Perdana Putra

The planned city of Putrajaya, Malaysia’s federal administrative capital is situated at a distance of approximately 40 km south of Kuala Lumpur. This modern, planned city was conceived and constructed during the 1990s, and hosts many attractions like a 650 hectare man-made lake, the Putrajaya Mosque, eye-catching bridges and  lush, verdant gardens.
A prominent attraction of Putrajaya, is the government precinct, Perdana Putra situated atop the main hill in Putrajaya. This government complex which is adorned with a quincunx of onion-shaped domes is the office complex of the Prime Minister of Malaysia. The complex, which is fronted by the large Perdana Square (Dataran Perdana), hosts the prime minister’s chambers and various other government offices and agencies.
The Perdana Putra spans six stories and is composed of a ‘Main Block’ and two adjacent East and West Wings. The various different sections of the complex display a mélange of Malay, Mughal and European architectural influences and make for an arresting sight. The central Main Block which hosts the Prime Minister’s office is crowned by a dome that is said to resemble the dome of the famous Zahur Mosuqe of Alor Setar in Kedah.
The West Wing of the complex plays host to various government offices belonging to the Deputy Prime Minister, Ministers and Deputy Ministers as well as Parliamentary Secretaries in the Prime Minister's Department. Prominent government agencies like the Malaysian Industries-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) and Advisory Board are also housed in this West Wing while the East Wing is home offices of the Chief Secretary to the Government, Cabinet Divisions and the Implementation and Coordination Unit (ICU).
The Prime Minister customarily welcomes fellow heads of state and heads of government, in the large open Dataran Perdana, which is also used for events like Malaysian Independence Day Parade. This welcoming ceremony features much pomp and ceremony including an inspection of the Guard of Honour.
The Prime Minister hosts his meetings at the Perdana Meeting Room, a space which can accommodate seventy people at a time.  Cabinet meetings are held every week at the Cabinet Meeting Room, while foreign dignitaries and guests are introduced to cabinet ministers and government and public officials in the Laman Perdana.
The Perdana Putra complex is open for viewings by the general public every day from Monday to Friday from 8.00 am - 12.30 pm, and 2.00 pm - 4.30 pm. The complex is closed on weekends and on public holidays.
http://www.pmo.gov.my

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Kuala Lumpur- Orchid and hibiscus gardens

Amongst Kuala Lumpur’s many attractions are two wonderful flower-filled enclaves, Taman Bunga Orchid and Taman Bunga Raya or the Kuala Lumpur Orchid and Hibiscus Gardens. Both these gardens are located atop a small hillock situated within KL’s famed Lake Garden Complex.
The Kuala Lumpur Orchid Garden
The Orchidaceae or the exotic orchid is a much loved and admired bloom in Malaysia, and in a nod to its popularity, the Kuala Lumpur Orchid Garden hosts more than 800 varieties of orchids sourced from all parts of the globe. Malaysia, itself hosts many varieties of this much venerated flower, which is present in abundance in the country’s many lush rainforests terrains like Taman Negara, the Kinabalu National Park and others.
The founding of the Kuala Lumpur Orchid garden dates back to 1986, when this flower-filled paradise was a set up to showcase Malaysia’s vast native collection of  Orchids. Since then, the garden has been expanded to include blooms not only from Malaysia but from around the world as well.
The Orchid garden today features several varieties of wild as well as hybrid orchids. To ensure the flowers have maximum exposure, the garden uses display props like a semi-circular pergola for displaying climbing and epiphytic varieties and a rock garden for exhibiting terrestrial varieties of orchids. Orchids of various sizes and shapes are on display at the garden.
The Orchid garden is also equipped with a breeding and research center which explores methods to grow and conserve this much admired bloom. A small section of the garden is designated as a retail area, where visitors can buy live orchids and various orchid-themed souvenirs. Specialist growers are also on hand to provide information about growing and caring for the many varieties of orchids on display.
The Hibiscus Garden

The Hibiscus flower has much significance for Malaysians, for this bloom which is commonly referred to as the 'Queen of Tropical Flowers', is the national flower of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur’s Hibiscus Garden which is situated adjacent to the Orchid Garden, exhibits more than 200 varieties of Hibiscus or Bunga Raya (Malay) flowers.
The picturesque Hibiscus garden features a terraced landscape, populated with several varieties of this much loved bloom, including single and multiple varieties, which are present in various shades.  More than forty varieties of local hybrid hibiscus flowers and sixty-five  varieties of hibiscus hailing from overseas, line the many pathways and terraces of the garden. Shimmering water bodies, a small fountain and benches, offering visitors a chance to rest and enjoy the fragrant surroundings further enhance the décor of this tranquil, bloom-filled paradise.
If have a passion for flowers, then a viewing of  these gorgeous gardens should be included as must-do attractions on any trip to Kuala Lumpur

