December 8

TOURIS
M
Malaysia 2014
Introduction on Malaysia from tourism point of view.
Conducted by, Module 3
Muhammad Zarbakhat R Janjua

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 Table of contents

Fast Fact about Malaysia……………………………..3

Festivals and Fiestas………………………………….4
History of Malaysia…………………………………..6
Langkawi Island……………………………………...7
Malaysia, A Destination for Culinary Adventures…..9
Games and Pastimes…………………………………13
Adventure and Nature Lover's Paradise……………..14

Fast Fact about Malaysia

Country
The Federation of Malaysia comprises of Peninsular Malaysia, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak
on the island of Borneo. 

Geographic Location 
Situated between 2º and 7º to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from
Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. In the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand,
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and in the south, neighboring Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by
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Indonesia while Sarawak also shares borders with Brunei.

People
Malays comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and other races
make up the rest of the country's population.

Language
(Bahasa Melayu) Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The ethnic
groups also converse in the various languages and dialects. 

Religion 
Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions are widely practiced.

Government 
Malaysia follows the bicameral legislative system, adopting a democratic parliamentary. The head of
the country is the King or the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position which is changed every five years
among the Malay Sultanates. The head of government is the Prime Minister.

Weather
The country experiences tropical weather year-round. Temperatures are from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC
(90ºF). Higher elevations are much colder with temperatures between 15°C (59° F) to 25°C
(77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.

Economic Profile 
Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary
commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are major contributors to the
economy.

Festivals and Fiestas

One of the significant characteristics of Malaysian culture is its celebration of various
festivals and events. The year is filled with colorful, exhilarating and exciting activities.
Some are religious and solemn but others are vibrant, joyous events. One interesting feature
of the main festivals here is the ‘open house’ custom. This is when Malaysians celebrating
the festival invite friends to come by their homes for some traditional delicacies and
fellowship.

Thaipusam
The sights and sounds of thousands of devotees carrying kavadis, or ornate frames as
penance, make this an extraordinary festival to witness at the Batu Caves in Selangor, or
in Penang.

Chinese New Year 

The Lunar New Year is celebrated by the Chinese throughout the world and here in Malaysia
it is just as joyful, with an abundance of food and family gatherings.

Tadau Ka’amatan - 30 - 31 May 

Thanksgiving is offered to the spirit of the paddy, Bambaazon, by the KadazanDusun in
Sabah. Abundant rice wine or Tuak, delicious food, dancing and other festivities take place as
part of the celebrations.

Wesak - May 
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Religious offerings and rituals such as the ‘bathing of the Buddha’, chanting of Sutras, and
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lighting of joss sticks and ordination of monks take place in Buddhist temples around the
country. 

Colors of Malaysia
This event kicks off with a colorful parade displaying the diversity of Malaysian culture
through music and dance.

Gawai - 1 - 2 June 
The Ibans, Orang Ulu and Bidayuh in Sarawak celebrate this harvest festival where
traditional ceremonies and dances are held in various ‘long houses’ or communal homes
around the state.

National Day - 31 August 

Malaysians everywhere celebrate Merdeka Day or the nation’s independence on this day.

Lantern and Mooncake Festival (Mid-Autumn) 

This festival has come to symbolize a quiet celebration of peace and shared prosperity. Take
delight in the colorful lanterns displayed during this time while enjoying the variety of
mooncakes available. 
Deepavali 
Hindus celebrate this festival of lights by adorning their homes with oil lamps, taking a ritual
morning bath and offering ceremonial prayers in temples.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri 

The holy month of Ramadan culminates in the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri for
Muslims around the world. Special morning prayers are held in mosques and visits are made
to homes of friends and relatives.

Christmas - 25 December 

Like their brethren around the world, Malaysian Christians attend church services, hold
family dinners and exchange gifts on this festive day.

History of Malaysia
Malaysia has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It was a busy seaport for
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European and Far East traders for many hundreds of years. Malacca was founded in the 13th
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century by a Sumatran prince.

