Not many music schools can boast of a symphony orchestra. NAVEEN MATHEW MENON visits the L&J Conservatory of Music.
TALENTED BUNCH: Former members of the PJ Youth Orchestra.
A MUSIC school with an 80-member orchestra — that’s the L&J Conservatory of Music.
With such a big orchestra (it’s called the PJ Youth Orchestra), it is, of course, not your typical neighbourhood music school.
“The orchestra gives our students a chance to make good use of what they have learnt,” said principal Lam Siu Chong, who has been teaching music for the last 37 years.
The orchestra’s rehearsals are carried out at Tan Yew Lai Garden in Puchong. It holds three to four concerts a year at public halls such as PJ Civic Centre, Shah Alam Club and at the Bukit Jalil sports complex.
In addition, they perform at fund-raising and charity events, wedding functions and church events.
They have even performed in countries such as Japan and China.
“Due to a lack of sponsors, however, we have not been able to go overseas in recent years,” he said.
The L&J Conservatory of Music was born out of a “burning desire” to impart music to others, he adds.
Siu Chong, who co-owns the place with his sister Wai Ying, gave up a 12-year banking career and put in his life’s savings to start the school in 1981.
The school teaches piano, violin, viola, cello, double-bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, trumpet as well as the ever-popular drums.
Currently, it has 280 students aged between six and 40. The majority are teenagers aged between 15 and 19.
Students are prepared for exams conducted by professors from the Royal School of Music, Trinity College of London and London College of Music. Students advance from Beginner to Grade 1-8 and then take up three levels of Diploma-Associate, Licentiate and Fellowship.
The orchestra’s next concert will be held on July 29 at the Bukit Jalil Sports Club where dinner will be served. The theme for the concert will be Baroque. Tickets are priced at RM60. Call 03-7782-4496.
L&J Conservatory of Music is located at No. 17, Jln 1/21, Old Town, Petaling Jaya. It opens from 7am to 9pm daily except Sunday afternoons when rehearsals are held.
Kuala Lumpur (or KL as it's commonly called), is the capital city of Malaysia. Spanning over 243 square kilometres, KL has first-rate hotels, excellent and varied cuisines, a lively blend of cultures, architectural styles that range from Moorish to Tudor to modern, a generally efficient infrastructure, and some of the lowest prices of any major Asian city.
KL can be described as a cross between Singapore and Bangkok on a smaller scale. It has the efficiency of Singapore and the rough edges of Bangkok, creating its own unique charm. English is widely spoken and the streets tend to be safe due to the heavy police presence in most tourist areas.
Discovering KL is like travelling through a time tunnel. One minute you can be skimming across town on the modern monorail past ultra-modern skyscrapers, and the next minute you are at street level, standing among rows of quaint old shop-houses. Despite its bustling, cosmopolitan style, KL is, at heart, an earthy place, where people sit around the kedai kopi (coffeehouse) and talk about food, religion, and business.
This is all a far cry from the city’s low-key origins. When a huddle of poor tin miners first crowded around the mosquito-ridden banks of the Gombak and Klang rivers in 1857, little could they have imagined that KL would evolve into one of Asia’s most vibrant cities.
To the avid shopper, KL is paradise. From world-renowned designer labels and brands to exquisite made-in-Malaysia items, the highly competitive environment that exists among traders is a blessing in disguise to shoppers. While department stores practice a fixed price policy, bargain hunters can test their skills at smaller retail establishments or at any one of KL's famous night markets. KL will enthral you; it will capture your heart and mind in a way no other city will.
One constant in Kuala Lumpur is the climate. It has consistently warm daytime temperatures, balmy evenings and afternoons that are often punctuated by thunderstorms, usually passing quickly to leave the evenings cool and rain free.
Temperatures range from 21 °C to 33 °C and the average humidity exceeds 82%. Although there is rain throughout the year, March to April and September to November are the wettest months.
The city was founded by miners who, in 1857, discovered tin where the Klang and Gombak rivers formed a broad delta. Those pioneers were a rough, hardy lot, and the city retains some of that early boomtown character. In 150 years Kuala Lumpur has grown from a ‘muddy confluence’ (the meaning of Kuala Lumpur) to a modern, bustling city of well over a million people.