Ramadan 2013

Records indicate that Islam was brought by Arab traders to Malaysia in the 12th century. A significant portion (60%) of Malaysia’s multi-ethnic population is Islamic and Islam is the state religion of Malaysia.
The month of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting and the festivities associated with Hari Raya Pausa or Hari Raya Aidil Fitri(internationally known as Eid al-Fitr) are thus important events on Malaysia’s festival calendar. Ramadan is traditionally held during the ninth month of the 12-month long Islamic calendar. This holy month of fasting begins with the sighting of the new moon at sunset or “rukyah”. Ramadan in Malaysia in 2013, commenced on Wednesday 10th July and will continue until the appearance of the next new moon on Wednesday August 7th.
Fasting during Ramadan is the one of the Five Pillars of Islam, Muslims are not allowed to eat, drink or have sex, from the morning prayers (Fajr) at daybreak until the evening prayers (Maghrib). Folks start their fast after consuming an early morning meal called Sahur and don’t eat all day until the evening meal, Iftar commonly known in Malaysia as "berbuka puasa”(to open the fast).
Fasting in Malaysia is quite an arduous task, due to the country’s year round hot, humid weather which makes going without food or water quite challenging. The sacrifice made during the month of Ramadan is supposed to remind people of those folk who are less fortunate. However, Ramadan also features much togetherness, for in Malaysia, friends and family usually get together in the evening to break the fast at one of the country’s many vibrant pasar Ramadan or Ramadan bazaars.
These bazaars host offer a plethora of stalls offering savory and sweet dishes for the iftar feast.  These bazaars are the star attraction of the Ramadan festivities in Malaysia and draw hordes of locals and visitors. Both Muslim and non-Muslims flock to these Ramadan bazaars to devour the wide variety of foods on offer.  The many stalls at these bazaars usually open for business just before the evening prayers (Maghrib),so stall owners can also break their fast.
The stalls at the Ramadan bazaars offer traditional Malay eats like grilled chicken(Ayam Golek), Ikan Bakar(spicy grilled fish), Nasi Lemak (coconut flavored rice) and various other coconut based curries along with a whole host of deserts made from yam, coconut and banana like ondeh ondeh and Kuih lapis. Halal Chinese and Indian Muslim specialties along with Italian and Mexican cuisines are also available at the many stalls of the Ramadan bazaars. Also on offer at these stalls, are vast quantities of Iranian dates, much favored for breaking fasts in Malaysia. Religious items, festive cookies and clothing are some of the other items offered for sale at these bazaars.
If you are visiting Malaysia during Ramadan, you must try and sample the many foods of the country’s many animated Ramadan bazaars. All major cities and towns host these lively festival markets which are somewhat similar in nature to the many Christmas markets of Europe.
In Kuala Lumpur you could head to the Shah Alam Stadium Bazaar or the Jalan Tunku Abdual Rahman Bazaar or even the Pantai Dalam or Taman Melawati bazaars for the Ramadan bazaar experience.  While in Penang, you could try the Ramadhan Bazaars on Jalan Makloom or Teluk Kumbar or then enjoy the Ramadhan Bazaar experience at one of the many locations in Kota Kinabalu, like Pekan Sembulan, Tanjung Aru Plaza, Harbour City, Putrajaya Telipok, amongst others.
Hari Raya marks the end of Ramadan and is the biggest public holiday of the year in Malaysia. The Hari Raya holidays usually extend over two days and features much feasting, revelry and exchange of gifts between friends and families. New clothes are also bought for Hari Raya and most stores and malls in KL, and elsewhere in Malaysia host attractive sales in time for the holiday.
Contrary to common belief, Ramadan actually is a wonderful time to visit Malaysia.

