A Love Letter To Malaysia, From Malaysians
We often think that grass is always greener on the other side without realizing that beauty can sometimes be right under our nose, in every corner close to home. With international travel put on hold due to the pandemic, Malaysians are finally exploring more of our beautiful home than before.
This 2021, we'd like to celebrate the beauty of Malaysia with photos at 40 of our favourite destinations across Malaysia - shots taken by Malaysians while exploring the beauty of our home country. We hope these photos inspire more people to explore the beauty of Malaysia while we stay within our country during these unprecedented times. We're not sure about you, but we can't wait to head out and explore again once the COVID-19 situation gets better. #dudukrumah #kitajagakita
#InilahMalaysia: 40 Destinations To Add To Your Adventure List
1. Batu Caves
Did you know that the limestone forming Batu Caves is said to be around 400 million years old? If you haven't climbed these colourful stairs, it's time to head over and get some exercise!
2. Mossy Forest, Cameron Highlands
Blanketed with mysterious mist and shrouded in a magical aura, the Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands looks straight out of an Avatar movie! This strangely beautiful forest is tucked in the highlands of Mount Brinchang, the second highest peak in Cameron Highlands.
3. Pulau Sipadan, Sabah
Pulau Sipadan is a little island in Sabah that gained protected status in 2002 and is globally known as one of the best diving spots in the world. Can you believe that diving heaven is right here in our home country?
4. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Penang
Featured in films like Crazy Rich Asians, Indochine, and more, Penang's iconic Blue Mansion has a genuine old school charm that's hard to resist. This indigo-blue architectural gem stands out proudly from the rest of the buildings along the street.
5. Kundasang, Sabah
Affectionately known as the New Zealand Of Malaysia, Kundasang is a tranquil sanctuary that will take your breath away with its lush green fields, little wooden houses, and majestic mountain backdrop.
6. Pulau Lang Tengah, Terengganu
Pulau Lang Tengah is a secluded paradise located between Perhentian Island and Redang Island. There are literally no roads on this little island (get around with boats, kayak, and by snorkelling!), and only three operational hotels here!
7. Belum Rainforest, Perak
This 130 million years old rainforest is waiting to be explored - whether you're an adventurous traveller or someone looking for a tranquil getaway. Get ready to uncover the mysteries of the jungle and be surrounded by the calmness and serenity of nature.
8. Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang
Penang's Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. This national icon was built in 1890 and is known as one of the finest temple complexes in Southeast Asia!
9. Niah National Park, Sarawak
Alive with 40,000 years of unwritten history, the caves within the Niah National Park are believed to be inhabited by humans at least 40 millennia ago! Today, the National Park offers cave explorations, jungle walks, and unique cultural experiences.
10. Kwai Chai Hong, KL
Relive the glory days of Chinatown in this once-neglected lane that consists of a collection of restored shophouses and pre-war buildings. The newly-installed interactive street art and murals here convey the charm of this historical-rich lane in a fun way.
11. Saloma Bridge, KL
You probably have noticed this new bridge while driving across the Ampang-KL Elevated Highway. The 370m Saloma Bridge boasts a sirih junjung (traditional arrangement of betel leaves) design and is illuminated by colourful LED lights at night, making it look gorgeous against the night sky!
12. Sultan Abdul Samad Building
The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is a late-nineteeth century architectural gem that used to house the superior courts of Malaysia. It is constructed entirely out of brick, with graceful arches, a majestic porch, and a domineering clock tower affectionately known as Malaysia's version of London's Big Ben.
13. Thean Hou Temple
Known as one of the oldest and largest temples in Southeast Asia, the Thean Hou Temple was built by the city's Hainanese community back in 1894 and stands strong today with its beautiful red pillars, extravagant prayer halls, and pagoda rooftops.
14. Putra Mosque, Putrajaya
Affectionately known as the Pink Mosque of Malaysia, the Putra Mosque is located on the banks of the scenic Putrajaya Lake and is constructed in beautiful rose-tinted granite. Its desert-pink hue looks absolutely beautiful against the sunset!
15. Colmar Tropicale, Pahang
Nestled 2,700 feet above sea level in the heart of a natural rainforest, Colmar Tropicale is a picturesque French-themed resort modelled after the lovely 18th century city of Colmar in France!
16. Kellie's Castle, Perak
The mysterious Kellie's Castle is a site that is a combination of beauty, mystery, and tragedy. Over the years, three secret tunnels were discovered here, and there have been spooky tales and rumours of supernatural sightings on the castle's grounds!
17. Church Of Holy Rosary
The Church Of Holy Rosary is a Gothic-inspired Catholic church built in 1903 in the heart of KL, with a beautiful all-white exterior and a landscaped garden. Newly-weds flock here for romantic wedding shots!
18. Petronas Twin Towers
The Petronas Twin Towers remains the world's tallest twin towers since 1996, and is undoubtedly one of Malaysia's most iconic, proudest architectural wonders.
19. Dutch Square, Melaka
Distinguished by a collection of picturesque, red colonial Dutch buildings, the Dutch Square in Melaka is a slice of history in the heart of a vibrant historical city.
