MIF Monthly - Malaysia: The International Islamic Financial Center
MIF 2007 Issuers & Investors Forum
 
 
Visit Malaysia
 
General Information
 
     
  Malaysia is located in the heart of Southeast Asia. Consisting of 127,000 sq. miles (330,200 sq. km), Malaysia is divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia, which lies just south of Thailand, and East Malaysia, which can be found north of Indonesia on the island of Borneo. These two regions are divided into thirteen states and federal territories. Although East Malaysia occupies the larger portion of Malaysia's total area, it is primarily comprised of undeveloped land and jungles.
 
Malaysia is a land of fascinating sights and attractions. Rich in color and contrasts, her multi-faceted charm provides intriguing images that leave visitors to the country in awe. The natural warmth of Malaysians is legendary; wherever one goes, the friendliness and hospitality of the people would prove to be a very special experience. Malaysia is paradise. Its sun-drenched beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and magnificent mountains are among the best in this region. Many visitors have discovered Malaysia's other attractions: a shopping haven, a versatile conference venue, an incentive destination, an adventure land and much more.
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Tropical without extremely high temperatures. Days are very warm, while nights are fairly cool. The main rainy season in the east runs between November and February, while August is the wettest period on the west coast. East Malaysia has heavy rains (November to February) in Sabah and in Sarawak. However, it is difficult to generalize about the country’s climate, as rainfall differs on the east and west coasts according to the prevailing monsoon winds (northeast or southwest).
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Lightweight cottons and linens are worn throughout the year. Waterproofing is advisable all year.
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Visitors must be in possession of a current passport or other internationally recognized travel document. They must be endorsed for traveling to Malaysia and have a period of validity of at least six months beyond the time of stay allowed in Malaysia. No visas are required for citizens of British Commonwealth countries (except India), British Protected persons, and citizens of the Republic of Ireland, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, San Marino, Switzerland and the United States (for social, business or academic purposes only). No visas are required for stays not exceeding three months for citizens of: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Luxemburg, Norway, South Korea, Sweden, Tunisia, U.S.A., France and Germany (except for local employment).
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Kuala Lumpur is a shopper’s paradise. There is a wide range of shopping establishments and modern air-conditioned shopping malls, department stores, handicraft centers, duty-free shops, bazaars and night markets. Among the items high on the shopping list of tourists are pewter, batik, duty free items, electrical products, sportswear and handicrafts. For a very different experience visit the night markets or 'pasar malam' which begin their trading activities in the late afternoon. These open-air markets feature hawker stalls that sell a variety of local produce, foodstuff, clothing and cakes. Bargaining is a common practice. One can see a number of street artists and traditional medicine vendors.
 
Shopping Malls
 

1 Utama Shopping Centre
One of Malaysia’s top shopping destinations, 1 Utama Shopping Centre has something for everyone from shopping, dining and entertainment to nature. The Platinum Award recipient of the "Shopping Complex of the Year" Retail World Excellence Awards 2006-2007 and National Creativity & Innovation Award 2005 winner has achieved many ‘firsts’ in the industry such as a Sky Mall, tropical Rainforest within a shopping centre and the first home to many international fashion brands entering Malaysia.

Ampang Park
Malaysia's First Shopping Centre

Bangsar Shopping Centre
The Bangsar Shopping Centre is a prestigious neighborhood mall serving the communities of Bangsar, Damansara Heights, Kenny Hills, Sri Hartamas and the nearby Petaling Jaya areas.

Berjaya Times Square
Berjaya Times Square is the largest shopping mall in the country. Anchor tenants including Borders Bookstore, Debenhams, and the largest DIGI IMAX Theatre in South East Asia.

Bintang Walk, KL
Bintang Kuala Lumpur is Asia's answer to the Champs Elysees in Paris and Knightsbridge in London. Located right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, it's designed to bring life back to the city and the city back to life. The area includes two of KL's more up market shopping malls - Lot10 and Starhill Gallery, two five-star hotels JW Marriott and The Ritz Carlton, and the wildest mix of indoor and alfresco dining and entertainment spots.

 

Central Market
A host of local handicraft and other quirky souvenirs. It’s little wonder that this art deco market is top on every traveler’s list. It offers a genuinely local feel and, most importantly, friendly prices. Amble past painters, sculptors, fortune-tellers and traders who have made their home in this former wet market.