Perak- the silver state

Perak, located in the north-west half of Peninsular Malaysia, is the fourth largest state in the country. The state’s official moniker is ‘Perak Darul Ridzuan’ which translates as ‘Perak, the abode of grace’. The name Perak, itself means silver and it was probably coined during a time when the state’s capital city, Ipoh was a prominent hub for tin-mining in colonial Malaya.
Perak offers various diverse attractions guaranteed to enthrall and enchant all ages. Listed below are some of its most prominent attractions:-
Ipoh
Ipoh is the administrative capital of the state of Perak. This city, which is amongst the most populous cities in Malaysia, is situated 200km to the north of Kuala Lumpur and is easily accessible via various modes of transport.
Ipoh is renowned as a ‘foodie destination’ in Malaysia and offers a culinary landscape littered with much delectable hawker fare. The city is especially associated with much loved delicacies like Hainanese Chicken Rice, Kai See Sar Hor Fun (rice noodles in a soupy broth), Tauge Ayam, Wantan Mee, Ipoh white coffee, Char Quay Teow and many more.
Other attractions in and around Ipoh city, include the Gunung Lang and the Lost World of Tambun theme parks and various stunning colonial-era edifices like the Town Hall, the High Court and the Ipoh Railway Station.
Pangkor Island
Favored by honeymooners and scuba diving enthusiasts, Pangkor Island located off the coast of Perak offers an enchanting mix of quaint fishing villages and upscale resorts set amongst a landscape of tranquil bays, virgin rainforest sand white sand beaches.
http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/my/Web-Page/Places/States-of-Malaysia/Perak/Pangkor-Island-Perak
Kellies Castle
The popular tourist attraction, Kellie’s Castle is located near Batu Gajah on the outskirts of Ipoh. This castle which is in fact is an unfinished mansion, was conceived by a Scottish plantation owner in colonial Malaya, William Kellie Smith. Smith wished to recreate a piece of Scotland in Malaysia and began to construct the mansion in 1915. However, construction on the mansion was aborted in 1926, when Smith passed away. The castle which today is in a ruined state is situated atop a hill in the midst of verdant lands, which once formed a part of a rubber estate. The castle which is believed to be equipped with secret rooms and an underground tunnel is a popular tourist attraction in Perak.
Sungai Klah Hot Springs Resort
The scenic Sungai Klah Hot Springs Resort situated at the foothills of the Titiwangsa Range 200 feet above sea level is a much favored wellness destination in Perak. The resort which is surrounded by verdant hills, dense palm oil plantations, fruit-filled durian orchards and cool mountain streams, extends over 6.5 acres and offers a free-flowing hot springs swimming pool and a therapeutic park. Another popular attraction at the resort is its spa menu which features several traditional Malaysian massage packages.
Belum Forest Reserve
The Belum Forest Reserve situated near Lake Temenggor in Perak, is one of the largest, untouched forested areas on Peninsular Malaysia. This lush virgin forest paradise is host to wide array of native flora and fauna like Malayan tigers, elephants, tapirs, rhinoceroses and many more.
Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill)
Founded in 1884, by William Edward Maxwell, the British Assistant Resident of Perak, Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) is the oldest hill resort in Malaysia. The resort which is located at a distance of 10km from Taiping in Perak is perched at a height of 1250 meters above sea level within the Titiwangsa Range.
Believed to be one of the rainiest spots in Malaysia, Maxwell Hill receives more 500 cm of rain a year. The resort which has a distinct old-world air about it features a landscape dotted with English-style cottages and verdant gardens. The lush environs of the resort provide much scope for bird-watching. Private vehicles are not permitted into the hill resort and Maxwell Hill can only be accessed by travel aboard government-owned 4X4 vehicles
The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary
The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary, situated  within the Matang Mangrove Forest in northern Perak is used as prominent rest stop by migratory birds on their annual migration flight from the northern to the southern hemisphere. These birds are known to flock around sanctuary’s large mudflat area as they recuperate from their long flight. More than 48 species of migratory birds hailing from far away countries like Japan, China, Siberia, Mongolia and more have been spotted at the sanctuary.
The above mentioned are but a few of the many interesting attractions Perak has to offer  and if this listing has stirred your interest, then why not plan a trip to this Malaysian silver state so that you can discover more ?

The National Sports Complex

Most countries around the world undertake the task of constructing elaborate sporting facilities when they are chosen to host prestigious sports events. In 1994, Malaysia was selected as the host nation of the XVI Commonwealth Games to be held in 1998. It was the first time that an Asian country had been awarded the honor of hosting the games and in order to ramp up its facilities, the country decided to create a huge multi-sporting facility in the form of the massive National Sports Complex (Kompleks Sukan Negara). 

This gargantuan sporting facility, currently the largest sports complex in Malaysia is situated in Bukit Jalil at a distance of 20 km south of the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. The complex which is managed by a government body, Perbadanan Stadium Merdeka (PSM) is divided into various sections according the facilities it offers for various sporting events.

Listed below are some of its main components:-

The Bukit Jalil National Stadium

This expansive oval-shaped stadium is the star attraction of the complex. Equipped with a seating capacity for 100,000 spectators, this stadium, which spans over 76000 meters is one of the largest stadiums in the world. The National stadium was the host site for events like the opening ceremony, athletic events and football matches during the 1998 Commonwealth Games. Today, the national stadium is the choice locale for the hosting events like concerts, seminars, exhibitions, family-day activities and product launches, all of which tend to draw large crowds.

The Putra Stadium

The smaller Putra stadium located close by was built as the host site for events like boxing, badminton, basketball, tennis, fencing, judo, wrestling and gymnastics, during the games. Today this stadium, which has a seating capacity for 16000 spectators, hosts events like concerts, music shows and equestrian tourneys. The Putra stadium can also be easily modified to host functions like weddings, product launches and other corporate events.

Dewan Sri Putra

The Dewan Sri Putra located behind the Putra Stadium is an indoor facility suited to host functions like weddings, indoor sporting competitions, seminars and various other corporate events. This hall which measures 94.5 feet by 166.5 feet, is equipped with features 200 fixed seats and can accommodate 3000 people at a time. Other onsite facilities include changing rooms and toilets.

The National Aquatic Centre 

The National Aquatic Centre which is covered by a high dome was constructed in accordance with guidelines issued by the International Swimming Federation (FINA). The centre extends over 28000 meters and features three pools, namely an Olympic size pool with ten lanes, a diving pool and training pool. The centre offers a fixed seating capacity for 4000 spectators, though temporary seating arrangements can be created for an additional 2000 spectators. The centre offers swimming and training classes, which are open to the general public.

The National Squash Centre 

The complex’s main squash facility is equipped with ten courts which can be easily modified according to event needs. The centre offers a seating capacity for 1000 spectators.

The National Hockey Stadium

The National Hockey Stadium encompasses two stadiums, Stadium 1 or the ‘main stadium’ and Stadium 2, a smaller training stadium.  Both stadiums are outfitted with the requisite AstroTurf playing fields. Stadium 1 has a seating capacity for 12000 spectators while Stadium 2 can seat 2000 spectators (1000 in covered seats and 1000 in uncovered seats). Other facilities at the stadium include conference rooms, a physiotherapy room and a well-equipped media center.