It became the most influential port city in Southeast Asia during this time. The early Arab
traders brought Islam to Malacca. The local chiefs became the “sultans” heading up a highly
organized administration structure whose main purpose was to facilitate trade. Success
brought prosperity, wealth and power to Malacca.

In 1511, a Portuguese fleet led by Alfonso de Albuquerque sailed into Malacca harbor and
captured the city with canon fire. A century later in 1641, the Dutch captured the city from
the Portuguese and controlled the spice trade. In 1819 British administration replaced the
Dutch and established a trading post in Singapore.

Together with Penang and Malacca these centers became known as the Straits Settlements.
The British administration in Malaya lasted 138 years until independence in 1957. The
British granted independence to Malaya in 1957 in Kuala Lumpur's Merdeka Square. Tunku
Abdul Rahman became the first prime minister of

Malaya. It has a secular and democratic government.

Malaysia has undergone tremendous growth and prosperity since 1957. Today, Malaysia has
one of the best airports, highways and telecommunication systems in Asia.  The literacy rate
is above 90% and poverty level is negligible. With a highly educated workforce and modern
infrastructure, it attracts large foreign investment in the manufacturing and technology
sections.

Langkawi Island
Langkawi is the largest of a multitude of islands that lie off the coast of Kedah state, in the far
northwest of Peninsular Malaysia. The island comprises a jeweled setting of 99 islands.
Langkawi is a versatile holiday destination with world-class infrastructure and facilities – a
modern international airport, excellent roads, state-of-the-art marinas, budget hotels to award-
winning luxurious resorts, superb golf courses and a host of recreational activities.

Visitors arriving by sea will disembark at the jetty in the main town of Kuah. Located
southeast of the island, the town houses many hotels and shopping centers. A large prominent
statue of an eagle, situated at the popular Eagle Square is visible from afar when approaching
the island. According to local folklore, Langkawi derived its name from the eagle or helang.
Langkawi’s idyllic beaches are perfect settings for a fun-filled vacation.

Tanjung Rhu Beach, 22 km north of Kuah, is fringed by casuarinas from which the beach
gets its name. A perfect place for a picnic, this wide sandy beach offers unmatched pristine
tranquility. The sunset here at dusk, in a blaze of orange and red is truly a spectacular sight.
On the western coastline of Langkawi, lie the beaches of Datai, Kok, Burau Bay and Tengah.
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Enjoy a round of golf at the 18-hole course at Datai Bay and tee off against Langkawi’s
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scenic backdrop. Those who wish to spend their day at Burau Bay can enjoy horseback riding
while visitors to Tengah Beach can hire a boat and go island hopping. Kok Beach is the
location of Telaga Harbour Park, a marina-cum-resort with ample facilities.

Cenang Beach is only 3 km from the Langkawi International Airport and is the most
developed of the beach areas housing several luxury class hotels and dozens of budget chalets
and restaurants. There are plenty of water sports available on this popular beach providing
fun and excitement for all. First-class accommodation in modern hotels or comfortable
chalets is available around the island. Restaurant outlets in the hotels and outdoors serve a
variety of local and international fare with live music and an energetic ambience.

Go snorkelling and diving in the Payar Island Marine Park, 19 nautical miles south of
Langkawi. Segantang Island, Kaca Island and Lembu Island are other islands that make up
the Marine Park. For those shy of the sea, hop into a glass bottomed boat and watch the
underwater world unfurl below. Speedboats or catamarans shuttle visitors from Langkawi to
the Marine Park within an hour.

Langkawi offers a back-to-nature experience for all. From waterfalls to mysterious caves,
visitors will discover that Langkawi is more than a beach lovers’ paradise. There are a host of
themed attractions in Langkawi providing excitement for young and old travellers alike.
Come and discover the variety of aquatic life at the Underwater World Langkawi.