The official founder of the area was the original 'Kapitan China', Yap Ah Loy, who had been appointed by the sultan to bring unruly Chinese fortune-seekers into line. By the 1880's KL was well on its way to becoming a 'real' city and successful miners and merchants began building fine homes along Jalan Ampang and a British resident, Frank Swettenham, drew up the first town-plan for the city. By 1886 the railway was constructed linking KL to Port Klang and the town never looked back.
Nowadays KL is not only the business and commercial capital of Malaysia it is also the political capital and the largest city in the country. With plans afoot to make it one of the most competitive Asian countries by the year 2020, Kuala Lumpur grows year by year, almost day by day and now massive skyscrapers grace the once wild horizon.
Despite all the recent developments the city retains much of its past splendour. Old colonial buildings stand proud, jostling sidewalk space with ultra modern high-rise establishments.
Street vendors and night markets are scattered around the heart of the city making it a vibrant and exciting place for the visitor. Different cultures compete to sell their produce and temples from various religions stand side by side, each with their own unique beauty and heritage.
Malaysia is a multi-racial country with a population of approximately 19.9 million. This consist of the main racial groups of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and a very diverse group of indigenous people in Sabah and Sarawak.
Orang AsliThe Orang Asli are the aboriginal people of Peninsular Malaysia, with an estimated population of over 60,000 and who, for the most part, still lead a simple yet fascinating lifestyles. Sabah's indigenous groups include the Kadazan/Dusun, Bajau, Murut, Rungus, Lotud, Orang Sungei, Kadayan, Bisaya and many other subgroups. The Ibans form the largest indigenous group in Sarawak, the rest are the Bidayuhs, the Melanaus and the Orang Ulus.
Rungus Girls Of KudatThe different types of religion in Malaysia reflects the variety of races living there. Islam is practiced predominantly by the Malays. Most of the Chinese believe in Buddhism and Taoism but others are Christians. Hinduism is mostly practiced by the region's Indian population. Many indigenous people have converted to Christianity but others still practice animism.
*NOTE: The information supplied here is meant as a guide only and is subject to change without warning. Therefore all travellers should check the visa and immigration details with their local Malaysia Embassy or Consulate BEFORE departure for Malaysia.
Visas Application for visas for the purpose of entry into Malaysia should be made at the nearest Malaysian mission abroad. In countries where Malaysian missions have not been established, applications should be made to the nearest British High Commission or Embassy.
No visa is required for nationals of Commonwealth countries except for Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nigeria.
Nationals from Republic of Ireland, Switzerland, Netherlands, San Marino and Liechtenstein, do not require visas.
No visa is required for a stay not exceeding three months for nationals of Algeria, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Morocco, Norway, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Slovak, Korea Republic, Sweden, Tunisia, Turkey, U.A.E., *U.S.A. And Yemen.
* No visa is required for U.S.A. Citizens visiting Malaysia for social, business or academic purposes (except for local employment)
No visa is required for a stay of not more than one month for nationals of all ASEAN countries and Hong Kong. For a stay exceeding one month a visa will be required, except for nationals of Brunei and Singapore.top of page
No visa is required for a stay not exceeding one month for nationals of Argentina, Angola, Benin, Bolivia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Brazil, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Chad, Chile, Colombia, Congo, Corsica, Costa Rica, Croatia, Djibouti, Dominica Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Gabon, Greece, Greenland, Guam, Guatemala, Guinea, Laos, Macedonia, Poland, Slovenia, South Africa and Zaire.
No visa is required for a stay not exceeding 14 days for nationals of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya dan Syria.
No visa is required for a stay not exceeding seven days for nationals of Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Byelorussia, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kirghisztan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldovia, Romania, Russian Federation, Tadjikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine dan Uzbekistan.
Nationals of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Republic of China, Cuba, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam dan Certificate of Identity (CI) holders must obtain a visa before entering Malaysia.
Nationals of countries other than those stated above (with the exception of Israel) are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month.
Regulations are subject to change.
Klia ExteriorVisit Passes A Social or Tourist Visit Pass does not permit the holder to take up employment, business or professional work in Malaysia.