The Extreme Sports Park

The Extreme Sports Park is equipped with facilities like a paintball center, a golf driving range, two sepak takraw courts, beach volley ball courts and basketball courts. All these facilities offer public access and are popular locales for family-day outings and corporate events.

Other attractions at the National Sports complex include the Commonwealth Hill Memorial Park, an onsite hawker food court and a serene pedestrianized promenade along the Sungai Kuyoh, a river flowing between the National Sports Complex and the Extreme Sports Park.

The 1998 Commonwealth Games may have ended a long time ago, but the National Sports Complex continues to feature as a prominent attraction of Malaysia’s sporting arena and is definitely worth visiting.

http://www.stadium.gov.my/index.php/en/

Weddings in Malaysia

An examination of the marriage customs and traditions in Malaysia, reveals that that country’s three main ethnic groups, the Malays, the Chinese and the Indians conduct increasingly similar ceremonies during the execution of weddings within their respective communities..
A Malay Wedding
When a Malay man decides to ask a girl’s hand in marriage, he usually sends a male relative as his representative to her home. This male relative is usually accompanied by an entourage bearing gifts.  The gifts usually consist of  the engagement ring, sweets and an arrangement of betel leaves.
Once the date for the akad nikah or marriage vow has been fixed (Thursday evenings usually features as prominent choices for the Malay and Indian communities), the ceremonies get underway. A day before the nikah, the Malay bride and groom take part in a ceremony known as ‘mandi lulur’. The mandi lulur ceremony is conducted separately at the homes of both the bride and the groom. The ceremony features a turmeric based ceremonial bath scrub and is quite similar to the ‘haldi’ ceremony, an integral feature of a traditional Hindu wedding.
Yet another Malay wedding ritual which has Indian overtones is the majlis berina. During this ceremony the bride’s hands and feet are adorned with henna in a fashion that is quite similar to the mehendi ceremony of an Indian wedding. Both these ceremonies, the majlis berina and the mehendi ceremony are conducted with the same belief, that their conduct keeps all that is evil at bay.
The dawn of the wedding day sees the bride and groom perform a special ablution according to the dictates of Islam. This is then followed by the Malay wedding or akad nikah, a marriage ceremony conducted by a priest (imam) in front of witnesses. Once the nikah is solemnized, the bersanding ceremony gets underway.  This ceremony resembles the mandapa ceremony of Indian weddings, for during this ceremony the newly wedded couple is showered with blessings by the gathered congregation.  During this blessing ceremony (tepung tawar) guests anoint the couple’s upturned palms with various ceremonial potions like scented water and a paste made with pandan leaves and rice.
A Malaysian Indian Wedding
The Indian community in Malaysia largely hails from South India hence a Malaysian Indian wedding usually features the elaborate rituals of a southern Indian wedding. Before a wedding is arranged, the bride and groom’s horoscopes are generally compared for suitability; a date is then fixed in accordance with the auspicious dates of the Hindu calendar. A similar custom is observed by Malaysian Chinese wherein the birth dates of the bride and groom are compared for the fixing the date of the wedding ceremony.
Before the wedding the bride and the groom along with members of their families are expected to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet for a few days. A couple of days before the actual wedding ceremony the bride’s hands and feet are anointed with henna during the mehendi ceremony. On the day of the wedding both the bride and the groom take part in a ceremonial bathing ritual which involves the anointment of scented oils, turmeric and sandalwood paste. This ceremony is conducted separately at the homes of both the bride and the groom.
The bride then dons a beautiful sari and much jewelry and sets off for the temple. Bright colors and rich silks are favored as wedding attire. While traditional colors of mourning like white or black are deemed to be inauspicious and shunned. The Hindu wedding ceremony called ‘Agni parinaya’ centers on the holy fire and is accompanied by the chanting of Vedic hymns. The wedding terminates when the groom accepts the bride as his wife by tying ‘the thali’( mangalsutra or symbol of marriage) on her.
 Loud music, celebrations, the playing of games and devouring of a feast follows.
Malay Chinese Weddings
A Malay Chinese wedding features three letters(the betrothal letter, gift letter and wedding letter) and six rituals( the proposal, the divination of birth dates, the confirmation, the presentation of gifts, choosing a wedding date and the acceptance of marriage). The tea ceremony is integral to a Chinese wedding and before the groom arrives at the bride’s house, the bride undertakes an elaborate tea ceremony to honor and celebrate her parents. The color red which is deemed by the Chinese as auspicious is omnipresent at a Chinese wedding.
The groom then arrives at the bride’s house for the ceremony and tradition dictates that he must playfully try and sweet-talk, haggle or plead his way into her home amidst much mirth and laughter on the part of the relatives and guests. The wedding ceremony itself is very simple and features honoring of the elements, Heaven and Earth, the Kitchen God and the family’s ancestors. Another tea ceremony then follows during which the newlyweds pay respect to the groom’s parents. This is then followed by a grand wedding banquet.
Malaysia’s three main communities are quite distinct but having lived together for centuries, it is apparent that they are very closely linked. This is evident from the many similarities that exist in the customs and traditions which dictate the marriage ceremonies of these three main Malaysian ethnicities, the Malays, the Indians and the Chinese.

