Thursday, May 10, 2012

Selamat Datang…Welcome to Malaysia





Endowed with a diversity of cultures, Malaysia offers a ‘truly Asian experience’. It is a fascinating holiday
destination offering something for everyone. There are three distinct destinations in the country –
Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia. Discover a delightful fusion of
three of Asia’s oldest civilisations – Malay, Chinese and Indian. A potpourri enriched with the indigenous
traditions of the KadazanDusuns, Ibans and other ethnic communities of Sabah and Sarawak.


Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a modern cosmopolitan city. Established in 1857 at the
confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers, it is one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. Its impressive
skyline boasts of the world’s tallest twin towers towering at a height of 452m whose architecture is
representative of the country’s dominant cultures – the Malay, Chinese and Indian. Combined with the
colonial legacy of the British and Moorish influences, Kuala Lumpur has one of Asia’s most dynamic
cityscapes.

Malaysia’s long coastline and many coral-fringed islands, with the Straits of Malacca to the west and
the South China Sea to the east, gives rise to a large number of fabulous beaches. Islands like Langkawi,
Tioman and Pangkor are world-renowned resort destinations. The Langkawi archipelago consists of 99
islands situated in the Andaman Sea, south of Thailand. The best beaches include Pantai Cenang, Burau
Bay, Pantai Kok and Pantai Datai.

Penang founded in 1786 by Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company is a cultural melting
pot of the oldest British Straits Settlement. The island’s alluring beaches and old-world charm has made
Penang a popular holiday destination. Nyonya food (a Chinese and Malay culinary blend) is also best
sampled in Penang and Melaka.

Further south, Melaka is known for its history, museums and unique Baba-Nyonya community. A famous
port strategically located in the Straits of Malacca, it was the centre of the spice trade in the region. Old
buildings and traditional trades and crafts make Melaka one of Malaysia’s most visited destinations. The
buildings reflect Portuguese, Dutch and British influences and the city centre is ideal for walking around.
Melaka is also home to the Baba and Nyonya community. Known as Peranakan or Straits Chinese, they
are descendants of the original Chinese settlers who married Malays.

  The states of Sabaha and Sarawak await nature lovers and adventurers. Discover the prolific marine
life and dense rainforest while exploring the underwater world and wilderness of Borneo. Known as
the Land Below the Wind much of Sabah remains forested. Kota Kinabalu, the capital, is a vibrant city
on Sabah’s west coast and the gateway to eco-adventures like mountain climbing, white-water rafting,
caving, diving and river cruising. The Kinabalu National Park, located in northwest Sabah, is Malaysia’s
first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to the 4095-metre Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest
peak, it has one of the world’s largest collections of flora and fauna.

Sarawak, the Land of the Hornbills is the country’s largest state and is characterised by distinctive
ethnic groups, many of whom still live in riverside settlements. Kuching, the capital, is located on the
Sarawak River. The waterfront and Main Bazaar features old shop-houses selling local pepper, artefacts,
antiques, birds’ nests and exotic forest products. Sarawak’s verdant jungles are strewn with massive
natural formations, the world’s largest cave chambers and vast endemic flora and fauna. The Gunung
Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of vertical cliffs, jagged limestone
pinnacles, intricate cave networks and over 20,000 animals and 3,500 plant species.


Malaysia also has many theme parks that make a family holiday exciting. Genting Highlands has indoor
and outdoor theme parks, shopping, and the added attraction of cold mountain air. Sunway Lagoon in
Petaling Jaya is famous for its thrilling waterpark rides, adventure rides and family rides. A’ Famosa near
Melaka City boasts the only Animal Safari in the country, in addition to a waterpark and amazing animal
shows.


Bursting with colour, pulsating with life, Malaysia awaits you.

Mercury Travels will take you on an unforgettable holiday to Malaysia. A fascinating country where time often stands still.


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