The Business Visit Pass allows foreign visitors to enter Malaysia for business negotiations or inspection of business houses. However, these passes cannot be used for employment purposes, or for supervising the installation of new machinery or the construction of a factory.
No fee is charged for a Business Visit Pass issued for a period of up to three months. A nominal fee is imposed for each month beyond this.
Foreign visitors, except from the Republic of Singapore, who have entered Malaysia on Social Visit Passes may contact the Immigration Department to convert their passes to Business Visit Passes.top of page
Malaysia CrestConversion of Passes Foreign visitors, except those from the Republic of Singapore, who have entered Malaysia on social or tourist visit passes may apply to the Immigration Department to convert their social or tourist visit passes into business visit passes. This ruling is designed to assist foreign visitors who wish to undertake business activities.
All applications for converting social or tourist visit passes into business passes must be submitted to the Immigration Department with a letter of recommendation from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.
Immigration The Malaysian Government maintains a strict immigration policy and only permits entry to well-qualified individuals for employment. Employment visas must be sponsored by the employer but permission to start work can take time.
Taxes are relatively low in Malaysia, accommodation is moderate and the cost of living is lower than many cities. Most employers require good communication skills in English. The best advice for qualified overseas job seekers is to visit Malaysia since employers always require face to face appraisal of applicants.
In Malaysia, employment of foreign workers is allowed in the construction, plantation, service (domestic servants, hotel industry trainers and instructors) and manufacturing sectors. Only nationals of Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand are allowed to be employed.
The Foreign Workers Division of the Immigration Department is the approving authority for the employment of foreign workers belonging to the skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled categories (i.e. does not include expatriates under the management, professional and technical/supervisory categories).
Approval is based on the merits of each case and subject to conditions that will be determined from time to time. An employer's application to employ foreign workers will only be considered after efforts to find qualified local citizens and permanent residents have failed.
To ensure that foreign labour is employed only when necessary, an annual levy on foreign workers is imposed. The rates of levy on foreign workers involved in the manufacturing, services and construction sectors are RM125 per month and workers in the agricultural sector are RM30 per month.top of page
If you are thinking of coming to live in Malaysia or wish to find out more then contact the Immigration Department of Malaysia, Block 1, Level 2-7, Damansara Town Centre, 50550, Kuala Lumpur. Telephone: 603 - 255 5077 Fax: 603 - 256 2340
Dual Nationality Malaysia does not recognize dual nationality. Adult citizens holding foreign passports who are also Malaysian citizens could experience close scrutiny by Malaysian immigration officials when entering or departing Malaysia on Malaysian passports.
Custom BuildingCustoms Visitors entering Malaysia for a period of not less than 72 hours enjoy customs exemption on the following items:
* Wines, spirits/malt liquor not exceeding 1 litre
* Tobacco not exceeding 225gms (or 200 cigarettes)
* Matches not exceeding 100 sticks
* Apparel not exceeding 3 pieces
* Not more than 1 pair of foot-ware
* 1 unit each of portable electrically and/or battery operated appliance for personal care and hygiene
* Food preparation(s) to a total value not exceeding RM75
* Cosmetics, soap and dental cleaning products in open containers to a total value not exceeding RM200
* Souvenirs and gifts to a total value not exceeding RM200 (except when the goods are imported from Labuan where the total value allowed under this exemption shall not exceed RM500)
* Except for the last item, the above duty face items must be for personal use only. A 50% tax will be levied on items that exceed the above limits.
Selangor KliaDuty Free Goods Visitors to Malaysia can purchase a wide variety of duty free items that are available throughout the country. These are categorized as liquor, liqueurs, cigarettes, tobacco, cigars, perfumes, cosmetics confectionery, handicraft, Malaysian batik, peter-ware, clocks and matches, audio and video equipment, pens, fashion leather, products and duty free sports-ware.
Health Regulations
* Cholera No. Cholera or smallpox vaccination is required for travellers entering Malaysia.
* Yellow Fever Vaccination is required for arrivals from infected areas and from yellow fever endemics zones except for children under one.
Reminder: The trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offence in Malaysia and the penalty for such an offence is death top of page
*NOTE: The information supplied here is meant as a guide only and is subject to change without warning. Therefore all travellers should check the visa and immigration details with their local Malaysia Embassy or Consulate BEFORE departure for Malaysia.
