.

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Aerospace and Aviation Introduction Aerospace activity in Malaysia is very diverse, including research, design, manufacturing, assembly and integration. The country’s manufacturing strengths are aircraft parts and assembly, wing parts and components, with finished products exported to the US, Singapore, the UK, China and France. Services offered focus on aviation support and solutions, including MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul), operations and services, and industryrelated education and training. Malaysia has developed a strong aerospace supply chain with some 230 international and local companies employing 27,600 skilled workers. In

Transport Minister Datuk Seri IR Wee Ka Siong (left) viewing one of the Kuala Lumpur Air Traffic Control Centre (KLATCC) workstations with Tan Sri Khairul Adib, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM). Looking on are (L-R) Datuk Isham Ishak, Transport Ministry Secretary General, Datuk Captain Chester Voo, CEO of CAAM and Mr. Noor Izhar Baharin, Deputy CEO Operations, CAAM.

2020, due to the impact of COVID-19, the industry generated some RM11.6 billion in revenue, compared to RM16.2 billion in 2019. With the effective

The Transport Minister (2nd right) and Secretary General (3rd right) being briefed on the new KLATCC in Sepang. When completed, it will be among the worlds most advanced. Apart from being a comfortable workplace for Malaysian Air Traffic Controllers, its efficiency will allow more traffic movements per hour into KLIA.

implementation of industrial development strategies, the Malaysian aerospace industry should contribute an annual revenue of RM30 billion and create 30,000 highly-skilled jobs by 2025, according to International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali. The Government has identified the aerospace industry as a strategic sector with high growth potential. In 2015 it launched the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030, charting the long-term development of the industry and targeted to make Malaysia the leading aerospace nation in Southeast Asia and an

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enhance competitiveness. It is the focal point linking industry players, Government ministries and agencies and academia to work collectively to strengthen capability and capacity and to create a conducive and sustainable ecosystem for the industry’s development.

Malaysia Aerospace Summit 2021 (MyAERO’21): Prof. Ts. Shamsul Kamar Abu Saman (Head of NAICO) presenting a paper on Professional Aerospace Development with Ts. Dr. Ravinthran Mariappan (Moderator - IEM), Ts. Ricky Law (IEM) and Ts. Mohd Taufik Nordin (head of CTRM’s Testing Laboratory).

integral part of the global market by 2030. The industry will be further accelerated under the 12th Malaysia Plan to realise the nation’s aspiration to be a global powerhouse. Industry Facilitator The National Aerospace Industry Coordinating Office was established by

the Ministry of International Trade & Industry (MITI) to undertake implementation and monitoring of aerospace industry development initiatives. It has been upgraded to a Government Agency, the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO) as the industry facilitator, to develop and

Promoting the industry. Prof. Ts. Shamsul (Head of NAICO, 3rd left) with the MITI Pavilion Team from MIDA, MATRADE and MPC at the Defence Services Asia 2022 Exhibition held at MITEC.

Industry Promotional Agencies The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA, see page 414) is the principal Government promotional agency for the manufacturing and selected services sectors. MIDA assists companies seeking to invest in these sectors, as well as facilitating the implementation of their projects. MATRADE (see page 414) is responsible for promoting Malaysian aerospace companies’ capabilities to secure more business in the global arena. Apart from business matching, MATRADE also arranges

Defence Services Asia 2022: Royal Malaysian Air Force Chief, General Datuk Seri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan (2nd right), unveils Malaysia’s first locally-designed and developed tactical UAV, produced by DEFTECH Unmanned Systems Sdn Bhd.

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State of the art Rolls Royce Trent engines power this Airbus A350, seen at the ILA Berlin Air Show 2016. The engine fan casings, critical to the aircraft’s safety, are made by UMW Aerospace, the first Malaysian company to be a Tier1 aerospace engine component manufacturer.

roundtable meetings and discussions between Malaysian aerospace exporters with potential buyers through various local and international programs. 62% of Malaysia’s aerospace companies are located in the state of Selangor. State investment agency Invest Selangor Bhd has established the Selangor Darul Ehsan Aerospace Industry Coordination Office (S-Daico) as a “one-stop centre” for foreign and domestic investors to help facilitate the integration of small and medium enterprises into the global aerospace supply chain. S-Daico aims to position Selangor as the most attractive investment destination for the regional aerospace industry and provides information, advisory services and potential investment opportunities to industry players. Aero Manufacturing Manufacturing accounts

for 26% of activity in the aerospace sector but almost 48% of generated revenues (5.8 billion ringgit in 2020). Composite Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd (CTRM) is the main supplier of Airbus A320 wing components and the single-source manufacturer of Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 fan cowls. Similarly, UMW Aerospace Sdn Bhd is the first company in Malaysia to manufacture fan cases for Rolls-Royce‘s aero engines. Meanwhile, SME Aerospace Sdn Bhd produces components for Airbus A320, A330, A350 XWB, A380 and Airbus Helicopters, as well as pylon components for military aircraft including BAE Hawk AJT. Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) MRO accounted for nearly 50% of aerospace activity in 2020, generating 46% of revenue. Among leading MRO service providers, Sepang Aircraft Engineering

The complex and highly efficient wing of an Air Asia Airbus A320neo, the world’s best-selling airliner, in flight over Ho Chi Minh City. Many of the wing’s advanced composite components are produced by Composite Technology Research Malaysia (CTRM) in Melaka.

Sdn Bhd (SAE) opened its second hangar in 2017, boosting its capacity to handle the Airbus A320 family and complementing its major regional inventory of spare parts for Airbus A320, A330 and A380 aircraft. Asia Digital Engineering Sdn Bhd and Collins Aerospace are also expanding their MRO activities in Sepang and Subang respectively. Education and Training Education and training represented 16% of sector activity in 2020. NAICO has been appointed by the Department of Skills Development (DSD) to promote aerospace skills in the workforce through development of Occupational Framework, National Occupational Skills Standard (NOSS), Malaysia Skills Certification Accreditation of Prior Achievement and study on Supply & Demand of Aerospace Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). As the Technical Expert Panel appointed by the Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT), NAICO promotes the endorsem*nt of aerospace professionals as Professional Technologists (Ts.) and Certified Technicians (Tc.), helping to develop professionalism within the industry. Seven public universities as well as five private

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

A tour by YB Dato’ Teng Chang Khim, the Selangor State Executive Councillor for Industry and Trade, at the Selangor Aviation Show 2021 Exhibition, featuring some of the biggest names in the aerospace industry.

