Malaysia, Truly Asia

Malaysia has long been one of the world’s best kept tourism secrets. It is an
ideal tourism destination in so many different aspects as it offers a wide range of
diverse attraction to suit all tastes and most importantly, at relatively affordable
prices. In addition, the country also offers a fascinating cultural mix with colourful
festivals, unique arts and crafts, architecture, food and a rich array of dance
forms.  Malaysia has a tropical climate throughout the year, enjoying warm days and
mild evenings in all seasons. Ethnicity remains the most potent force in Malaysia as
it is a multicultural country with a very diverse population.

In addition to being a tourist destination known for its cultural, historical and
natural attractions, Malaysia is starting to make its mark as an affordable yet
sophisticated healthcare hub in Asia. Many local private hospitals now have
counters, staff, medical packages and special arrangements such as accommodation
and travel to cater to foreign patients. According to the 2007 figures, about 72% of
the foreign patients were from Indonesia, 10% from Singapore, 5% from Japan, 3%
from Europe and 3% from India. Penang, Malacca and Johor Bahru are the favourite
destinations to seek medical treatment. For instance, the majority of medical tourists
visiting Penang are of Indonesian origin because of its proximity to Sumatera,
convenience of travel, ease of cultural and language adaptation.

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) or also known as homestay is promoted

by the government to allow foreigners regardless of race, religion, gender or age to
stay for a period of 10 years initially. Malaysia's friendly traditional communities have
opened up their homes to foreign guests so that they can have a taste of the
kampung or village lifestyle to cherish for a lifetime. The lucky visitors will have the
opportunity to harvest fruits that are in season or try their skill at plucking coconuts
out of palm trees with a bamboo pole! Visitors will get to experience living with their
host, eating with them and being a part of their family. In the evenings, tourists will
get to indulge in traditional games and enjoy cultural dances, musical performances
or even a mock-wedding.
 Malaysia's natural landscape lends itself quite naturally to eco-tourism. The
country is bestowed with numerous natural attractions such as various flora and
fauna, white sandy beaches, exotic marine aqua life and the oldest and largest caves
in the world. Visitors are able to immerse themselves in the many rainforest reserves
and well-signaged parks throughout the country. There is really no better place in the
world to experience exotic flora and fauna like wild orchid, Venus Flytrap, the
Sumatran Rhinoceros, Sun Bear, Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey in their pristine
tropical environment, so up close and personal. Borneo is especially well-known for
the giant odorous flower, the Rafflesia which is the world's biggest flower. The Niah
caves are known for the supposedly 'energy-giving' birds' nests so prized by the
Chinese and harvested by the native community of the area.

Besides that, Malaysia is a haven for anyone who simply enjoys delicious
food. With a population comprising of Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other
ethnic groups, Malaysia boasts a wide range of delicious local specialties, each having
its own distinct style of cooking. Some of these dishes that Malaysians are
particularly proud of are sate, ‘Nasi Lemak’, ‘Laksa’, ‘Roti Canai’, ‘Char Kuay Teow’
and ‘Bak Kut Teh’. For example, Penang is known as ‘Hawkers Paradise’ as city
dwellers drive for hours on weekend getaways to feast or gorge themselves on
Penang’s hawker food. The fusion of these cuisines that has developed over the
centuries makes Malaysian food not only colourful, spicy and eclectic but also
downright tasty.

Kuala Lumpur is a shoppers paradise. There is a wide range of shopping

establishments and modern air-conditioned shopping malls, department stores,
handicraft centres, duty-free shops, bazaars and night markets. Among the items
high on the shopping list of tourists are pewter, batik, duty free items, electrical
products, sportswear and handicrafts. For a very extraordinary experience, tourist
should not miss the opportunity to visit the night markets or ‘pasar malam’ which
begin their trading activities in the late afternoon till as late as 11 pm. These open-air
markets feature street artists and hawker stalls that sell a variety of local produce,
foodstuff, clothing, accessories and cakes. Tourists should also look out for the Mega
Sales in Malaysia where items would be discounted to as low as 70 %.
 In the heart of Asia lies a land of many cultures, wonders and attractions. It's a
bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese
and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. It is also a land of
fascinating extremes, where towering skyscrapers look down upon primitive
longhouses. Blessed with natural wonders galore, it is perfect for a memorable eco-
getaway or a luxurious holiday in a seven star hotel overlooking the bustling city.
With some of the best beaches and diving spots in the world, it is ideal for island
getaways. Experience Asia only in Malaysia.