Malaysia has been a popular tourist destination for a long time and due to its rapid development, even more so in recent years. Tourism plays a major role in the Malay economy therefore every effort has been made to make every guest to this country comfortable and safe. Do not take all the following tips as warnings, most are only advice. Remember being a knowledgeable traveler is a big step to a successful vacation.
CUSTOMS AND RULES
Malay Customs Malaysia's culture is vastly different to the west and it is much appreciated when foreigners respect both its laws and heritage. Most Malaysians are devout Muslims and Islam itself provides the social fabric of the country. Therefore it is advised that unless travelling in the main centres respectful attire should be worn, especially by women. Covered shoulders and NO high-cut shorts or skirts. Best to purchase a sarong to wrap up in if you feel you may expose a little too much flesh in ALL Muslim areas. Not only will you feel more comfortable, the locals will appreciate it when they see you have made an effort.
MEDICAL TIPS
It is advisable when traveling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. This applies even more so when traveling to tropical areas. If there’s a Tropical Diseases hospital nearby, contact it before departure for Malaysia. If not, then chat to your local doctor.top of page
SurgerySome areas of Malaysia do have malaria so it’s a good idea to keep this in mind before you visit. Mosquitoes generally throughout Malaysia can at times be bothersome so it is advised that you come prepared, especially if you go plan on going outside at night. Many western hospitals will advise taking precautionary medical measures against the possibility of contracting the disease but those that live in malaria infested areas, around the world, often advise against this. The reason for this is that if you are on medication and still contract malaria, it is harder to detect than if you are on no medication at all. Some travellers prefer to carry the cure with them rather than taking preventative measures all the time. The choice therefore is yours entirely but do speak to your local doctor before visiting.
Dengue fever is another mosquito born illness that is prevalent in most parts of south-east Asia. Complications with the disease, which can lead to death, usually only occur on a second infection and although causing severe headaches and body pains and general weakness, there is no preventative medicine. The only way to avoid contracting the disease is to protect yourself against mosquito bites as best possible.
Dental ClinicHospital care is possibly not exactly what you might be used to unless you happen to be in one of the main centres. It is generally a good idea to take out some form of travel insurance that includes medical cover and if suffering from some complaint, bring a supply of any medication you may require during your stay. Many hospital staff around the country, speak English, so you will be understood.
Medicines can be bought directly over the counter, though your particular brand may not be available. Do be wary of inert drugs being substituted for active ones though and always check the 'sell by' date on all medicines purchased.
Rabies is endemic in many south-east Asian countries and if you do happen to be bitten by any domestic or wild animal, seek medical assistance at once. Also try to capture the animal or at least determine its ownership where possible. Even if you have already been vaccinated against the disease, further doses will be required.top of page
MONEY TIPS
Most currencies can be exchanged at the banks or local moneychangers. Travellers cheques denominated in most countries can also be exchanged. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments and the transfer of funds into the country through one of the banking systems, though generally slow by western standards, can be achieved.
SHOPPING TIPS
Traditional Handicraft generally travellers find the prices of Malaysian products and general store items to be lower than their home country. Electronic goods are reasonable, though generally slightly higher than and not as varied as neighboring Singapore. Clothing and shoes, depending on your country of origin can be cheaper and you will be able to pick up many 'brand names' that are almost the real thing, for a lot less than the genuine article.
GETTING OUT OF TROUBLE TIPS
generally the rules that apply in your own country apply in Malaysia, but the visitor will soon find a few customs and regulations not encountered within their homelands. The main obvious custom, is the dress code. COVER UP! Especially women. This means covered shoulders and thighs, no topless bathing on the beaches or in hotel pools. Men take note, bare torsos are also not accepted in the villages and towns. Do not take your cue from fellow travellers but rather from the Malaysians themselves.
It is very impolite to use the left hand to give or receive something, as the left hand is used for washing after going to the toilet.
Pointing or beckoning is also considered rude. Malaysians indicate with their thumb atop a loose fist, while hailing someone is done with the palm of your hand facing down and waving your fingers (opening and closing them) downwards.