institutions and foreign branch campuses offer degree courses in Aerospace and/or Aeronautical Engineering, while many postgraduate options are available. In addition, Malaysia produces many thousands of science, engineering and technology graduates every year who are eminently qualified to become aerospace, aeronautical and aviation specialists. Research and Technology The Aerospace Malaysia Innovation Centre (AMIC

Dato Captain Norashikin Onn, brand ambassador for Malaysia of Women in Aviation Asia (WiAA). Flying since 1990, she expertly pilots an Airbus A330 for Air Asia, pioneering the way for women commercial pilots in Malaysia.

established 2011) is a non-profit Private-Public Partnership to support and foster the aerospace ecosystem in Malaysia, with research activities led by world class players such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce and CTRM. In addition, NAICO is tasked with establishing the Malaysia Aerospace Centre of Excellence (CoE) to enhance technology and engineering development and build industry capacity in R&D and innovation. Private Aviation Note: For private leisure and recreational flying, please see Flying Clubs (page 246). For pilot training, please see Flying Schools (page 439). Malaysia has a welldeveloped private business aviation industry. As of 2020 there were 57 business jets operating from Malaysia. From the largest hub at Subang International Airport, passengers can travel internationally, and

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in-country to key airports like Penang, Johor Bahru, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, Sandakan, Kuching, Miri, Sibu and Bintulu. The industry also provides connectivity services via helicopters and STOL aircraft to remote locations and small islands. Private business travellers in Malaysia can expect high levels of safety, security, hygiene and Covid-19 management protocols while they enjoy their flights. The WiAA Project – Women in Aviation Asia The WiAA Project is a media platform encouraging and inspiring women to be part of the aerospace industry. Women have played an essential role in the growth and development of the industry, and the WiAA Project will help to increase the visibility of female role models in aviation and related professions to inspire and encourage other women.

WiAA launch at the Regional Aviation Centre Subang (RAC) Execujet Hangar, Sept 10th 2020. From left to right, Kim Rade, Wan Affy, Brandon Ching, Katy Chahal (founder), Dato Capt Norashikin, Dwayne Donowan, Mindy Kon, Raja Sharmaine and Avril Ganguly, all members of the WiAA Team.

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Malaysia’s first railway line opened in 1885, connecting Port Weld and Taiping, the centre of Perak’s tin-mining industry.

Malaysia By Rail Malaysia’s railway system was originally developed for the tin mining industry. The railway line, about 13km long, opened on 1885 and ran between Port Weld and Taiping, the heart of the tin-rich Larut Valley in Perak. The second line opened a year later to link Kuala Lumpur, the centre of tin-mining in the Klang Valley, to Klang and later Port Swettenham (now Port Klang). Long Distance Rail The heavy rail network, operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB or Malaysian Railways, see page 449) uses the metre gauge (1 metre or 3.28 feet) and extends over 1,655km, of which almost half is double tracked and electrified. It covers all

states in Peninsular Malaysia except Terengganu and mostly consists of two main lines: the KTM West Coast Line between Singapore and Padang Besar on the Malaysian-Thai border, which is also connected to the Thai railway network; and the KTM East Coast Line between Gemas, Negeri Sembilan and Tumpat, Kelantan. Upgrading of the East Coast Line is under

consideration to provide easier access to the rapidly developing eastern States. The Malaysian and Singaporean governments have also agreed in principle to construct a Kuala LumpurJohor Bahru-Singapore highspeed rail (HSR) line in the future. Urban & Commuter Rail Prasarana Malaysia Berhad owns much of and currently

The Penang Hill Funicular Railway takes visitors on a scenic trip to the top of Penang Hill. Its carriages are custom-built to ascend the world’s steepest rail tunnel in perfect safety and comfort.

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

The KL Monorail passing Lot 10, Bukit Bintang. Its entire length is elevated, great for close-up views of the city’s vivid scenery and street life.

operates all of Greater Kuala Lumpur’s 151km, 115-station urban rail network via its subsidiary Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd. This comprises Prasarana’s own 3-Line Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the KL Monorail, as well as the Mass Rapid Transit Sungai Buloh–Kajang Line (MRT1) owned by MRT Corp. The current combined daily ridership is approximately 800,000 passengers. MRT’s Sungai

Buloh–Serdang–Putrajaya Line (MRT2) is scheduled to commence operations in 2022. Prasarana’s subsidiary Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd operates the BRT Sunway Line (an elevated bus rapid transit serving southeast Petaling Jaya) and all stage bus services in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, Perak and Pahang. KTMB operates two KTM Komuter routes with 175km of track and 45 stations using its heavy rail network, as well as the 26km Skypark Link connecting KL Sentral to Subang Airport. Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL) owns the 57km high speed airport rail link connecting Kuala Lumpur International Airport to KL Sentral transport hub. It runs two services: the non-stop KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit, a commuter service with three additional stops. Both services extend to the klia2 terminal. The services operated by Rapid Rail, KTMB and ERL combine with the BRT Sunway Line to form the

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Klang Valley Integrated Transit System, a seamless public transport network with cashless payment providing a convenient travel experience. Penang Hill Railway The Penang Hill Railway is a cable-driven funicular railway notable for having the steepest railway tunnel in the world. Opened in 1923, it has been upgraded over the years and can now transport 800 passengers per hour to and from the ground station at Air Itam to the Upper Station, at an altitude of 691.4 metres. Sabah State Railway The Sabah State Railway is the only state-run railway in Malaysia and the only railway on the island of Borneo. It operates passenger and freight services along the 134km metre-gauge line between Tanjung Aru and Tenom in East Malaysia. Its tracks are also used by the North Borneo Railway tourist train (see page 450).

Whether you ride the LRT (left), MRT, KL Monorail or KTM Komuter (right) you can be assured of a safe and comfortable journey.

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SEMASA SENTRAL SDN BHD Level 4, Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur 50470 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2773 8888/ 99 W stesensentral.com

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sky views. The Transit Concourse offers a peoplefriendly environment, with green buffer zones, paved walkways, tactile signage for the blind, as well as courtyards, retail outlets and cafés. Facilities are organised according to level. Levels 1 and 2 offer a variety of shopping

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HOW TO GET THERE Rail: KTM Intercity, KTM Komuter, KTM ETS, KTM Skypark, Rapid KL LRT, KL Monorail, MRT, KLIA Express and KLIA Transit. Bus: Express buses operate to KLIA1, KLIA2 and destinations throughout Malaysia. Intra-city buses such as Go KL and KL Hop On Hop Off operate throughout the city. Taxi: Coupon taxis and e-hailing services operate to KLIA1, KLIA2 and all city & suburban destinations.