This largest public aquarium in the country features stingrays, sharks, moray eels and green
turtles together with exotic fishes and sea plants. There are also interesting handicraft centres
and souvenir shops located around the island offering items such as batik outfits and
silverware. 

Those who wish to be pampered with a relaxing massage amidst the lush backdrop of the
rainforest can head to the numerous spas on the island. With an attractive range of duty-free
goods to choose from in Langkawi, shopping here is a real treat. From pewter and perfumes
to liquor and leather, the attractive prices make shopping irresistible!

Getting There By Road 

Visitors travelling by road will have to drive to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis, the main
jumping-off points by ferry to Langkawi. Regular, air-conditioned buses are also available
from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Kedah and Kuala Perlis. The journey to Kuala Kedah takes
about six hours while Kuala Perlis is another hour away.

Covered by virgin jungle, powdery white beaches and surrounded by sapphire-blue waters,
the islands have resorts such as the Tanjung Rhu Resort and Datai Beach Resort - both offer
exceptional services and facilities.

By Air 
Malaysia Airlines (MAS) provides direct air services from the Kuala Lumpur International
Airport (KLIA) to Langkawi. Alternatively, visitors can take the budget carrier AirAsia or
Firefly. Air Asia operates from the Low Cost Carrrier Terminal (LCCT) in Sepang while
Firefly operates from the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang.
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By Rail 
Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) or Malayan Railway provides economical and comfortable
rail services from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar in Kedah or Arau in Perlis. From these points,
take a taxi or bus to Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis for your ferry to Langkawi.

By Sea
Express ferries provide regular services daily to Langkawi from both Kuala Kedah and Kuala
Perlis. The journey takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and 45 minutes respectively. From Penang
to Langkawi the ferry takes 2 hours 30 minutes. The island is also a stopover for Star Cruises,
one of the largest luxury cruise lines in the world.

Malaysia, A Destination for Culinary Adventures

Mouth-watering Malay Delicacies
Rice, or ‘nasi’ in the national language, is the staple diet in most Malay meals. In Malay
cooking, rice can be creatively presented in various methods and recipes. Popular rice dishes
are nasi lemak, nasi goreng, nasi dagang, nasi kerabu, nasi himpit or ketupat, bubur nasi and
many more. Given its versatility, rice can be eaten as breakfast, lunch and dinner.

It is also the traditional favourite during festive occasions and celebrations. In Kedah, the
state known as ‘The Ricebowl of Malaysia’, there is even a Paddy Museum that is dedicated
to all aspects of rice. When eaten plain, rice is accompanied by a selection of side dishes,
which are mostly seemingly spicy and heavily laced with aromatic flavors’. 

In traditional Malay cooking, fresh fragrant herbs and roots such as lemongrass, ginger,
garlic, kaffir lime leaves, fresh and dried chilies, basil, polygonum, torch ginger, turmeric
roots, galangal and pandanus
leaves are common ingredients. Other ingredients include rich coconut milk, used to give a
creamy texture, while tamarind is used for a little tang. Pork and liquor however, are strictly
prohibited as Malays are Muslims, and only consume food and beverages that are halal. 

Most Malays love pungent food. To spice up any Malay meal, many would opt for a dollop
of sambal, or a spicy paste that is similar to a sauce. There are many types of sambal, the
most famous being the ubiquitous sambal belacan. Made of dried, fermented
shrimp, belacan is an integral ingredient in Malay dishes and most Malaysian dishes for the
matter. When uncooked, the smell of belacan may be unappealing, but locals swear that it
adds a certain depth and richness to gravies and sauces.

Condiments and spices are available at many supermarkets or convenience stores, but the best
way to get fresh produce is from local marketsand night markets known as pasar malam.
Among the most well-known is Pasar Siti Khadijah in Kelantan. This bustling bazaar is
where the traders, mostly women, sell everything from fresh local greens to intricate
handicrafts.

