Labuan Bird Park

Labuan Bird Park is home to many species of Borneo birds only likely to be encountered by bird watchers in the deep forests of Borneo. But there are plans to collect a good percentage of the 580 species of birds found in Borneo’s diverse habitats, from mangroves along the coast to forests in the mountains, and increase the number of residents at this bird park. Unlike bird watching in the wild, here at the bird park, nature lovers and do some bird watching without the arduous treks in the jungle or any need to tow expensive equipment

source : www.malaysiaguide.com

Chimney Museum / Tanjung Kubong Tunnel

Chimney Information Center’s building is located on the historical site of the Chimney Historical Museum in Tanjung Kubong, known during the British occupational period as Cool Point. It functions as a site museum which will exhibit and inform of the history of Tanjung Kubong, especially the history of coal mining which began in 1847 through 1911. Located nearby is the Chimney tower which is of no less importance in the history of the nation.

In all, seven galleries have been created in the Chimney Information Center, including a discovery room. Also displayed is the history of worldwide coal-mining, the scatter of coal mine locations all over Malaysia, process and methods of coal mining, mineral strata and coal specimens. There is also a gallery related to the Chimney tower which is thought of as mysterious by the locals as its real function is still unknown to this day. The history and conservational works on this tower is also displayed. The Chimney tower is a rectangular structure 32 meters in height and wholly built from raw red bricks. This tower is well over a century old and is one of the leftovers of mining coal mining activities in Labuan. It is a historical symbol of pride to the people of Labuan because of its uniqueness and strong foundation, not to mention its as yet unsolved mystery.

The Tunnel was once a site busy with coal mining activities for more than half a century from 1849 through 1911. This expansive network of underground tunnels is one of many important historical landmarks in Labuan. Operated by various British companies for 64 years, it was during the administration of the New Central Borneo, that an 8-mile long railway track was installed from here to Victoria Port to facilitate the export of coal, resulting in a flourishing coal mining operation here. However, an unfortunate string of mining accidents led to the closure of the mine in 1911.

Today, what still remains in the area are pits and tunnels dug long ago, old bricks and pieces of rail tracks and rusted cables strewn on the ground. Visitors may enter a low tunnel with the help of a short rope and emerge from the top, although this should only be attempted with great caution. Across the road next to the Chimney, is a vertical well that is 10 feet wide, measuring some 100 feet deep. Entrances to more tunnels, which are yet to be explored, can be found at the bottom of this well.

source : www.malaysiaguide.com

Kenyir Lake

Tasik Kenyir is the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, spanning 260,000 hectares. It is also Malaysia's largest rock filled hydroelectric dam. When the area was flooded, most of the hills were above the water level, thus creating about 340 man-made islands. 

The rainforest that cradles the area furnishes the lake with an incredible assortment of flora and fauna. These include rare ferns, exotic orchids, hornbills, elephants, and panthers. It is also home to more than 8,000 species of flowers, 2,500 species of plants and trees, 800 species of orchids, and 300 species of fungus. 

It is a popular retreat for nature lovers as it is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. It is also an anglers haven as the lake is home to hundreds of species of freshwater fish like Baung, Toman, Kelisa, Lampam and Kelah. Surounded by a vast tropical jungle, the lake area is a popular spot for angling, boating, canoeing, jungle- trekking, 4WD driving and golfing. 

Accommodation varies from a 3 star resort, chalets on the islands, floating resort or houseboats where rooms and meals are provided. The houseboat travels to waterfalls and fishing sites providing an exhilarating adventure for nature lovers. Tasik Kenyir is also a gateway to Taman Negara through Tanjung Mentong.

Source : www.vmy2014.com/

Langkawi Eagle Square

Also known as Eagle Square, Dataran Lang is one of Langkawi’s best known manmade attractions, a large sculpture of an eagle poised to take flight. A sight that greets visitors to the island via ferry, the 12 metre-tall statue is one of the island’s most instantly recognizable monuments. 

Located at the southeast corner of Pulau Langkawi, besides offering beautiful views of Kuah Bay, Dataran Lang has beautiful miniature fountains, terraces and bridges, making it the ideal place for those postcard-perfect holiday photos. The square is a good place to watch ferries ply across the harbour but plan a trip here early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is at its least intense.