The Tip of Borneo - Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, Kudat

Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, is the term used to describe a dramatic headland situated in the on the Kudat Peninsula on the e northernmost tip of the island of Borneo. This tip of the third largest island in the world marks the meeting point of the Sulu and South China Seas.
The term Simpang Mengayau translates as ‘lingering junction’ and it refers to the manner in which the two bodies of water come together. For it appears that the South China Sea dawdles and lingers as it waits to join the waters of the Sulu Sea flowing rapidly from the east. A bronze globe marks the precise location of Tanjung Simpang Mengayau at latitude 7 degrees north and longitude 116 degrees east. A map of the island of Borneo, embossed in bronze and inscribed is laid out flat at an angle to mark the very ‘Tip of Borneo’.
The area surprisingly has seen very little commercial development and thus retains much of its untamed charm. This very end area of Borneo is very isolated and incredibly picturesque, and it features a landscape of tall, steep cliffs, densely forested hills and golden sand beaches like Pantai Kalampunian and Kelambu. Also located here is the Pulau Kalampunian lighthouse which stands tall as a silent witness to the treacherous waves and the ship wrecks of an ancient past.The Sabah tourism authority has constructed a car park near the tip and steps from this car park lead to the viewing area and the globe.
The Tip of Borneo is an immensely popular attraction, for it offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The area is known to get incredibly populated at the sunset hour and even on full moon days. No public transport serves this wild but wonderful attraction and if you want to be able to brag about visiting the tip of Borneo, you need to undertake the long journey from Kota Kinabalu aboard a hire car or taxi.
However, most tourists on arrival at the Tip of Borneo are simply blown away by its awe-inspiring beauty and tend to think that the  backbreaking three and half hour drive from Kota Kinabalu to get here  is definitely worth it.

High end shopping in malaysia

Savvy shoppers know that Malaysia offers great shopping options. Street shopping, mall shopping, boutique shopping, low end, high end, Malaysia offers it all. Luxury retail in Malaysia, in recent years has in fact been growing rapidly, for the country is known to have some of the most competitive prices for luxury goods. This is largely due to the fact that the Royal Malaysian Customs department has designated approximately 300 products as ‘Free duty’, meaning that these products are not subject to import duties or customs levies.
‘Free duty’ products in Malaysia include various high end  products like wrist watches, fragrances, cosmetics, gadgets like cameras and computers, gold and jewelry, sports equipment, leather shoes and bags, apparel, most of which  are produced by well-known global high-end brands. All these various products are available at Malaysia’s many bastions of high-end retail, the most popular of which are listed below:
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s energetic capital city is a favored shopping haunt. Renowned for its many sumptuous high-end shopping malls like Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC, Starhill Gallery and Mid-Valley Mega Mall and the Gardens, the city offers a plethora of options for luxe shopping. Designer wear, handbags and shoes, fragrances, home wares, fine watches and writing instruments, eyewear, jewelry, fine art and wines, these upmarket KL malls offer them all and more. For the store directory at each mall do visit their individual website to plan your shopping escapades in KLs:-
http://www.suriaklcc.com.my/shopping/
http://www.pavilion-kl.com
http://www.starhillgallery.com/
http://www.midvalleygardens.com.my/
http://www.midvalleygardens.com.my
It must be mentioned that aside from shops and boutiques, these malls also host various upscale dining and entertainment options which provide shoppers a chance to refuel and regroup during their shopping expeditions.
Penang
The island destination of Penang is immensely popular with tourists who relish its many attractions like pristine beachfronts, vibrant street markets, historical landmark sights and delish hawker delights. However, Penang also offers much opportunity for luxe shopping at its upmarket  malls like Gurney Plaza, Queensbay Plaza and the Gurney Paragon Mall, all of which offer  a slew of local and international upmarket brands like Coach,  Valentino, L’Occitaine en Provence, CK Jeans and others.
http://www.gurneyplaza.com/
http://www.queensbaymallmalaysia.com/
http://www.gurneyparagon.com/paragon_mall.php
Langkawi
The beach resort destination of Langkawi is yet another favored haunt of visitors to Malaysia. The island which is famed for its many natural and man-made attractions, also offers great opportunities for luxe shopping at the various duty-free outlets located within the island’s main town of Kuah. Langkawi is one of the three main duty-free enclaves in Malaysia and thus abounds with outlets offering numerous upscale products like fragrances, fine wines, cigars, electronics, confectionary, liquor and apparel.
http://www.langkawi-shopping.com/
Aside from these malls and stores, duty-free stores located within major Malaysian airports provide tourists with ample opportunity to shop a multitude of luxe products from renowned luxury brands.