Malay food can be found everywhere, from roadside stalls to chic restaurants. One way to
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experience the diversity of Malay dishes, desserts and beverages is to visit a Bazaar
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Ramadan, an open-air market that sprouts up at nearly every corner during the Muslim
fasting month. More delicacies can be savoured during the festivals of Hari Raya Aidilfitri
and Hari Raya Aidiladha.

Popular Malay fare includes nasi lemak, satay, rendang and laksa. You can also expect a
huge selection of sweet and savory Malay desserts such as kuih (cakes), bubur (porridge)
and ais kacang to complement your dining experience.

Tantalizing Chinese Cuisine

Chinese fare is generally mild, stir-fried and best savoured when it is piping hot. Lunchtime
favorites’ include rice, served with meat and vegetable side dishes. Noodles are another
versatile and staple favorite. One can choose either fried, soup or curried noodles. Over time,
adaptations and variations of classic Chinese cuisine were made to suit Malaysians’
discerning taste.
Creative touches were given by adding local ingredients, which led to the birth of delicious
new recipes that are uniquely Malaysian. Visitors will find a plethora of Chinese dining
outlets in Malaysia, from restaurants that serve expensive delicacies such as shark’s fin or
bird’s nest soup to hawker stalls that sell char kuay teow (fried flat noodles) and bah kut
teh (bone soup). Chinese vegetarian meals are also easily available.

In most towns, visitors will find ‘kopitiams’, or traditional Chinese coffee shops that exude an
old-world ambience and charm. Typically, a kopitiam serves food and drinks that are
exclusively Malaysian Chinese. It is a place where friends meet up and exchange news over a
plateful of boiled eggs, thick slices of toast generously drizzled with butter and kaya (coconut
jam), and washed down with a strong cup of authentic, locally brewed coffee.

The quaint décor and homemade dishes make dining here an interesting experience. The main
festival for the Chinese community is the Lunar New Year. It is a time for lion dances,
firecrackers, family gatherings and handing out of Mandarin oranges and ang pow (little red
packets filled with money). The highlight of the festivities is on the eve of the New Year,
when family members from near and far come together for a Reunion Dinner to rekindle
family ties and enjoy a glorious feast. The dishes that are normally prepared for the reunion
dinner each present a symbolic meaning. 

Dumplings are served to imply wealth as they look like ancient gold nuggets while whole fish
or chicken represents prosperity and completeness. Noodles suggest longevity and yee sang is
the symbol of prosperity. Even oranges and tangerines convey the meaning of long-lasting
relationships, happiness and a good future. The Mid-Autumn or Moon Cake Festival is
another interesting celebration for the Chinese community. Celebrated on the fifteenth day of
the eighth Lunar month, this festival is marked by lantern processions by children and adults
alike. During this time, Malaysian Chinese exchange moon cakes with friends and family as
an expression of their best wishes. For visitors who are keen to know about the culture and
traditions of the Chinese, the Chinese History Museum in Sarawak offers a fascinating
insight.

Flavorsome Indian Fare 

Indian cuisine is generally spicy, flavorful and piquant as spices are the essence of Indian
fare. The harmonious blend of cardamom, fenugreek, cinnamon, coriander seeds, cumin
seeds, mustard, poppy seeds, turmeric, fennel, cloves, saffron and chili not only enhances the
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flavor of the food, but also adds character to the dishes. 

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A typical South Indian meal consists of rice, curry, side dishes and yoghurt served on a
banana leaf. North Indian favorites’ include briyani rice, grilled meat and bread varieties
such as naan, roti parata and chapathi served with aromatic and spice-laden curries
and chutney. Indian breads or rice are also served on a thali, a circular metal tray while the
curries or chutneys are served in small metal bowls called katori, placed on top of
the thali. Aside from rice, Indian breads such as thosai, idli and poori are easily found, served
with delectable accompaniments in the form of sambar and chutney. There are also a number
of vegetarian restaurants in Malaysia and most Indian restaurants offer sumptuous vegetarian
dishes.

