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08 Geography & Climate

10 Money

12 Malaysian History

14 People of Malaysia

16 Useful Translations

18 Tastes of Malaysia

20 Social Etiquette

22 Religion

24 Major Events

26 Immigration

56 International Schools

58 A World of Choices

60 Kuala Lumpur

62 Putrajaya & Cyberjaya

64 Selangor

66 Negeri Sembilan

68 Melaka

70 Johor

72 Penang

74 Perak

76 Pahang

77 Kelantan

78 Terengganu

79 Kedah

80 Perlis

81 Labuan

82 Sarawak

83 Sabah

84 Essential Malaysia

90 Health Tourism Malaysia

118 Useful Websites

120 Airlines

122 Honorary Consuls

124 Embassies &

High Commissions

126 Public Holidays

130 Useful Info

92 Meeting Friends

93 Expat Associations

94 Hosting

96 Shopping

98 Theatre & Culture

99 Movie Theatres

100 Museums &

Galleries

102 KL Nightlife

106 Attractions for

Families

108 Staying Healthy

110 Dining out

116 MM2H

28 Renting a Property

30 Where to Live

32 Insurance

34 Work Permits

36 Crime & Security

38 NKRA Corruption

40 Motoring

42 Travelling in Malaysia

44 Postal & Courier Services

46 Phone, Mobiles & Internet

48 Banking

50 Bringing Your Pet

52 Paying Bills & Fines

54 Domestic Help

CONTENTS

what you need toknow about

around malaysia

basic info education

settling in

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publisher J. Andrew Davisonconsultant director Marybeth Rameygroup editor William Citrin

([email protected])features editor Amy de Kanterart director Chai Siew Kimgraphic design Charles Lee & Nadzim ZainalIT director Rusli Arshadonline content editor Katrina Marion Melvinweb designer Rozalin MahmoodIT technician A. Saiful Safuan Abu Yazidmedia director Timothy Mcveysales director Bill Cooperdirector Nick Davisonbusiness developmentdirector Zareena Alweemarketing Joanne Tanadvertising Emily Tang ([email protected])

Olivia Yap ([email protected])Livian Lin ([email protected])Joey Tan ([email protected])Jessy Lou ([email protected])

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Welcome to Malaysia!THERE are many things that make Malaysia beautiful –the huge collection of postcard-perfect tropical beaches,the rainforest full of secrets yet to be discovered, themouth-watering food, traditional cultures and friendlypeople. There are very few other places in the world thatcan offer Malaysia’s great natural and cultural richness.

For an outsider, your first exposure to Malaysia can oftenbe one of wonder, surprise, confusion, enjoyment anddismay – sometimes all at the same time. We were all newexpats once, just learning our way around our new home– taking in the cities, cultures, roads and so on. With everynew experience we adapted our own ways of doing thingsto better suit life in Malaysia. For some of us, the processwas long and frustrating, often having to totally forget lifeat home and retrain ourselves to our new surroundings.In our monthly magazine, The Expat (you can find a freesubscription form for resident expats on page 97), westrive to keep abreast of expat concerns and provide theinformation needed to enjoy a wonderful stay in Malaysia.Our audience is a mixture of newcomers and “longstay” expats so sometimes catering to such a wide mixof people means skimming over some of the basics, likewhat a Ringgit is worth or how you pay your bills. ThisExpat Welcome Guide is intended to address the needsof a newly arrived expat. We want to help make yourassimilation into Malaysian culture as quick and as painlessas possible.

Inside you’ll find the basics of Malaysia – the geography,systems of government, summaries of its people andtastes. You’ll learn how to rent a property, how to find amaid, how to connect your phone. You’ll discover waysto meet people, how to protect yourself and where to goto have fun. We also provide you with the most currentinformation about holidays, events, emergency servicesand anything else that we think will help you settle in yournew home.

You will remember your time in Malaysiaforever. We hope that this WelcomeGuide can help support your first stepsinto this amazing country.

Enjoy your stay!

J. Andrew DavisonPublisher

8

Straits Of Malacca

MALAYSIASouth China SEA

BORNEO

KOTA BHARU

KELANTANPENANG

GEOGRETOWN

KEDAH

ALOR SETAR

KANGAR

KUALA TERENGGANU

KUANTANPAHANG

SELANGOR

KUALA LUMPUR

NEGERISEMBILAN

MELAKA

Chukai

Pekan

Mersing

JOHOR BAHRU

SINGAPORE

Batu Pahat

Muar

Port Dickson

Petaling Jaya

Temerluh

Gua MusangKuala KangsarTaiping

Butterworth

BalingTanah Merah

Pasir Puteh

Dungun

Sungai Petani

PulauLangkawi

Padang Besar

Tanjung Malim

Tapah

Segamat

Tampin

Gemas

Kuala Pilah

Port KlangSHAH ALAM

SEREMBAN

JOHOR

IPOH

THAILAND

Bintulu

Miri

Labuan

SARAWAK

BRUNEI

SABAH

KUCHING

Sibu

KOTA KINABALU

Kudat

Sandakan

Tawau

KALIMANTAN(INDONESIA)N

EW

Raub

92 Longitude East from Greenwish 97 102 107 112 117 122 132

S

IndicationMajor Road

Railway

Airport

Port

State Capital & Town

the highlands. Annual rainfall is heavy at 2,500mm (100inches). On a rainy day, thunder and lightning oftenaccompany the heavy downpour which normally lasts forabout an hour or two. The high humidity level at 80%throughout the year favours light and sweat-absorbentmaterial like cotton for daily dressing.

Generally, Malaysia has two distinct seasons. The south-west monsoon generally lasts from May to September,during which time the north east of the country is dry.The north-east monsoon brings the rainy season to thebeautiful islands and beaches of the east coast from mid-November to March.

If heat is your enemy, the only alternative is to ensurethe home you choose for yourself has excellentventilation with lots of windows for better aircirculation, and is fitted with air-conditioning. Mostaccommodation in Malaysia has air conditioningalthough many houses and apartments have it only inthe bedrooms.

Geography and ClimateMALAYSIA is made up of two regions: PeninsularMalaysia which lies between Thailand and Singapore, andEast Malaysia across the South China Sea on the island ofBorneo. The combined land area of both regions is about330,400 sq km (127,000 sq miles).

The Peninsula is divided into the east and the west by themountain range known as Banjaran Titiwangsa, which runsfrom the Malaysia-Thai border in the north to the southernstate of Negeri Sembilan. Geographically, East Malaysia isrugged, with a series of mountain ranges encompassing theinterior regions of both Sabah and Sarawak.

The Crocker Range in Sabah is the site of MountKinabalu, the highest peak in South East Asia. Low’sPeak, at 4,093 metres above sea level, is the highestpoint of the mountain.

The country is generally warm throughout the year withtemperatures ranging from 21° to 32° Celsius in thelowlands. This can however be as low as 16° Celsius in

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AMBASSADORWORLDWIDE

MOVERS(MALAYSIA)

SDN. BHD.(376185-W)

Lot 17,Lorong Enggang 31,Off Jalan Enggang,

Taman Keramat,54200 Kuala Lumpur,

Malaysia

E-mail:[email protected]

[email protected]

Tel: 603-4253 2000Fax: 603-4252 1000

Website:www.ambassador.com.my

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Financial FactsCURRENCYThe unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (RM) whichequals 100 sen. Currency notes are in denominations ofRM1, RM2, RM5, RM10, RM50, and RM100. Coins areissued in 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen pieces. Licensed foreignmoney changers are found in all urban centres, key entry/exit points and shopping complexes.

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUESTravellers cheques can be exchanged for Malaysian Ringgitat commercial banks, hotels or at authorised moneychangers. All major hotels are only licensed to buy, but notsell, foreign currencies in the form of notes and travellerscheques. Credit cards including American Express, Visa,Master Card and Diners Club are accepted at most hotels,shopping centres and major restaurants.

BUSINESS HOURSIn 10 states, the government’s business hours beginat 8.30 am, with a one-hour lunch break at 12.45 pmbefore continuing at 2 pm until 4.30 pm from Mondays toThursdays. On Fridays, the afternoon break is from 12.15pm until 2.45 pm. This is to allow Muslim workers timeto attend Friday afternoon prayers. On Saturdays, officehours end at 12.45 pm. The public sector in Terengganu,Kedah and Kelantan keeps different hours. The workingweek is from Saturday to Wednesday from 8 am to 4pm. Thursday is a half-day, ending at 12.45 pm. Friday isconsidered the weekend. Private sector hours are generallyfrom 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and from 9 am to 1pm on Saturdays.

BANKING HOURSBanking hours are normally from 9.30 am to 4.30 pmon weekdays. Saturdays are a half-day from 9.30 am to11 am. Every first and third Saturday of the month is anofficial day off, though this may vary among individualbanks or financial institutions.

ECONOMYIn 2010, Malaysia had the 30th largest economy in theworld and the 3rd largest in South East Asia by purchasingpower parity, with a GDP of an estimated $387 billion(USD). GDP contracted slightly in 2009, but it is expected

to expand by at least 5% in 2011 - the government isaiming for a year-on-year increase of 6% by to reach agross domestic income of RM38,850 by 2015.

The petroleum industry still tops the list in terms ofcontribution to GDP. In line with the government’semphasis on technology-intensive industries, the export-oriented manufacturing sector has been given strongemphasis, resulting in the setting up of many industrialestates. A big contributor to this sector is the country’snational car which is marketed under the name Proton.Besides the domestic market, Proton cars have penetratedmany foreign markets amidst fierce competition from carmanufacturers worldwide.

Although industrialisation has taken a bigger role inrecent years, agriculture is still important with palmoil, rubber, rubber wood, pepper and cocoa beansbeing major exports. Another major source of incomeis the tourism industry, coming a close second to themanufacturing sector. Another area of growth is theIslamic Banking & Finance sector, with Malaysia being theworld leader in this area.

KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS

PopulationGDPGDP GrowthPer Caipta IncomeInflation Rate (CPI)Labour ForceUnemploymentTotal ExportsTotal ImportsMajor Exports

Major Imports

2009 201028.3 million 28.9 millionRM512.4 billion RM525.4 billion-1.7% 6-7%RM24,055 RM24,6610.6% 2.25%12.1 million 12.2 million3.7% 3.6%RM553.3 billion RM559.0 billionRM439.9 billion RM452.8 billionelectrical and electronic productspalm oil and palm oil based productsliquefied natural gascrude petroleumchemicals and chemical productsrefined petroleum productselectrical and electronic productsmachinery, appliances and partschemicals and chemical productsmetal products transport equipment

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MALAYSIA’S recorded history dates back to the firstcentury BC. Located strategically at the crossroadsbetween the East and West, Peninsular Malaysia hasattracted early travellers from different parts of the world.

Evidence of ancient civilisations (such as tombstones) hasbeen found in the Bujang Valley and the Merbok Valley inthe state of Kedah, as well as Hindu-Buddhist influencesfrom India and China.

Islam came during the Melaka Sultanate in the 1400s withtraders from the Middle East and India. It spread across thenation when the Sultan of Melaka embraced the religionand personally helped spread it across the nation. Thereign of the Melaka Sultanate also saw the establishmentof trade ties with the Kingdom of China.

Melaka’s spice trade led to its attack by the Portuguesein 1511, resulting in the fall of the Sultanate. Togetherwith their conquest, the Portuguese brought in CatholicChristianity to the locals. In 1641, the Dutch took overcontrol of Melaka. The British came at the end of the 18thcentury in the wake of the Industrial Revolution in Europe.

They formed crown colony states of the Malay Peninsulacalled the Straits Settlements and subtly intervened in theadministration of these previously independent states.