The reddish-brown eagle at Dataran Lang was built as an emblem of the island. According to folklore Langkawi’s name came from two Malay words – ‘helang’ (eagle) and ‘kawi' (reddish brown): hence lang-kawi. 

Adjacent to the CHOGM Park and Taman Lagenda Dalam Langkawi, the monument is also within walking distance of some of the best duty-free shops in Langkawi and the Jetty Point Mall – chocolates and alcohol are especially good buys here.

Source : www.langkawi-info.com

Port Dickson Army Museum

Port Dickson Army Museum is one of Malaysia's best museums and I would rank it alongside the Royal Malaysian Police Museum with similar style and presentation.It is located next to an Army base at Port Dickson, which has long been a military town as well as being a leading beach resort.

The museum is housed in two old army buildings and comprises 9 galleries and a number of outdoor exhibits.

The galleries include a look at the army through the ages from the 16th centuryMelaka Sultanate, through the Portuguese and Dutch eras and then on to theBritish era from which the modern Malaysian army can trace its roots

Another gallery focuses on the Japanese invasion and occupation and displays interesting items from that period.For me, one of the most fascinating exhibits is the Communist Party of Malaya(CPM) Tunnel which is a mock-up of an underground network of tunnels of the type used by the communist terrorists during the Emergency. Inside these tunnels, the bandits slept, ate, planned their attacks, treated wounds and illnesses, and carried out target practice. The tunnel is a little dark in places but well ventilated.

There is also a gallery on the modern army and its peacetime roles such as UN peacekeeping missions.

In the grounds of the museum are a steam locomotive, named Alor Gajah, various military aircraft and helicopters, a selection of armoured vehicles and a number of field guns and artillery pieces.There is also a small trail with mini rope bridges and some picnic gazebos.Other facilities include an audio-visual hall (closed during my visit), a café, souvenir shop, surau, toilets etc.

Source : www.malaysia-traveller.com

Langkawi Lagend Park

The island of Langkawi has always been surrounded with legends.A visit to Langkawi will be incomplete if you do not visit Taman Legenda (Legend Park). Here at this park, you can learn about all the legends that made up the character of the mystical Langkawi.

The 50 acre park consists of 17 monuments, each with a story to tell, amidst scenic gardens of various flowers and plants. There is also 4 artificial lakes and a beach forming a fitting backdrop for buildings that house Langkawi’s rich heritage.The park was built at the cost of MYR37 million on reclaimed land and was officially opened on April 27th 1996. Inside the park, you will get splendid specimens of traditional Malay handicraft and cultural artworks. It is located 400 meters from the Kuah Jetty and is within easy reach from the town centre.Taman Legenda is one of the best places to visit if you want to have a quick overview of Langkawi’s history.

For example, one of the many interesting legends that explain how Langkawi town derived its name “Kuah” (Malay for Gravy) is the legend of Mat Raya and Mat Cincang. Legends speak of these two formidable warriors having a duel, which resulted in the formation of several landmarks around the island like Gunung Raya and Gunung Mat Cincang. Kuah is said to be formed when the two warriors, while fighting overturned a bowl of gravy.

Other lesser known legends of Langkawi depicted in Taman Legenda include the legend of Pandak Mayah's spear, the legend of Pulau Hantu (Ghost Island) and the legend of the Mermaid's Golden Ball.Apart from being able to learn about the rich heritage of Langkaw Island, this superbly maintained park is also an ideal place to go for a stroll and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of what Langkawi has to offer. The locals here also regard the well-maintained Taman Legenda as one of their favorite picnic spots on the island. But if you find walking too tiring, it is also possible to hire a buggy to explore the park.

The park is open daily from 8am until 11pm.the entrance ticket will cost you MYR5 for adults and MYR2.50 for children. I am not sure about the age limit for children though.For groups of 15 persons and above, there is a 10% discount on the entrance fee.

Upside Down House

Turn your world upside down when you visit this unique house in Tamparuli – literally! The ‘Rumah Terbalik’ (which translates to Upside Down House) is the first of its kind in South East Asia and among the five upside-down structures in the world (3 are found in Europe and another in Japan).

