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Malaysia, Truly Asia

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Page 1: Malaysia, Truly Asia
Page 2: 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,

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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 designated 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 pungent 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

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‘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.