In East Malaysia, Sabah became a British protectorate underthe Chartered Company British North Borneo, while theBrooke family ruled Sarawak as the White Rajahs (meaning

MalaysianHistory

the “White King”) for 100 years. In 1941, the Japaneseinvaded the country and ruled for about three years beforetheir surrender to the Allied Forces after the bombing ofNagasaki and Hiroshima. The end of World War II saw thebeginning of the birth of nationalism in the country.

On August 31, 1957 at 9am, Tunku Abdul Rahman(who became the nation’s first Prime Minister) read theProclamation of Independence and declared the MalayStates of Malaya “with God’s blessing, shall forever be asovereign democratic and independent state…” Freedomhad been won peacefully. In 1963, Malaya, Singapore,Sabah and Sarawak joined together to form Malaysia(though Singapore seceded in 1965).

Since independence, Malaysia has had five Prime Ministers,namely, Tunku Abdul Rahman (known as “Father ofIndependence”), Tun Razak (“Father of Development”),Tun Hussein Onn (“Father of Unity”), Tun Dr Mahathir(Prime Minister from 1981 to 2003), and Tun AbdullahAhmad Badawi (Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009) andcurrent Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak.

KUALA LUMPUR HISTORYKuala Lumpur grew from the area now known as DataranMerdeka (Merdeka Square), the centre of the Britishadministration for the Federated Malay States. In just overa century, Kuala Lumpur has transformed from a fewcolonial brick buildings to a modern Asian city, combininghistorical landmarks with some of the world’s mostmodern buildings.

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Most historians agree Kuala Lumpur was founded in1857, when Raja Abdullah Raja Ja’afar sent a group of87 Chinese miners upriver from Klang in search of tindeposits. They landed their supplies at the confluence ofthe Gombak and Klang rivers, the farthest their heavilyladen boats could reach. This landing point is said tohave given rise to the name “Kuala Lumpur” (“muddyconfluence” in Malay). Other historians assert there werealready several small settlements, miners, and tradingposts in the area before this group arrived. However, theirarrival and the beginnings of concentrated mining of therich tin deposits led to the settlement’s rapid growth.

Much of Kuala Lumpur’s growth is due to the industrialrevolutions in North America and the British Empire,which significantly increased the world demand fortin. The Chinese, with considerable mining experiencein their own country, were the first foreigners to bringMalaysia’s tin deposits into production. By the latter halfof the 19th century, there were thousands of Chinese tinminers in Malaya.

Eleven years after Raja Abdullah’s initial expedition,Yap Ah Loy was declared the third “Kapitan China”.Physically strong, a skilled fighter, and willing to getpersonally involved, Yap Ah Loy is regarded by manyas the founder of Kuala Lumpur, and the settlementexpanded considerably under his leadership. He assumedthe position during a period of intense conflict among theMalay rulers. The civil war eventually forced Yap Ah Loyto leave Kuala Lumpur. When he returned in 1873, muchof the town was in ruin. At the request the merchantsof the Straits Settlements, the British intervened to end

the civil war, and in 1874 they brokered the PangkorEngagement that empowered a new British-supportedruler for Selangor.

The Pangkor Engagement introduced the concept of BritishResidents, which had a profound effect on Kuala Lumpur.As consultants to the various Sultans around Malaysia, theResidents (British civil servants) advised on all matters exceptthose touching on Malay religion and customs. In 1880, theBritish Resident for Selangor, Bloomfield Douglas, relocatedhis office from Klang to Kuala Lumpur.

Sir Frank Swettenham, one of Britain’s most famouscolonial officers, was Selangor’s British Resident from1882 to 1889. Under his direction, Kuala Lumpur’sarchitecture began to take its present form. In 1889,Swettenham became the British Resident for Perak. Sevenyears later, he persuaded four of the Sultans to uniteunder the Federated Malay States (FMS). Swettenhambecame Resident General and chose Kuala Lumpur as thecapital of the FMS.

During World War II, Kuala Lumpur was briefly occupiedby the Japanese, who overran Malaya in 1942. Althoughthe city sustained some damage during the war, it wasnot devastated.

Malaya obtained independence in 1957, with KualaLumpur as its capital. Kuala Lumpur was separatedfrom Selangor State in 1974, creating the FederalTerritory (“Wilayah Persekutuan” in Malay) consistingof 240-sq.km – essentially Kuala Lumpur city and itsimmediate surroundings.

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MALAYSIA IS A VAST CORNUCOPIA OF CULTURES, A DIVERSE AND HARMONIOUSETHNIC MIX THAT’S HARD TO FIND ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD. MALAYSIA’STOTAL POPULATION OF 28.3-MILLION IN BORNEO AND PENINSULAR MALAYSIA ISCOMPRISED OF MALAY, CHINESE, INDIAN, AND OTHER INDIGENOUS PEOPLES. OFTHIS, ABOUT 80-PERCENT OCCUPY PENINSULAR MALAYSIA.

TO MAINTAIN THIS RICH DIVERSITY, MALAYSIAN CULTURE EMPHASISES THE VALUESOF COURTESY, MODERATION, TOLERANCE, HARMONY, AND CORDIAL RELATIONSAMONG FAMILY MEMBERS, NEIGHBOURS, AND COMMUNITY.

People of Malaysia

MALAYAs Malaysia’s largest ethnic group,the Malays account for over halfthe population of Malaysia. Theyare Muslim, and with the oldestindigenous peoples, they form agroup called “bumiputra” – the“sons” or “princes of the soil.”

Traditionally, Malay culture centresaround the kampong (village) anda strong responsibility to family.Today, however, urban settings andexposure to Western culture havechanged these customs somewhat,though Islamic values are still firmlyembedded in their culture. Thereare some Malay families who speakmainly English within their household.In Kuala Lumpur especially, roadtraffic, work ethics, and commonambitions do not stray too far awayfrom what is happening in theWestern world.

But it is interesting to note thecommunicative easiness betweencontemporary and the devoutMalay youth. It is a common sight inMalaysia to find girls whose hair iscovered. This piece of head coveringis called “tudung” in the MalayLanguage, literally meaning “tocover”. In Malaysia, Muslim womenare encouraged to practise modestyin terms of their attire, but are giventhe freedom to choose whether theywant to wear the “tudung”. For mostMalaysian youths, family life is animportant component that completestheir daily lives. Despite their busyclimb on the corporate ladder, theambitious still have a strong sense offamily values.

CHINESEThe Chinese traded with the peopleof the Malay Archipelago forcenturies, then settled in number

during the nineteenth century,when word of riches in the SouthSeas spread across China.Chinese-Malaysians now compriseabout 25 percent of Malaysia’s totalpopulation.

The first Chinese to settle in thearea, primarily in and aroundMelaka, gradually adopted elementsof Malay culture and intermarriedwith members of the existing localcommunity. Known as “babas” and“nyonya”, they combined Malayand Chinese traditions and createda newly-synthesised culture. Later,Chinese immigrants – those whocame to work in the tin and rubberindustries – preserved much more oftheir original Chinese culture.

INDIANMalaysia’s Indians account for about7.5-percent of the total population,

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and are mostly Hindu Tamils fromSouthern India. Indians had beenvisiting Malaysia for over 2,000years, but did not settle en masseuntil the 19th century, when manycame to work as rubber tappers,infrastructure construction workers,or administrators for the fledglingBritish colony.

ORANG ASLI, IBAN, ANDOTHERS.. .The remainder of Malaysia’spopulation (aside from Eurasians andexpats) consists of indigenous tribesfound in both East and PeninsularMalaysia. The Orang Asli occupy thepeninsula in small scattered groups,although some of them have beenabsorbed into modern Malaysia.‘Dayak’ is the collective term used forthe indigenous people of Borneo. Ofthe estimated 200 Dayak tribes there,the largest are the Iban (395,000)and Bidayuh (107,000) of Sarawak,and the Kadazan of Sabah. Thoughsmall in number, these groups makeBorneo quite culturally distinct fromPeninsular Malaysia.

CULTURAL MIXThough Malaysia’s main ethnicgroups come from disparatebackgrounds, over time they’veblended in ways to form a uniquemix. Malaysia’s Malay weddingceremony, for example, canincorporate elements of Hinducostume. Muslims have adaptedthe Chinese “ang pow” customof giving small packets of moneyat festivals. In cities as diverse asKuala Lumpur, it’s no wonder thismixing occurs; walking along astreet, you’ll hear Tamil, Hokkien,Malay, and English being spoken.On TV, you’ll see Chinese operainterspersed with ‘Bollywood’movies and Malay dramas.

Malaysia’s many cultural festivalsalso exemplify this unique mix.Though different and seeminglyself-contained, all of Malaysia’scommunities have “open house”policies during their respectivefestive seasons, when members ofall cultures (including yourself) areinvited to partake.

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Common PhrasesHello HelloGoodbye Selamat jalanPlease TolongThank you Terima kasihI am sorry Saya minta maafWhat is your name? Siapa nama awak?My name is... Nama sayaHow are you? Apa khabar?Fine BaikMale LelakiFemale PerempuanFriend KawanI don’t understand Saya tidak fahamToilet TandasWhere are the toilets? Di mana tandas/tempat mandi?How much? Berapa?

FoodFood MakananEat MakanRice NasiNoodles MeeNot too spicy Jangan pedasChicken AyamWater AirDrinking water Air minuman

Useful TranslationsBAHASA MALAYSIA (also called “Malay”) is the official language of Malaysia. Malay is an Austronesian language, whichmost scholars agree originated in the Riau region of Sumatra. Over time, the Malay lexicon and vernacular have beeninfluenced by Sanskrit, Kawi, Jawi, Tamil, Portuguese, Chinese, and English. Though most Malaysians speak at least someEnglish, a little effort to learn Malay will earn their respect, and will most often bring about a smile and some timely assistance.

Some useful translations for words and phrases inBahasa Malaysia (Malay) for you to get started:

English Bahasa MalaysiaNumbersOne SatuTwo DuaThree TigaFour EmpatFive LimaSix EnamSeven TujuhEight LapanNine SembilanTen Sepuluh

The vowels in Malay are as: “a” as in “hard”, “e” asin “other”, “I” as in “ink”, “o” as in “orchid”, and“u” as in “loot”. Consonants “c” is pronounced “ch”as in “chin”, “sy” is pronounced “sh” as in “shy”.

TrafficTurn left Belok kiriTurn right Belok kananStraight ahead Berjalan terusIntersection SimpangBus BasCar Kereta/MotokarTaxi TeksiEntry MasukExit KeluarOpen BukaRoad JalanLane LorongHighway LebuhrayaNorth UtaraSouth SelatanEast TimurWest BaratCaution AwasStop BerhentiGive way Beri laluanAhead Di hadapanNo overtaking Dilarang memotongSpeed limit Had lajuKeep right Ikut kananKeep left Ikut kiriOne-way street Jalan sehalaSlow down Kurangkan lajuDetour LenconganSharp bends Liku tajamKeep left unless overtaking Ikut kiri kecuali memotong

TimeGood morning Selamat pagiGood afternoon Selamat tengahariGood evening Selamat petangGood night Selamat malam

Days of the WeekSunday AhadMonday IsninTuesday SelasaWednesday RabuThursday KhamisFriday JumaatSaturday Sabtu

GeographyHill BukitLake TasikMountain GunungRiver SungaiVillage KampungValley LembahWaterfall Air TerjunBeach PantaiIsland PulauSea Laut

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MALAY CUISINEThe Malays have a distinct cuisine,with ingredients such as coconuts,herbs, and spices, often stronglyinfl uenced by Thai and Indian cuisine.Most traditional Malay food variesfrom state to state - even the ever-popular “satay” (skewered slicedpieces of chicken, lamb, or beefcooked over hot coals and eatendipped with a sweet peanut sauce)varies from one state to another.

