1.
WHAT’S THIS ALL ABOUT?
Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia and is made up of 11 states and 2 federal
territories which form Peninsular Malaysia, which is separated by the South
China Sea from East Malaysia.
Malaysia is a bustling melting-pot of religions; it is a land of striking contrasts and
has an extremely diverse culture. Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other
ethnic groups live together in harmony and they are the basis of the paradise
that people come from far and wide to visit.
Malaysia’s landscape contrasts from towering skyscrapers in the big cities
overlooking the wooden houses built on stilts next to ancient reefs. The
natural terrain has mountains, rainforests and floodplains teaming with forest
life and warm, sandy beaches.
It is the home to hundreds of vibrant festivals, including the Rainforest World
Music Festival which is quickly becoming the largest musical event in
Malaysia and celebrates the diversity of world music.

2.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT
Malaysia is like two countries in one but here are some top picks of where to visit:
Kuala Lumpur: The capital and largest city in Malaysia is visited for many
reasons. Daredevils may want to look out over Kuala Lumpur from the world’s
highest double-decked bridge linking together the Petronas Twin Towers.
Penang: This Island is a popular destination due to its historic George Town, so
maybe join a walking tour through the colonial past. Take a cable car to 821m
above sea level up to Penang Hill and see some of the grandest colonial
mansions.
Kuching: This is a popular base for exploring Borneo’s rainforest. Learn about
the nearby state of Sarawak but visiting the Sarawak Cultural Village.
Langkawi: Located off Malaysia’s north-western coast, Langkawi is an
archipelago of 99 islands making it one of Malaysia’s most popular destinations
with beaches offering powdery white sands.

3.
WEATHER
Malaysia as a country experiences tropical weather all year round with
temperatures ranging from 21ºC to 32ºC. Places of higher elevation are much
colder with temperatures between 15 ºC to 25ºC.
The annual Malaysian rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 5,000m. The wettest parts
of Malaysia are the hill slopes of Sarawak’s inland areas.
For up to date weather in Malaysia visit our partner site World Weather
Online.

4.
CULTURE
Diversity is what defines Malaysian culture. While Malay is the national
language, the many ethnic groups also converse in their various
languages and dialects but English is also widely spoken.
While Islam is the official religion of the country, other religions including
Buddhism and Christianity are widely and freely practised.
Malaysia is a relaxed country but there are some common customs
visitors should try and observe.
Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia as the country’s large
Muslim population does not drink alcohol.

5.
IDEAL FOR…?
Malaysia is ideal for intrepid travellers who want to explore new cultures.
The country has such a diverse landscape that it has beaches to keep sun-
worshippers happy and the wild rainforests for people who are a bit more
adventurous.

6.
WHAT NOW?
Want to read the full travel guide?
For access to all the top destinations, all you have to do is visit our website
or hit the link below!
Malaysia