The house was opened to the public in early February 2012 and has since been attracting visitors from near and far. The house itself is hard to miss, having been flipped upside down, with its floor facing skyward. Everything inside the house, from furniture to household appliances, hover above your head, as the ceiling is actually the floor. Visitors will notice some distinguishing Sabahan décor and features showcased in this house. In the garage, a car is parked upside down. It might seem disorienting in the first few seconds, but the fascination of it all takes over. This architectural wonder has also been included in the Malaysia Book of Records for being the first of its kind in the nation. Visitors can enjoy a meal or afternoon snack at the Rumah Terbalik Café or pick up a souvenir at the Gift Shop. Guided tours are available.

The house is located along Mile 21, Jalan Telibong, Tamparuli. The journey by road takes approximately 40 minutes. Taxis can take you from the city centre but be sure to make return arrangements as taxis on standby may not be readily available at this location.

Source : www.sabahtourism.com

Mahsuri's Tomb

Mahsuri’s Tomb is the crypt of the legendary Princess Mahsuri. Located in the village of Mawat, 12km from Kuah, it is also known as Makam Mahsuri. Most of the island’s natural attractions have fables attached in true Malay style and Mahsuri’s Tomb is probably its most famous legend.

The story begins with the beautiful Mahsuri, a maiden (or princess by some accounts) born over 200 years ago, who married the love of her life during a time of conflict with the Siamese. Her husband went off to fight in the war and her mother-in-law, jealous of her beauty, vengefully accused Mahsuri of adultery.

Mahsuri protested her innocence but the village elders tried the young girl, found her guilty and sentenced her to death by stabbing. She was tied to a stake but when she was pierced with the ceremonial dagger she bled white blood, a sign of her innocence. 

With her dying breath, Mahsuri cursed the island with seven generations of bad luck. Later the Siamese conquered Kedah and invaded the island – the inhabitants of Langkawi set fire to their staple crop and poisoned their wells in order to halt the advance of the invaders. Legend has it to this day traces of burnt rice can be seen in nearby Padang Matsirat (The Field of Burnt Rice) especially after torrential downpours.

The legend of Mahsuri supposedly accounts for Langkawi’s relatively ‘newfound’ success and judging by its increasing prosperity, the island has survived the curse. Mahsuri’s Tomb (the site where Mahsuri died) was converted into a historical site: it includes Mahsuri’s shrine, a fenced-in white slab of marble that stands alone in a shady garden. Besides that, there is a reconstruction of a traditional Malay house, a theatre and a ‘diorama museum’ which houses some of Mahsuri’s jewellery and the weapon that killed her. There are also a few food outlets at Mahsuri’s Tomb and a well that is said to bless those who dip their hands into it with beauty.

A signpost about 10km from town directs you to Makam Mahsuri. About 17km from Langkawi International Airport, Makam Mahsuri can be reached in less than 20 minutes; heading east. The complex is accessible via the Padang Matsirat Road. Once you pass the Tok Senik Resort on your left, there will the junction to Makam Mahsuri Road – turn right and follow the road and you’ll easily be able to find the mausoleum. There are signposts in English and Malay to guide you.

Source : www.langkawi-info.com

Crystal Mosque

The Crystal Mosque or Masjid Kristal is a mosque in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia. A grand structure made of steel, glass and crystal. The mosque is located at Islamic Heritage Park on the island of Wan Man. The mosque was constructed between 2006 and 2008. It was officially opened on 8 February 2008 by 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin of Terengganu. It has the capacity to accommodate over 1,500 worshipers at a time. This is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Masjid Kristal is a good tourism and attractive site. This handsome structure is symbol of Malaysian Heritage.

Telaga Air Hangat Langkawi

The hot springs well is a popular spot which was earlier called Telaga Air Hangat. It is situated on four acres of land, about 14km northeast of Kuah Town, Langkawi.ir Hangat (Hot Springs) is associated with an ancient legendary battle between Mat Cincang and Mat Raya during which a cauldron of boiling water was spilled at the spot which became a series of Hot Springs and named as Telaga Air Hangat. Despite what locals believe, scientifically the water of hot springs is heated by geothermal sources. It is one of the only four saline hot springs with a man-made three-tiered fountain and an 18 meters long stone wall. The stone wall has a handmade carving on it, portraying the famous legend of the fiercely fight between the two giants. The Legend of Air Hangat is displayed in the center of the mural which explains the history of Langkawi and how the Kuah town derived its name.Air Hangat Village is a modern complex with a blend of both a spa and a cultural park. It has four small hot water pools which believe to contain therapeutic water with curative properties. One can soak their feet in one of the pools for a refreshed and rejuvenated experience.