Rice is always eaten with “lauk” (acurry or sauce), quite often cookedin coconut milk. The preparation ofMalay food involves the blending ofshallots, garlic, and chillies, which arepounded and fried, then mixed withdry spices such as coriander, cumin,aniseed, cloves, cinnamon, andcardamom. A popular Malay dish is“nasi lemak” (steamed rice cooked incoconut milk with anchovies, a hard-boiled egg, cucumber, and toastedpeanuts, all wrapped up in a bananaleaf). This dish is often eaten forbreakfast. Malay curry differs fromIndian; it has the slightly tangy

fl avour of various herbs suchas lemongrass, lime leaves, andcoriander. Another favourite isthe use of screw pine leaves forfl avouring in rice or desserts.

A spread of Malay food must include“sambal belacan”, which is a driedshrimp paste, ground with freshchillies. Beef rendang is also distinctlyMalay. Cubes of beef are cooked ina thick gravy of coconut cream andherbs, and served with “lemang”(glutinous rice cooked in bamboo).

Variations of noodles in gravy areanother Malay specialty, adoptedfrom the Chinese. “Mee rebus’(yellow noodles in a lightly spicedsauce of sweet potato, usuallytopped with a hard-boiled egg andgreen chillies); “mee soto” (yellownoodles with bean sprouts servedin chicken stock and topped withchicken meat); another favourite isthe hot and spicy “laksa”, in whichrice noodles are served in spicycoconut milk with chicken and eggs.

Malay desserts are sweet and tasty,such as “ais kacang” (also called“ABC”) – a mountain of ice shavingsmade colourful by red and greensyrup and evaporated milk pouredover the top. Below are fillings of redbeans, jelly, and sweet corn. Anotheris the “cendol” (ice shavings addedto a concoction of coconut milk andred beans, sweetened further bybrown sugar syrup).

The best time to sample authenticMalay food is during the uniquely

Malaysian custom of holding an“open house” during Hari

Raya Puasa, which marksthe end of Ramadan

fasting. You canalso sample Malayfoods at hawkerstalls, food courts,and Malayrestaurants.

INDIAN FOODDuring the rubber boom of colonialMalaya, various ethnic Indian groupsarrived: Tamils, Malayalees, Punjabis,Bengalis, Sri Lankans – who eachadded their own characteristiccooking styles to the melting pot.Today, Indian food is found at hawkerstalls and restaurants all over thecountry. The preparation of someubiquitous favourites, “roti canai”and “teh tarik”, is not to be missed.Prepared dough for the “roti canai”is slapped upon the counter andspread out, then twirled high upabove the cook’s head and broughtdown back again with flourish, overand over until the cook is satisfied.The bread is then grilled with oil andserved hot with lentils. Preparing “tehtarik” (“pulled tea”) is similarly asight to behold - sweetened tea withcondensed milk is poured (or ‘pulled’)from one glass to another.

The basis of a lot of Indian food isa blend of spices known as “garammasala”, which includes blackpepper, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom,cloves, nutmeg, and coriander.These are then added to a wet baseof shallots, ginger, garlic, and anyamount of fresh chillies.

The three main types of Indian foodin Malaysia are North Indian, SouthIndian, and Indian Muslim. SouthIndian food is both hot and spicy,and traditionally served on bananaleaves. A typical banana leaf mealis rice with a variety of condiments,vegetables, and a choice of meat orfi sh. The traditional way to eat theentire meal is with your fi ngers.“Tosai” is another unique creation offl our with coconut milk and pan friedon a hot plate, served with chutney

MALAYSIANS ARE RENOWNED FOR THEIR AFFINITY FOR GOOD FOOD. EACHCULTURAL GROUP HAS ITS OWN TRADITIONAL DISHES. MOST ARE DELICIOUS,AND ALL ARE WORTH TRYING AT LEAST ONCE. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUTTHE TASTES OF MALAYSIA, VISIT WWW.DINEMALAYSIA.COM.

The Tastes of Malaysia

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and lentils. North Indian food hasrich creamy sauces, and perhapsits most notable dish is tandoorichicken cooked in a clay oven. Atypical curry is cooked in yogurtwith dried fruits and nuts. Bread isoften served instead of rice, withmany different types baked in aclay oven or pan grilled, including“naan” and “chapatti”. NorthIndian fine dining is now popular inmany parts of the country.

Indian Muslim food is a mix of Indianand Malay cooking. There are sweetand spicy dishes such as “rojak” orhot and spicy dishes such as “meerebus”. “Roti canai” is also an IndianMuslim speciality.

CHINESE FOODMalaysia truly became a meltingpoint of cultures with the arrivalof immigrants from all over China,including the Hokkiens, Hakkas,Teochews, Foo Chows, and theHainanese, whose cuisines blendedwell with the already existing potpourri.

The most popular Chinese food inMalaysia is Cantonese. A Chineseculinary experience can be anythingfrom a roadside stall for a simplebowl of noodles to a 10-coursebanquet at a sophisticated restaurant.Rice noodles come in various shapes –thin, thick, flat, and colours of whiteor egg-yellow. These can be soakedin a fine coconut milk sauce, soyasauce, or drowned in a combinationof prawn or chicken stock. Noodles

can also be fried in a variety of waysand ingredients. “Char (“fried”)kuay teow” is a popular meal of flatnoodles with loads of garlic, bitsof prawns, clams, fish cake, beansprouts, chives, and an egg.

Many Chinese coffee shops havestalls serving: chicken or pork rice(steamed or roasted chicken or porkserved with rice cooked in stock);noodles (served dry, with soup, orfried); “chap fan” (rice with a choiceof different dishes); and “yong taufoo” (fish cakes stuffed in okra orother vegetables).

Chinese banquets are a culinaryadventure. Hot and cold horsd’oeuvres (“Four Seasons”) arenormal starters, followed by soup(often shark’s fin or hot and sourSichuan). The exotic selection cancontinue with Peking duck, sucklingpig, abalone, and fish. Most fish issteamed. Crabs are cooked, baked,steamed, or fried with chillies.Dessert is normally fresh fruits orChinese dumplings.

Less popular than Cantonese are thecuisines from the North and the Westof China – Sichuan, Shanghai, andPeking. Sichuan is the fiery food ofChina, where pepper and chili reallyget into the act. Where Cantonesefoods are delicate and understated,Sichuan foods have strong anddramatic flavours – garlic and chilliesplay their part in dishes like dicedchicken and hot and sour soup.

On a gastronomic tour of MalaysianChinese cuisine, a steamboat dinneror a Sunday brunch of ‘dim sum’should not be missed. Dim sum arelittle snacks that come in woodentiffins in a large steamer. Some dimsum delicacies are fried or baked, andmany are served with a sauce.

Popular dim sum dishes includebaked egg custard, carrot cake,shrimps, chicken legs, and prawndumplings. At a steamboat dinner,a variety of raw meats, fish, andvegetables are put around a largestock pot on a gas burner. Put whatyou fancy into the stock and cookthrough or just slightly blanch it.

NYONYA FOODNyonya (or Peranakan) cuisine is anamalgamation of Chinese and Malaydishes most prominent in Penang,Malacca, and Singapore.

Many traditional Chineseingredients and Malay spicesand herbs are used, but Nyonyacuisine is eclectically seasonedand has a taste uniquely its own.Malacca Nyonya food is generallysweeter, richer in coconut milk,and includes more Malay spiceslike coriander and cumin.

Meanwhile, the Penang Nyonyastyle of cooking drew inspirationfrom Thai cuisine, including apreference for sour food, hotchilies, fragrant herbs, and pungentprawn paste (“belacan”).

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IT will help your integration into Malaysian culture torecognise and respect the diverse cultural and religiouscustoms. When interacting with Malaysians, bear inmind that it is a multicultural country, so practices varybetween the different cultural groups. Below we outlinesome guidelines to help you avoid offence, but do useyour judgment and observation skills when deciding howto proceed.

Shoes are commonly left at the front door of houses andsome other buildings. A collection of shoes at the doormeans you should probably remove yours. Another sign isif you notice you are the only one wearing shoes!

Many Malaysians greet each other with a light handshake,and may place their right hand over their heart aftergreeting you. Watch what happens and follow their lead.Be aware that some Muslims prefer not to shake handswith members of the opposite sex, so it’s always safer tolet them initiate the greeting.

Presentation of business cards or name cards often followsan introduction. It is considered polite to inspect a cardcarefully before putting it away, and in meetings these areoften placed neatly on the table in front of the recipient.It is your prerogative whether you give out your card andto whom; use your discretion and excuse yourself for notcarrying any of your own if you feel you’d rather not shareyour contact details.

Displays of physical affection in public are generallyfrowned upon, particularly in the more conservativeeastern and northern states. Take your lead from thosearound you, and err on the side of caution if in doubt.

Certain areas of mosques and temples should not beentered by those of different faiths. Signs are oftendisplayed and you can always ask those around you ifyou are unsure. Conservative dress is always requiredin mosques, and some temples, and you will often berequired to remove your shoes.

Many older people are simply referred to as uncle(pakcik) or aunty (makcik). People younger than you mayaddress you in this manner - take it as a compliment anda sign of respect.

Some Malaysians eat with their hands, especially wheneating more traditional types of food. If you’d like to dumpthe cutlery and give it a try, remember to use only the righthand - the left is used for more basic bodily functions!

Social Etiquette

While eating, paying in a shop, shaking hands, or anyother transaction, use your right hand. The left handis considered unclean. If invited to a Malaysian home,the host will be most appreciative if you come bearinggifts, though this is not a must. Whatever you choose tobring - be it a souvenir from back home, some fruits ordrinks purchased from a store around the corner - will beaccepted with warm thanks. Bringing a gift is known ascarrying “buah tangan”, which literally means “fruit ofthe hands.”

Many Malaysians are superstitious, and there is a fascinationwith lucky and unlucky numbers. As an example, never givefour of anything to a Chinese Malaysian (four sounds likethe word for “death” in Chinese).

The Chinese word kiasu is loosely translated to mean afear of missing out. This surfaces in many situations -drivers being aggressive on the road, wearing brandedclothes and accessories, using mobile phones loudly,and piling one’s plate the highest at a buffet. What doesit all mean? It’s about keeping up with the Jones, as adeclaration of social status. This doesn’t mean expats haveto be kiasu, but being aware of its presence will help youunderstand many situations.

As in many Asian countries, Malaysians don’t often showanger in public. When others do, many Malaysians areunsure of what to do next. Remain calm, firm, and avoidshouting when things do not go your way.

Many Malaysians take a more relaxed view of time anddeadlines than you may be used to. When meetingfriends don’t be surprised if you arrive on time to findyourself alone perhaps for another 30 minutes. Eventswill also often start later than billed. In the businessworld, however, punctuality is advised and an apologyand excuse (it’s common to blame the traffic) areexpected if you arrive late.

Face is difficult to explain, but most Malaysians donot like to “lose face”, which means they want toavoid embarrassment and humiliation at all costs. Youcan “give face” by being understanding if somethinggoes wrong - by not reminding people of this, bycompensating for small mistakes and by avertingattention from failings. Humility is another aspect offace - be honest about your faults and modest aboutyour achievements.

basic info

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RELIGION plays a large role the lives of many Malaysians,and all around Kuala Lumpur you’ll find examples ofMalaysia’s various faiths.

Islam is the religion of all Malays in Malaysia, and is alsothe country’s official religion. Islamic mosques in Malaysiagenerally have a domed ceiling for the main prayerhall and a tall minaret from which the call to prayers isbroadcast five times a day. In many places around the city,you’ll likely hear the call to prayers coming from one (ormore) mosques.

Many of the mosques accept visitors and are well wortha tour, though all will ask you to respect the customs.Suitable dress is required, and if you are female or anon-Muslim, you may not be permitted into all areasof the mosque.