MAIN FEATURES Stesen Sentral, the work of award-winning architect Dr. Kisho Kurokawa (who designed KLIA) is the focal point of the entire KL Sentral development. The open terminal design uses natural light, incorporating a threelevel atrium and a translucent dome to provide wonderful

rof n Maa Jala

LOCATION / ROUTE Located in the city centre’s Brickfields district between Jalan Travers, Jalan Damansara and Jalan Tun Sambanthan. Easily accessed from the Federal, Putrajaya, Sprint, Shah Alam, Seremban and Sungai Besi Highways. Short and longterm underground parking is available.

Exterior View of Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur’s main entrance, showing the ease of connectivity to the road transport network.

IN BRIEF Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s principal railway station and integrated transport hub, strategically located within the prestigious KL Sentral CBD development in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Travellers can enter Malaysia via the Kuala Lumpur City Air Terminal (KLCAT), travel rapidly within the city and its suburbs, and explore the length and breadth of the country from this hub.

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The Transit Concourse, which offers a spacious and people-friendly environment from which to start or end your journey.

and fast food outlets, cafés, luggage lockers, baby changing room, clinic, wheelchair service and male and female surau. All of level 3 is dedicated to the Food Court, which offers a wide selection of affordable Malaysian and international dishes. Level 4 has additional male and female surau. The entire complex is monitored by CCTV, 24 hours a day.

Passengers board an LRT train. Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur handles over 200,000 commuters daily.

KLCAT, the KL City Air Terminal, allows air travellers to check in and proceed directly to KLIA via two comfortable express rail services; KLIA Expres (non-stop, every 15 minutes, journey time 28 minutes) and KLIA Transit (3 stops – Bandar Tasik Selatan, Putrajaya/Cyberjaya and Salak Tinggi – every 30 minutes, journey time 35 minutes). Both services

KLCAT check-in area. With the airport just 30 minutes away, checking in downtown is very convenient.

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depart from Ground Level. The surrounding commercial developments include luxury condominiums and service apartments, hotels, high-rise office buildings, a medical centre, shopping mall, fine-dining restaurants and F&B outlets, making Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur the perfect gateway for both business and leisure visitors.

Hungry and thirsty travellers are well-served by a wide range of food and beverage outlets.

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KERETAPI TANAH MELAYU BERHAD (MALAYSIAN RAILWAYS OR KTMB) Corporate Headquarters Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin 50621 Kuala Lumpur T

(03) 2267 1200 (KTMB Call Centre) W ktmb.com.my

KTMB has been moving people and goods around Peninsular Malaysia since 1896. It presides over 1,655km metre gauge (1 metre or 3.28 feet) rail network used for both passengers (KTM Intercity, ETS, Skypark Link, KTM Komuter) and freight (KTM Kargo). KTM Intercity operates the East Coast line between Tumpat, Gemas and Johor Bahru Sentral, connecting to Woodlands, Singapore. Known as the ‘jungle train’, it passes through magnificent tropical rainforest scenery. The ETS (Electric Train Service) provides rapid connections on double-tracked, electrified lines between Padang Besar, KL Sentral and Gemas. The electrified KTM Komuter service carries passengers from as far as Tanjung Malim, Port Klang, Batu Caves and Tampin/

Standard Class

Business Class

The new ETS Business Class was launched in 11th October 2019 with an exclusive 36seat Business Class coach. Passengers enjoy special amenities including travel kits, in-train entertainment, USB ports, attendant service, on-board meals and rotating and reclining seats.

Pulau Sebang into Kuala Lumpur. Skypark Link is Kuala Lumpur’s second airport link, connecting KL Sentral and Subang Jaya to Subang Airport. ETS, KTM Komuter and Skypark Link train services depart from KL Sentral. KTM Komuter tickets can be bought at any KTMB station or vending machine. Tickets for all other services are sold at Concourse Level 2, KL Sentral. KTM Intercity and ETS passengers are advised to purchase tickets in advance via the KTMB official website (see above) or the KTMB Mobile (KITS) app. KTM Kargo provides safe and reliable domestic freight

services. Its network is highly accessible from seaports and inland container depots. It also offers a land bridge crossborder service between the Klang Valley and Bangsue, Thailand. KTMB corporate headquarters is housed in an elegant Moorish-style building dating from 1913, while operations and strategic business units are located at Level 2 of KL Sentral. With Intercity operations relocated to KL Sentral, the historic Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is now a national heritage monument but is still used for ETS and Komuter services.

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SABAH STATE RAILWAY Sabah State Railway Department 1, Jalan Aeropod Off Jalan Kepayan 88200 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 279 300 W railway.sabah.gov.my

NORTH BORNEO RAILWAY Level 2, The Magellan Sutera Resort 1, Sutera Harbour Boulevard, Sutera Harbour 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 308 500 W suteraharbour.com

Scheduled Services Sabah State Railway The Sabah State Railway commenced operations in 1896 and is the only surviving passenger railway on the island of Borneo. It operates a 134km narrow-gauge (1 metre gauge) nonelectrified line running from Sembulan or Tanjung Aru, just south of Kota Kinabalu to Beaufort, then onwards to Tenom in Southwest Sabah, with a total of 15 stations. 16 daily return services carry both freight and passengers. The journey from Tanjung Aru to Tenom takes about four hours, passing through the lush green landscapes of coastal and interior Sabah. North Borneo Railway The route between

The North Borneo Railway’s majestic Vulcan 2-6-2 locomotive builds up a full head of steam as it departs Papar Station to return to Tanjung Aru.

Tanjung Aru and Papar is also served by the North Borneo Railway, the only railway still operating in Southeast Asia. Hauled by an immaculately restored 1956 model British Vulcan 2-6-2 wood-burning locomotive, the railway’s 5 luxurious carriages provide comfortable accommodation for up to 80 passengers. The service operates twice weekly and includes breakfast and a traditional tiffin lunch on board. Full details are available from W suteraharbour.com.

PULAU GAYA

KOTA KINABALU TANJUNG ARU PUTATAN

South China Sea

KINARUT KAWANG PAPAR KIMANIS

BONGAWAN KUALA PENYU

MEMBAKUT

BEAUFORT

SALIWANGAN

HALOGILAT RAYOH

WESTON

PANGI

TENOM

MELALAP

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EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS Malaysian Representative Office 2nd Floor, Yeoh Tiong Lay Plaza 55, Jalan Bukit Bintang 55100 Kuala Lumpur T (03) 2783 1000 W belmond.com/easternoriental express

IN BRIEF This world-renowned luxury private train carries passengers in great comfort between Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. ROUTE The train’s principal route runs from Singapore along Malaysia’s West Coast Line then onwards through Thailand to Bangkok. EMBARKATION POINTS Woodlands Station, Singapore & Hua Lamphong Station, Bangkok, Thailand. OTHER MAIN STOPS Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Kangsar, Kanchanaburi (Thailand).

