In collaboration with Convergence, VOICE OF ASIA is proud to present timeless articles from the archives, reproduced digitally for your reading pleasure. Originally published in Convergence Volume 22 in 2013, we present this story on Malaysia, and a small glimpse into what makes the country so unique.
Malaysia is regarded as one of the most unique and beautiful places on earth to explore. Its cities range from the historical to the ultra-modern, and its untouched flora and fauna remain rich and varied. The country has always been a premier tourist destination, and Visit Malaysia Year 2014 is an ideal time for newcomers to create new memories and for those more experienced to re-visit old adventures.
In conjunction with the 2014 Malaysia Tourism initiative, Convergence has selected 14 of the best reasons to explore this great nation. So whether you have lived here all your life or are on a fleeting, flying visit, we assure you there is something here for everyone. Each day has a thousand stories to tell and endless memories to be made. If you can imagine it, Malaysia has it. Welcome to the land of endless possibilities.
Global Icon Tower | Petronas Twin Tower, KL
Soaring 400 metres into the skyline of the capital city of Kuala Lumpur is the iconic landmark that is the Petronas Twin Towers. Designed by legendary architect César Pelli, the towers are the ultimate symbol of Malaysia; its modernity, innovation and ambition. They were crafted to seamlessly merge modern Western design philosophy with traditional Islamic motifs, perfectly representing Malaysia’s position as an Islamic nation focused on the future. Though visible for miles, the scale and beauty of the twin towers can only be truly appreciated up close. Iridescent by day and hauntingly beautiful by night, the Petronas Towers are truly a sight to behold.
A Wave of Excitement | An Underwater Utopia
Off the coastline of Malaysia there are more than a dozen island destinations recognised worldwide as among the elite snorkelling sites in the world. Dive into the crystal clear waters off Redang Island and see beautifully preserved coral, or take the plunge further East at Pulau Sipadan, which promises an undersea snorkelling location once described by actor Jacques Cousteau as “an untouched piece of art”. Under the waves there is an eco-system as spectacular as that on land, with sun-kissed seas filled with the promise of a priceless underwater adventure.
Soul Food | A Gastronomic Adventure
Ask a local to describe Malaysia and one of the most passionate responses will be centred on its thousand-page menu of time-honoured local cuisine. Located along the trade routes between China and India, Malaysia is known for its spices, but there are many more complex offerings to tantalise your taste-buds. Local offerings range from flaming hot to succulent and sweet. Traditional food can be found at eateries across the land, with high-end fusion restaurants co-existing with hawker centres that offer more modestly priced meals. They all have one thing in common – dishes with an unrivalled taste that is seemingly impossible to replicate. Whether it’s fiery chilli pan mee or a mouth-watering plate of satay and peanut sauce, look no further than Malaysia to tantalise your taste buds, in a country where unforgettable aromas swirl around dishes of delicately balanced flavours and ingredients.
Turtle Power | Terengganu
During the summer months, Leatherback Sea Turtles make their way up the sandy shores of Terengganu to lay their eggs and visitors can watch an endangered species further its existence. Here, man bears witness to Mother Nature’s resilience, and the protected turtles can be observed in their natural habitat. On the beaches around the coasts of north east Malaysia there are sanctuaries established by organisations dedicated to ensuring the future of the Leatherback. Here, in the dead of night and with a backdrop of crashing waves, life finds a way.
A Regional Melting Pot | Festivals and Festivities
Malaysia is home to many ethnicities, its culture interwoven with Malay, Indian, Chinese and east Malaysian influences, each with their own unique qualities to enrich the country’s cultural tapestry. This makes Malaysia the home of festivity, and it feels like almost every month there is something to celebrate, be it religious observances, street processions, seasonal bazaars or state celebrations. The dedication of Thaipusam (bottom left), the community-driven ramadan festival (above left), the fire and vigour of chinese new Year with its Yee Sang tossing (main image), the harvest festivals of the east… Malaysia bursts into life for every occasion, with events that capture the spirit and imagination of this united nation and celebrated by all.
Mountain-Top Majesty | Resorts World Genting
For a cool air respite from the tropical heat, take a trip to the mountain retreat of Genting, a hill resort like no other – home to spectacular casinos, exciting amusement parks and a range of 5-star hotels. resorts World Genting is Malaysia’s premier entertainment lifestyle destination, where visitors can live like a King (or Queen) in the clouds and enjoy the best in gaming, dining, living and more. in more ways than one, it represents the pinnacle of Malaysian hospitality.