The village hosts cultural shows like Malaysian and Southeast Asian dances and other interesting activities and sports including batik painting, performances by elephants and kickboxing. It has a duty-free shopping area at the pavilions and a theatre restaurant where different cuisine such as fine Malaysian, Thai and Indonesian dishes are served. Other than that it also include a café and a lunge with variety of food and beverages are available.

Visitors can also see the everyday illustrations of batik paintings and local crafts like wood carving where you can also take part in and make your own. Thus, it is a fascinating place where you can spend a quality time with your friends or family

Source : www.langkawipoint.com

Telaga Tujuh Langkawi

Known as the “Seven Wells” in English, Telaga Tujuh is located around 45 kilometers from Kuah town at Gunung Mat Cincang.It is easily reachable by taxis or buses form the main town. Nestled at the north western corner of Langkawi Island, the beautifully crafted geological formation is indeed a natural wonder to be admired. The waterfalls got their name from the plunging waters that cascade down into a series of 7 pools.

At the last fall, the waters fall from a height of over 90 meters and over the millenniums, the fast flowing waters have smoothed the surface of the once sharp rock edges.If you were to take a cable car up to Gunang Mat Cincang, you can easily see why the Telaga Tujuh waterfall is so awe inspiring. According to the legend that surrounds the waterfalls, it is said that the fairies were so captivated by the beauty of this place that they made Telaga Tujuh as their bathing place. And as they bathed in the pools, healing powers are said to be instilled into the water of these pools. The surrounding foliages near the pools are also said to be left by the fairies.

To reach the first waterfall will require you to take a short climb up the mountain. But getting to the top of the falls will require climbing up a flight of 638 concrete steps inclined at an angle of 45 to 60 degrees!The first of the lower falls will take about 10 minutes to reach. A hike of 20 minutes will be required for the “Middle Falls”. These are where the “WELLS” are located. They are known as “WELLS” because the falls here are gentler and some of them actually resemble pools.

I have no idea how long it will take to reach the higher falls as I was too exhausted by the time I arrived at the middle falls. From what I was told, the view from the top is truly splendid.Along the way through the dipterocarp rainforest, you will get to observe many exotic animals, like the cream colored squirrels and the long tailed macaque monkeys, and if you are really lucky, you might even get to see the magnificent hornbill with its enormous curved orange beak.Actually, a walk through the rainforest of the Telaga Tujuh waterfall is like having a snapshot of what the splendor of nature holds for us if we dare to venture deeper into the jungle.

Not surprisingly, with rich fauna and flora, the area has been made a forest reserve, the Machinchang Forest Reserve. Telaga Tujuh is located in Compartment 8 of the Forest Reserve which comprises mainly of dipterocarp forests.As the site is popular among both the locals and the tourists, various facilities have been constructed for the convenience of visitors coming to visit the waterfall. There is ample parking spaces for cars and entry is charged at MYR 2 per entry. There are also shops here selling food and drinks but they normally open around midday.

Source : www.malaysia-travel-guide.com

Genting Highland Pahang

The fun never stops at Genting, City of Entertainment, perched on the top of cool, breezy Genting Highlands. One big attraction in Genting is the cool weather. Because of the 2,000m altitude, Malaysians like to visit just to enjoy the 'European' weather!

In the evening, there is spectacular entertainment at the Genting International Showroom or Pavilion, be it a thrilling magic show or an ice-skating extravaganza. There are also opportunities to go shopping at First World Plaza, visit the indoor and outdoor theme parks and feast on a wide range of delicious food at the many restaurants. 

The First World Plaza indoor theme park / shopping complex features a series of fun rides and six theme areas named after famous cities and landmarks from around the world - France (Champs Elysees), England (London), Italy (Venice), America (Times Square and Universal Walk), Switzerland (Swiss Alps) and Malaysia (Genting Walk).

The Snow World features a log cabin, an igloo, toboggan slides and a snowy play area. It's cold in here, so remember to wear warm clothing. Children will surely love the Rainforest Splash Pool, although the air is chilly, the pool is filled with warm water.

Other attractions are Genting Sky Venture, the only free-fall skydiving simulator in Asia, and Genting X-pedition Wall, an international-standard rock-climbing wall stretching to 15 metres in height, with a 6-metre overhang. There is also bowling, a video arcade, a cineplex and many more fun rides. One of the most popular attractions is the casino, the only one in Malaysia.

