15 Things That I Wish I Knew Before Travel To Malaysia
The multicultural mosaic of Malaysia is rivaled only by its stunning natural vistas. The diverse culture and landscapes pave the way for a myriad of vacation opportunities. You might want to relish a lauded pint with your Pasembur in Penang, trace Jim Thompson’s footsteps in the Cameron Highlands, or dive alongside hammerheads off Sipadan Island. Despite this chaos, there are constants to consider in planning the perfect journey.
Everyone Can Fly
“Everyone Can Fly” is a slogan for AirAsia. AirAsia revolutionised affordable travel in Southeast Asia, and it all began in Malaysia. Between the budget airline led by Tony Fernandes and Penang-based Firefly, Malaysia’s geography is well connected. With around 18 domestic routes, you could breakfast in UNESCO-listed Georgetown, lunch in Kuala Lumpur, and sleep amid Borneo’s rainforest by night.
Beware of Taxi Fares
Kuala Lumpur’s taxis are infamous. Cab drivers’ poor attitudes were once equated to “our filthy public toilets.” Despite this comment being withdrawn, it left a dent. Smart visitors insist on meter usage, haggle or opt for public transport. Taxi booking apps like Easy Taxi and My Teksi prove handy.
All About Milo
Malaysia boasts of being the world’s largest Milo consumer and houses the largest Milo factory. Available everywhere, from KFC to kopitiams, McDonalds to mamak stalls, Milo can be enjoyed in various forms, hot or iced, with Nescafe or topped with whipped cream.
Bacon or ‘Bacon’?
Malaysia thrice topped the world’s most Muslim-friendly holiday destinations list, surveyed by Singapore-based Crescent Rating. This recognition considers access to halal-compliant food, meaning traditional bacon is scarce. You might find chicken, turkey or beef rashers, but if you crave genuine bacon, you’ll need restraint. However, you’ll find pork in Chinese-run restaurants in destinations like Penang.
Guinness’ Finest Outpost
Malaysia’s Guinness production has received accolades for five consecutive years, earning the League of Excellence Award. The country brews some of the smoothest Irish stout beyond its homeland, Ireland.
Tax-Free Havens
Malaysia’s beer excise rate is globally second-highest. However, islands like Langkawi, Tioman and Labuan are tax-free zones. It means savings on alcohol, cigarettes, hotel stays and certain retail items.
A Biodiverse Paradise
Malaysia, a ‘megadiverse’ country, is home to 20% of the world’s animal species. Its biodiversity rivals Brazil, and its Taman Negara rainforest, dating back 130 million years, is the world’s oldest. Despite diminishing numbers, wild elephants, tigers and orangutans are still seen freely roaming.
Penang’s Kway Teow
Penang, known as the food capital, dishes out the best char kuay teow. Its long waiting times and notorious owner only add to its fame. Other delightful offerings include hokkien mee, curry mee and rojak.
Ramadan Hospitality
More than half of Malaysia’s population observes Ramadan. However, unlike stricter destinations, visitors and non-Muslim Malaysians aren’t expected to refrain from public eating, drinking or smoking during fasting. Eating out is a nocturnal event during Ramadan, with bustling bazaars offering a spread of food stalls for fast-breaking at sundown.
Malaysians’ Social Media Love
As per a TNS study in 2010, Malaysians are the most e-social nationality online. With an average of 233 friends in cyberspace, making a new Malaysian friend is often an enthusiastic experience.
Authentic Street Markets
For a taste of local life, explore Malaysia’s vibrant street markets. These markets are filled with local artisans, farmers and vendors selling everything from exotic fruits to handmade crafts.
Festivals Abound
Due to its cultural diversity, there is almost always a festival being celebrated in Malaysia. From the Hindu Thaipusam to the Muslim Eid, the Chinese New Year to the indigenous Gawai Dayak, these festivals offer a colourful insight into Malaysia’s multicultural society.
King of Fruits Reigns Here
Durian, known as the ‘King of Fruits’, holds a special place in Malaysian culture. Available widely during the durian season, this notoriously smelly fruit is a must-try for any adventurous eater.
Paradise for Divers
Besides Sipadan, Malaysia is home to many other world-class diving spots. These include the Perhentian Islands, Redang and the world’s only oceanic island in South East Asia, Layang Layang.
A Colonial Past
From Georgetown’s colonial architecture to the British hill stations in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia’s colonial past is evident throughout the country. These sites offer a fascinating look into the country’s historical narrative.
In a nutshell, Malaysia, a cultural melting pot, is a country with an array of unique experiences to offer. From tasting the country’s food capital, Penang’s famed Char Kuay Teow, to diving with hammerheads off Sipadan Island, there is something for every traveller. The people’s love for social media, the many festivals celebrated, and the varied diving spots further enrich the visitor’s experience. Despite the slight challenges like navigating through taxi fares, travellers are often rewarded with experiences that are truly Malaysian. Be it the opportunity to taste the infamous durian, or to connect with the country’s colonial past, each experience adds to the vibrant tapestry that is Malaysia. So, pack your bags and get ready to dive into the heart of Southeast Asia!