 
 

Mid Valley Megamall
A shopping centre with 430 shops on five floors located near Bangsar. Anchor tenants include Carrefour, Jusco and Metrojaya.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
Pavilion_Kuala_Lumpur shopping mall will mirror the many facets of Malaysia and Southeast Asia whilst at the same time become the premier showcase of international lifestyle trends in relation to fashion, cuisine, urban leisure and more.

Plaza Low Yat
The techno-lifestyle centre at the heart of Kuala Lumpur city. You can shop for the latest IT gadgets and peripherals.

Sungei Wang Plaza
One of the most popular shopping centre in KL.

Sunway Pyramid
The best Thematic Mall in Malaysia.

The Craft Cultural Complex, KL 
Great venue for batik, rattan baskets and other traditional handicraft sourced from around the country. In fact, the complex’s main attraction is its community of artists and their workshops.

     
 
The Suria KLCC Shopping Complex

Suria KLCC is Malaysia's premier shopping destination located at Kuala Lumpur prestigious commercial address, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). It offers an array of goods and services to please and pamper the needs of shoppers; from fashion, entertainment, arts & culture to local delicacies and international gourmets.

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Malaysia has many kinds of restaurants almost everywhere in the cities and towns. There are Malay Restaurants, Chinese restaurants, Indian Restaurants, Thai Restaurants and more. Eating out in Malaysia is a real gastronomic adventure. There is such a great variety; spicy Malay Food, a seemingly endless variety of Chinese food, exotic cuisine from North and South India, as well as Nyonya and Portuguese Food. Popular Malaysian dishes include satay, nasi lemak, rendang, roti canai, murtabak, laksa, chicken rice, and fried noodles. Western cuisine is also easily available. In addition, international fast food chains operate in major towns side by side with thousands of road side stalls and food bazaars.
 
Malay Food
The traditional culinary style has been greatly influenced by the long-ago traders from neighboring countries. Malay food is often described as spicy and flavorful...
 
 
Chinese Food
Steamed seafood dumplings with shark's fin, steamed soft noodles with shrimps, steamed crabsticks stuffed with fish paste, deep-fried dumplings with salted eggs and red bean paste...
 
  Indian Food
Spices are the heart and soul of Indian cooking...
 
Hawker Food
Hawkers selling food, fruits or drinks in push-carts or mobile stalls are a common sight around the country, especially on Penang Island...
 
Nyonya Food
Nyonya food, also referred to as Straits Chinese food or Lauk Embok Embok, is an interesting amalgamation of Chinese and Malay dishes...
 
Breakfast
The nasi lemak, which is rice cooked in coconut milk and flavored with cloves and pandan leaves, is an all time favorite...
 
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Seafood Paradise

8, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2143 1101

Located in downtown KL on Jalan Conlay, this restaurant is a sprawling establishment, stylishly casual in presentation with detailed attention paid to service and quality of food. A pork-free restaurant, probably one of the cheaper ‘live’ seafood places around and it is always guaranteed of the best supply.


Yoko's

36, Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2144 3378
http://www.yokos-kl.com
A modern architectural design offers an interesting tropical view. The interior echoes this design and while the ambience is informally tropical, the food is authentically Japanese with a touch of fusion. The gastronomically fulfilling menu offers all the traditional dishes such as sushi/sashimi, teppanyaki, noodles and a variety of side dishes


Al Bait Lebanese Restaurant

38 Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2141 9007, 603 2142 9007

The menu features traditional and contemporary Middle-Eastern cuisine. There are selections of dips, salads, mains and desserts. Highly recommended dishes include the roasted lamb served with bread and Hummus.

Aseana Café
G 15 Ground Floor , Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50888 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 03-2163 5701

Bright and spacious 24-hour restaurant serving daily buffet breakfasts and lunches. Complete with rustic "kampong house" decor, it is more renowned for its local offerings. High- tea on weekends features a wide range of tea-time favorites.

