Joanna James
Malaysia, a land of diverse landscapes, colourful culture and rich history, beckons travellers with its unique blend of modernity and tradition. Be it towering skyscrapers, idyllic beaches, or ancient rainforests, it’s home to mesmerising attractions and here’s a glimpse of some of the very best.
Reaching a height of 452 metres, the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur have become synonymous with Malaysia. Apart from capturing those quintessential holiday pictures of this structure, make sure to also head to its popular vantage points; these include the Skybridge on levels 41 and 42 as well as the observation deck on level 86 that offers awe-inspiring panoramas of the city in the day and at night. At the foot of the structure is the Suria KLCC mall while outside, is the picturesque KLCC Park, two more attractions you can easily experience on your visit.
Mount Kinabalu, Sabah's crowning jewel, is a soaring presence in Borneo that draws adventurers from around the world. Towering to over 4,000 metres in height, it is not only the nation’s tallest mountain but one of Southeast Asia's highest peaks as well. A hike to the summit of this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kinabalu Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts though only a limited number of climbers are permitted daily so booking ahead is essential. The journey to the summit is a challenging yet rewarding experience and gives one a chance to enjoy breathtaking biodiversity, encounter wildlife and witness a spellbinding sunrise.
Desaru Coast, situated along the eastern shores of Johor offers a coastal escape for families, couples and solo travellers that feels like a slice of paradise. It’s the perfect place to spend time on your holiday by the beach at sustainable hospitality brands that have properties here such as Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas. The pristine golden shores stretch for miles, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and fun games, or sports; the active type can look forward to water sports too like windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kitesurfing and jet skiing. Away from the beach, attractions like the Adventure Waterpark, Desaru Fruit Farm and the two golf courses of the Els Club Malaysia ensure there’s never a dull moment.
For those looking to gain insights into the country’s heritage, George Town, the capital of Penang, offers a treasure trove of history, culture, and art. This captivating city has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved colonial architecture and to walk its enchanting streets is to be transported to a time long ago. On your visit, you will come across colonial-era mansions, temples, Chinese shophouses and more, along with attractions like St George’s Church, Fort Cornwallis, and the High Court building. Also of note is the city’s fascinating street art as well as delectable street food offerings.
Located on the island of Borneo, the Bako National Park provides much to discover for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It features varied landscapes from mangroves and rainforests to beaches and sandstone cliffs as well as exotic wildlife including proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, Bornean bearded pigs, otters, and numerous bird species. Hiking through the Bako National Park is a rewarding experience, with various trails to explore; you can come across secluded shores, viewpoints that offer stunning vistas and enchanting waterfalls and pools, some of which offer travellers a chance to enjoy a cooling dip!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
