Malaysia

National day celebrations in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia has thirteen states, eleven on the Malayan Peninsula (West Malaysia) and two, Sabah and Sarawak, on the island of Borneo (East Malaysia). The capital city is Kuala Lumpur.

Malays and the native tribal groups make up approximately 60% of the total population. Chinese 30%, Indians 8% and the balance a melting pot of other races and cultures. Four-fifths of the population reside in West Malaysia.

The culinary experience in Malaysia can be wonderfully varied, delighting one's taste buds and offering endless opportunities for scrumptious escapades. Malaysia's diverse culinary heritage offers an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

The friendliness of the locals also makes it quite simple for visitors to jump right in and learn of the many different customs, practices and the quaint culture of the people. Besides, where else can you find a place where you can sample the diverse cuisine of Asia all under one roof.

Images courtesy of Tourism Malaysia

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Photos

Local markets - amazing colours
Limestone pinnacles in the Mulu National Park
Mount Kinabalu - the highest peak in South East Asia

Climate

Warm tropical climate with general temperatures ranging from 21¬?C to 32¬?C and very strongly influenced by the Northeast and the Southwest Monsoon. May to September usually is a drier period. East coast of West Malaysia and states in East Malaysia normally have their rainy season between November to February.

Underwater Recommendations

Located in one of the greatest marine bio-diversities in the world, Malaysia is a true diver’s paradise, which caters for all levels of diving experience. The seas around Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak support a prolific underwater ecosystem that sustains fishes, corals and shells that are said to outshine even those found in the Pacific Islands. This region is also said to have some of the best diving spots in the world.

Getting There

The new state of the art KL International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang serves over 40 international airlines and several domestic airlines. Domestic services are available from KLIA to the major cities in Malaysia. Aside from Malaysian Airlines, other domestic airlines such as Air Asia, Pelangi Airlines, Berjaya Airlines and Sabah Air also serve popular tourist destinations within the country.

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Australian Sea Fishes Fact File - kids bookAustralian Sea Fishes Fact File - kids book
Learn all about these fascinating creatures, from awe-inspiring great barracudas to cute seahorses, with the Australian Sea Fishes Fact File.
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Articles

The Dragon SeamothThe Dragon Seamoth
We saw the Dragon Sea Moth (Eurypegasus draconis) at a dive site at Mabul Island. Ribbon Valley to be exact. I took a few shots of this cool little fish a week ago and it is still around now.
Tioman Mega Dive - too much fun in the sunTioman Mega Dive - too much fun in the sun
I was part of a number of international press who were invited to attend this new anual dive event on Tioman Island - which for those who don't know is located in the South-East of mainland Malaysia. A 4 day festival which promised lots of activities, diving and other fun in the sun.
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