Masjid Negara (National Mosque) on Jalan SultanHishamuddin was built in 1960 and is one of the largestmosques in Southeast Asia, able to accommodate up to8,000 worshippers. Masjid Jamek (Jamek Mosque) on JalanTun Perak was designed by the same architect who designedthe KL Railway Station and the Sultan Abdul Samad building,and is a great example of neo-Moorish architecture foundaround the older parts of KL. Further away, Putra Mosque inPutrajaya is breathtaking.

Buddhism is the predominant religion for many MalaysianChinese, and the Buddhist temples found around KL aregenerally characterised by arched ceilings, ornate carvings,

Mosques, Temples, Churches,and Shrines - Religion in KL

and embellishments. Many are well worth a tour, but as withtouring mosques, pay attention to signage concerning attireand behaviour within the temples.

Most popular with tourists are: Chan See Shu YuenTemple (on Jalan Stadium) with its exquisite glazedceramic carvings and sculptures; Sin Sze Sin-Ya Templeon Jalan Tun H. S. Lee (the oldest Buddhist temple inKL); and Thean Hou Temple atop Robson Hill (off JalanSyed Putra).

Hindu temples are also found throughout KL, and aregenerally characterised by an open design and extremelyintricate statues and bright colours. Tourists are mostlikely to see the temples at the Mid Valley Megamall andSri Maha Mariamman temple on the edge of Chinatown,but the most stunning examples of Hinduism are foundat the Batu Caves just north of the city.

There are also numerous Christian churches in KL, severalwith unique stories that are interesting to history buffs(and most will surely welcome Christian tourists). The mostphotogenic churches in KL include the small, unpretentiousSt. Mary’s Cathedral on Jalan Raja (consecrated in 1893)and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (built in 1918, andhome to the International Church of KL).

Unlike elsewhere in the world, the followers of thesevarious faiths share Malaysia quite harmoniously, andare respectful of others’ beliefs. At times of festivals andfeasts, this pleasant mix is especially prevalent. Enjoy!

basic info

Primary campus: t: (603) 2148 3674 f: (603) 2148 3418 Secondary campus: t: (603) 9543 3688 f: (603) 9543 3788

www.alice-smith.edu.my

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THAIPUSAM19 January 2011Thaipusam is a day of penance andthanksgiving for Hindu devotees.This national festival is bestexperienced at the Batu Caves inKuala Lumpur where thousands ofdevotees pierce themselves.

FEDERAL TERRITORY DAY1 February 2011Venue: Kuala Lumpur, Labuan &Putrajaya. The federal territories ofKuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajayacelebrate Federal Territory Day withexciting parades, fireworks displaysand cultural shows.

LE TOUR DE LANGKAWI23 January to 1 February 2011Venue: Langkawi, KedahThe world’s finest cyclists meet atAsia’s Le Tour de Langkawi. Theroute starts on the serene island ofLangkawi and ends in Kuala Lumpur.

CHINESE NEW YEAR3 and 4 February 2011Chinese New Year marks the first dayof the lunar calendar and is celebratedover a 15-day period. Mandarin

oranges and plum blossom stalks areused as decorations in Chinese homesfor prosperity and good luck.

PETRONAS MALAYSIANF1 GRAND PRIX8 to 10 April 2011Venue: Sepang International Circuit.The skills of the world’s finest driversare put to the test with the extremehot and wet conditions at theSepang circuit.

RAINFOREST WORLDMUSIC FESTIVAL8 to 10 July 2011Venue: Miri, SarawakMalaysia’s most celebrated musicfestival: international acts and ajungle setting.

MALAYSIA FLORA FESTMarch to May 2011(to be confirmed)Venue: Dataran Merdeka, KLThis event will feature a floral

parade which showcases stunninglydecorated floats from Malaysiaand abroad.

HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI30 to 31 August 2011Hari Raya marks the end of thefasting period during Ramadhan.Look out for ‘open houses’, wherefriends are served with a generousspread of food.

NATIONAL DAY31 August 2011Malaysia’s Independence Day.Activities are held nationally, includingparades, exhibitions and fireworks.

DEEPAVALI26 October 2011The triumph of good over evilis celebrated by Hindus as theyobserve Deepavali or the Festival ofLights in the seventh month of theHindu calendar.

PENANG BRIDGEINTERNATIONALMARATHON20 November 2011Venue: Penang BridgeThe third-longest bridge in theworld plays host to a mostunusual marathon.

For more information, log on to www.tourism.gov.my

Malaysian Highlights for 2011

basic info

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A WORK permit (called an “employment pass” inMalaysia) is the most important documentation requiredfor those seeking employment in the country. Normally,this is obtained for the employee by the employer oncein the country. Employees and their family members areallowed to enter the country on social visas issued byMalaysian Immigration officials upon arrival.

The documentation for a work permit is a precise andits processing is sometimes quite lengthy and involved.Completing this by yourself is possible, but may prove tobe a frustrating experience – perhaps your first encounterwith “culture shock” and government bureaucracy. Thereare authorized agents who, for a fee, do the runningaround for such permits, and for first-timers, this is highlyrecommended. Many larger companies will arrange thework permit for their employees.

Permits will be issued for varying periods, but are usuallygiven for a period of two years. The permit will be placedin your passport and will note your position, employer’sname, and address. Dependants will also be given apermit stating that “any form of employment is strictlyprohibited.” Should any dependant want to work,they will have to go through a separate and personalapplication for a work permit.

Some people choose to work without a permit and leavethe country every three months (when their social visaexpires) to re-enter a day or so later with a new social visa.This is a risky practice, as your passport will be stampedeach time you enter and exit, and may lead to difficultquestions and deportation.

The immigration department is now located in Putrajaya(half way between Kuala Lumpur and Kuala LumpurInternational Airport). If any documentation is incorrect or

Immigration Servicesmissing, you will be asked to resubmit, requiring anotherround trip. It’s best to try and get it right the first time,and some people choose to use an agency to help themthrough the formalities. The primary factors in decidingwhether to do it yourself or use an agency are moneyand time. Many people have done it themselves, but thevast majority found it a slow, frustrating experience. Forexample, if you are issued a new passport when you areliving here and want to transfer your visa, you will beasked to submit a written request for the transfer writtenin Bahasa Malaysia. If you fail to bring it, you may well besent away to get a properly written request.

The East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak havetheir own immigration procedures, and travelling fromthe Peninsular (West) Malaysia to East Malaysia requiresseparate formalities (this means taking your passport whenyou travel there). Work permits must be obtained in theserespective states upon arrival.

Department of Immigration in PutrajayaAddress: Jabatan Imigresen MalaysiaKementrian Hal Ehwal Dalam NegeriBahagian Visa, Pas dan PermitTingkat 3, (Podium) Blok 2G4 Precint 2Pusat Pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan62550 Putrajaya.

Telephone: 03.8880 1000Website: www.imi.gov.myBusiness Hours:7:30am – 4:45pm (Monday to Thursday)7:30am – 4:45pm (Closed Fridays for lunch andprayers from 12:15 to 2:45)7:30am – 1:15pm (Saturday)

basic info

To nd out more aboutGarden International School,please visit our website atwww.gardenschool.edu.my

16, Jalan Kiara 3, Off Jalan Bukit Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: 603-6209 6888 Fax: 603-6201 2468 Email: [email protected]

At Garden International School we have a well-deserved reputation foracademic excellence. However, we also recognise that our students requiremore than academic skills and competencies to succeed in life. Educationat Garden International School therefore focuses on achieving our StudentVision of developing adaptable lifelong learners, active citizens, effectivecommunicators and resilient individuals. The broad programme we offer,both inside and outside the classroom, provides more than just academicexcellence to prepare our students for a lifetime of success.

More Than Just

AdaptableLifelongLearners

ResilientIndividuals

EffectiveCommunicators

ActiveCitizens

Academic Excellence

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Renting a Property

AS a new arrival, it’s easiest to find an apartment, condo,or house through an agency. You can find a list ofrecommended agencies and search our extensive propertydatabase at www.PropertyinMalaysia.com.

When you find a place to rent, the normal procedure is topay one month’s rent as a security deposit. This paymentguarantees the agreement between you and the landlorduntil all payments have been made and contracts signed.This security deposit will eventually become your firstmonth’s rent. At the same time, you and the landlordusually sign a letter of agreement.

Within seven days, you will be required to concludethe tenancy agreement and pay the remainder of theupfront payments. This generally includes two months’rent as a deposit to be returned at the end of the rentalperiod. Stamping (the process of having a layer validatethe tenancy agreement) is usually organised by the agentor landlord but paid by the tenant and will cost aroundRM100. The agent’s fees should be paid by the landlord(agents are typically paid one month’s rent).

In addition, you will probably be required to pay a depositfor the utilities of approximately RM1,000 (or, in somecases, half a month’s rent). This will also be repaid when

at the end of the rental period provided that all utilitybills have been paid in full. Most tenancy agreements inMalaysia are for a period of two years and often includethe option to renew for another one or two years,providing notification is given by a specified date. Makesure the agreement clarifies who pays for minor repairsincurred during tenancy.

Most leases specify that the landlord pays for normal wearand tear but the tenant pays for any additional damage.Also be sure to clarify who is responsible for maintainingair-conditioning and white goods - air conditioning unitsshould be serviced at least once a year, and this may bewritten into the tenancy agreement.

At the end of the lease period, you may be required torestore the property to its former condition. This may involverepainting the walls and cleaning the carpets, the costs ofwhich will be deducted from your deposit. It’s a good ideato have the landlord check out the property two to threemonths before the end of the lease, to try and reach anagreement on what has to be done. It’s always easier tonegotiate the details when you are still in the country, and ifyou get all the work done before you move on you will havea better chance of getting your deposit back.

Most leases for expatriates have what is often called a“diplomatic clause”. This allows expats to terminate thelease early without penalty if they are transferred out ofthe country or if their work permit is cancelled for anyreason. If this is not included in your tenancy agreement,it is a good idea to insist on it being written in. Usuallythe diplomatic clause can only be exercised in the secondyear of the lease and requires proof of the change incircumstances as well as two months’ written notice of theintention to terminate the lease.

what you need to know about

Mix of modern contemporary asian charm where form and function meet. We offer a vast selectionfor every dream home, where detail and quality are given full attention. Be it rent or purchase, achoice from our collection or a customized design can be tailored to match your imagination.

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KL Areas to LiveUNLIKE other cities, there are nohuge expat compounds in KL, andexpats tend to live wherever they findsuitable accommodation, thoughsome areas have proven morepopular than others.

When choosing a place to live,consider the travelling distance toyour place of work, as traffic can be aproblem, and if you do not own a car,access to public transportation andtaxis is an important consideration.Taxis are not always easy to find onthe street or by phone. This is mostoften a problem during business rushhours and when it rains heavily –usually late afternoon.

Families with children of school agewill probably choose a place closeto the school or their children mayhave a lengthy commute. Proximity toshopping, bars, and restaurants mayalso be something many peoplewill find important. Here’s a list ofareas that are most popular withexpats:

AMPANGAmpang is fairly close to centralKL, and is a short drive along JalanAmpang or the new overheadexpressway. Most of the foreignembassies are close to the KL end ofJalan Ampang, and therefore manydiplomats choose to live here. Thereare many older houses in this areaand some newer condominiums.While there aren’t as many airconditioned restaurants on thisside of KL, good ones can still befound. There are several clubsin this area and shopping malls,including the Great Eastern Mall. Theproximity to central KL increases theentertainment options.

Nearest Schools: ISKL (AmericanSchool), Fairview International Schooland Sayfol International School(both UK system)

Indicative rentals: Apartmentfrom RM3,000 - RM14,000; HouseRM2,000 – RM25,000

CENTRAL KUALA LUMPURFor those who like proximity to allthe shopping, the Twin Towers, andthe many other happenings KL hasto offer, living in the city centre is agood choice. This generally meanspaying more, but there are someolder condominiums with lowerrentals. There are very few houses stillavailable in the city centre, so mostpeople choose an apartment.