MAIN FEATURES The sister train of Europe’s VeniceSimplon-Orient Express, the Eastern & Oriental Express is one of the World’s Top Trains, according to the Society of International Railway Travelers, for its exceptional beauty, service, dining and offtrain experiences. The inaugural

The Eastern & Oriental Express passes through idyllic rural and rainforest scenery, while passengers are transported in the lap of traditional luxury (inset).

Singapore-Bangkok journey took place in September 1993 and the Eastern & Oriental Express quickly developed a reputation as one of the most adventurous and exciting rail journeys in the world. Passengers are assured of the highest quality food and service while enjoying dramatic views across the Southeast Asian landscape. The train has two sumptuous Dining cars, two Bar cars (one with a large open-air observation deck), and a Saloon car with a reading room and a boutique.

The entire train is fully air-conditioned, and its sleeping accommodation includes two Presidential cabins, State cabins (4 to a carriage) and Pullman cabins (6 to a carriage). As well as its Classic Journeys between Singapore and Bangkok (3 days 2 nights or 4 days 3 nights) which operate seasonally from midSeptember to mid-April, the train offers a longer 5-night journey, Voyage of Southeast Asia, including stops in Penang and island-hopping through the Gulf of Thailand.

The two sumptuous dining cars offer understated elegance, flawless service and the finest international cuisine.

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Ports – Gateways to Prosperity Malaysia’s ports have been crucial to its growth as a trading and manufacturing nation. The country even traces its history from the founding of Melaka, the world’s greatest trading port in the early 15th Century. Malaysia is strategically positioned along the Straits of Melaka and the Straits of Johor, two of the world’s busiest sea lanes, at the heart of the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT). Malaysia has no less than 21 seaports and 3 inland port terminals, each with a vital role in the nation’s maritime trade. Malaysia’s booming port activity was spurred by privatisation during the 1990’s, with

Port Authorities assuming new roles as regulators. For example, Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Northport (Malaysia) Bhd operate Port Klang under the Port Klang Authority. Most ports in Sarawak are operated by state-owned port authorities. However, Bintulu Port, home of the world’s largest LNG terminal, is operated by Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad and regulated by Bintulu Port Authority, a federal government agency. In Sabah, ports have been privatised to one operator, Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd, with the Sabah Port Authority acting as regulator. Two of Malaysia’s ports are ranked in the world top20, according to the World Shipping Council (2019); Port Klang (12th) and Port of Tanjung Pelepas (18th position).

Penang Port Penang Port Sdn Bhd (Operator) 1, Pesara King Edward George Town, 10300 Pulau Pinang T (04) 210 2211 W penangport.com.my Penang Port Commission (Port Authority) Level 2, Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal 1A, King Edward Place 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang T (04) 263 3211 W penangport.gov.my

Penang is Malaysia’s oldest commercial port, founded by Sir Francis Light in 1786 to compete with the Dutch ports of Melaka and Bengkulu. Its sheltered harbour enables oceangoing vessels to avoid the dangerous shallows of the Straits of Malacca. The port expanded rapidly during the 1970’s-80’s, along with Penang’s manufacturing sector, and is now one of the country’s busiest ports and the main logistics hub

Penang Port’s Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, which can handle the largest cruise liners afloat, has made George Town a popular cruise destination.

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for North Malaysia and Southern Thailand. The three cargo terminals - North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT), Butterworth Wharves Cargo Terminal (BWCT) and Prai Bulk Cargo Terminal (PBCT) - link Penang to more than 200 ports worldwide. All are conveniently located for Penang International Airport and the NorthSouth Expressway, while NBCT has a direct rail link to KTM’s West Coast Line with onward connections to Thailand and Singapore. The Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal can handle the largest vessels afloat, with a capacity of over 1 million passengers per year. Lumut Port Lumut Maritime Terminal Sdn Bhd Lot 1, Lumut Port Industrial Park Mukim Lumut, Jalan Kampung Acheh 32000 Sitiawan, Perak T (05) 698 3333 W lumutport.com

Lumut Port, on the coast of Perak facing the Straits of Malacca, handles dry bulk, break bulk and liquid bulk cargoes within Southeast Asia and between the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, Atlantic Basin, China and Australia/Pacific regions. It comprises two terminals: Lekir Bulk Terminal (LBT) which can handle ships in excess of 180,000 DWT and caters for the TNB Power Plant in Teluk Rubiah; and Lumut Maritime Terminal (LMT) in Kampung Acheh, which handles

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A busy day at Lumut Port’s Lumut Maritime Terminal, Kampung Acheh, with four vessels being worked simultaneously.

liquid bulk, dry bulk and break bulk cargo and can accommodate vessels up to 35,000 DWT. Lumut Port currently handles around 17 million tonnes of cargo per annum, 13 million by LBT and 4 million by LMT. Port Klang Port Klang Authority Mail Bag Service 202 Jalan Pelabuhan Utara 42005 Port Klang, Selangor T (03) 3168 8211 W pka.gov.my

Northport (Malaysia) Bhd Jalan Pelabuhan Pelabuhan Utara 42000 Port Klang, Selangor T (03) 3169 8888 W northport.com.my Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd P.O. Box 266, Pulau Indah 42009 Port Klang, Selangor T (03) 3169 4000 W westportsholdings.com

Port Klang is located on the west coast of Selangor directly facing the Straits of Malacca, 40km southwest of Kuala Lumpur. Formerly known as Port Swettenham, it is Malaysia’s largest port

The four dedicated container terminals at Port Klang’s Northport achieve high throughput thanks to their use of state-of-the-art container handling systems.