Source : www.tourism.gov.my

Cameron Highland Pahang

There are many things to see and do in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia's largest highland resort. Walks through lovely little villages, visits to the butterfly, strawberry, honey bee farms and sprawling tea plantations or meals at the delightful Tudor-styled country inns, are all pleasurable and relaxing activities to be experienced here. You can't beat the weather up here. A few days out of the sweltering lowland heat will surely recharge your batteries. 

One other popular activity in Cameron Highlands, actually more of a tradition, is to have tea and scones. This very English tradition dates back to the days when English colonial officers used this hilly location as a cool getaway from the heat of the lowlands. Bird-watching and trekking are also popular activities here. 

Situated 1,500 metres above sea level, Cameron Highlands comprises a series of little townships that include Ringlet, Tanah Rata, Brinchang, Tringkap, Kuala Terla and Kampung Raja. What's more, it's easy to get to. Cameron Highlands lies less than an hour off the main North-South Highway, and is a pleasant, easy 3.5-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Source : www.tourism.gov.my

Bukit Tinggi

Bukit Tinggi is just over an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur City centre and lies some 2,500 feet above sea level. Colmar Tropicale, located in Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, is a replica of a collection of buildings from a north-eastern village in France dating back to the 16th Century. It's just like a picture postcard. The French themed resort was opened in July 2000. It's surrounded by lush tropical forest land. Just RM 16 for adults and RM 8 for children below twelve, you can enjoy the various entertainment at Colmar Tropicale. A clock tower at the entrance welcomes the visitors. You need to walk up (and down) curvy concrete staircases to view the entire development .

The theme hotel is made up of eight blocks of architectural wonder, each with its unique style, from its colourful roof tiles to cobblestone ground. The hotel has several outlets, where you can dine in the French way. Central to the village is Colmar Square where the aroma of the blooms will tantalise your senses. There are fountains and park benches in the square for relaxation after a hard day's work browsing in the 17 theme shops, or should one wish to take a breather from participating in the various activities. The drawbridge reminiscent of ancient castles, clock tower with an original cuckoo bird clock, and the viewing tower complements the ambience.

Live bands and snake performances entertain the visitors on a stage. A clown juggles balls and pins, rides on his cycle, hops around playing tricks and acting merry. Authentic French food is served from sidewalk cafes and restaurants. The tables are placed strategically around the square so you can enjoy a meal or glass of wine whilst taking in the ambience.

*Bukit Tinggi Horse Trails
*Japanese Village
*Bukit Tinggi golf club
*Rabbit Park, Deer Sanctuary & Donkey rides
*Chateau De Colmar Hotel & Spa


Source : pahangtourism.com.my

Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)

Penang Hill or Bukit Bendera, is the site of the first hill station in Malaysia built by the British during colonial times and was used by the wealthy British colonials as a place to escape from the heat of the lowlands, with many building bungalows on top of the hill to use as second homes.During these times the hill was known as Flagstaff Hill as there was a flagpole on top of the Governor of Penang's residence, Bel Retiro, used as a signal transmitter.At 823 metres above sea level, the climate up here is a few degrees cooler and it is a pleasant place to visit and walk around the hilltop which offers fine views over the city of George Town.

As far as attractions go, there is not that much to see on top of the hill. What you come here for is the view and the nature walks through the forest that cover the hillsides.Walking around on top of the hill is not too strenuous as it is fairly flat, but once you leave the top, it becomes quite steep in places. Buildings of interest are a small Hindu Temple as well as a Mosque, the Governors residence, many old English style bungalows and the Bellevue Hotel.

Souerce : http://www.travel-penang-malaysia.com

Terengganu State Museum

Acclaimed as the largest of its kind in Malaysia, the Terengganu State Museum houses century old artifacts and artworks of rich and colourful heritage. Located on 27 hectares of land in Bukit Losong, Kuala Terengganu, the complex itself is an impressive architectural feature, based on the ancient Terengganu palace designs and architectures. The complex’s many galleries showcase textiles, historical artifacts, crafts, royal regalia, Islamic arts, contemporary arts, weapons, petroleum development, historical, sea faring trade, fisheries and marine galleries.