Nearest Schools: FrenchInternational School, most otherschools involve some commutebut Alice Smith primary school(UK system) is quite close.

Indicative rentals: ApartmentsRM2,000-RM15,000; Houses up toRM25,000.

KENNY HILLSThis is one of the most exclusive areasof Kuala Lumpur, situated close to thecentre of of the city. Close to PutraWorld Trade Centre, there is plenty of

greenery, trees, and secondary junglearound here. Expect to see monkeysin the garden and by the side of theroad. Great for nature lovers.

Nearest Schools: IndonesianInternational School. Other schoolscan be reached relatively easily.

Indicative rentals: ApartmentsRM3,500 - RM16,000 for penthouse;Houses RM8,000 - RM20,000.

DAMANSARA HEIGHTSAfter Kenny Hills, this is thenext most exclusive area withplenty of large detached houses.It’s a relatively easy drive toentertainment in Bangsar Baruand there are a few outlets in BukitDamansara. Bangsar ShoppingCentre is also close.

Nearest Schools: Severalkindergartens in this area andnot far to Garden Internationaland Mont Kiara International school.

Indicative rentals:Apartment RM3,000 – RM18,000;Houses RM6,000 – RM20,000.


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BANGSARThe development of Bangsar Baruas an entertainment hub hasattracted many expats to this area.The immediate vicinity aroundBangsar Baru is mostly terracedhouses but there are some detachedproperties. There is a cluster ofapartment buildings within walkingdistance (20 – 30 minutes) of BangsarBaru, and it’s an easy drive. Thereare two shopping complexes in thearea - Bangsar Shopping Centre andBangsar Village. Bangsar is about5 km from central KL and there isa light rail system connecting it tothe city.

Nearest Schools: No majorschools in this area, but plenty ofkindergartens and it’s not far toGarden International School.

Indicative Rentals: ApartmentsRM2,000 - RM10,000 for 4 bedroom;Terraced House around RM2,000– RM4,000; Houses RM6,000 –RM20,000

PETALING JAYAThis is further out and is a town inSelangor (next to Kuala Lumpur).With the expansion of both KLand PJ, it’s hard to tell where oneends and the other begins. Thereare plenty of companies located inPetaling Jaya, and for expats workingin this part of the Klang valley,choices include plenty of detached orterraced houses, as well as a numberof apartment buildings.

Nearest Schools: Deutsche Schule,Japanese School, Lorna Whistonlanguage school, ELC (UK system) inSungai Buloh is a relatively short driveform PJ along the highway, as is theAustralian School.

Indicative rentals: ApartmentsRM1,500 – RM8,000; TerracedHouses RM2,000 – RM3,000;Houses RM4,000 – RM10,000.

SHAH ALAMThis is the capital of Selangor, andonly suited for people who areworking in the area (unless youdon’t mind a long commute). It haslower rentals and offers houses withgardens at more reasonable pricesthan places closer to KL.

Indicative rentals: ApartmentRM1,500 to RM5,000 TerracedHouses RM2000 – RM5000;Houses RM4,000 – RM10,000

COUNTRY HEIGHTSA sizeable development just outsidethe centre of Kuala Lumpur alongthe main highway to the Southernpart of Malaysia and the KLIAairport. It offers large houses andapartment living with a more “openliving” concept. Security is one ofthe features, with security guardscontrolling access to the area.

Nearest Schools: AustralianInternational School. Alice Smithsecondary school.

Indicative rentals: ApartmentRM3,000 to RM8,000 HousesRM3,000 – RM15,000

PUTRAJAYA/CYBERJAYAThe new administrative capitalPutrajaya was built in the 1990s

and houses most of the Federalgovernment buildings. It is locatedin the Multi Media Super Corridor.It has a number of man-madeattractions like the lakes it’s builtaround, botanical gardens, andPutrajaya Wetlands. Cyberjayaadjoins it and is in the heart of theMultimedia Super Corridor (a worldclass telecommunications hub). Bothareas are connected to downtownKL by highways and a fast train. Anincreasing number of IT companiesare located in this area. Choosing tolive here only really makes sense ifyou work in this area.

Nearest Schools:Nexus-World School.

MONT KIARA/SRIHARTAMASThis is a newer area that has emergedin the last 15 years, and is nowhome to many high-rise apartmentbuildings. Some of the apartmentbuildings are quite luxurious, withplenty of facilities. There are manysmall shops, restaurants, and bars inthe area. The older part of this areastill has some terraced houses.

Nearest Schools: GardenInternational School(UK system) Mont KiaraInternational School(American system)

Indicative rentals: ApartmentRM2,000 – RM15,000; TerracedHouse RM2,000 – RM4,000.

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Insurance


MAKING sure you have goodinsurance coverage is commonsense. Employees of majorcompanies will be given someinsurance coverage, but it is worthfinding out exactly what is covered.If you already have insurance inyour home country, make sure itcovers you while you’re an expat inMalaysia (and also be sure to keepyour payments up to date). We setout below the types of coverage youmay want to consider.

The insurance industry is highlyregulated in Malaysia so often therates are fixed. This is the case withcar insurance, although the speedat which companies settle claimscan vary greatly. However, someinclusions and exclusions are worthnoting. As in many other countries,insurance sales people are less likelyto explain the various exclusions, soit’s best to do your research beforedeciding on a policy and to ask plentyof questions.

If you have shipped your personaleffects to Malaysia, make sure youreport any damage immediately,as you may find it harder to claimonce the removal men have leftyour premises. It makes good senseto take a detailed inventory prior toshipping as well as photographs ofany valuable items, alongside any

other documentation that will supporta claim. It is also prudent to takephotographs of any damaged items asyou unpack. The majority of shippingagencies will include insurance in theshipping costs, but be sure to read thepolicy carefully and opt for alternativecover if necessary.

THE FOLLOWINGINSURANCE IS WORTHCONSIDERING:Car InsuranceCovers damage to your vehicle andother vehicles. Fully comprehensiveinsurance is not mandatoryin Malaysia, but is stronglyrecommended. There is usually arelatively small excess.

Life InsuranceCovers death and or/dismemberment.It’s an unpleasant thought, butyour family will need protection toprovide a reliable income to replaceyour earnings if you die before youreach retirement age. Fortunately lifeinsurance is generally low cost andyou can easily buy cover providing upto 20 times your annual salary for alow monthly premium.

Again, remember that any domesticlife insurance plans you have takenout at home may not pay out inMalaysia, so look for an internationalplan designed with the expat in mind.

Medical InsuranceCovers medical treatment,hospitalisation, surgery, etc. Malaysia‘s medical services are among thebest in the region, however if youneed medical treatment you’ll needto visit one of the many privatehospitals or clinics and pay for yourtreatment. Private medical insuranceis designed to cover these costs – butmake sure that the policy you buyis an international policy gearedto expatriate needs as a traditionaldomestic policy from your homecountry or country of residence isunlikely to provide the level of coveryou need in Malaysia and othercountries you visit.

Check the policy provides fullemergency medical evacuationcover in case you are taken illin a remote area where medicalfacilities are scarcer and local 24/7emergency assistance is limited.Different international medicalinsurance policies are designedeither to cover essential healthcareneeds if you’re on a budget orhigher levels of protection if youwant to cover a wider range ofconditions such as maternity careor cover for the treatment ofchronic illnesses. If you are livingwith your partner and children buya family policy which covers youtogether as these are generally

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available at a lower premium thanbuying individual policies. Medicalemergencies are not the only financialrisk you will face. If you suffer anillness or accident that leaves youunable to work, you’ll need an incomewherever you recuperate as once anexpatriate, you may not be entitledto full state-funded benefits – whichare minimal in most countries tostart with. Income protection policiesare designed to provide you with areplacement income while you areunable to work. Again it is prudentto buy a plan designed specificallyfor expats as you are likely to findrestrictions in domestic policies whichwill make it difficult to claim if you areworking overseas. Plans can replaceup to 75 per cent of your salary withpayments made continuously until youare either fit to return to work, or rightup to retirement age if necessary.

Household InsuranceCovers household contentsand personal effects. High-riseapartment living and the fact thatmost apartment complexes, low

and high, have security guardsand CCTV cameras, means thathome burglaries are uncommon.Petty crimes and crimes againstyour person are quite rare forinternational residents in Malaysia.Rainstorms or leaking plumbingfrom the upstairs apartment aremore likely to cause damage toyour property. This is what youneed to have clarified in yourinsurance policy. It is also importantto clarify with your landlord who isresponsible for insuring the policy,and to establish what that insurancecovers and whether you will needadditional cover.

Worldwide All Risk InsuranceCovers personal effects and valuablesanywhere in the world.

Personal LiabilityCovers accidental bodily injury to thirdparties or damage to their property.

Domestic HelpCovers death, injury and medicalexpenses for domestic helpers under

your employ. If you hired a maidthrough an agency, the agency willoften cover this cost for the firsttwo years. As the employer you areresponsible for her health care costswhether she has the flu or falls offa ladder - you must either insureyour maid yourself or ensure thatthe agency has done so. Expenseson visits to GPs are borne by theemployer. If you plan on extendingthe services of one particular maidfor more than two years, takeout comprehensive insurance thatcovers her medical care includingany injuries she incurs during work.

Golfing InsuranceCovers golf-related accidents,damage to golfing equipment,and even a hole-in-one bar tab.If you are looking for a highly-recommended and reliable insurancebroker, we can put you in touchwith someone who has nearly40-years experience and severalexpatriate clients. Contact Anne atThe Expat Group on 03.2094 9664for more information.

Regency TowerRenovated Units Available for Rent Ideal for Expatriates

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Work PermitsA WORK permit is normallyobtained by your company eitherbefore you arrive in Malaysia oronce you arrive here. Employeesand their family are allowed to enterthe country on social visas issued byMalaysian Immigration officials uponarrival, however strictly speaking youshould not start working until thevisa is issued.

It is worth noting that the EastMalaysian states of Sarawak andSabah are semi-autonomous. If youtravel from Peninsular Malaysia orSabah into Sarawak, your passportwill be checked on arrival and a newstay-permit issued, either for 30days or for the same period as youroriginal Malaysia entry visa.

Malaysia needs foreign workers inselected industries but not all. If youare being offered a job here it canbe assumed that your employer hasalready determined this. If you comehere seeking employment do notassume that the country requires yourservices. In fact many expats havecome here looking for work and beendisappointed. Even those offeredjobs often found the promised workpermit was never obtained.

Completing the requireddocumentation for a work permit isa detailed and sometimes lengthyprocess. There are agents who, for afee, do the running around for suchpermits and for first timers, this ishighly recommended. Work permitswill be given for varying periods fromsix months up to five years dependingon the position and the approvingcommittee. Usually first timersget a two year visa, unless theiremployment contract is for a shorterperiod and up to five years can begiven for renewal.

The permit will be placed in yourpassport and will note your position,employer’s name and address.Dependants will also be given apermit stating that: “any form ofemployment is strictly prohibited”.Should any dependent want towork they will have to go througha separate application process for awork permit.

People with employment passeswill also receive an “ExpatriateIdentification” card called an I Kad,which can be carried around as an IDcard in place of carrying a passport.It is understood that eventually

dependents will receive this card.Students at international schools willalso receive ID cards.

Some people choose to work withouta permit and leave the country everythree months (when their social visaexpires), to re-enter a day or so laterwith a new social visa. The dangersof such a process are obvious. If donemore than a couple of times, it mayraise the suspicion of the ImmigrationDepartment as to whether you aremerely visiting or actually workingin the country. Apart from beingillegal, the odds of being found outand the possibility of being deportedhome are quite high as Malaysia hasstringent laws prohibiting foreignersfrom working in the country withoutproper permits. Therefore this is notrecommended.