A unique variant of Indian cuisine in Malaysia is Mamak food. Mamak (originating from the
word mama or ‘uncle’ in Tamil) is in essence, Indian Muslims of Malaysian nationality. They
are well-known for their lip-smacking food, characterized by thick, spicy and gravy-laden
dishes. Signature Mamak dishes include nasi kandar, mee goreng mamak, rojak mamak and
fish head curry.

Although the northern state of Penang is regarded as the stronghold of authentic Mamak
cuisine, these days Mamak restaurants are found throughout Malaysia and have become a
firm favorite among city folks. Open round-the-clock, Mamak restaurants provide an open-
air, casual dining ambience. Aside from its irresistible taste, affordability is another key
factor that gives Mamak food its overwhelming popularity. Mamak food is halal or
permissible for Muslims.

One of the best ways to experience Indian culture and sample the cuisine is by making a trip
to the Little India enclaves in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang. In Kuala Lumpur for
instance, Jalan Masjid India and Brickfields attract shoppers from all over for their wide
range of products, including textiles, jewellery, accessories, spices, herbs and religious
paraphernalia.

Visitors will find a number of Indian and Mamak restaurants, offering delicious meals or
snacks such as samosa and vadai. Munchies such as mixed nuts and fritters are other
favorites’, commonly sold by hawkers. And to wash down, how about a refreshing bowl
of cendol?

The Little India precincts are especially packed during festive seasons, when Malaysians
come in droves to get the best deals for beautiful textiles, new garments and home decorative
items. One of the main celebrations for the Indian community is Deepavali, or the Festival of
Lights. During this time, houses are cleaned, lit with traditional lamps and decorated with the
colourful kolam. After the morning prayers at the temple, many Indians hold open houses to
receive guests. The festive season is also an excellent time to savour traditional delicacies
such as murukku and sweet balls known as laddu.

Games and Pastimes

Silat
This fascinating Malay martial art is not just for self-defense, but is also a recognized
international sport. It is also a dance form engaging the flowery movements originally meant
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to mesmerize opponents. Silat has been known in the Malay Archipelago for centuries. In this
art of self-defense, the practitioner also develops spiritual strength that is in accordance with
Islamic tenets, and is popular with Malay youths. Silat is also performed at Malay weddings
and cultural festivals, where it is often accompanied by drums and gongs.

Sepak Raga
In this traditional ball game, also called sepak takraw, a ball about the size of an open hand
and made of woven strips of buluh bamboo or even rattan is kicked about with the legs or any
part of the body except the lower hands. There are two main types the original form issepak
raga bulatan or a circle where the team tries to keep the ball aloft as long as possible. The
modern sepak raga jaringor net court form is now played in international competitions.

Wau / Kite-Flying
A wau or local kite is known for its creative shapes and features. The bamboo frame of
the wau usually
measures 2 to 3.5 meters in length and is artistically decorated with local motifs in colored
paper. The most popular shape is the wau bulan (moon kite), where the tail of the kite is
curved in a shape of a crescent moon. Wau used to be a post-harvest pastime among farmers,
especially in Kelantan, is now an international kite festival which draws participants from
around the world.

Congkak
An indoor game of two players, congkak is played on a board with two rows of seven holes.
On each end is a larger hole known as rumah (home). Played by turns, the objective of the
game is to be the first to fill up the player’s rumah with as many tokens as possible from the
seven holes.

Top-Spinning/Gasing
A traditional game requiring physical dexterity, timing and sometimes strength, a gasing or
Malay top is made of metal or timber weighing as much as 5.5 kg and sometimes can be as
big as a dinner plate. It is launched into a spin by quickly unfurling a rope wrapped around
the body after which it is scooped off the ground using a wooden bat and transferred onto a
low post with a metal receptacle. In competitions, skilful spinners can launch the gasing to
spin for hours, outlasting their opponents.