Shoes should be taken off when entering a mosque or similarly, someone's house.
TrainGETTING AROUND TIPStop of page
Travel within Malaysia is relatively cheap and convenient. When traveling from one center to the other, unless connected by an air-route can be negotiated by rail, road or boat.
Car and motorbike rental is also easy on the purse strings. Your home country’s driving license or an International one is required for all vehicle hire. Malaysian law requires car drivers and front passengers to wear seat belts. If renting a motorbike, helmets are required. Ask for a second helmet if carrying a pillion passenger.
When opting for public transport, such as taxis, it is recommended that you agree on a price before you set off or you may end up paying more than you should.
DRUGS TIPS
On arrival in Malaysia you will see notices everywhere telling you that 'DRUGS MEAN DEATH' or 'ANTI-DADDA' (Drugs). Do not take these words lightly. Partaking in the use of or distribution of drugs in Malaysia carries a mandatory death penalty. Be warned!
Malay FoodDINING TIPS
Dining in Malaysia is a highlight in any visitors visit. From traditional Malay to Chinese, Indian and western dishes, Malaysia has it all. A wise choice if unsure of which restaurant to choose...go where the locals go, they know the best eateries.
NightlifeNIGHTLIFE TIPS
Malaysia is generally a very safe place at night. Wandering around on your own down a dark alley or off the beaten track once the sun has gone down, as in most countries, though, is probably not a good idea. Women on their own are advised to be cautious especially if not acceptably dressed. (See: Wine, Women (and Men) Tips)
WINE, WOMEN (and MEN) TIPS
Malay Women Foreign women travelling in Malaysia have reported receiving unwanted attention from Malaysian men. This can be particularly bad in some resort areas where local men have inaccurate images of western women. When travelling in Malaysia it is important to bear in mind that this is an Islamic country and modest dress is VERY important. It is recommended that female travellers keep their shoulders and thighs covered. Topless bathing is totally out of the question and you would only embarrass the local woman and be seen as offering yourself to the men, in other words, asking for trouble.
Alcohol, in the more Muslim areas will be hard to find as it is banned by the Islamic faith. If you wish to partake in its consumption when travelling to these areas, particularly in southern Malaysia, its best to take your own (unless you are staying in a hotel or similar establishment). Under no circumstances is it polite to drink alcohol in public areas unless the area is designated for this purpose.top of page
SCAMMERS
When in Kuala Lumpur beware of scammers. Travellers are often lured into private homes on the pretense of meeting a family member that has ties with the home-country of the hapless traveller. Often they are asked to join in a simple card game. After winning a few rounds they soon find themselves losing and before long are cashing in their travellers cheques to pay off huge debts that they have incurred.
BEACH TIPS
Penang Beach Cover up! The seas around Malaysia are generally clear and warm, the kind that beg you to go swimming. Make sure you put sun cream on and wear a hat and sunglasses when venturing onto the beach. If your skin is sensitive, it’s a good idea to limit your tanning time to a cooler time in the day or tan for a few minutes at a time. It is also suggested for those with particularly fair skin, to wear some form of protective clothing even when swimming. Some of the worst sunburn cases seen here have been when a fair skinned person has been off snorkeling for a few hours, not realizing the water magnifies the suns rays, they burn even faster, particularly across their backs and legs.
Langkawi Beachgenericly the waters off Malaysia are safe for all forms of water sport. One does however have to take care during the rougher seasons, as some of the currents that rush along the coast can be particularly strong. A good idea, if swimming alone is to tell someone before you step in the water. There have been instances of jellyfish stings but generally, that’s about all you have to worry about. If you are stung by a jelly fish and don’t have vinegar (yes, the stuff from the kitchen) to pour on the sting ASAP three other good remedies for anything like that, (i.e. sea-urchin spine stuck in one’s foot etc.) are the juice from a lime, the crushed leaves of the creeper you’ll find on many beaches with purple flowers or, horror of horrors, your own urine. Any of the above will help ease the pain from the sting and help dissolve those urchin spines.