20. Penang Hill, Penang
Did you know that the Penang Hill Funicular Railway has the steepest tunnel track in the world? This Swiss-designed funicular will transport you to the top of the first colonial hill station developed in Peninsular Malaysia, set 821m above Penang's capital.
21. The Habitat Penang Hill, Penang
Surrounded by a 130-million year old rainforest, The Habitat Penang Hill offers 360-degree panoramic views of Penang Island from the highest viewing point of Penang.
22. Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Standing at a majestic height of 13,435 feet, Mount Kinabalu is Sabah's sacred mountain and the 20th most prominent mountain in the world! Conquer the peak for a climb of a lifetime.
23. Kenyir Lake, Terengganu
Tasik Kenyir is one of the largest man-made lakes in the whole of Southeast Asia. The lake is home to over 300 islands, waterfalls, caves, and wildlife. You can stay on a boat here and fill your day with activities like rafting, going on jungle walks, caving, fishing, and more.
24. Pulau Jerejak, Penang
Pulau Jerejak is a colourful historic island located a short 10-minute ferry ride from Penang Island. This hidden gem is dotted with beautiful photo spots including a rainbow pier and a Stairway To Heaven installation!
25. The Edison George Town, Penang
This beautifully-restored colonial mansion was built in 1906 as a residence for a tycoon in Penang and was transformed into a hotel after the Second World War. You can now spend a night in a space filled with beautiful open spaces, cool white walls, and vibrant jade accents.
26. Langkawi Sky Bridge, Langkawi
Located 2,300ft above sea level, the Langkawi Sky Bridge is another pride of Malaysia. This bridge is amongst the longest curved pedestrian bridges in the world and offers 360° panoramic views of Langkawi island!
27. ESCAPE Theme Park, Penang
Home to the world's longest tube waterslide, the ESCAPE Theme Park is set amidst nature and surrounded by lush greens, with over 30 thrilling activities housed in one space!
28. Tanjung Rhu Beach, Langkawi
Langkawi is blessed with long stretches of sandy beaches, but Tanjung Rhu Beach is one of our favourites. Have a relaxing stroll along the strip and catch a beautiful sunset against the pastel-coloured sky.
29. Sekinchan, Selangor
Sekinchan is a small fishing village in Selangor that's most famously known for its vast paddy fields. Come during the right timing and expect to be surrounded by lush green fields with the bright blue sky as a backdrop!
30. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Ipoh
It's hard to believe this dreamy place exists in Malaysia - The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is a sanctuary nestled in a 22.7-acre valley in Perak, surrounded by nature and calm surroundings, including limestone caves that have been standing proud for over 400 million years.
31. Pulau Pangkor
Unlike some other beaches in Malaysia, Pangkor remains under the radar of tourists - it's rustic and laid-back, minus mass tourism, beach bars, and expensive restaurants. You're likely to have the whole beach to yourself with the accompaniment of friendly hornbills!
32. Sasaran Sky Mirror, Selangor
Experience walking on water and watch the sky meet the earth at the unique Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor. This spot resembles the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia - at least we won't have to catch a long-haul flight to get there!
33. KL Eco Forest Park, KL
The KL Forest Eco Park is nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, just a stone's throw away from KL Tower. Known as the green lung of the city, it's one of the oldest forest reserves in the country, and is perfect if you're looking for a morning away from the hustle and bustle of KL.
34. Melaka River, Melaka
The Melaka River was once known as the 'Venice Of The East' and welcomed traders from all over the world in the 1500s. Today, it is lined with many little shops, houses, cafes, restaurants, and buildings with striking graffiti on its walls!
35. Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak
The Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous its majestic caves including the Sarawak Chamber, the largest known cave chamber in the world. Back in the 1970s, over 100 scientists embarked on a cave expedition here that lasted for 15 months!
36. Siti Khadijah Market, Kelantan
Housed within a four-story building and featuring an octagonal shape, the Siti Khadijah Market is a colourful, vibrant local market located in Kota Bahru, Kelantan!
37. Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Penang
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a museum dedicated to Penang’s Peranakan heritage. Housed within an elegantly-restored mansion, it contains thousands of Peranakan artefacts, antiques, and collectibles! The mansion was featured in many TV series and shows such as The Little Nyonya, and The Amazing Race.
38. Legoland Malaysia, Johor
The perfect place for a splashing day of fun - Legoland Malaysia is heaven-on-earth for LEGO lovers! You can even spend a night in a LEGO-themed hotel that will complete your wildest LEGO dreams. Spark the imagination of your little ones in this Brick-tastic space.
39. Sam Poh Tong Temple, Ipoh
Built within a limestone cave and surrounded by lush greens, the Sam Poh Tong Temple was founded by a monk from China while walking through Ipoh. The monk then apparently made it his home and meditated there for 20 years until his death!
40. Astaka Morocco, Putrajaya
This exquisite space looks as if its a building in Morocco but is actually nestled in the heart of Putrajaya. Stroll amongst gorgeous fountains, majestic arches, walls with intricate Moroccan carvings, and architectural pieces assembled by real Moroccan artisans!