Wayang Kulit
The traditional ‘shadow play’ theatre is performed by casting animated puppet shadows on a
white cloth
screen. The puppet characters and stories were usually taken from ancient Indian epics. The
figures used are artistically made from buffalo hide and mounted on bamboo sticks. One
person, a Tok Dalang or master storyteller, usually conducts the whole show from behind the
screen as he recites the tale with appropriate sounds and movements.

Adventure and Nature Lover's Paradise

Malaysia offers varied experiences to satisfy the adventure and nature lover’s quest. There is
an exciting choice of activities for all ages and groups – from amateur and family fun to the
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serious enthusiasts and on to professionals.

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The country is increasingly popular as a venue for international nature-based competitions.
Even international adventure-themed reality shows or films have found their perfect locations
in Malaysia.
Adventure and nature are all here in the tropical kingdom of Malaysia. Come
and enjoy it to the fullest.

Jungle Discoveries
With its glorious vistas, verdant undulating terrain and varied tropical landscapes, Malaysia’s
ancient forests offer vast possibilities for trekking and camping. The country’s extensive
array of national parks
and wildlife reserves are ideal for communing with nature and discovering her secrets. From
the primordial rainforest of Taman Negara to the wildlife sanctuaries at Danum Valley and
the Kinabatangan flood plains, some of Asia’s best-preserved environments offer nature
lovers a wealth of experience.

While amateurs may try Malaysia’s many easily accessible recreational forests near urban
centres, seasoned explorers can go for challenging week-long treks up mountains such as
Gunung Tahan, the
tallest peak in Peninsular Malaysia. For the uninitiated, having a trained local guide is
necessary to ensure safety and to learn about the amazing and precious diversity of flora and
fauna in the ecosystem. Tropical jungles are dense, and the thick vegetation provides
camouflage for the jungle denizens. It takes patience and a trained eye to see them.

Diversity of Environment
Swampy mangroves, extensive river floodplains, rainforests and montane hills capes are
among the varied environments that can exist even within trekking distance of each other.
Each possesses its own ecosystem and wildlife characteristics.

The tidal mangrove forests act as vital buffers against coastal erosion and as protective
breeding and nursery zones for numerous fish and aquatic species. There are mangrove belts
along most of Peninsular Malaysia’s west coast as well as in Sabah and Sarawak. Some such
as in Kuala Selangor Nature Park have boardwalks for safety and convenience of visitors. 

The most common type of rainforest is the dipterocarp forest. It is one of nature’s most
complex ecosystems, a habitat for thousands of plant species from tiny lichens to exotic
palms, ferns and vines and huge trees rising well over 50m to the heavens. Each has its own
functional place in the jungle’s cycle of life.

Further up the hills and mountain slopes, montane forest environments take over with their
cooler ambience and presenting spectacular views that are well worth the trek. Jungle
trekking can take an hour or more and, with camping, as many days as desired. Among the
best periods to go trekking in Peninsula Malaysia is in the ‘dry season’ from March to
September when the rainfall is less. In Sabah and Sarawak the ‘wet season’ is from July to
October. In many areas, jungle trekking can be combined with other interesting activities
such as river expeditions.
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Sites For Nature And Jungle Adventures 

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Malaysia’s primeval and unexplored rainforests offer intrepid trekkers great opportunities to
observe tropical flora and fauna. The wilds of Malaysia overflow with fantastic plant and
animal diversity that fulfill the competitive conditions of the ecosystem.

Many species are exotic, rare or even endemic to the particular region and are
protected. Endau-Rompin in Johor is a rare milieu of lowland and mountain forests which is
home to the largest population of endangered animals in the country. The Sumatran
rhinoceros, tigers and elephants are among the protected species in Endau-Rompin. Generally
most rainforest animals are shy or camouflage themselves to avoid predators or to hunt.
Bumbunor tower hides and canopy walks, such as at Taman Negara, aid those searching to
spot the inhabitants.

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