Bacco Ristorante Italiano
No 5 Jalan Liew Weng Chee, Off Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603-2171 1190

Named after the God of Wine, this Italian restaurant offers great choices from selections of appetizers, soups, salads, mains, pastas and desserts. Authentic recipes are given innovative twists but retain their true “home-made” tag by architect turned Chef Luciano Miri.

Bangkok Jazz
Lot B1 Chulan Square, 92 Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2145 8708

Chulan Square’s contemporary outlook enables individual operators to create individual designs for their outlets to reflect each one’s unique concept. As such, this restaurant offers both great Thai food and tasteful jazz.

Biba's Cafe
Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 380 8888

A contemporary setting, this all-day cafe also features a gourmet coffee bar. The interactive buffet counters serve international favorites and local specialties for both lunch and dinner. The standard hotel wine list applies.

D' Tandoor (Menara KL)
Lot 6&7, Upper Ground Floor, Jalan Punchak Off Jalan P Ramlee 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2072 0202

A comfortable interior accented with Indian artifacts and an expansive menu, are the hallmarks of D'Tandoor restaurants. Apart from the usual tandoori dishes there are additional flavors of crab and prawn tandoori. Specialties include nawratan khurma and prawn masala

Jake's Charbroil Steak
LG11 Lower Ground Floor, Starhill Shopping Centre 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 03-2148 1398

The cozy Western theme is apparent throughout this steakhouse. Established for more than a decade ago, this outlet is known for its steaks and spare ribs. For those who prefer variety, there is also a selection of seafood and poultry.

Lafite
Shangri-La Hotel, Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur, 11, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2032 2388

A couple of million ringgit refurbishments later, this is still the place to go to for classic French cuisine now projecting an even more opulent ambience. Imaginative and innovative French fare is served with élan.

Lai Po Heen
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2380 8888

Classic dining setting offering a comprehensive range of Cantonese cuisine. The food is unpretentious although presented creatively. Signature dishes include paper-wrapped steamed chicken and spiced meatballs. An interesting item in the dessert section is the durian pancake. A variety of fresh juices and Chinese tea are available.

Little Penang (KLCC)
No 409, 410, 411, Suria KLCC, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 03-2163 0215

Specializes in authentic Penang Nyonya (blends of Chinese and Malay) food and Penang hawker favorites such as asam laksa (noodle in spicy soup) and nasi lemak Penang (coconut rice served with chicken).

Luna
Pacific Regency Hotel Apartments, Level 3, Menara Pan Global, Jalan Punchak (off Jalan P Ramlee), 50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2332 7777

Come nightfall, Luna the place is alive with the young and trendy. The menu veers more to Italian cuisine with the foot-long hot dog and escargots as firm favorites.

Passage Thru India
235, Jalan Tun Razak, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2145 0366

The decor is typically Indian with selected artifacts from the subcontinent. The menu is devised in such a way that it takes a diner on a culinary journey right from the North to the South of India. The tandoor oven offers a variety of tandoori dishes served with authentic Indian baked breads.

Rahsia
13, Jalan Damai Off Jalan Tun Razak, 55000 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603 2142 5555

A refurbished 60's bungalow, the setting is designed to suit different moods. Diners can opt to dine indoors or on the patio. Featuring Asian and Western cuisine, the food is well prepared and served innovatively.

The Ivy
No 48,Jalan Doraisamy, 50088 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 03-2693 2260

One of the latest to open at Asian Heritage Row, The Ivy attempts to revive old English classics in a cozy and intimate environment. From its décor to the food served, you won’t be disappointed if you’re an English fan. “An English Affair” is held every Wednesday after 10pm.

A more comprehensive list of restaurants can be found at http://www.dinemalaysia.com

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Petronas Twin Towers Skybridge

At a dizzying height of 452 meters, Petronas Twin Towers, a pair of 88-storey buildings, are the world's tallest free-standing towers. Apart from offices, these awesome towers also house a state-of-the-art concert hall--the Petronas Philharmonic Hall, home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and the Petronas Performing Arts Group. The designs on the towers are based on geometric patterns common in Islamic architecture. Special features of the towers include the double-deck sky-bridge and high speed double-deck lifts. The first few floors house shopping arcades restaurants, a science museum and the concert hall and are the only floors open to public. Admission is free; however tickets are limited and issued daily on a first-come-first-served basis.

Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Kuala Lumpur 50088 Malaysia
+60 3 2282 8000
Open Hours Tuesday - Sunday 9.00am – 5.00pm
Sky bridge closed for Friday Prayer from 1.00pm - 2:30pm
Closed on Monday except on a Public Holiday
http://www.petronas.com.my/

 
Aquaria KLCC
Located inside Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre which is a 10 minutes walk from the Petronas Twin Towers, it is accessible through the underground interlink from Tower Records in Suria KLCC. Discover what it is like to drift through the tropical rainforests.

Wade through shallow waters as stingrays slip and glide. Find out how it feels to be swimming side by side with Sand Tiger Sharks. With over 5,000 different creatures and the latest in advanced interactive technology, Aquaria KLCC will stimulate your senses and open up your mind to the fascinating world under the sea.
 


Some of the highlights of the aquarium include a 90 metre long underwater tunnel, the 10 foot long gigantic Arapaima, touch pool encounter along with the death-defying shark feedings at the Aqua Theatre. The aquarium is open from 10am - 10pm daily, with last admission at 9pm.

Aquaria KLCC,
Concourse Level,
Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre,
Kuala Lumpur City Centre,
Kuala Lumpur.
Tel:  03-2333 1888
http://www.klaquaria.com/maina.html

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Sunway Lagoon is strategically located in the township of Bandar Sunway in Petaling Jaya. Spanning 80 acres, the Lagoon draws fun seekers from all over with its reputation as a fascinating land of fun and excitement. Sunway Lagoon is separated into 3 major themed lands, each boasting their own exciting attractions. Find entertainment, adventure and excitement all in place. A place where you will bring back more than just memories. Sunway Lagoon, being part of Malaysia's first fully-integrated themed resort - Sunway Lagoon Resort, offers visitors the convenience of a 5-star hotel, a grand shopping mall right next door and other ultra-modern facilities.

3, Jalan PJS 11/11, Bandar Sunway,
46150 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor, Malaysia.
Tel number: 603-5639 0000
http://www.sunwaylagoon.com/


Batu Caves
This is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in Malaysia and a popular tourist attraction. The Caves are popular not only for being the southern-most limestone outcrop in the Northern Hemisphere, but the labyrinth that makes up the Batu Caves also supports a variety of exotic wildlife. There is a 272-step concrete staircase leading to the temple cave. The main cave holds a shrine of Lord Subramaniam, a Hindu deity. A cave gallery is located at the foot of the caves featuring clay figurines and wall paintings depicting scenes and figures from Hindu mythology. Admission: Free


Batu Caves Sri Subramaniam Temple
Kuala Lumpur 68100 Malaysia
+60 3 6089 6284
Open Hours 6.00am – 9.00pm
Monday - Sunday

 






 

KL Tower
Statuesque at a height of 421 meters, the imposing tower is reputed to be the highest in Asia and the fourth tallest telecommunications tower in the world. One of the distinctive architectural features of Menara Kuala Lumpur is a dome-shaped arch at every doorway on the upper ground floor, decorated with glass pieces that illuminate like giant diamonds. Visitors can enjoy a bird's eye view of the city from either the height of the observation deck or from the revolving restaurant. Check website for full details.

Jalan Puncak
Kuala Lumpur 50250 Malaysia
+60 3 2020 5444
Email: menara@menarakl.com.my
Opening hours 9.00am – 10.00pm daily
http://www.menarakl.com.my/


Central Market
Central Market is a cultural centre-cum-shopping mall and is the best place to witness Malaysian culture, art and craft. A variety of goods are sold here, including handicrafts, souvenirs and art, all at reasonable prices. Amid the stalls selling an array of souvenirs are small outlets where Malaysian artists display their works. Visitors may even have their portrait painted or order custom-made handicrafts. Just outside Central Market is a riverside amphitheatre, venue for traditional dance displays, wayang kulit (shadow puppet) shows and more contemporary entertainment.

Jalan Hang Kasturi
Kuala Lumpur 50050 Malaysia
+60 3 2274 6542
Opening hours 10.00am – 10.00pm daily


Petaling Street

Also known as Chinatown, Petaling Street is one of Kuala Lumpur's most popular tourist destinations. In the evenings, a line of stalls come to live in front of the pre-war shops, offering products of every description, from fake leather goods to the obligatory "Dunhill" watches. The area attracts many locals and visitors in search of bargain items, including inexpensive dresses, shoes, fabrics and souvenirs. It transforms itself into a bustling and lively night market when part of the road is closed to traffic at about 6pm.