Rainforest Music | Kuching, Sarawak
Every year, music enthusiasts flock in their thousands to Kuching, wanting a taste of this indigenous music celebration set against the backdrop of breathtaking nature. The rainforest World Music Festival brings all the refinements of the modern concert experience back to the birthplace of music; the wild. Performances, workshops, bazaars and cuisine… the world descends on Sarawak for a tree-mendous crescendo of music and culture in the heart of nature.
Bags of Fun | A Shopper’s Heaven
Malaysia is an ideal destination for shoppers, with a blend of high-end designer boutiques, cutting edge fashion outlets and the vibrant pulse of street fashion. Kuala Lumpur itself is a shopping paradise and its entertainment district – known as ‘The Golden Triangle’ – is where consumers can strike retail gold. A fusion of east and Western styles can be discovered throughout the nation, from the stalls of Petaling Street Market to the premium, air-conditioned palaces of fashion, with outlet stores located throughout the entire country. However you choose to dress, you are certain to find something to impress as you indulge in a Malaysian shopping excursion.
High Speed Thrills | Sepang F1 Circuit
The Sepang International Circuit is regarded by drivers of all race-track machines to be one of the most challenging and exciting tracks in the world – particularly when it comes to dealing with its single, extraordinarily tight hairpin bend. With its unique double-sided grandstand designed to enhance spectator experience and a seating capacity of 80,000, there is room for all to enjoy the high-octane offerings at the racetrack. The Malaysian Formula 1 Grand prix, for example, is considered a jewel in the elite motorsport calendar and an electric atmosphere, unpredictable weather conditions and a frenzied crowd ensure an unforgettable sporting experience.
World Heritage Sites | Penang & Melaka
These two former Straits Settlements are a link to Malaysia’s storied past; so valuable that they have been awarded protected UNESCO heritage status. combined, they are spectacular examples of preserved history – cultural destinations where artefacts and architecture from various stages of development find their place among the ever-changing cityscape.
Situated in the ‘pearl of the Orient’, the state capital of Georgetown is a journey through time to a golden age for the region. A modern-day visit to this great city promises a rich and interesting experience, where visitors are assured a trip filled with irresistible food, fascinating stories and historic buildings, such as Penang City Hall (main image).
The former sea-port of Melaka has a rich trading history, a city with something to discover down every street and secluded walkway. Places of worship – such as the 261 year-old christ church – as well as museums, temples and architecture galore mean there is plenty in Melaka to satisfy the history-hungry.
Play Time | Johor
Legoland Malaysia recently opened its doors to the world, welcoming visitors to the land of the humble building block. Featured is an enormous variety of colourful constructions that are both imaginative and creative. The amusement park is located on the southernmost tip of the country and is the first of its kind in Asia, with an amazing themed water park to boot. it is a resort built for family fun, and a homage to the legacy of Lego.
Rumble in the Jungle | Forest Adventure
Malaysia’s rainforests are recognised as some of the most bio-diverse locations on the planet. Wildlife here thrives, and occupies nearly every inch of space. Uncover the treasures of largely-unexplored Borneo in the East or traverse the world’s longest canopy walk in the National Park in Pahang. Many of the rainforests have had eco-friendly modifications made, to allow trekkers to get up close with the ecosystem without interfering with its delicate balance.
The Spirit of Adventure | Mulu Caves, Sarawak
For the adventurer at heart, look no further than the Mulu cave system in Sarawak’s Gunung Mulu National Park. Within this site one can find the largest cave chamber and underground river network in the world – 204 sq miles of exploration excitement. it has been the subject of countless scientific expeditions, its chambers, caves, cliffs and pinnacles all adding to the endless ability of Mulu to evoke a sense of naturally-inspired awe.
On Top of the World | Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Mount Kinabalu, in East Malaysia, stands as the tallest mountain in South east Asia. its excellent trekking routes make the journey to the peak an enjoyable, enthralling experience and once there, visitors are treated to a breath-taking view – arrive at the right time and you will witness the sun spectacularly rising from above the clouds. Home to a wealth of flora and fauna – such as the Rafflesia plant and the mighty Orangutan – Kinabalu is not just a mountain, it is a 4,095 metre high spiritual journey of epic proportions.
