Malaysia is a captivating gem in the heart of Southeast Asia. This multifaceted nation beckons travelers from every corner of the globe, and in 2019, nearly 26 million visitors visited the country. Malaysia is centrally located in Southeast Asia and should be on the bucket list for any traveler visiting the region.
Separated by the expanse of the South China Sea, Malaysia is a captivating tapestry that includes Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. What makes Malaysia special is its diversity. It's a country of diverse cultures where many traditions are not only preserved but also celebrated.
What sets Malaysia apart as a sought-after travel destination? Why should this nation secure a coveted spot on your bucket list of countries to visit? In all honesty, the reasons are as diverse as Malaysia itself. While the list is extensive, here are 10 top reasons why you should visit Malaysia.
Table of Contents
- Affordable Travel Destination
- Friendly and Welcoming Locals
- Year-Round Destination
- Amazing Cities to Explore
- Island and Beach Getaways
- Cool Highland Getaways
- Lush Tropical Rainforest
- Melting Pot of Cultures
- Food Lover's Paradise
- Locals Speak English
Travel Destination You Can Afford
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Malaysia is considered an affordable destination, even for the most budget-conscious traveler. Visitors from the Western countries will find the country very affordable. Malaysia's currency, the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), provides favorable exchange rates from countries with stronger currencies.
Malaysia offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you can find comfortable and affordable places to stay. A 4-star hotel in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur costs 250-350 MYR (54-74 USD), and a 2-star hotel costs 80-120 MYR (17-26 USD) per night.
Malaysia provides a range of dining options for every budget. Whether dining from a street stall, a local eatery, or a mid-range restaurant, there are choices for every wallet. At a local restaurant, a typical local breakfast costs around 7 MYR (1.50 USD), and lunch or dinner around 12 MYR (2.50 USD).
Transportation within Malaysia is generally affordable. Public transportation like buses and commuter trains are inexpensive, and taxis cost much less than in many Western countries. Flights, long-distance buses, and trains for traveling within Malaysia and even to neighboring countries are also reasonably priced.
Locals Are Friendly and Welcoming
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Malaysians are generally known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards international visitors. Malaysia has a well-established tourism industry, and locals are accustomed to interacting with foreigners. Besides, many Malaysians speak English, making communication for international visitors easier.
Malaysians generally appreciate the value of tourism to the country. Hotels, restaurants, and other service providers in the hospitality industry are accustomed to catering to international visitors. Tourists are often treated with respect, and efforts are made to ensure their safety and comfort.
Malaysia has a diverse population comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various indigenous groups, and are proud of their multicultural heritage. Many show enthusiasm to introduce visitors to their traditions, festivals, and customs. And participating in a celebration is an opportunity to experience Malaysian hospitality.
Politeness is highly valued in Malaysian culture. Visitors often find locals respectful, courteous, and willing to assist with directions or information. Even in more rural areas, where people may not encounter as many international tourists, there's often a genuine curiosity and friendliness toward visitors.
While the overall atmosphere is welcoming, as with any destination, individual experiences may vary. It's always good to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Learning a few basic phrases in Malay (the official language) is appreciated by the locals and can add to a positive experience during your visit.
Year-Round Destination
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Malaysia is a year-round destination, and the country's tropical climate means there isn't a specific "best" or "worst" time to visit. The country enjoys consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), and there's lots of sunshine throughout the year.
However, there are some variations in weather and regional conditions. Though Malaysia sits close to the equator, the country's diverse geography means that even during the monsoon (rainy) season in one region, other parts of the country may be experiencing dry weather. Here are the wettest months of the year by region.
- West coast of Peninsular Malaysia: September to November.
- East coast of Peninsular Malaysia: November to February.
- Island of Borneo: November to February.
During the monsoon season, rainfall often occurs as heavy but short showers rather than continuous rain throughout the day. You can still enjoy the hours of sunshine before and after the rain spell. The key is to have a flexible itinerary by planning indoor activities when it rains.
June to August is generally a good time to visit as the weather is often sunny and pleasant across most regions, but it's also the peak tourist season. Consider the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November), when the weather is favorable in many areas, and prices may be more reasonable.
Amazing Cities to Explore
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Malaysia offers several amazing cities to explore, promising a rich tapestry of experiences. From the vibrant metropolis of Kuala Lumpur to the historical charm of Penang's George Town, there's a story to tell. Each city has its unique charm, character, and attractions to experience.
Kuala Lumpur, the dynamic capital of Malaysia, is a blend of modernity and heritage. The city boasts impressive architecture, such as the Petronas Twin Towers and the National Mosque. You can dive into the city's modern shopping malls and lively street markets. Chinatown and Little India are waiting to be explored.
While Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia, Putrajaya is the administrative capital. Putrajaya is renowned for its architectural marvels, and the most striking of all is the Putra Mosque, with its rose-tinted granite. Taman Botani and Taman Wetland are enchanting parks amidst lush greenery and scenic lakes.
Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage City. Architectural treasures include the 16th-century A Famosa fortress and the 17th-century Stadthuys buildings. Vibrant Jonker Street is filled with ancient houses, and from Friday to Sunday, the street turns into a lively night market. A boat ride on the Malacca River reveals the city's rich heritage.
A visit to George Town in Penang is a journey into time. The UNESCO-listed heritage sites include several well-preserved British colonial architecture. You can explore Little India, savor street food at the hawker centers, and wander through the Clan Jetties, a historic floating village on the waterfront.
Kuching is on the island of Borneo and nestled along the banks of the Sarawak River. It's the charming state capital of Sarawak, and the waterfront is renowned for its picturesque landscape. Kuching is deep in history and culture and an ideal starting point for the lush rainforests of Borneo.
Beautiful Island and Beach Getaways
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Malaysia is home to several beautiful islands and stunning beaches, each offering its unique landscape and experience. Whether seeking to relax on the pristine sand, explore the underwater world, or enjoy the thrill of water sports, Malaysia's islands and beaches offer a range of holiday experiences.
Port Dickson (PD) is about 100 km (62 miles) from Kuala Lumpur and is popular with people living in Kuala Lumpur and nearby. The seafront is a long and sandy stretch. Various water sports are available, including jet skiing and kayaking. PD offers a variety of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Batu Ferringhi on Penang Island is famous for its sandy stretch fringed by casuarina trees. The beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the shoreline. Hotels, resorts, and restaurants catering to all budgets line the seafront, and you can expect a lively nightlight.
Langkawi Island is home to some of Malaysia's most beautiful beaches. Pantai Cenang is a popular beach, with its white sands and clear waters. The vibrant marine life makes it an ideal destination for underwater adventures. Apart from water sports, you can explore the mangrove forests of the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.
Redang is a small island off the northeastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The island is part of a marine park and features breathtaking beaches. Redang's vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life make it a haven for snorkelers and divers. For a break from the beach, the island offers opportunities for jungle trekking.
Sipadan Island is off the east coast of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo. The island features some of the best diving spots in the world. There are several dive sites around the island. Overnight stays are not permitted on Sipadan, but accommodations are available on nearby islands like Mabul and Kapalai or the Semporna mainland.
Cool Highland Getaways
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Malaysia is home to several highland destinations, offering a refreshing escape from the heat of the lowlands. Besides the cool mountain air, the country's highlands offer visitors a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and even entertainment.
Cameron Highlands is a scenic hill station. It's famous for its lush tea plantations, and visitors can visit the BOH Tea Plantation. You can also take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process. Cameron Highlands offers a range of outdoor activities, including trekking, jungle walks, and visits to waterfalls.
Genting Highlands is a popular resort featuring a variety of entertainment options. The highland resort has an outdoor and indoor theme park and several entertainment venues. The Genting Skyway offers a 15-minute cable car ride with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Fraser's Hill is a charming highland known for its lush greenery and colonial-era charm. This peaceful highland retreat offers several trails for nature walks, including a short trek to Jeriau Waterfall. With various bird species making their home here, Fraser's Hill is renowned as a birdwatcher's paradise,
Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) is unknown to most international travelers. It is the oldest hill station in the country, and the colonial architecture adds to its nostalgic ambiance. There's limited development here to preserve the natural beauty. The hill station offers its botanical garden and several scenic nature trails.
Kundasang is a serene highland in the state of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. It's the gateway to Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest mountain. Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The park features several hiking trails through the highland forest.
Lush Tropical Rainforest
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Malaysia is home to some of the world's oldest rainforests. It's incredibly diverse, with an astonishing array of plant and animal species. The rainforests cover two-fifths of Peninsular Malaysia and two-thirds of East Malaysia, and there are several destinations where you can explore.
Taman Negara (National Park) is estimated to be around 130 million years old, older than the rainforest in the Amazon. The rainforest here is home to diverse ecosystems and an array of wildlife. Discover the rainforest by traversing a network of jungle paths, canopy bridges, and river excursions.
Endau-Rompin National Park is the second largest national park in Peninsula Malaysia, after Taman Negara. The park comprises many ecosystems supported by many species of flora and fauna. Within the park are several waterfalls and caves to explore. Besides the jungle trails, programs can be arranged to visit the indigenous people.