For more details, check outthe Immigration Department’swebsite at www.imi.gov.my.There is a section in English.

The Expat Group can also referan agency to you for processinga work permit. For moreinformation, please contact us [email protected].


CRIME in Malaysia takes many forms. Visitors may findthemselves victims of snatch thieves, burglars or conartists. As in any other country and with all crimes, the bestprotection is awareness and vigilance.

SNATCH THIEVESThese thieves often travel in pairs, sometimes in cars butmore often on a motorbike. As the driver rides alongsideyou, the passenger grabs your bag and in the worst cases,victims get dragged along behind.

Though the police have cracked down on snatch thefts, theseincidents still occur, and you should protect yourself as bestyou can. Wear your bag strap across your body, walk againstthe flow of traffic, keep anything you are carrying on theside of you furthest from the street. Snatching is a crime ofopportunity and if you make things too difficult for thieves,they may not find you worth their effort.

PICKPOCKETSCities are full of crowded places, and this is wherepickpockets strike. In crowds, keep your wallet where youcan feel it and continually check that it is there, especiallyafter you’ve been jostled. Pickpockets use distractionsto make their move so be constantly aware of yoursurroundings.

BURGLARSYou can minimise the fear of home invasions and burglariesby staying in a guarded condo or hotel. As always, bevigilant; consistently lock your doors, and don’t forget toactivate your security system.

CON ARTISTSBeware of the “stranded tourist” who tries to borrowmoney, the “newly-arrrived businessman” who asks tosee what Malaysian money looks like, or any situation thatinvolves pulling out your wallet. Also check credentials oftour guides, or anyone offering investment opportunities orshortcuts to getting your official paperwork done.

For more information, check out the message boardson www.expatKL.com

If you have any problems during your stay in KL, call the TouristPolice at 03.2149 6590 or look for one of the Tourist Police kioskslocated in the downtown areas.

www.expatKL.com36

www.expatKL.com 37

Dalat International School educates children in preschool to grade 12. Located in Penang, Malaysia, Dalat is aleader in international education, with more than 470 students from 28 nations. The school offers an American,college-preparatory, biblical worldview curriculum, and its academic and boarding programs are fully accredited.

Dalat International School, Tanjung Bunga, 11200 Penang, Malaysia Phone: 604-899-2105 Email: [email protected] www.dalat.org

At Dalat International School, we offer a community that’s designed to help your child flourish inaspects of life. We provide:

education for life

—Dalat parent

“Community at the school is amazing…

www.expatKL.com38


FOR the past 6 years, Malaysia’sCPI (Corruption Perceptions Index)ranking by Transparency Internationalhas been falling steadily. From39th place in 2004, it dropped to56th place, indicating worseningcorruption. In 2010, a surveyconducted by The Expat showed forthe first time that corruption madeit to the top ten list of what expatsdislike about Malaysia.Whether thisindeed indicates that corruption isgetting worse or whether it simplymeans that more cases have beenbrought into the open is uncertain.What is generally agreed upon is thatsomething has to be done.

In 2009, Prime Minister Dato’Seri Najib Tun Razak unveiled theGovernment Transformation Plan(GTP) to set the nation on trackfor Vision 2020. Six National KeyResult Areas (NKRAs) were identified,including better rural infrastructure,higher standard of living for thepoor and better access to affordablequality education. Minister at thePrime Minister’s Department, Dato’Seri Nazri Aziz, was made leadminister of the NKRA corruption-fighting initiatives and he entrustedDato’ Hisham Nordin with headingthe Delivery Management Officeof these NKRA initiatives. “The 26initiatives come under 3 groups:Regulatory and Enforcement,Government Procurement and GrandCorruption,” explains Dato’ Hisham.

“Even now I’m feeling the change,”says Dato’ Hisham, one year since theinitiatives were determined. Steadyprogress and measurable resultshave given the people pause. Peopleknow corruption has to be fought bythe whole country.” The target is toachieve all 26 initiatives by 2012.

Expats and visitors face a lot of thesame corruption that locals do. Ontop of that – especially for those

Dato’ Hisham NordinQuashing Corruption

new to Malaysia – there is thefear of a double-edged sword thatcould cost them more than money.They may believe that if they donot respond to a hint for a bribe,they will find their business papersslowed down or their visa or workpermit revoked. If they initiate ordo respond to what they perceiveas a request for a bribe, they arebreaking the law and could be askedto leave the country anyway or evenrisk imprisonment.

Dato’ Hisham explains thatthe Malaysian Anti-CorruptionCommission (MACC – theenforcement arm of Malaysia’santi-corruption effort) is in theprocess of clarifying the law in thisarea so expats will know exactlywhere they stand and what theycan do in difficult situations. TheWhistleblower Act, for one, protectsboth locals and foreigners. “It is veryimportant [for expats] to tell us whatis happening, rather than to go backto their countries and say, ‘I’m notgoing back to Malaysia.’ We wantthem to tell us.”

Whistleblowers are encouraged tocome forward even if they cannotproduce evidence. If someone issoliciting a bribe from one personor company, he is likely haddone the same with others. “Allcomplaints to the MACC have to beaddressed,” says Dato’ Hisham. Ifseveral complaints are made againstthe same individual “we can set upa sting operation but not leadingto entrapment.”

One way of fighting corruption issimply to increase public awarenessof how things work. Someone newto the country may be under theimpression that Malaysia is morecorrupt than it actually is. Middlemenwho call themselves agents orconsultants convince visitors, expats

and investors that special connectionsand expertise are needed to makeanything happen.

The middlemen are not doinganything illegal, you are free to paysomeone as much as you want to dosomething for you, but the overallimpression becomes that an agencythat would have processed a requesthonestly and efficiently is in factbureaucratic, slow and corrupt. Thisimpression travels throughout theinternational community so the nextperson to come, worried about theheadache, also employs an “agent.”

Dato’ Hisham is quick to point out thatthere are real consultants and agentsthere for certain programmes and thatone might choose to use them if oneis conducting business from overseas,but individuals should be able to geta clear picture of exactly how muchwork the agent is saving them andunderstand that bribes are not part ofthe cost of getting things done.

Dato’ Hisham is inspired by whathe has seen in other countries.While understanding that thingsare different in Malaysia, “We arestudying countries like Denmark,Sweden, Japan and the US. “ He hasseen the effect of better corruptioncontrol in these countries. He hasalso seen how corruption, worse thanMalaysia’s, affects other countries andis resolute not to let his country bedragged down in the same way. “

MALAYSIA HAS DECLARED WAR ON CORRUPTION.AMY DE KANTER TALKS TO THE MAN AT THE FOREFRONT OF THIS BATTLE.

Reporting CorruptionReports of corruption should bemade to the MalaysianAnti-Corruption Commision (MACC)

Tel: 03.8886 7000Fax: 03.8889 4329E-mail: [email protected] Free Line: 1800.88.6000Website: www.sprm.gov.my

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MotoringONE of the most enjoyable things about living in Malaysiais getting behind the wheel and heading out on theopen roads which take you through vibrant cities, coastalstretches, past highland mists and verdant jungles. Unlikemost countries in South East Asia, Malaysia offers greatdriving opportunites as there is an impressive network ofhighways in peninsular Malaysia.

Our recent car survey showed that although mostcompanies have cut down in offering company carsto expats, 73 percent of expats do own personal carswhile 26 percent said they planned to purchase a newcar in the next year. Though some expats prefer to usepublic transport, the majority like the extra freedom andmobility that comes with owning a car.

Many expats start driving without familiarising themselveswith the local rules and regulations, which can make fora very steep and slightly scary learning curve. This sectionof our website is intended to help expats explore the openroad safely and legally. There’s a lot to see in Malaysia sowe hope you have a pleasant and safe driving experience.

GETTING A DRIVER’S LICENSEYou are allowed to drive on Malaysian roads if you havea valid driver’s licence from most other countries. It isbest to check with your own embassy if you are unsure.International driver’s licences are recognised as long asthey are still vaild, and having one will ensure you do notget into difficulties.

If you plan to be here for a while it may be a good ideato get a local licence. The British High Commissionrecommends “British subjects staying in Malaysia forlonger than one year to obtain a Malaysian driving licenceor an annually reviewed International Driving Permit”.However, we know of many expats who drive on foreignlicences for many years without any difficulties. If you

want to apply for a local licence and you currently drive onan American or British licence, you can go to the PutrajayaJPJ (Road Transport Department) office with your driver’slicence, passport (plus photocopy), two photos and yourwork permit. Their address is: Pejabat JPJ, Bahagian LesenMemandu, Aras 3, Blok D 4 Parcel D, 62620 Putrajaya.Tel: 03.8886 6400.

They will take around two weeks to issue, and you willbe notified by mail when your new licence is ready forcollection. You then have to go to a designated JPJoffice to collect the licence, with RM50 to cover theadministration fee.

For most other countries, we recommend you check withyour embassy. You usually have the choice of using adriving school or agent to apply for the licence. Expatsfrom countries except American and Britian may have toobtain a letter from their embassy confirming the validityand contents of their driving licence.

In some cases the Road Transport department may notaccept your current licence and insist you take a localdriving test. If this is the case, please refer to the articlebelow on taking the test.

MM2H – THE TAX-FREE CAR PRIVILEGEPeople moving here under Malaysia My Second Home(MM2H) are entitled to one tax-free car. They can eitherbring their own car into the country tax-free or purchase alocally assembled car free of taxes. If you choose> to bringin your own car, you must do so within six months of yourvisa being approved. Since Malaysians drive on the leftside of the road it should be a right hand drive car. If youwant to buy a car in Malaysia tax-free you have one yearto make the purchase from the date your visa is approved.In both cases you have to obtain formal approval first fromthe Ministry of Finance.


www.expatKL.com 41

City Motors Sdn Bhd, established and trusted since1965, has served the expatriate and diplomat community

with much success in buying or selling their cars.

Feel free to call Peter for assistance

GPS navigation system available.Thank you for finding me a good and clean used carwhen I arrived in Malaysia and making the process ofpurchasing it very easy. I also appreciate the advice

you freely gave me during my two years of KLmotoring and when I came to sell the car when

leaving. It was a real comfort to know that you werethere to help. Mike Jasztal, British Expat

Although we did not buy through Peter, he definitelyprevented us from making a costly mistake. OlwynStewart, Association of British Women Malaysia.

When you come to sell your tax-free car the buyer will haveto pay the applicable duties which will be based on the ageof the car. The customs department will not disclose theformula so it is not possible to predict what the duty will bebut it will of course be less than that on a new car.

If you decide to buy a duty-paid car you may well find thatoverall it does not cost much more than your car backhome. The lower petrol and servicing costs go a long wayto offsetting the higher price you originally pay for the car.

You can find out the latest rules regarding duty-freecars as well as some tax-free car prices on our websitewww.MM2H.com.

TAKING YOURDRIVING TESTIf your overseas licence is not vaild, or you would like tolearn to drive in Malaysia, you will need to take a drivingtest. You will have to attend an approved driving school.A list of driving schools can be found atwww.drivinginstitute.com.my. Once you have chosen aschool, they will assist you in applying for your provisionalpermit, which is required before you take practical lessons.A full description of the driving test process can be foundin the motoring section of www.expatkl.com.

COMMON MALAY ROADSIGNSAwas CautionBerhenti StopBeri Laluan Give WayDihadapan AheadDilarang Memotong No OvertakingHad Laju Speed LimitIkut Kanan Keep RightIkut Kiri Keep Left

THE EXPAT CAR SURVEYExpats are less likely than ever before to be given acompany car with their job, according to our third annualMotoring Guide survey. According to our findings, thepercentage of expats in Malaysia using company carshas dropped. In 2005, it was 35 percent. This matchesanecdotal evidence that many companies are cutting costsby no longer providing company cars.