The Bank Negara Museum and Art Gallery

Central Banks in most countries are important financial institutions which play a vital role in regulating economies. However, in Malaysia, the country’s central bank or the Bank Negara also hosts a prominent tourist attraction, in the form of the Bank Negara Museum and Art Gallery.
This museum cum art gallery is housed in the futuristic, newly-constructed Sasana Kijang complex, located within close proximity of the stately building that hosts the Malaysian central bank in Kuala Lumpur.
The museum plays host to an extensive and interesting permanent collection arranged within the six galleries listed below:-.
The Children’s Gallery
This gallery hosts several interactive exhibits targeted towards kids aged five and older. These exhibits aim to teach and familiarize the youngsters with the concept of money.
The Bank Negara Gallery
The Bank Negara Gallery chronicles the history of Malaysia’s main central bank and offers much information about its various operations. The Bank Negara plays a crucial role in the Malaysian economy as it helps to maintain a sound and stable financial system in the country.  The bank is also responsible for issuing all the legal tender in Malaysia, a process it started in 1967.
The Economics Gallery
The Economics Gallery catalogues the current economic scenario in Malaysia and keeps a track of the county’s growth and development.
The Islamic Finance Gallery
Malaysia is a prominent center for Islamic finance. This gallery offers valuable insight on this unique financial system which in recent times is gaining acceptance throughout the world.
The Numismatics Galley
The Malaysian central bank has an extensive coin collection, which it has built up over the years. The Numismatics gallery archives the history of the Malaysian ringgit and the important role it plays in the economic, cultural and social development of the country
The Art Gallery
The Art Gallery offers art lovers a glimpse of the bank’s huge permanent collection of 1700 artworks. This collection which has been accumulated over years features the works of several well-known international and domestic artists. In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery also hosts a temporary exhibit schedule.
Currently on offer at  the gallery is an exposition titled- ‘Fabrics of Society’ which will run until  the 31st of December. So if you plan to be in Kuala Lumpur any time before end of the year and enjoy art viewings, do pencil in visit to this truly exciting art space.
The Bank Negara museum and art gallery offers free access to the public and is open for 10 am to 6pm daily.
http://museum.bnm.gov.my/teaser/index.html

Dataran Merdeka

Kuala Lumpur is littered with remnants of Malaysia's colonial past, which make for interesting attractions for history buffs and lovers of colonial-era architecture. One such noteworthy attraction is a lush green space known as ‘Dataran Merdeka’ or Independence Square.  Located within KL’s central city hub, this square has much history associated with it, for it is here that the Union Jack was lowered as the flag of newly-born nation Malaysia was raised at the midnight hour on August 31st 1957.  

The square today is the site of the country's national day celebrations, an event marked with much celebration including an elaborate National Day parade. In the center of the square stands a tall flag pole, which rises to a height of 95 m and is believed to be the tallest flag pole in the world. The southern section of the square hosts a plaque which commemorates the end of colonial rule in Malaysia, as it marks the very spot where the Union Jack was lowered on that fateful day.

‘Dataran Merdeka’ is enveloped on all sides by some of KL's most majestic buildings. On the eastern end of the square stand the stately Sultan Abdul Samad building. This building was designed by British architect Arthur Charles Alfred Norman in 1897 and once hosted the superior courts of the country.  Today, the imposing edifice is home to the office of the Ministry of Information, Communication and Culture of Malaysia.

On the western side of the square is the Royal Selangor Club Complex. The clubhouse of the complex, an exponent of the Tudor style to of architecture, was built in 1884 as a center of recreation for high ranking officers of the colonial government. The ‘Dataran Merdeka’ was in fact previously known as the Selangor Club Padang or simply ‘the Padang’ for it was used as the cricketing green of the Selangor Club. Membership of the club nowadays is symbol of prestige, and the club accordingly features the who’s who of Malaysia on its membership rolls.  The Royal Selangor Club is famed for its two 18-hole championship courses, which regularly host various international and domestic golfing tournaments.

The stunning Gothic structure of St. Mary’s Anglican Church dominates the northern end of the square. The church is the current Diocese of West Malaysia and serves the seat of the Bishop of West Malaysia. St Mary’s which was built in 1894, is another marvelous colonial edifice was designed by A.C Norman. The southern edge of the square is home to another grand edifice, which once was home to the extensive collections of the National History Museum.

The ‘Dataran Merdeka’ features an additional attraction beneath its surface in the form of the enchanting Plaza Putra, a food, leisure and entertainment complex offering whole host  of delights.

KL’s Independence Square, ‘Dataran Merdeka’ has much to offer for all visitors and is recommended as a must-do attraction in KL. 