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Port Klang’s Westports leverage the spirit of Formula 1 racing to achieve over-the-vessel productivity of more than 294 vessel gross moves per hour.

and leading import and export gateway. Home to two container terminals, Northport and Westports, Port Klang opened in 1901 and has since evolved into a sprawling metropolis, home to many thriving manufacturing industries as well as shipping-related businesses. Port Klang registered a positive growth in container handling of 10.3% in 2019 compared to 2018 with a total of 13.58 million TEUs. This is the highest volume achieved since the port began container operations in 1973. Of the two terminals Northport handled 2.72 million TEUs and Westports handled 10.86 million TEUs. Tanjung Bruas Port (formerly Melaka Port) Malacca Port Authority Mail Bag Service 202

Jalan Pelabuhan Utara 42005 Port Klang Selangor T (03) 3168 8211 W mpam.gov.my Tanjung Bruas Port Sdn Bhd 74600 Tanjung Kling Melaka T (06) 351 1766

Tanjung Bruas Port is located along the Straits of Malacca on the southwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is a natural coastal harbour and has served as a commercial entrepôt since ancient times. The port wharfa*ge consists of a T-shaped outer berth which can accommodate vessels up to 20,000 DWT and 170 metre length, and an inner berth for vessels up to 8,000 DWT and 90 metre length. Tanjung Bruas Port handled 986,010 FWT of cargo in 2019, an increase of 38.3% compared to 2018. It also commenced container operations in April 2019 and

achieved a total of 11,731 TEUs over the remaining months of the year. Johor Ports Johor Port Authority Jalan Mawar Merah 2 Pasir Gudang Trade Center 2 81700 Pasir Gudang Johor T (07) 253 4000 W lpj.gov.my Port of Tanjung Pelepas Block A, Wisma PTP Jalan Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas TST 507, 81560 Gelang Patah Johor T (07) 504 2222 W ptp.com.my Johor Port Bhd P.O. Box 151 81707 Pasir Gudang, Johor T (07) 253 5888 W johorport.com.my

The State of Johor has two major ports - Johor Port and Port of Tanjung Pelepas which are both regulated by Johor Port Authority. Johor Port is located at Pasir Gudang on the southernmost tip of

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Peninsular Malaysia within its own free trade zone (the first for a port in Malaysia). Its total berthing length of 4.9km includes the world’s largest edible oil terminal as well as a container terminal (annual capacity of 1.2 million TEUs), bulk and break bulk terminal, liquid terminal and comprehensive warehousing and logistics facilities. It is also certified as an LME port by the London Metal Exchange as well as being a regional commodity hub and the southern gateway multi-purpose port for Malaysia. Johor Port is linked by road and rail to important commercial and industrial centres in Malaysia as well as neighbouring countries. The Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) is Malaysia’s most advanced container terminal,

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The sun rises over Johor Port, Pasir Gudang, the southernmost mainland port on the entire Asian southern region.

offering world-class berth productivity. It is located at the confluence of the main east-west shipping lanes, in a sheltered bay with no tide restrictions and

naturally deep drafts. Its wide 2-way access channel offers a minimal diversion time of only 45 minutes, even for new generation vessels such as Triple E

Port of Tanjung Pelepas is the biggest and most advanced transhipment port in Malaysia.

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and Type G. The adjacent PTP Free Zone is home to extensive manufacturing and commercial activities, which include cargo consolidation, international procurement and regional distribution centres. Today, PTP is ranked as one of the top-20 busiest ports in the world, registering 9.85 million TEUs in 2020. Kuantan Port Kuantan Port Authority Lembaga Pelabuhan Kuantan Tanjung Gelang, Peti Surat 161 25720 Kuantan, Pahang T (09) 585 8000 W lpktn.gov.my Kuantan Port Wisma Kuantan Port, Km 25 Tanjung Gelang 25720 Kuantan, Pahang T (09) 586 3888 W kuantanport.com.my

Kuantan Port is an allweather port facing the South China Sea at Tanjung Gelang on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, 25km north of Kuantan. It is the principal maritime gateway for the East Coast

Economic Region. The port offers over 5km of conventional berthing, including multipurpose, liquid chemical, palm oil, mineral oil and container berths servicing vessels up to 40,000 DWT. Main cargoes are liquid bulk, break bulk, dry bulk and containers. Phase 1 of the New Deep Water Terminal was completed in 2019, enabling Kuantan Port to handle ships up to 150,000 DWT or 18,000 TEUs. Kemaman Port Kemaman Port Authority Telok Kalong, P.O. Box 66 24000 Kemaman, Terengganu T (09) 585 8000 W lpkmn.gov.my

Chukai, facing the South China Sea. One of Malaysia’s deepest seaports, it is the crude oil and iron ore pellet gateway of Peninsular Malaysia. Its 2,158 metres of berthing facilities are distributed across five terminals. The 648 metre East Wharf handles steel billets, iron ore and pallets. The Liquid Chemical Berth and West Wharf are both able to accommodate vessels up to 150,000 DWT. The LPG Export Terminal is capable of handling 1,000 tonnes of LPG per hour. The Kemaman Supply Base handles oil and gas support vessels. Kuching Port

Konsortium Pelabuhan Kemaman Sdn Bhd P.O. Box 62, 24000 Kemaman Terengganu T (09) 863 1590 W epicgroup.com.my

Kuching Port Authority Jalan Pelabuhan 93450 Kuching, Sarawak T (082) 482 144 W kpa.gov.my

Kemaman Port is located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia near the town of

Kuching Port in southwest Sarawak is the state’s oldest port, operating

The Kemaman Supply Base, part of Kemaman Port, operates round the clock in support of Malaysia’s offshore oil and gas industry.

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since 1961. The port has four terminals; Pending Terminal, downriver from Kuching on the Sarawak River, handling vessels up to 12,500 DWT; Senari Terminal and the Independent Oil Terminal, both deep-water terminals further downriver, handling vessels up to 20,000 DWT; and Tebedu Inland Port, a dry port located 100km south of Kuching near the border with West Kalimantan (Indonesia). Larger vessels can be handled by prior arrangement. In 2019, Kuching Port handled 9.05 million tonnes, with containers (240,553 TEUs) the largest contributor. Volume is expected to grow with increasing urbanization and industrialization. Rajang Port Rajang Port Authority Jalan Pulau, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak T (084) 319 004 to 009 W rajangport.gov.my

Rajang Port is situated along the lower reaches of the

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Rajang Port’s Sibu Centre, 113km from the sea, is a major distribution centre for the south central region of Sarawak.

Rajang River (or Batang Rejang), the longest river and longest navigable waterway in Malaysia. It is an important port and distribution centre for the southern central region of Sarawak, providing vital links to major national and regional ports. Sibu, 113km from the sea, is the main operating centre. Its 448metre wharf with depth alongside of 8.5 metres provides four multipurpose berths. The centre

at Sarikei caters mostly for essential and general cargo. The port’s overall annual capacity is 450,000 tonnes and 116,000 TEUs. As Sarawak’s rural infrastructure development continues apace, Rajang Port is poised to be a vital link into the vast hinterland. Bintulu Port Bintulu Port Authority Tanjung Kidurong Road P. O. Box 296 97007 Bintulu Sarawak T (086) 253 888/ 232 800 W bpa.gov.my Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad Lot 15, Block 20, Kemena Land District 12th Mile Tanjung Kidurong Road P. O. Box 996, 97008 Bintulu Sarawak T (086) 291 001 W bintuluport.com.my

Kuching Port’s Senari Terminal is the main container port and import-export gateway for the state capital and Southwest Sarawak.