Petaling Street
Kuala Lumpur 50000 Malaysia
+60 3 2693 6661 (Kuala Lumpur Tourist Information Centre)

 


Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

Located in the serene and scenic Lake Garden (Taman Tasik Perdana), the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is a bird sanctuary and tropical paradise for nature lovers. Spanning three hectares of verdant valley terrain, it is one of the largest parks in Southeast Asia. Featuring thousands of birds representing nearly every major species of this region, the park is also a haven for plants with a great variety of lush foliage. Visitors will enjoy strolling through the park along a maze of walkways, amidst greenery. Scenic rest stops for picnics are scattered throughout the park. Check website for full details including admission prices.

Jalan Cenderawasih
Kuala Lumpur 50480 Malaysia
+60 3 2272 1010
Email : klbirdpark@po.jaring.my
Open Hours 9.00am - 7:30pm daily
http://www.birdpark.com.my

 

 

National Museum
The National Museum is a palatial structure adopting the style of old Malay architecture. Its imposing entrance is flanked by murals depicting aspects of Malaysian culture and history. Inside there are exhibits on local history, culture and traditions, arts and crafts, economic activities, currency, weapons and local flora and fauna. Outside, old locomotives, vintage cars and other relics of transport from days gone by can be found. Reconstructed Malay palaces from other parts of the country also grace the expansive grounds. Admission: Free

Jalan Damansara
Kuala Lumpur 50566 Malaysia
+60 3 2282 6255
Opening hours 9.00am – 6.00pm daily

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Beach paradise
 
 

Comprising two geographical sections – Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah & Sarawak in North Borneo – Malaysia possesses many beautiful beaches. With the Peninsula’s long coastline and over two hundred islands, visitors are spoilt for choice for beaches with soft white sand, warm inviting waters, brilliant tropical sunshine and rustic fishing villages. Both the enthusiast and professional will find a host of activities to suit them; be it the simple pleasures of beachcombing or the delightful sport of scuba diving. The beaches range from the smooth sandy stretches of East Coast to the unique black sand beach of Pantai Pasir Hitam and the pebbled beach of Pantai Batu Kerikil (both of which are found in Pulau Langkawi, Kedah). Many of Malaysia’s beaches are found nestling in secluded islands and coves, making them the perfect place for a peaceful vacation. Water activities are aplenty for those who crave adventure but an alternative would be to slap on some sunscreen, grab a beach towel and soak up the sun.

 

West Malaysia

Langkawi

A true tropical paradise, Langkawi is steeped in history. Its past is full of legends of wronged maidens and lovelorn princesses, all of whom have left their mark for prosperity.


Tioman
Set like a glittering jewel amidst the South China Sea, the largest of a group of 64 volcanic islands, Tioman Island, beckons the visitor with its white beaches and crystal clear azure seas.

 


Pangkor
Pristine beaches and vibrant tropical forest.


Penang
This is a paradise island where one can enjoy an abundance of sun, sandy beaches and glorious, glorious food!

 

  Redang
Surrounded by crystal clear waters, pearly white shores, and what could be the world's most mature coral garden...


Perhentian

Surrounded by a virgin jungle, swaying palm trees, white sandy beaches, warm sapphire blue waters, and a colorful coral garden...

Lang Tengah
Crystal-clear water, pristine beaches and untouched tropical jungle. It's arresting beauty lingers forever in your memory. An island you can call your own.. private and tranquil.

Kapas
This island is renowned for its pure emerald waters, white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, dazzling marine life, and superb coral formation.

Pulau Besar
Located off the east coast of Johor - 15 km from Mersing, the Besar Island is another Malaysia’s paradise island.

East Malaysia

Lankayan
This small paradise island, with stretches of white sandy beaches, swaying casuarinas pines and beautiful sunsets is another island with only one dive resort

Layang-Layang
Layang-Layang is a tiny oceanic island surrounded by a coral at all.