Penang National Park, on Penang Island, is Malaysia's smallest national park, covering only 26 sq km (10 sq mile). Though a small park, it encompasses a diversity of ecosystems, from mangrove swamps and rainforests to coral reefs. Given the remote location, the park boasts some of the best beaches in Penang.
The Royal Belum State Park is an extensive rainforest and almost untouched. At the heart is Tasik Temenggor, a large lake with hundreds of small islands. Accommodations are available by the lake, and boat cruises are available for hire. Within the park, you'll find several trails perfect for trekking adventures.
Gunung Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Malaysian Borneo. The park is renowned for its dramatic limestone karst formations, which include towering cliffs, jagged peaks, and razor-sharp pinnacles. It also features some of the world's largest and most spectacular cave systems.
Melting Pot of Cultures
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Malaysia is a melting pot of many cultures. Malays are the dominant community, and others include Chinese, Indian, and various indigenous communities. There are also other communities with roots in other parts of Asia and the world. Generally, Malaysians are open-minded and accepting of different cultures.
The coexistence of these diverse ethnic groups has shaped Malaysia's cultural landscape. The result is a harmonious blend of traditions, festivals, languages, and cuisines. When visiting Malaysia, you'll have the opportunity to experience this vibrant mix of cultures firsthand.
Malaysia is also home to various religions. While Islam is the official religion, people from other religions are free to practice their faith, and you'll see temples and churches besides mosques. The National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur is a stunning design of modern religious architecture.
Malaysia hosts several religious and cultural festivals throughout the year. These include Hari Raya (Eid al-Fitr), Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Thaipusam, and Christmas. Each festival is distinct and celebrated in local traditions, and an opportunity to attend a celebration is an enriching experience.
If you have the opportunity, consider a homestay program staying in a traditional village or kampung. Many Malaysians open their homes to visitors to experience village life and traditions firsthand. These experiences offer an intimate connection with the local community and their customs.
Food Lover's Paradise
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Malaysia is renowned as a food paradise, which reflects the country's multicultural heritage. The Malaysian culinary scene is a harmonious mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous flavors. The result is a delightful array of dishes, each with unique flavors, spices, and cooking techniques.
A favorite breakfast meal is roti canai, a flatbread served with dhal or curry. Nasi lemak is rice cooked in coconut milk and served with flavorful chili paste, anchovies, and egg, with fried chicken as an option. Another favorite is char kway teow, a stir-fried noodle dish with combinations of meats, seafood, and vegetables.
A popular snack is apam balik, a sweet pancake filled with peanuts and corn. Another is pisang goreng, a deep-fried banana fritter. Malaysians take their beverages seriously, and you must try teh tarik (pulled tea) and kopi (local coffee). These drinks are sweetened with condensed milk and can be enjoyed hot or iced.
The street food stalls, markets, and local restaurants play a significant role in Malaysia's dining scene. They offer a plethora of tasty dishes at affordable prices. Sticking to these outlets, what you'd pay for a meal at a budget restaurant in many Western countries could pay you three to four meals in Malaysia!
Malaysia's culinary scene also includes foods from around the world, often in major destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Popular restaurants include Italian, Japanese, Thai, and Middle Eastern, not to mention steakhouses and burger joints. Prices are much cheaper compared to many Western countries.
There's a presence of familiar Western fast food chains, should you have a craving. McDonald's is widespread in urban areas, but KFC has spread its presence even to the smaller towns. Other popular chains in urban locations include Pizza Hut, Domino's Pizza, Subway, and Starbucks.
Locals Speak English
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English is widely understood and spoken in Malaysia, making it an accessible destination for many tourists. Malaysians are generally proficient in Malay and English. The country's education system includes English as a compulsory subject, so most people are comfortable using the language.
People working in tourism, hospitality, and the service industry are generally accustomed to dealing with international visitors in English. In major urban areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Ipoh, a higher portion of the general population is proficient in English.
Places often frequented by tourists have English signage. This includes hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and popular cultural or historical sites. Public transportation systems, including buses and commuter trains, also have English signage. Most taxi drivers have at least a basic understanding of English.
You can still find people who understand English in rural areas and smaller towns. However, the level of English proficiency is generally lower compared to the urban centers. Locals might use a more basic form of English but are often more than willing to assist and communicate with travelers.
While English is widely understood, be understanding and patient when communicating. The level of English varies between individuals. If the person is not fluent in the language, speak slowly and use simple English. Usually, they'll understand and can communicate back to you.