Melaka, UNESCO World Heritage City Celebration

Melaka, located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia is the third smallest state in Malaysia. Melaka city, which overlooks the straits of Melaka, is the capital city of the tiny state of Melaka.  Easily accessible from Kuala Lunpur via an excellent network of roads, the city of Melaka is historic trading port with a rich cultural past.
Melaka was believed to have been founded by Parameswara (or Raja Iskandar) the last Malay ruler of Temasik (ancient Singapore) in 1396 when he and his followers settled at Bertram near the estuary of the Melaka River. The king named the site Melaka after a tree that grew there. Parameswara, used the strategic position of Melaka on the straits to transform it into a powerful maritime state and Melaka in due time began to attract traders from faraway lands like China, India, Japan and West Asia. Some of these traders actually settled down in Melaka as they intermarried with the local people and gave birth to the prominent Melaka community known as the Peranakan(Baba-Nyonya) people
The Melaka Sultanate thus occupied a prominent position in the history of Malaysia for it signaled the beginning of the emergence of a new Malay empire. However in 1511, Melaka fell into Portuguese hands and they ruled here for over a century until they were driven out by the Dutch in 1641. The Dutch built many fine buildings around Melaka in an effort to cement their presence there. Some of these buildings like the Stadthuys, Melaka’s striking pink town hall and the city’s red Christ Church stand tall until today.
The British followed the Dutch to Melaka in 1795, when Melaka was given to them to prevent it falling to the French during the Napoleonic Wars. The state was then returned to the Dutch in 1818 by way of the treaty of Vienna but then it passed back to the British in 1826, who continued to rule here until Malaysia’s independence from colonial rule in 1957.
These various European powers left their stamp on Melaka in the form of numerous heritage buildings and sites like the Portuguese built A Famosa Fort, St Paul’s Church, St Peter’s Church amongst others. These prominent heritage sites coupled with the city’s many historic temples, markets and quaint shop-houses have attracted legions of history buffs and tourists over the years.
Such has been the popularity and the renown of this heritage city, that on 7th July 2008, UNESCO bestowed it with the honor of the title, World Heritage City. The anniversary of this historic event has been celebrated with much pomp and ceremony ever since.
The anniversary celebrations are usually held in front of the Independence Memorial, located near the ruins of 16th century Portuguese Santiago Gateway in Bandar Hill. This nightlong extravaganza usually features a dazzling fireworks display and various cultural performances by Melaka's unique communities such as the Baba and Nyonya, the Portuguese, and the Chitty.  The event is then followed by much feasting and street dancing within the various neighborhoods of the city.
This year, the celebration of Melaka’s unique culture and heritage is slated for Sunday, the 7th of July, so if you happen to be in or around Melaka at that time, do make sure you participate in the revelry that celebrates the heritage of this truly unique Malaysian city.

PORT DICKSON INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON 2013

A triathlon is a multi-stage competitive event that features the completion of three continuous, sequential disciplines, namely running, swimming and cycling. These three tests are usually conducted in immediate succession over various distances. The race is quite challenging and requires much training of the part of participants.
This popular endurance test for the usually takes the form, of  a sprint triathlon featuring a 5 km (3.1mile) run, a 750 meter swim(0.47mile) and a 20 kilometer(12 mile) run in no particular order. However, the race is held in various permutations and combinations around the world.
Port Dickson, popularly referred to as PD, is a popular beach destination situated in the state of Negeri Sembilan in the southern half of Peninsular Malaysia. Easily accessible via a network of excellent highways from cities like Kuala Lumpur and Malacca, this beachfront destination is also immensely popular with visitors from neighboring Singapore. Favored as a weekend getaway, PD is famous for its 10-mile long pristine beach front that overlooks the Straits of Melaka and is littered with tall coconut palms and casurina pines. On the weekend of 6th and 7th July in 2013, Port Dickson will be the cynosure of all eyes in the running world, as this holiday destination gets set to host its popular endurance test, the Port Dickson International Triathlon 2013.
The course of the Port Dickson International Triathlon 2013 is to be centered on its Avillion Admiral Cove area, a scenic 100 acre site which is located on the 5th mile of Port Dickson’s long coastline. This picturesque enclave is made up of various diverse terrains including 11 acres of virgin, hilly headlands, 69 acres of oceanfront lowlands and a sheltered marina basin which extends over approximately 20 acres. This varied landscape makes the expanse ideal for hosting a triathlon and testing the endurance and stamina of the extremely fit triathletes who come here to compete from around the globe. Last year’s event saw the participation of 1800 competitors and the event in 2013 hopes to surpass that number.
The Port Dickson Triathlon has various contest categories for men, women and children according to different ages though it also features team participation in the form of relay events. The event this year is scheduled for the weekend of 6th and 7th July and will have  the following program:-
6th July 2013, Saturday
Venue: Avillion Admiral Marina & Leisure Club, Port Dickson
SPRINT TRIATHLON
Time : 7:30am
Distance : 750m Swim, 20km Bike, 5km Run
Age Categories:
Men Open: 16 - 29 years, 30 - 39 years, 40 & above
Women Open: 16 - 29 years, 30 & above

KIDS TRIATHLON
Time : 9:30 am
Venue : Admiral Marina & Leisure Club, Port Dickson
Distance :
- 10 years & under : 150m Swim, 4km Bike, 800m Run
- 11 to 15 years: 300m Swim, 8km Bike, 1.6km Run
Competition categories:
Boys: 10 years & under, 11 - 15 years
Girls: 10 years & under, 11 - 15 years
7th July 2013, Sunday
TRIATHLON CHALLENGE

Time : 7:15 am
Venue : Admiral Marina & Leisure Club, Port Dickson
Distance : 1.6km Swim, 2km Beach Run, 45km Bike, 8.5km Run
Age categories:
Men Open: 16 - 29 years, 30 - 39 years , 40 - 49 years , 50 - 59 years, 60 years & above
Women Open: 16 - 29 years, 30 - 39 years, and 40 years old & above
Men Relay & Mixed Relay
The event fees of the triathlon usually include, an event T-shirt, a carbo-loading dinner on the night before the event as well as a goodie bag from the sponsors.
So if you feel you swim like a fish, run like the wind and cycle as if the hounds are chasing you, why not participate in a triathlon to test your skills? The Port Dickson event presents a perfect opportunity to do so, for after the grueling race is done, you can actually have a restful holiday as you relax and recuperate on one of the resort’s many stunning beaches under the tropical sun.
http://www.triathlonmalaysia.com