Sipadan
Acknowledged as one of the best diving and unique spots in Southeast Asia...

Labuan
Labuan is an island that is located approximately 8km off the coast of the state of Sabah at the mouth of the Brunei Bay.


Eco-Adventure
 
 

Malaysia hosts the biggest cave chamber and one of the oldest tropical rain forests plus many more eco attractions for the adventurous. Malaysia is a paradise for enthusiasts who are game for 4x4 off road adventure, caving, camping, trekking, mountain climbing, white water rafting and fishing. Malaysia is also home to over one hundred waterfalls and more to be discovered and explored.

 

West Malaysia

Taman Negara National Park & Gunung (Mount) Tahan

Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia’s premier National Park, covers 4343 square kilometers covering Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu state is 130 million years old, the oldest rain forest in the world. The highest mountain in the Peninsular, Gunung Tahan, 2186 meters stands in the park. Covered with primary jungle and scattered limestone outcrop, it is truly the outdoor destination for the holidaymakers. Access is by boat and quite recently on off road tracks. For the lucky travelers, watch the Smooth Otters or Small Clawed Otter. Spot the three species of kingfisher and hear the calls of the white Handed Gibbons, the Great Argus Peasant and the shrill call of the Cicadas.
 

  Visit the numerous caves around the park. The favorite being Gua Telinga or Ear Cave. Home of thousands of Round Leaf Bats, Giant Toads, Whip Spiders and Cave Racer Snakes. The longest Canopy Walkway in the world, spanning 460 meters long and 40 meters off the ground is not to be missed.


For birds watchers, bring along your field book and binoculars and spot the Greater Racquet Tail Drongo, Southern Oied Hornbill, various Spiders Hunters, Sunbirds, Broadbills, Malkohas, Peasants and many more. Listen to the "orchestra" in the early morning. Other activities includes spending the night in the Hide, Fishing, Rapids Shooting or visit the Cascades.

Taman Negara is a particularly favorable destination for trekking, as the park's remarkable biodiversity is matched by a good network of jungle trails and the availability of expert guides. The park is also noted for fishing, especially along the upper reaches of the Tahan or Kenyam rivers, and for rafting the rapids of Sungai Tembeling. Peninsular Malaysia's highest mountain, Gunung Tahan (2,187 meters), is located in Taman Negara, and climbing the mountain is an unforgettable experience. Due to the scarcity of water along the route, the journey must be done in two stages, and an experienced guide is compulsory. At least three days are required for the journey to the summit and back.


Endau Rompin National Park

Endau Rompin covering an estimated area of 870 square kilometers, stands between the boundary of Johore and Pahang, remains one of the least disturbed and finest examples of lowland tropical rainforest in Malaysia. Endau Rompin may be the newest found jungle retreat in the country but its more than 100 million years old where the exotic flora and fauna cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

 

Opeh Guling waterfalls offer good swimming spot. Buaya Sangkut meanwhile is a 5 step waterfall which is 3 hours hike away from the main camping site. It is 40 meters wide and 120 meters high. Salt licks around Gunung Tiong might offer a rewarding view of the wild animals. Deers, boars, black leopards, tigers, tapirs, elephants, to name a few, visits these salt licks. Check out their foot prints too.

 

It is here in Endau Rompin, botanists have discovered a new fan palm trees along the Jasin River, scientifically called Livingstona Endauensis.


Belum Forest

Belum Valley is located in the northern region of Perak State is bristling with fauna and flora, a rich national heritage. This remote area of Perak was once the battlefield between the Malaysian security forces and the communist bandits. Known as the Bamboo Trail, an infiltration route for the communist terrorists into Malaysia, the trail passes through secondary forest, bamboo forest and lowland primary jungles.

 


 

Virtually untouched by mankind and with the lifting of the curfew in 1991, Belum is slowly exposing its well kept secrets to the outside world. This last frontier of Malaysia beckons the adventurous to its everlasting charm. The main activity available is trekking and fishing as the area is part of the Temenggor Dam or also known as Banding Lake. 


Gua Tempurong (Caves)

One of the most majestic white marble and limestone towers in Malaysia is the Gunung Tempurung. Concealed within this limestone massif is an intricate system of caves of various dimensions honeycombed inside the limestone hills. These caves are actually a breathtaking gallery of stalagmites and stalactites and other amazing rock formations which are superb speleogical wonders found only in this part of the world.