Bintulu Port is East Malaysia’s largest container port and the 5th largest LNG export terminal in the world. It commenced operation in 1983 and handles a variety of general and containerized

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Sarawak and has barge and trucking services to Sibu. TMP handled 2.35 million tonnes of cargo in 2019, including 35,640 TEUs of container throughput. Miri Port

Bintulu Port is East Malaysia’s largest container port and the 5th largest LNG export terminal in the world.

cargoes, palm oil products, liquid and dry bulk cargoes. With its natural deep harbour, it is a major import and export gateway for Sarawak and the Brunei-IndonesiaMalaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMPEAGA). In 2019, Bintulu handled 45.19 million tonnes of cargo, including LNG (25.42 mil), crude oil (4.41 mil), and containerized cargo (5.50 mil). The rapid development of the industrial sector at Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) (see page 373) areas in Samalaju will also increase the demand for cargo handling services via Bintulu Port.

Rejang River, is one of four ports servicing the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) and the designated port for the Tanjung Manis Economic Growth Area (T-Mega). It has two general berths, an oil, gas and chemical (OGC) jetty with holding capacity of 230,000 containers and 2 million cubic metres of general cargo. With 11 meters access at high tide, TMP can handle vessels up to 32,000 GRT, making it a major transhipment hub for central Sarawak. It is linked by road to all major towns in

Miri Port Authority Jalan Miri Port, Kuala Baram Industrial Estate, Kuala Baram 98000 Miri, Sarawak T (085) 609 009 W miriport.gov.my

Located within the Kuala Baram Industrial Estate, Miri Port is the main feeder port for northern Sarawak. Constructed in 1998, the port features six berths (390 metres total), two transit sheds (5,400sq metres), a 16,000sq metres container yard, a 63,000sq metre timber & general cargo yard with 60 hectares available for further expansion. In 2019, Miri Port handled approximately 5.1 million tonnes, with containerised cargo of around 800,000 tonnes. A planned deepwater access channel is

Tanjung Manis Integrated Port Tanjung Manis Integrated Port Sdn Bhd Bandar Baru Tanjung Manis 96150 Tanjung Manis Sarawak T (084) 613 010 W tmport.com.my

Tanjung Manis Port, 26km from the mouth of the

An aerial view of Tanjung Manis Integrated Port. The Oil, Gas and Chemical Jetty is in the foreground and the Main Terminal is in the centre of the picture.

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The iconic Headquarters Complex of Miri Port Authority, which operates the main feeder port for Northern Sarawak.

set to increase the port’s capacity in the future, while a new Oil & Gas Crew Change Terminal commence operations in 2021. Sabah Ports Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd P.O. Box 203 Pejabat Pos Mini Indah Permai Jalan Sapangar, Sapangar Bay

88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T (088) 483 390 to 399 W spsb.com.my

The state of Sabah has eight ports accessible to international shipping, all run by Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd. They are Sapangar Bay Container Port, Sapangar Bay Oil Terminal, Kota Kinabalu Port (all South

Sepanggar Bay Container Port, operated by Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd, handles over two thirds of Sabah’s entire container throughput.

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China Sea), Kudat Port, Sandakan Port (both Sulu Sea), Tawau Port, Lahad Datu Port and Kunak Port (all Celebes Sea). Sapangar Bay Container Port is a dedicated container port with 5 berths to accommodate vessels up to 45,000 DWT; Kota Kinabalu Port has 7 general cargo berths for vessels up to 16,000 DWT; Sapangar Bay Oil Terminal can accommodate tankers up to 30,000 DWT; Sandakan Port offers 5 general cargo/container berths up to 40,000 DWT and 3 oil jetties (up to 45,000 DWT); Tawau Port offers 5 general cargo/container berths and one oil jetty for ships up to 30,000 DWT. Lahad Datu Port handles vessels carrying palm oil and bulk fertilizer with two jetties each with a 45,000 DWT capacity. Kunak Port is a predominantly palm oil port, serving vessels up to 45,000 DWT. In 2018, container throughput totaled 386,786 TEUs, with Sapangar Bay handling 69% of total throughput. Sandakan Port handled the largest cargo throughput (4.4 million tonnes), followed by Lahad Datu Port (2.3 mil), Tawau Port (2.1 mil), Kota Kinabalu Port (1.16 mil), SBOT (1.15 mil), and Kudat Port (61 tonnes).

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THE EDITORIAL TEAM

The Editorial and Production Team The publisher, Regina Fabiny, has been living in Malaysia since 1984, has 30 years tourism experience and 25 years of running her publishing company. She began her guide book enterprise in 1997, with the first edition of Leisure Guide Malaysia launched by the then Minister of Tourism in 1998. The 3rd edition was published as The Guide To Malaysia in 2003, and has been regularly updated. The 8th edition was launched by the company’s then Patron, the then Prime Minister's Wife, in September 2014. The 9th edition was started in 2017. The Production was interrupted by 3 changes of Government and by Covid-19 lock-downs. However, these unavoidable delays have allowed the editorial team to fully update every article to accurately reflect contemporary Malaysia. This is the most comprehensive guide book yet published about Malaysia and the motherbook of a series covering the country’s constituent states. To date The Guide To Melaka and The Guide To Sarawak have been produced. Several editions have been translated into Arabic, Bahasa Malaysia, French, German, Korean and Mandarin. The Production Team: Hinnah Hamzah, Julia Fabiny, Julina Jamal, Nina Zainorin, Norazah Mohsin, Sarinah Binti Mohd Yunus, Stewart Forbes, Teo Meng Teck, Yasmin Fabiny, and others. Eminent Advisors: Datuk A. Sani Karim, Adjunct Prof. Dato’ Ghazali Mohd Yusof, Tan Sri Dato’ V.C. George. Our heartfelt thanks go out to all who have shared their unsurpassed knowledge and expertise with us and participated in making this book possible. First of all, we would like to thank our supporters for their valuable contributions: Dato’ Che Hamidah Mohd Yusoff, Dato’ Sri Mahmud Abu Bekir Taib, Datuk Dr. Paddy Schubert, Datuk Isham Ishak, Datuk Seri Dr. Victor Wee Eng Lye, Firoz Abd Hamid, Pamela Groll, Puan Sri Saraswathy Devi, Senator Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Utama Dr. Rais Yatim, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Syed Hamid Albar, TYT Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, YM Tunku Dato’ Seri Iskandar Tunku Tan Sri Abdullah, YM Tunku Maziah Mukhtar. We would also like to offer a very special thank you to the VVIP authors of our chapter forewords: Dato' Sri (Dr.) Farah Khan, Datuk Prof. Jimmy Choo OBE, Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, Datuk Redzuawan bin Ismail (Chef Wan), Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam, Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik, Tan Sri Dato' Sri Norza Zakaria, Tan Sri Dato’ Teo Chiang Hong, Tan Sri Lee Oi Hian, Tan Sri Prof. Lim Kok Thay, Tun Ahmad Sarji bin Abdul Hamid, YABhg Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, YM Tunku Soraya Dakhlah Tunku Tan Sri Abdullah. Acknowledgements Supporters & Contributors Adeline Tang, Agnes Yeow-Fournier, Amy Morris, Andreas J. Walther, Andrew Tan (Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week), Angkasa-X, Anil Pillay, Anthony Dass, Association of Development Finance Institutions Malaysia (ADFIM), Bank Negara Malaysia, Bernice Naranayan, Bilqis