Herbs and botanic garden is well-maintained in the vicinity of the museum. At the main entrance, the original Arabic Jawi text inscription of Islamic religious decree Inscribed Stone or “Batu Bersurat” of Terengganu is prominently displayed, which proves the earliest acceptance of Islamic teachings in the Malay Peninsula. The maritime complex, the restored original old palaces and traditional boats used by sea-faring locals are also prominently displayed in the compound

source : tourism.terengganu.gov.my

Pekan Rabu Kedah

Pekan Rabu, literally translated “Wednesday Market”, is a well-known attraction among both the locals and tourists from outside Kedah. From its humble beginnings as a weekly market operating from an attap-roofed shack, it has since expanded into a multi- storey arcade selling a wide range of traditional delicacies, handicraft products and apparel. 

It is one of the best places to get traditional Malay foods such as serunding, dodol durian, kuah rojak and garam belacan. For its success, the business complex has become a source of pride among the Malay community in Kedah for helping encourage Malays to take an active role in commerce. 

Opening hours are from 8am to 9pm daily. Stalls remain open even on public holidays and festivals.

source : www.tourism.gov.my

Water Village

A trip to Labuan would not be complete if one does not visit Kampung Air (Water Village). There are two main water villages on Labuan - Kampung Bebuloh and Kampung Patau-Patau which are mainly inhabited by Brunei Malays. 

The houses here, which are built right at the water's edge, are made of wood and sit on high stilts, joined together with a maze of wooden walkways.

Visitors are free to roam around the vicinity of the water villages and observe the humble lifestyle of a predominantly fishing community.

Almost every house owner here has his own boat. The houses can be quite large and they all have cool decorated verandahs. Enjoy!!

source : http://www.tourism.gov.my

Mount Jerai Kedah

I had wanted to climb Gunung Jerai (also known as Kedah Peak) ever since I saw its brooding silhouette in the distance from the top of Penang Hill.

It is a good size, 1217m (3992 ft) and is the second highest peak in Kedah state. Because it rises steeply from the surrounding pancake-flat paddy fields it seems even higher.According to my list of the Highest Mountains in Malaysia it is ranked 148th highest.Then I discovered that it is possible to drive up the mountain so I cheated. Nowadays I have a habit that if there is a road, I use it and save my energy for those mountains (the vast majority) where walking is the only choice.

The 8560 hectares of jungle enveloping Kedah Peak is a protected forest reserve and I passed by the Sungai Teroi Recreational Forest on the way where there are jungle trails to explore.Almost at the top of the mountain is the Regency Jerai Hill Resort, a smart looking 4 star hotel which was opened in 2010. It has 75 rooms and chalets, a swimming pool and a nice restaurant

The mountain is marked on the map on my Top Kedah Attractions page.The turn off is just past the town of Gurun and is clearly signposted. Take care on the winding 13km approach road if you are driving yourself.

Gunung Gading National Park

Gunung Gading National Park has a very special star attraction - the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower - and the park is one of the best places in Asia to view the Rafflesia’s spectacular blooms. Gunung Gading sprawls across four jungle-clad mountain peaks, and its dense primary rainforest is criss-crossed by crystal clear streams and waterfalls.

Gunung Gading was gazetted as a park in 1st August 1983 primarily to provide a conservation zone for the protection of the Rafflesia. It was opened to the public in 1994 and visitors can now view one of the most spectacular plants found on the planet. The park is easily accessible from Kuching on a day trip. Those wishing to stay longer can enjoy Gunung Gading’s other attractions - particularly its rainforest scenery, waterfalls and jungle trails. Some of these trails lead to the peaks of the mountains that make up the park and offer challenging jungle treks.

Gunung Gading is home to a range of animals including civet cats, wild boar, small deer, porcupines, monkeys and giant squirrels. However, as the Park is surrounded by villages, most of the wildlife stays deep in the jungle, on the upper slopes of the park’s mountains, and therefore Gunung Gading is not an easy place for spotting wild animals. Visitors who opt for a summit trek are more likely to see some of the park’s wildlife.