1Malaysia Contemporary Arts Tourism Festival

02 Jul 2013 – 30 Sep 2013


Calling all art lovers! If you have a passion for contemporary art, then you can’t afford to miss out on Malaysia’s three month long celebration of arts, the 1Malaysia Contemporary Art Tourism Festival or 1MCAT. This event which usually rolls out on the 1st of July each year, seeks to provide a unique platform for both established and emerging Malaysian artists to showcase their talents.
During the course of the festival, art exhibitions, seminars, auctions, installations and various other programs are held at art galleries and other venues around the country. The main goal of the festival is to generate and create awareness for Malaysian art, so that it has a greater reach within and beyond the country’s borders. The 2013 edition of the festival is yet again being organized by the government agency, Tourism Malaysia.
Tourism Malaysia’s support has been vital to the hosting of this contemporary arts festival during recent years. The successful staging of the festival has launched the careers of many new artists while established artists have also been able to reach a wider audience while participating in the festival. Tourism Malaysia, additionally hopes to attract more tourists to Malaysian shores by way of this arts festival, for the festival usually features much distinctive Malaysian art and thus provides an ideal vehicle to showcase Malaysian art and culture.
The festival which features collaboration between art galleries, museums, state governments, embassies, NGOs, educational agencies and the private sector also seeks to establish Malaysia as regional hub for contemporary art. The 2013 event is the fourth edition of the festival and this  contemporary arts extravaganza is also set to feature works of prominent artists like Suhaimi Fadzir, Yap Kim Boon, Khalil Ibrahim, Umibaizurah Mahir, Suzlee Ibrahim, Ivan Lam, Ahmad Zakii Anwar, Anurendra Jegadeva and Yee I-Lann, amongst others.
The 1Malaysia Contemporary Arts Tourism Festival hopes to attract more than 40,000 visitors this year.
http://www.tourism.gov.my/en/Master/Web-Page/Events-n-Festivals/2013/7/1Malaysia-Contemporary-Arts-Tourism-Festival

Kuala Lumpur Festival

01 Jul 2013 – 31 Jul 2013


The Kuala Lumpur Festival is an annual event that celebrates the diversity of the dynamic Malaysian capital. The festival which was launched in 2006 usually kicks off at the beginning of July and lasts throughout the month. On offer during the festival month, is an exciting line-up of special activities and performances. These varied events and exhibits aim to promote unity amongst all Malaysians through a spirit of creativity. 

This year’s festival starts off with energizing band performances at popular malls and shopping centers around KL like Sungei Wan Plaza, Festival City, Vivo Mall, Lot 10 and others. These free to the public band performances will be followed by events like the Kuala Lumpur Music Festival, to be held over the weekend of 6th and 7th July at the Panggung Bandaraya DBKL (DBKL City Theater). This music fest will feature local and international artists like Jeffrey Yong, Steve Thornton and Dylan Elise amongst others and will also be free for the public. 

The KL festival schedule also features various dance performances like Dance 2013 by the Aswara Dance Company (3rd to 7th July at Aswara Experimental theater), Cultural and Holiday Dance Performances on various dates throughout the month at the popular tourist attraction of Central Market at Kasturi Walk. The Indian community of Kuala Lumpur will showcase their own dance forms through events like NirtyaSamarpanam, a Kuchipudi Dance presentation, Bharatha Natyam Arangetram concert and  Sharangathi, a  Bharatha Natyam/ Odissi Dance Concert. All these three events will be held at the Shantanand Auditorium of the Temple of Fine Arts in the Bricksfield Neighborhood of Kuala Lumpur.

In addition to these music and dance events, the festival also has on offer various Malay drama and  theater performances like Grey, Postcards from Rosa, Boeing Boeing,  Bumiputeras Lucky Lucky Son, Rashomon and others which are to be held on various dates in July at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Center. Also included within the festival schedule are various martial arts performances like Silat, Wushu, Silambam and Taekwondo which showcase the traditional martial arts of Malaysia.

As the Kuala Lumpur Festival, coincides with the holy fasting month of Ramadan this year, the fest will also feature special Ramadan-themed events like the Bubur Lambuk Congee Cooking Competition to be held at the National Institute of Broadcasting and Information Abdul Razak or IPPTAR on the 24th of July. Bubur Lambuk is a rice porridge which is traditionally consumed as a breakfast meal during Ramadan. Other activities include a Ramadan Youth Camp to be held over the weekend of the 26th and 28th July at the National Mosque, a Islamic Fashion Display to be held on 20th, 21st and 28th July at the Sungei Wan Plaza, a Ramadan Spiritual concert and Nasyid competition scheduled for the July 28th at the DBKL City Theater. 

The above mentioned events are just a few of the many festivities on offer during the KL festival 2013.  So if you plan to be in the Malaysian capital during the month of July, do make sure that you take in a few of the many enthralling cultural events on offer during the cultural extravaganza that is the Kuala Lumpur Festival.

Festival website-http://www.klfestival.org.my/