Malaysia Things to Do

With beaches, big cities, jungles and small villages, there’s a lot to see and do in Malaysia. Here are a few suggestions for how to spend one week in Malaysia to make the most of your time.

Kuala Lumpur, or KL for short, is the busy capital city and the most common point of entry into the rest of Malaysia. Chances are, if you’re traveling anywhere in the country, you’ll spend at least a little time in this modern metropolis, and you have several transportation options to help you get around.

What was once an uninhabited island transformed into a busy port when the British East India Company moved onto Penang. Today, it retains much of its British and Chinese heritage. Penang’s real draw is its natural beauty, beauty you can experience for yourself on a short day trip.

Travelers who find themselves in Penang in early summer should take special care to watch the festivities surrounding the Plenitude Penang International Dragon Boat Festival. Beating drums, colorful boats and costumes, and high-caliber athleticism come together for three days of international competition and celebration.

One of Sarawak‘s most popular travel destinations, Gunung Mulu National Park features some of the world’s most astonishing cave systems, as well as some excellent jungle and mountain trekking.
Just getting to Gunung Mulu can be challenging.

Near to the Modernist National Mosque, the Kuala Lumpur Islamic Arts Museum is off the beaten tour-group track but an excellent outing for those who are not only spending a little more time in Malaysia, but are keen to learn more about Islamic culture.

Existing as a marked counterpoint to the extraordinary cacophony of Kuala Lumpur‘s main train station (which is situated just a stone’s throw away), the lovely refuge that is Lake Gardens Park has been offering respite to the city’s elders and betters since the late 19^th century. Originally opened as sanctuary for the colonial ruling class from the urban blight, bustling humanity, and – there’s no way around it – the resident native population, the park is now thoroughly democratized. Its 225 acres are open to everyone.

As traditional Chinese establishments in Malaysia’s quaint town of Penang, clan jetties are an integral part of the country’s heritage and history. With just six jetty clan communities left, they are fewer in numbers, but the waterfront shack communities are a still very much a part of the circuit for travelers through the area.

Situated at 5,000 feet above sea level in the Pahang rainforest, the colonial-era hill resort known as Fraser’s Hill has remained relatively unchanged since it was made accessible by automobile from Kuala Lumpur in the early 20^th century.

The Malaysian island of Borneo has long attracted tourists with its lush jungle, high peaks, world-class diving sites and beautiful beaches. With the recent armed conflict in the Sabah area between Malaysian military and Filipino militia, here’s what you need to know to stay safe on your visit.