CAVING
Spelunking Malaysia's limestone outcrops and hills are riddled with caves. Some of these are easily accessible and can be visited without any special equipment others are strictly for the experienced caver. Never venture into any caves alone and always carry a reliable torch and spare batteries. Another good idea is to take a ball of fine string with you incase you venture into any tunnels. This way you can tie it onto something sturdy before entering a tunnel and reel it out as you explore further, ensuring you won't get lost on your return...something that is VERY easy to do. Also keep a look out for loose gravel and rocks.
ROCK CLIMBING TIPStop of page
A popular sport around the world, Malaysia is fast catching on to this pass-time. Most climbing companies check their gear very well, but it is always a good idea to check clip fastenings and ropes for signs of wear yourself.
JUNGLE TREKKING TIPS
Jungle Trekking If you plan on some real ‘jungle trekking’ it is a good idea to go armed with insect repellant for the mosquitoes and other tropical insects. Leeches can be a problem in the jungle, particularly if you are near water. These blood - sucking creatures have an anti-coagulant in their saliva that could cause problems. Simply sprinkle a little salt on the creatures or burn them off with a cigarette lighter. Better still, wear protective clothes in the form of long trousers, closed shoes and socks (pulled over the trouser bottoms) for protection. Long sleeves will help too.
Biking and Mountain Climbing The flat coastal roads offer not only a great scenery, but are also excellent for cycling. Take in the sights at your own time, stopping by at the various fishing villages along the way. While further in the interior, the countryside offers a varied and interesting terrain for serious mountain bikers. The state's mountains, such as Gunung Gagau and Gunung Tebu, also present exciting challenges for mountain climbers as do the mountains of Sarawak and Sabah.top of page
Mulu National ParkMulu National Park is one of Sarawak's greatest attractions. Mulu's major claim to frame is its spectacular limestone caves. The caves of Mulu include the world's largest cave passage (the Deer Cave), the world's largest natural rock chamber (the Sarawak Chamber) and the Clearwater Cave, the longest cave system in South-East Asia. There are numerous other caves to explore but this is probably the most spectacular.
Kinabalu MountainMount Kinabalu This incredibly high granite peak located in Sabah simply begs to be climbed and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province. Surrounded by beautiful rainforests and having gentle jungle trails, it is easy to negotiate by both the young at heart and those of a slower pace.
Bako National Park National Parks These are plentiful throughout Malaysia and each has it’s own unique areas of interest and all are one of the main tourist attractions in this part of the world. The reserve system is not wholly government controlled and many are privately owned.
Many national parks preserve some of the most outstanding rainforest samples of fauna and flora to be found anywhere in the world. Many species still undiscovered and many on the verge of extinction due to vast deforestation and fires in the area. Who knows, you, the visitor, may be the first to record or even see some of the creatures and plant life you will experience in one of these reserves?top of page
SailingSailing can be done off almost every beach where you'll find hotels and tourist areas along Malaysia's coast and off-shore islands. Many hotels and resorts rent out small sailing dinghy's and catamarans for some thrilling action on the water. If it's more serious stuff you are after, charter a yacht either within Malaysian waters or to other destinations such as Thailand or Singapore. Sailing, especially on an ocean going yacht, is a wonderful way to explore Malaysia's coast as well as being great fun for the whole family, littlies included.
DivingScuba Diving and Snorkelling The clear, warm waters around Malaysia contribute to one of the richest marine environments in the world, which is why divers keep coming back for more. It is one of the very few dive destinations where large pelagics and tiny colourful critters can be found so close together. From schools of Hammerhead Sharks and barracudas to a variety of turtles, rays and the bizarre Frogfish and Ghost Pipefish, there is always something to fascinate the diver. Choose from 11 of the Marine Parks found around Langkawi, Sabah, Sarawak and the mainland or simply don a mask and snorkel and discover the world beneath the waves yourself.
Snake Temple in Penang is probably the only temple of its kind in the world.Snake Temple The multitude of pit vipers coiled around objects on the altar are believed to be rendered harmless by the smoke of the burning incense in the temple. Just for good measure, the snakes have also been de-venomed. Admission is free; bravery should be obtained in advance.
Taman Tasik Perdana is Kuala Lumpur's most popular park and includes various recreational facilities and other attractions like the Orchid Garden, the Bird Park, the Hibiscus Park, the Butterfly Park; the Deer Park and Memorial Tun Razak.