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Hijjas, Bintulu Port Authority, Bon Zainal, Bursa Malaysia, Captain Shankar, Chng Keng Lung, Crystal Wong Wai Chin, Damansara Performing Arts Centre, Dato’ Azizan Noordin, Dato’ Dr. Faridah Merican, Dato’ Ho Kay Tat, Dato’ Richard Curtis, Dato’ Seri Khalimullah Hassan, Datuk Dr. Muhammad Roff, Datuk Dr. Vaseehar Hassan, Datuk Jovian Mandagie, David Chin, Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM), Dr. Chong Chee Keong, Dr. Hasnita Hashim, Dr. KM Loi, Dr. Minhaz Farid Ahmed, Dr. Indu Bala Jaganath, East Coast Economic Region Development (ECER), Halal Development Corporation, iPortal LIVE SDN. BHD., Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), Jahabar Sadiq, James Sarda -Chief Editor Sabah Daily Express, Jean-Bernard Boura Johor Port Authority, Julie Chin, Kakiseni, Shufitri Mohd Shukardi, Katy Chahal (WiAA), Kelantan Municipal Council, Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre, Kuantan Port Authority, Kuching Port Authority, Labuan International Business and Financial Centre, Labuan Tourism, Lainie Yeoh, Lumut Maritime Terminal Sdn Bhd, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Malaysian Financial Reporting Standards (MFRS), Malaysian Institute of Architects, Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysian Palm Oil Board, Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn. Bhd., Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries, Ministry of Communications and Multimedia, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment & Climate Change (MESTECC), Ministry of Environment and Water, Ministry of Federal Territories, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Higher Education, Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Miri Port Authority, Mohd Prasad Hanif, Multimedia Authority Sarawak, National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO), Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), Penang Port Sdn Bhd, Penang State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Tourism and Creative Economy, Persatuan Kakiseni, Peter Abisheganaden, Petrie PR, Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS), PIKOM, PJ Live Arts Centre, Pojinn Sim, Polenn Sim, Port Klang Authority, POS Malaysia, Prime Minister’s Office, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Ismail, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mazlin Bin Mokhtar, FASc, Rajang Port Authority, Revathi Murugappan, Roberto Benetello, Sabah Economic Development & Investment Authority (SEDIA), Sabah Ports Sdn. Bhd., Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Bhd., Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation, Sarina Hashim, Sean Ghazi, Securities Commission Malaysia, Serina Hijjas, Shufitri Mohd Shukardi, Siobhan Dass (AmCham), Stefanie Braukman, Tan Sian Ho, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Hj Mohd Morshidi Abdul Ghani, Tan Sri Dr. Noorul Ainur, Tan Sri Dr. Salleh Mohd Nor, The Platform, Tourism Malaysia, Tricia Yeoh (IDEAS), Ts. Shamsul Kamar Abu Samah (NAICO), Urbanice Malaysia, Vicky Fong, Westports Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Women in Aviation Asia (WiAA), Yasmin Fabiny, YM Tengku Abdillah, Zalfian Tun Fuzi. Photo Credits A. MARIADASS ARCHITECT in Collaboration with YTL DESIGN GROUP, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, AFP/Mohd RASFAN, Ahimsa Vegetarian Lifestyle, Air Adventure Flying Club (Aafc), Airasia Berhad, Airbus A320 NEO Pada Airasia By Meandkancil2020, Licensed Under CC 4.0 International, Airbus A350-941 By Julian Herzog, Licensed Under CC 4.0 International, AKA Balloon, Akleh Pro Lintas Group of Companies, Aladdin1, Alena Murang, Annalakshimi Vegetarian Food KL, Asia Musical Productions, Asia Reach Media, Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC), Asiapromote Ventures Sdn. Bhd., ASK Dance Company, Batik Air, Berjaya Air,