Tempurung Caves is located in Gopeng, Perak and can be reached from the North-South Highway by exiting through the Gopeng interchange (about 25km south of Ipoh). Be prepared to enjoy the tranquility of rural village lifestyles as you drive by. You will see how simplicity works wonders in creating peace and harmony for the gentlefolk there. Truly a unique society, the social values here are only to earn an honest wage and help one another. After you pass the village, you will pass through numerous former tin mining properties that have been converted into duck and fish farming activities. There are enough directional signboards that lead to the caves (Gua Tempurung) as soon as you clear the Gopeng Interchange.



Believed to have existed since early 8000 B.C., Gua Tempurung is probably the largest natural limestone structure in Malaysia. Explore Perak's best-kept secret, the Tempurung Caves. One of the most majestic white marble and limestone towers in Malaysia. Concealed within the massif structure is an intricate system of caves filled with various combed dimensions. Known to the locals as Gua Tempurung, the name conjures images of mystery and intrigue that ensures a peek into its deep and dark secrets. It comprises of five huge domes with ceilings resembling coconut shells. Each of these domes has different calcium formations and marble that exists in differing temperatures and water levels. These caves are famous for its breathtaking gallery of stalagmites, stalactites and other amazing rock formations that are superb speleological wonders, found only in this part of the world.


East Malaysia

Gunung (Mount) Kinabalu

The Kinabalu Park is famous the world over for the highest mountain in South-East Asia, Mt. Kinabalu, a vast jagged granite massif rising to 4,101m (13,455ft). The mountain is the focal point of the whole Park which covers an area of 754 sq km (291 sq miles), and includes vegetation types ranging from the rich lowland dipterocarp zone through the montane oak, rhododendron, and conifer forests to the alpine meadow plants and stunted bushes of the summit zone an area that probably has one of the richest flora in the world.
 
 

The Headquarters is situated on the southern boundary, at an elevation of 1,524m (5,000 ft). Visitor accommodation, restaurants and an exhibit centre are found here as well as the Park offices. It is only a 2 hour drive from Sabah's capital of Kota Kinabalu on a good sealed road and the Park is an ideal spot for day visitors who simply want to get away from it all and enjoy the cool air, as well as those who wish to stay for a few days and climb the mountain or explore the forest trails.

If you are a first-time visitor it is well worth your while to go to some of the free visitor programs organized by the Park. Regular evening slide/film shows and guided trail walks in the mornings are given by the Park Naturalists at the Park Headquarters.  

Gunung (Mount) Mulu & Gua Mulu (Caves)

The world-renowned Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak has some of the most spectacular caves to be found anywhere. Tropical wonderland is the only way to describe the Sarawak's largest national park. For the visitor seeking adventure it has everything, the world's most extensive cave system, rock climbing, jungle trekking, kayaking, mountain biking, river rapids, and fascinating people, including Sarawak's last nomadic tribe. Spectacular discoveries include the Sarawak Chamber, which at 12 million cubic meters is the world’s largest single cave chamber. To put it into context, the cave could comfortably house 16 football fields or 40 jumbo jets. Perhaps best known and certainly the most visited, is Deer Cave, the world’s largest cave corridor, which plays witness to a spectacular daily flight of bats from the cave each evening.

 


 

Besides, the system also houses the longest cave in Southeast Asia, Clearwater Cave, with a 107km long passageway. Most of the cave system is accessible only to proper caving expeditions with specialized equipment. But four well-lit show caves are open daily to visitors. A longboat trip from Park HQ takes you to Clearwater Cave and Wind Cave while a plank walk leads through forest to Deer Cave and Lang's Cave.

 
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All information and pictures are from the following web sites;

http://travel.yahoo.com
http://www.asiatravel.com/malinfo.html
http://www.learn4good.com
http://www.imi.gov.my
http://expat.com.my
http://www.dinemalaysia.com
http://allmalaysia.info/travel/beaches/
http://impressions.com.my/dive/dive.htm
http://www.adventure.com.my/
http://www.myoutdoor.com/wallpaper.htm
http://www.marimari.com

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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