Our latest survey was carried out to determine the currentstatus of car ownership. It also included questions on thereaders’ plans to purchase vehicles in the near future.The Expat Group’s ability to carry out reliable surveysamong the expat community is due to having maintaineda database of many thousands of expats’ names andaddresses. Once again, most expats said they ownedtheir cars, with 86 percent of those asked saying thatthey’d bought a car. However, the number has declined

from previous years with 92 percent recorded in 2006.The reasons were because they felt that cars were quiteexpensive to purcahse and tax was too high. Of thosehaving a company car, one third chose the cars themselveswhile others stated the cars were chosen by the company.Of those who had a company car, 73 percent said theyalso owned personal car.

Indeed, of the 73 percent, 16 percent said they ownedtwo cars. Of this figure, 83 percent chose to buy new carswhile 16 percent bought pre-owned vehicles. A total of26 percent of expats said they also planned to purchase anew car in the next year.The survey also showed that the expats owned a diverserange of cars. Hyundai topped the list, followed by Toyota,Honda and lower-priced local cars.

The survey also asked expats about how safe they feltabout driving in Malaysia. 32 percent said drivinghere was ‘safe’ while 7 percent said it was ‘very safe’. 32percent of the expats said the roads were unsafe becauseof fast, reckless and inconsiderate drivers.

To participate in our driving polls, visitwww.expatkl.com’s motoring section

www.expatKL.com42

Travelling in Malaysia

MALAYSIA has very good land, airand sea connections. Domestic travelis easy, comfortable, and affordable.The major towns and cities are servedby air-conditioned trains, buses andby regular flights. Peninsular Malaysiahas a well-developed network ofroads, but in East Malaysia, wheremany roads are unpaved, havingfour-wheel drive is recommended.

ROADDriving in Peninsular Malaysia is awonderful experience. The sceneryis lush and green, and there aregood hotels in most towns. Buses,taxis, and coaches, both interstateand local, also travel betweenvarious destinations.

On the west coast, stretching fromThailand to Singapore is the mosttravelled highway in Malaysia, theNorth-South Expressway (NSE). Thespeed limit on the NSE is usually110km/hr, but in some areas it isonly 90km/hr. NSE is a toll road andamounts are calculated based ondistance travelled and type of vehicle.You collect a transit ticket at thepoint of entry and pay the toll at theexit plaza.

Located along the NSE are severalrest and service areas with food stalls,toilets, public telephones, petrol

stations, and parking areas. If yourvehicle breaks down or if you’reinvolved in an accident, contact the24-hour PLUSRONDA for assistanceby using the Emergency Telephonesplaced every 2km on the NSE. TheTraffic Monitoring Centre handlesinquiries from NSE users and can becontacted at 1-800 88 0000.

To drive on Malaysian roads, youneed a driver’s licence (Malaysian orInternational). Your home embassyor high commission will be able totell you whether your home driver’slicense is valid in Malaysia. Pleasenote all vehicles travel on the left-hand side of the road and that theuse of passenger safety beltsis mandatory.

AIR TRANSPORTATIONMalaysia has five internationalairports, 14 domestic airports,and 18 airstrips. The internationalairports are at Sepang in Selangor,Penang Island, Langkawi Island, KotaKinabalu in Sabah, and Kuching inSarawak. Malaysia Airlines (MAS),the country’s national carrier,operates domestic flights withinand between West and EastMalaysia. Pelangi Air, a privateoperator, also operates scheduleddomestic flights from Subang;mostly to island resorts. Air Asia,

Firefly, Transmile, and Berjaya Air,and other carriers operate flights todomestic and regional destinations.

In East Malaysia, Malaysia Airlinesalso operates its Rural Air Services,which flies Twin Otters to a host ofrural airstrips. SEAGA Airlines also hasflights from Kuching, Sibu, and KotaKinabalu to Mulu National Park.

RAIL TRANSPORTATIONMalayan Railways or Keretapi TanahMelayu Berhad (KTM) connects allmajor towns in Peninsular Malaysia,and on to Singapore and Thailand.First, Second, or Economy Classair-conditioned coaches are availableat very reasonable prices. All expressservices have a restaurant coach servinglocal and continental cuisine, and manyare fitted with sleeping berths for firstand second class passengers.

SEA TRANSPORTATIONMany popular island destinationslike Langkawi, Pangkor, Redang, andTioman are linked to the mainland byregular ferry services. Other smallerislands are accessible by charterfishing boats. Ferry services are alsoavailable from Tanjung Belungkor,Kukup, Desaru, Johor Bahru DutyFree Zone, and Sebana Cove (allin Johor) to Singapore, and fromButterworth to Penang.


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KL Monorail

RAWANG

SENTUL TIMUR

Sentul

PWTC

SultanIsmail

Bandaraya

Kampung Baru

KLCC

Ampang Park

AMPANG

Cahaya

Cempaka

Pandan Indah

Pandan Jaya

MaluriMiharja

Chan Sow Lin

Cheras

Seputeh

SalakSouth

Tasik Selatan

Serdang

Kajang

UKM

Bangi

Batang Benar

Nilai

Labu

Tiroi

SEREMBAN

Salak Tinggi

Putra Jaya

SungaiBesi

Bukit jalil

SRI PETALING

KL INTERNATIONALAIRPORT

Salak South

Bandar Tun Razak

Damai

Dato Keramat

Jelatek

Setiawangsa

Sri Rampai

Wangsa Maju

Taman Melati

PasarSeni MaharajalelaMaharajalela

Hang TuahHang Tuah

ImbiImbi

Bukit BintangBukit Bintang

Raja ChulanRaja Chulan

Bukit NanasBukit Nanas

Tun SambanthanTun Sambanthan

MasjidJamek

TitiwangsaTitiwangsa

Chow KitChow Kit

MedanTuankuMedanTuanku

SENTUL

Kuang

Sungai Buruh

Kepong

Segambut

Pudu

BankNegara

Kuala Lumpur

KL SENTRALKL SENTRAL

BangsarAbdullah Hukum

Kerinchi

UniversitiTaman JayaAsia Jaya

TamanParamount

Angkasapuri

Pantai Dalam

Petaling

Jalan Templer

Kg Dato Harun

Seri Setia

Setia Jaya

Subang Jaya

Batu Tiga

Padang Jawa

Bukit Badak

Kelang

Teluk Pulai

Teluk Gadong

Kg Raja UdaJalan

Kastam

PORT KLANG

TamanBahagia

KELANAJAYA

TERMINAL PUTRA

Star LRT

Putra LRT

Express Rail Link

KTM

Interchange

Mid Valley

Public Transportation

Rail transportation is easily accessed in town with a fewcompanies offering transport to different locations throughout Klang Valley.

TO AND FROM THE AIRPORTSKL is serviced by two international airports - KLIA (for most international carriers)and LCCT (for Air Asia and smaller domestic carriers). The KLIA Ekspres train runsbetween KLIA and KL Sentral station costs RM35 (one-way, RM15 for children aged2 to 12) and takes about 28 minutes, operating from 5am to midnight. MalaysiaAirlines, Cathay Pacific, and Royal Brunei offer check-in counters at the CityTerminal in KL Sentral.

You can reach the LCCT by taxi, or by shuttle buses that run from KL Sentral (RM9),KLIA (RM1.50), and elsewhere.

For more information about KL’s airports, visit:www.klia.com.my and lcct.airasia.com

Visit us at booth B35 for a Retreat!

www.expatKL.com44

THE postal service in Malaysia is efficient and easilyaccessible. Post offices can be found all over KL and othercities, as well as in smaller towns. The Malaysian postalservice is known locally as Pos Malaysia. Letters andpackages are graded and charged according to weight,size and distance. A full list of Pos Malaysia’s locations,services and postage rates can be found at www.pos.com.my or call 1.300 300 300.

Bill payments are also done in Pos Malaysia, so go a littleearly if you’re rushed – the queue can be quite long. PosMalaysia also provides remittance services in the formof money orders and postal orders for the easy and safetransmission of money. The money service comprises thelocal and international money order service, telegraphicmoney orders, and trade charge money orders.

The staff in Pos Malaysia usually converse in Malay. Bepatient, as this may mean occasional communicationproblems. A simple ‘Apa Khabar?’ (How are you?)followed by ‘Minta Tolong’ (Please help me!) might help.

Along with standard postal services, the premium serviceoffered by Pos Malaysia is Poslaju, which literally meansfast post. If you are sending a letter or package as far asEurope or the States, it usually takes 3 - 4 days to arrivewith Poslaju. If you want it to arrive sooner, you can alsoopt to use a private courier service. There are quite a fewavailable in Malaysia, both national and international.However, they are more expensive than Poslaju. Amongthe most common are DHL, Fed Ex and City Link:

Poslaju EMS - National Courier ServiceJalan Tun Sambathan, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala LumpurTel: 03.2263 2626, Fax: 03.2274 4000Web: www.pos.com.my

DHL Worldwide ExpressLevel 27, Menara TM off Jalan Pantai Baharu,50672 Kuala Lumpur.Tel: 1.800 888 388, 03.2241 8899/8000Web: www.dhl.com.my

FedEx17, Jalan TSB 8, Taman Industry Sungai Buloh,off Kota Damansara, 47000, Selangor.Tel: 1.800 88 6363 (Customer Service),03.2179 0370Web: www.fedex.com/my

UPS - United Parcel Service11 Jalan Tandang, Wisma Ali Bawal 1,46050 Petaling JayaTel: 03.7784 1233 (Customer Service)Web: www.ups.com/asia/my/engindex.html

City-Link3A Jalan Akitek U1/22, Seksyen U1,HICOM Glenmarie Industrial Park, 40000 Shah AlamTel: 03.5033 3800 (Customer Service)Web: www.citylinkexpress.com

TNT Express Worldwide17B, Menara PKNS, Jalan Yong Shook Lin,46050 Petaling JayaTel: 1.300 882 882 (24-hours), 03.7962 3333Web: www.tnt.com

Postal and Courier Services

Express

POS


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Phones, Mobiles and Internet

Mobile Service ProvidersMaxis www.maxis.com.myCelcom www.celcom.com.myDigi www.digi.com.myCelcom www.celcom.com.my

GET CONNECTED INMALAYSIAMalaysia has a highly advancedcommunications infrastructure.Landlines for home and businessare available almost anywhere inthe country. Broadband and wirelessInternet services are accessible ina growing area of KL and othermajor cities - broadband penetrationcurrently stands at 21% andinternet penetration at 63.5%.Handphones are everywhere with1,026 mobile phone subsribers per1,000 inhabitants. Indeed, in someparts of Malaysia, you can’t take foursteps without hearing a personalisedringtone.

HOW TO CHOOSE AMOBILE NETWORKMobile phones, often referredto handphones in Malaysia, arewidespread. The GSM service

is extensive and reliable, andcompetition between providers hasmade voice calls, SMS messaging,and other services quite economical.All service providers offer both pre-paid and post-paid accounts. As post-paid handphones are subject to thesame deposit as landlines (see below),most expats choose the pre-paidroute. Pre-paid service means you payfor calls and messages as you go.

When your account runs low, you cantop up your handphone by buyinga reload card from your serviceprovider. Reload cards are availableat most convenience stores andother locations. Several companiesprovide a pre-paid service, and eachhas its own code (see below for acorresponding list). Before choosing,visit the company’s website to see itscoverage area, and ask around aboutthe merits of each.

SIM cards can be bought in mostmalls. The government has made itcompulsory for all pre-paid users toregister, so don’t forget to take yourpassport and address with you. Pre-paid SIM cards can be used on anyMalaysian-standard phones, allowingyou to shop around for the rightphone. Competition for handphonesales is incredibly intense, so don’t beafraid to haggle! After buying andcharging up, buy your first reloadcard, top up, and you’re ready to go.