462

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Berjaya Times Square, Bernama, Bill Keith, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Borneo Post, Borneo Samariang Waterpark, Bukit Bendera Corporation Pulau Pinang, Bukit Tabur: Schizoparanoia, CC BY-SA 4.0, Https://Creativecommons.Org/Licenses/By-Sa/4.0, Via Wikimedia Commons, Bumi Serasi, By Bernard DUPONT - Malayan Tapir (Tapirus Indicus), CC BY-SA 2.0, https://Commons.Wikimedia.Org/W/Index.Php?Curid=40783751, Carven Ong, Central Spectrum (M) Sdn. Bhd., Ceremonial Mounted Squadron, Chinese Heritage Museum, Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), Cove 55, Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi, Cyberview Resort & Spa, D.J. Dave, Da Men Mall, Datin Amar Margaret Linggi Pua Gallery, Datin Angela Hijjas, Datin Dona Drury Wee, Dato’ Quzier Ambak, Datuk Irwan Shah (DJ Dave), Datuk Peter Nansian Ngusie (Tuak), DEFTECH Unmanned Systems Sdn. Bhd., Department of Agriculture Sarawak, Department of Fisheries Malaysia, Department of Veterinary Services Malaysia, Department of Wildlife & National Parks, Desa Integrated Food Industries Sdn. Bhd., Desaru Fruit Farm, Digital Perak Corporations Holdings, Dorsett Grand Labuan, Doublewoot, Dr Robert Cyril Ong Kim Leong, Duty Free Complex Kuah Jetty, Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang, Edric Ong, Enfiniti Productions, Environmental Management and Research Association of Malaysia (ENSEARCH), Equestrian Association of Malaysia, Equestrian Support Services Sdn Bhd, Ernesto Kalum, Escape Park Penang, Farhan Iqbal, Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah, Firefly Sdn. Bhd., Forest City Golf Resort, Gaharu Technologies Sdn. Bhd., Gamuda Land, Gayana Marine Resort, Genting Simon Sdn Bhd, German-Malaysian Institute, Global Environment Centre, Global Tourism Penang, Gopal Vijayaraghavan Is Licensed Under CC BY 2.0, Hands Percussion, Harith Iskander Bin Musa, Hash House Harriers Petaling Jaya, Heidi Munan, Heineken Malaysia, Helang Flying Academy, Heli Lounge Bar, Heng Ee High School, Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers, Heriot Watt University, Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Hornbill Skyways Sdn. Bhd., Hornland Dance Theatre, Hotel Majestic KL, Hotel Perdana Kelantan, Iain Steel, © Pvt Pauline / CC BY-SA 1.0, I-Gallery @ I-City, Ilham Gallery, Intel Malaysia, International Aero Training Academy Sdn. Bhd. (IATAC), Invest Selangor Berhad, IOI Mall, Putrajaya, IRIS Corporation Berhad, Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia, Istana Negara, Istock Foryouinf, Istock Toa55, Jetty Point Duty Free Complex, Jo Kukathas, Johor Flying Club, Kelantan State Museum, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), Killer Gourmet Burgers (KGB), Kinta Tin Mining Museum, KLCC Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur City Hall Mounted Unit, Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC), Kudat Golf & Marina Resort, Labuan International Business and Financial Centre, Labuan Marine Museum, Layang Layang Flying Academy, Leisure Farm Corporation Sdn. Bhd., Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum, Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, M Jets International, MAB KARGO Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (Myceb), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Malaysian Cocoa Board, Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation, Malaysian Highway Authority (Lembaga Lebuhraya Malaysia), Malaysian International Shipping Corporation (MISC), Malaysian Palm Oil Board, Malaysian Pepper Board, Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB), Malaysian Rubber Board, Malaysian Timber Industry Board, MASWINGS Sdn. Bhd., Media Prima Berhad, Melaka State Government, Melinda Omar, Michael Tsan, My Native Sabah, Mydin Mohamed Holdings Berhad, Mynicegardenblog Elaine Yim, National Archives Malaysia, National Art Gallery, National Automobile Museum, Selangor, National Kenaf & Tobacco Board, National Sports Council Malaysia, Negeri Sembilan Sports Aviation Club (Paragliding), Nestlé (Malaysia) Berhad, Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai, Norhaiza Noordin, Nyoba Kan, One&Only Desaru

THE GUIDE TO MALAYSIA

463

Coast, Pan Borneo Talk, Parkcity Group Malaysia, Pen Marine Sdn Bhd, Penang Hin Bus Depot Gallery, Perak Society of Performing Arts, Perdana Hotel Kota Bahru, Perlis Forestry Department, Peter Sawal, Photo: AFP/Mohd RASFAN (Interceptor), PIKOM, Plus Malaysia Berhad, Pond5, Prince Court Medical Centre, Prof. Dato’ Dr. Haji Mohd Yusof Bin Hj Hashim, Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM), PROTON Holdings Berhad, Pulau Keladi Cultural Village, Putrajaya Holdings, Rahel Joseph, Rainforest Discovery Centre, Rebak Island Marina, Resorts World Genting, Richie Chiam Architect, Ritz Carlton Langkawi, Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, Royal Malaysia Police Mounted Unit, Royal Selangor Pewter, Royal Selangor Yacht Club, RSP Architects, RTM Sarawak, Sabah Air Aviation Sdn. Bhd., Sabah Art Gallery, Sabah Electricity Sdn. Bhd. (SESB), Sabah Flying Club, Sabah International Convention Centre, Sabah Tourism Board, Sabah Aquarium & Marine Museum, Sala Vegan Restaurant KL, Sarawak Convention Bureau, Sarawak Craft Council, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Bhd., Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), Sarawak Forestry Department, Sarawak Media Group Sdn. Bhd., Sarawak State Government, Sarawak Tourism Board, Sari Pacifica Hotel, Saujana Golf & Country Club, Securities Commission Malaysia, Semasa Sentral Sdn. Bhd., sem*nggoh Wildlife Centre, Sereni Linggi, Setia City Convention Centre, Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru, Shawlpublika Fashion, Sheng Wai Dragon & Lion Dance Malaysia, Shutterstock, Siti Nurhaliza Productions, Soleil Restaurant, Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT), SP Setia Developer, Starfresh Agro Park, Stewart Forbes, Sunsuria Berhad, Sutra Foundation, Syarikat Kapasi Sdn Bhd, Syed Omar Almohdzar, T.S.Law Group, Taman Zety Roses Terengganu, Tanoti Weavers, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Terrapuri Heritage Village, The Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, The Brandlaureate, The Children’s House, The Edge Property Sdn. Bhd., The Fortune Dragon, The Habitat Penang, The Haven Resort, The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council, The Malaysia Sports Aviation, The Prestige Hotel Penang, The Smokehouse, The Top Penang, Top Glove Corporation Berhad, Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Malaysia Labuan, Tourism Malaysia Perlis, Tourism Negeri Sembilan, Tourism Sabah, Tropical Spice Garden, Tropicana Corporation Berhad, Two Sons Bistro, UMW Holdings Berhad, Universiti Malaya, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Vicky Fong, Victory Farm, W Wine & Liquor Warehouse, Water Cress Valley, WM Senibong Sdn. Bhd., World Amateur Golfers Championship – Malaysia, World Cargo Airlines, WWF-Malaysia, Yasmin Fabiny, Zobha Sarees. Collage page 8 Top left: His Majesty the King (right) and the Prime Minister (left) at an official function. Top right: Their Majesties the King and Queen of Malaysia. Middle: The King opening the parliamentary session via videoconferencing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bottom left: The King (centre) appointing the Governor (Yang di-Pertua Negeri) of Sarawak (left). Bottom middle: The King and Queen meeting Queen Elizabeth II on a special visit to the UK in September 2021. Bottom right: The King (centre) receiving the credentials of a foreign envoy to Malaysia. Page 9 Their Majesties the King (Yang di-Pertuan Agong) Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin AlMustafa Billah Shah and Queen (Raja Permaisuri Agong) Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah. Pictures courtesy of Istana Negara.

g u i d e b o o k s covering •

"This Guide fills a gap for easier CI figures on Malaysia. I would go sc it functions as a "one-stop-centre on Malaysia". Y.B. Dato' Sri Mustapa Mohamed Minister in t h e Prime Minister's D e p a r t m e n t (Economy)

IRMIANFAUMMA. MADE PAMALAYSA

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