Orang AsliOrang Asli (Aborigines) Settlement The Orang Asli of Taman Negara call themselves 'Batek'. Some still live a semi nomadic life within the Park and their settlements can be found usually along some of the forest trails or by the rivers. Experience their lifestyle, one that 'time' forgot and discover what it's like to live without material wealth.
Orang Utan (wild man of Borneo)Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre Unlike in a zoo, the Orang Utan (wild man of Borneo) at Semenggoh Rehabilitation Centre in Sarawak are set free in a 740 hectare forest reserve. Here, the Orang Utans and other native animals are nurtured to readapt themselves to the jungle life and to once again live in the wild.top of page
The Malay peninsula stretches from north to south for about 800 km and mountains form its backbone and belly, with gentle valleys along its coastlines. The island of Borneo is of similar terrain.
In addition to the mountain ranges the Malay peninsula also has an abundance of limestone outcrops, particularly in the areas of Kuala Lumpur and in the Kampar Valley near Ipoh farther north. Cave ridden, these outcrops play host to fauna and flora that generally, is different to that found in the nearby lowlands.
Year-round rainfall waters the rainforests and turns streams into cascading rivers especially in the monsoon period. Unfortunately due to heavy logging, ‘real jungle’ can only be experienced to it’s fullest in one of the nature reserves within the country, although there are small areas of forest left in some parts. Only 5% of the original 97%, of the entire country’s forestation remains.
Unlike its jungles and inland areas, which can be visited and enjoyed in all weathers, Malaysia experiences two ‘seasons’ for beach related activities. Due to the monsoon, the coasts have opposing ‘high’ seasons. The east coast gets most of its rain from November to February and the west, from March to April. So if planning on snorkelling or other seaside activities choose your coastal hotel or resort according to the season
The country has a diverse range of both animals and plantlife, some species still undiscovered, making it a popularly visited country by nature enthusiasts. Among the unique species of animals to be found here are the tapir, Malayan sun bear and proboscis monkey.
The tapir is a peculiar creature with a long snout that looks more like a short trunk, starkly contrasting black body and white bottom and curled tail. Its young are brown with white speckles, creating excellent camouflage in the sun-dappled jungle.
The sun bear on the other hand will remind readers of ‘Winnie the Pooh’ stories, as their favourite food is honey and the animals look about as cuddly as the bear in the tales. This doesn’t mean the visitor should try and touch one, as like their fellow Malaysian resident, the tiger, they bite!
The coastal areas of Malaysia are popular destinations for most visitors to the country. Here the diving is excellent and the offshore islands well worth visiting.
genericly the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia is not as spectacular underwater as the east, but this is the more densely resort developed coast, thus has more water related activities on offer.
Pulau Paya and the islands Kacha, Lembu and Segantan to the north of Penang and south of Langkawi are considered to have the best coral reef in the country, lying just off their beaches. A marine park has been established here and a floating observation platform off Pulau Paya has been built with an underwater observation chamber for those not keen on getting in the water.
A country, with many different cultures, religions and peoples, it is rapidly developing into one of the more modern countries in the area. Good roads and friendly people make travelling a pleasure and the accommodation is generally of a high standard. All this adds up to a country well worth visiting no matter how much time you have to spare.
Malaysia is a tropical paradise situated 7 degrees north of the Equator. The climate is warm and humid throughout the year with cooler temperatures in the hill resorts. Temperatures range from 21 degrees Centigrade to 32 degrees Centigrade. Average annual rainfall varies from 2,000 mm - 2, 500 mm and humidity is high all year round. The days are generally sunny and warm and the nights cool. On the East Coast the rainy season is from early November to mid February.
Public Holidays
Malaysia has so many cultures and religions that there are an amazing number of occasions that are celebrated. Most have a fixed date but many, especially the Hindu, Muslim and Chinese follow the lunar year, so dates change each year. In addition to the national public holidays, each state has its own holidays, often associated with the sultans birthday or a Muslim celebration. Hindu and Chinese holidays may also vary from year to year but generally stay within the same month. Due to the vast number of holidays and the fact that they often change, we have listed only the most important ones in each area