Gunung Gading National Park is located near the small town of Lundu in Southwest Sarawak, about 2 hours drive from Kuching. From the Brooke Dockyard (Gambier Street) bus station take the Sarawak Transport Company bus to the 3rd Mile bus terminal. From there take the express bus to Lundu - the journey takes approximately one and a half hours. From Lundu, take a van or taxi and ask to be dropped off at the park office. Alternatively, Kuching tour operators offer guided tours to the park.

source : www.sarawakforestry.com

Paddy Museum Kedah

The Kedah Paddy Museum is nothing to do with Irishmen. It is dedicated to the rice plant, paddy, the world's most important crop.The word "paddy" is derived from the Malay word padi meaning rice plant so it is appropriate that one of the world's few rice museums should be in Malaysia. The other rice museums that I am aware of are the Gohan Museum in Yurakucho, Japan and IRRI's RiceWorld in Los Baños, Philippines.

The Paddy Museum is big, with an area of 12,000 square meters spread over three floors.The architecture of the building is designed to symbolize bushels of harvested rice stalks.Rice motifs decorate the external facade and are used on railings in the interior.

The museum explains the rice cultivation process, displays different varieties of rice, showcases equipment and tools used in rice cultivation through the ages and in various countries.On entering the museum I was directed to a spiral staircase which has been decorated to resemble the interior of a cave, possible inspired by the cave in Gunung Keriang which is located a short distance away.The stairs lead to the top floor of the museum and I emerged onto a revolving platform equipped with forty cinema seats from which visitors can admire a 360 degree diorama and mural which has been painted on the entire inside wall of the upper level.

Apparently the mural was painted by a team of 60 North Korean artists and I have to say they did an excellent job in creating a realistic panorama of the paddy fields and scenery found in this part of Kedah

Elsewhere in the museum the exhibits are spread around thinly and there is quite a lot of underutilized space. I suppose with rice grains being so small it is difficult to fill a 12,000 sq. meter museum but it is still well worth visiting if only to see the murals

source : http://www.malaysia-traveller.com

Sarawak Cultural Village

Known as the 'Living Museum', the Cultural Village was set up to preserve and showcase Sarawak's cultural heritage. Located at Pantai Damai, Santubong, just 32km from the state capital, Kuching, it is the perfect place to get introduced to local culture and lifestyle. 

Sprawled across 17 acres, there are about 150 people living in the village, demonstrating traditional daily activities from Sarawak's diverse tribes like the processing of sago and the making of handicrafts. They wear traditional costumes and also put on dances for visitors. 

The village residents provide information on their various traditional cultures and lifestyles. You can see replicas of buildings that represent every major ethnic group in Sarawak; longhouses of the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, a Melanau tall-house and a Chinese farm house among others. 

The village also has a theatre, where you can enjoy multicultural dance performances. Besides this, there is a restaurant and handicraft shop. You can even get married at the Sarawak Cultural Village, in traditional Iban, Malay, Bidayuh or Orang Ulu style. 

The Iban longhouse has separate rooms placed side by side, all of which open to a long communal hall, used for leisurely activities like wood carving and basket weaving. 

Guests are often invited to attend nightly ceremonies and drink a potent rice wine, tuak, which the Iban make themselves. Comfortable guesthouses are also available for visitors.

source : http://www.tourism.gov.my

Petronas Twin Towers Kuala Lumpur

Soaring to a height of 451.9 metres, the 88-storey twin structure is Kuala Lumpur's crown jewel. Majestic by day and dazzling at night, the PETRONAS Twin Towers is inspired by Tun Mahathir Mohamad's vision for Malaysia to be a global player. Together with master architect Cesar Pelli, the international icon powerfully captures the nation's ambitions and aspirations. 

Visit us and experience the PETRONAS Twin Towers first-hand. Begin your tour with interactive displays that showcase the journey, from idea to completion. Scale 170 metres in an elevator with a futuristic edge. The doors will open at the Skybridge, a connecting structure between the towers and the world's highest 2-storey bridge. Ascend even higher to level 86, where the story of Malaysia's vision unfolds amid breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur. Then wrap up your visit with exquisite souvenirs at the gift shop. 

Visit us and experience the PETRONAS Twin Towers first-hand. Begin your tour with interactive displays that showcase the journey, from idea to completion. Scale 170 metres in an elevator with a futuristic edge. The doors will open at the Skybridge, a connecting structure between the towers and the world's highest 2-storey bridge. Ascend even higher to level 86, where the story of Malaysia's vision unfolds amid breathtaking views of Kuala Lumpur. Then wrap up your visit with exquisite souvenirs at the gift shop.

source : http://www.tourism.gov.my