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After you submit your application,expect a one to two week waitingperiod before your telephone ishooked up (Tip: If you’ve alreadypurchased a handphone, give thiscontact number, and make sure to bepresent when the workmen arrive).

Your phone bill can be paid via onlinebanking, or at one of many postoffices and TM stores. Refer to yourphone bill to find out more.

HOW TO MAKE ANINTERNATIONAL CALLBy far, the most economical way tomake an international direct dial (IDD)call is to purchase a pre-paid IDDcard, available at most conveniencestores throughout Malaysia. Justpunch in the correct connectiondigits, dial the telephone numbercomplete with the country and areacode, and you’re through. Thesecan be used on either landlines orcellphones, but do check with yourmobile service provider regardingany additional charges. Lines aregenerally clear and static-free, butyou may experience a slight time lagin conversations.

HOW TO GET ONLINEMalaysia’s Internet infrastructure isgrowing rapidly, and compared toother countries in the region, it’sincredibly advanced.

Expats arrive and leave Malaysia frequently, and inthe past there have been problems with some expatsdefaulting on their outstanding telephone bill. As a result,foreigners are either a) required to pay a rather heftyRM1000+ deposit, or b) have a local Malaysian co-sign theirapplication. As your co-signer is ultimately responsible forsettling your bill, it may be difficult to find a volunteer!

WIRELESS CONNECTIONThe easiest way to get online inMalaysia is also the most advanced– connecting via a wireless accesspoint (WAP), located in many coffeeshops and restaurants in Malaysia’slarger cities. There are a few ‘free’access points in Malaysia, and if youhave a wireless-enabled notebookcomputer (or an older notebook withan additional plug-in wireless card),connecting can be as easy as sittingdown, turning on your computer, andstarting to surf.

The majority of the telecomsnetworks are also now offeringwireless broadband deliveredthrough a USB modem. This meansthat you can access the internetvia your account from numerouslocations. However, coverage canbe sketchy, particularly with thesmaller providers, so be sure to findout if your area is covered beforeyou sign up. It’s always a good ideato ask your neighbours and buildingmanagement for advice - they arelikely to know which network issuper fast and which will have youbashing your head on the keyboardin frustration.

DIAL-UP CONNECTIONNumerous companies offer basicdial-up Internet services. Though the‘low end’ of technology, the services

offered are all quite affordable, anddepending on where you live andthe state of your phone lines,you should be able to achieve areasonably fast connection.

BROADBANDCONNECTIONThough coverage and competitionare, at present, somewhat limited,wired broadband Internet access(ADSL) is coming on strong inMalaysia. You can compare pricesand learn more about providers byvisiting www.tm.com.my.

Internet Service ProvidersDial-up:www.jaring.com.mywww.tm.net.myBroadband:www.tm.net.mywww.celcom.com.mywww.maxis.com.mywww.p1.com.myWireless:www.tm.net.mywww.airzed.comwww.yes.my.

HOW TO GET A LANDLINEOne of the first creature comforts an arriving expat looks for is a hometelephone line. Telekom Malaysia is the national phone company, andservice is generally reliable. To get hooked up, you must first visit thenearest Telekom Malaysia office and fill out an application form(see below for a partial list of locations). The form is available inBahasa and English.

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BankingSOME banks offer premier banking (a bit like businessclass vs economy class) for good customers – usuallythose with a minimum account balance. Such banking ispreferable, as mainstream banking can be extremely slow.To avoid all forms of queuing, many banks offer Internetand telephone banking services. This includes bill payment.Either form of service is highly recommended as it savessending cheques through the post or standing in longqueues to pay bills.

In order to open an account you will need to be referredby someone. This can be done by a Malaysian contact oryour company can assist with this.

The Malaysian Ringgit is not freely convertible, and if youtake the currency overseas with you it will be difficultto exchange it for foreign currencies. However you canbuy foreign currency Travellers Cheques with Ringgit.Sending more than RM10,000 overseas in one transactionor taking a similar amount out of the country in cashrequires the National Bank’s (Bank Negara) approval. Thisis normally more a requirement than a problem.

Most major banks have automatic teller machine(ATM) systems where deposits, passbook updating,and bill payments can be done besides the usual cashwithdrawals. Many ATMs are shut down by midnight forcustomer safety purposes, though some may extend to2am and beyond.

Cheques are widely accepted, though companies willprobably need to know you before starting to acceptthem. According to the latest banking rules, full namesare required for cheques (initials are not allowed).

Credit cards and charge cards are widely used in Malaysia,though the former is much preferred due to convenienceand wider acceptance. It is possible to apply for a localcredit card, billed in Malaysian Ringgit but some issuers arereluctant to give them to expatriates.

To apply, you’ll usually need supporting documents suchas photocopies of your passport and work permit, payslips, and returned income tax statements. Requireddocuments differ by issuer and the class of credit cardapplied for.

Credit card classes are:

be paid in full every month

Credit card issuers in Malaysia include Affinbank(www.affinbank.com.my), Alliance Bank(www.alliancebank.com.my), AMBank(www.ambg.com.my), CIMB (www.cimbbank.com.my),Citibank (www.citibank.com), EON Bank Group (www.eonbank.com.my), Hong Leong (www.hlb.com.my),HSBC (www.hsbc.com.my), Maybank (www.maybank2u.com.my), MBF (www.mbfcards.com), RHB (www.rhbbank.com.my), Standard Chartered (www.standardchartered.com.my), and UOB (www.uob.com.my).

If you already have a credit card from your homecountry, you might consider keeping it as long as youare in a position to make the payments in the foreigncurrency. Nearly all major shopping outlets, hotelsand high end restaurants accept Visa, Mastercard andAmerican Express.


Learning the Best from East and West

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Bringingyour PetSO, you’re moving to Malaysia andyou want to bring little Mr. Doodleswith you? Bringing a pet to Malaysiais controlled like in many othercountries. These are guidlines youneed to follow:1. Dogs and cats must be a

minimum of 3 months of age atthe time of travel.

2. There is no limit to the number ofpets you can import. However, localauthorities may have regulationspertaining to the number of dogsthat you can keep in a residentialpremise.

3. Some dogs are banned fromimportation into Malaysia. Theseinclude: Pit Bull Terrier, AmericanBulldog, Neapolitan Mastiff,Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentinaand Fila Brazilero. Other breeds arerestricted and subject to specialconditions: Rottweiller, Doberman,German Shepard, Alsatian, BullMastiff, Bull Terrier, and Perro dePresa Canario.

4. Before leaving your home country,have your pet’s veterinarian issuea Veterinary Health Certificate,and a complete copy of your pet’svaccination record.

5. For importation into PeninsularMalaysia, you need to obtain animport permit from the Directorsof State Veterinary Department, orthe Director General, Departmentof Veterinary Services Malaysia.

For importation into Sabahand Sarawak, you must makeenquiries and applications directlyto those states.

6. To obtain an import permit,you must submit an applicationform, copies of your pet’s healthcertificate and vaccination record,and RM5 per pet (by cash, bankdraft, money order, or postal order,made payable to the DirectorGeneral of Veterinary ServicesMalaysia). You may submit thisapplication by post, or by visitingan office of the Department ofVeterinary Services.

7. Import permits are generallyissued within a day, and are vaildfor 30 days from the date of issue.The import permit also acts as areservation for quarantine.

8. Pets can only be imported asmanifested cargo, and shall bedeclared to the Animal QuarantineOffi ce at the landing point forentry clearance. Pets that requirequarantine may only land at KLIA,Penang or Padang Besar airports.Entry is subject to veterinaryinspection charges.

9. Upon entry, submit originalcopies of the import permit,health certificate, and CITESapproval (where necessary) tothe Animal Quarantine Officer.All documents must be in BahasaMalaysia or English.

10. Dogs and cats from the UK,Ireland, Sweden, Australia, NewZealand, Japan, Brunei, and

Singapore are not subject toquarantine provided the animalsare healthy and all documentsare in order. Dogs and cats fromother countries are subject to aminimum 7-day quarantine.

11. The quarantine charge for dogsand cats is approximately RM79and RM72 respectively. Thischarge is exclusive of feed andany treatment costs incurred.

12. During quarantine, you mayvisit your pets in the quarantinestation between 8am and 4pm.

Things to consider:If you are moving to Malaysia from acold or temperate climate, bear in mindthat your pet could suffer in the tropicalheat. This is particularly important forolder and long-haired pets.

There are several stray andabandoned pets in Malaysia who’dbenefit from the love and attention ofa caring owner. Look up the Societyfor Prevention of Cruelty to AnimalsMalaysia if you’d like to know moreabout pet adoption and fostering.

For more information aboutimporting your pet and a printableapplication for the import permitform, please visit The Departmentof Vetinary Services.

Animal Medical Centre in KualaLumpur also provides the servicesfor a fee which frees you of theheadache in paper work anddepartment hopping; call them at603.4042 6742 or fax 603.4041 3660;or e-mail to [email protected]


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Paying Bills and FinesMOST households will have to settle their own telephoneand electricity bills (and possibly water bills). If you havecable TV (“Astro:), you will also have to pay the monthlyconnection charge. There are a number of paymentoptions, but it can be confusing because most of thepayment instructions are written in Bahasa Malaysia.

Apart from paying bills directly to the company, there aremany other options. If you have an American Express card,you can arrange to have the charges billed directly to yourcard. Some companies let you pay online or through bankdebit, and in most cases you can pay bills through any PosMalaysia office.

To help read your bills, here are a few common BahasaMalaysia terms translated to English:

Tenaga Nasional National Electricity Company

Bil Elecktrik Electricity Bill

Kedai tenaga Electricity outlet (shop)

Bill Puas Water Bill

Puas Berhad Water Company

Indah Water National Sewerage Company

Bayaran Boleh Payment can be made

Tunai Cash

Cek Cheque

Kad kredit Credit card

Dibayar di atas nama Payable in the name of

Cek hendaklahdipalang

Crossed cheque (all chequesare now printed crossed)

PAYING POLICE FINES

Many expats pick up tickets for traffic offences.You can pay police fines by mailing a chequeto the address on the document recording theoffence, (called a “compound” in Malaysia), orby going to any police station in the state wherethe offence was committed. With police radartraps in operation all over the country, your firstnotification of a speeding fine might be by mail.You can check if there are any fines outstandingfor your vehicle by visiting www.eservices.com.myon the Web.

Effective 2008, police slashed the price ofcompound fines in half for traffic summonses.Previously, it stood at RM300. This, however,does not apply to serious offences. You will beeligible for the 50 percent discount if you paythe summonses before or on the last day of the30-day deadline.

At one time it was common for motorists,including expats, caught breaking the law tomake a payment to the policeman who caughtthem to avoid a ticket. However, the governmentis cracking down on this, and it is an offence to

make such a payment. You have been warned.


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Domestic Help


WHY HAVE A MAIDLabour is cheap in Malaysia and thereare many people who maximise theseopportunities to get others to do themore menial tasks in life - domesticcleaning and cooking, driving cars,cleaning cars, gardening, paintingand household repairs. Most of thiswork is not done by Malaysians andthe country depends on foreignworkers (from Indonesia, Bangladesh,Myanmar, Philippines and Cambodia)to complete these tasks. Such peoplegenerally live in the house withyou, and most larger houses andapartments have accommodationspecifically intended for live-indomestic help. Live-in maids alsooften take on childcare duties. SomeMalaysian women provide domesticservice on a part time basis. You canfi nd out from your neighbours orMalaysian friends about this.

In planning to hire help, you mustconsider if you are open to havinga “stranger live with you”. She willprobably get to know you better thansome of your friends or relatives. Shewill see you at both extremes - atyour best and at your worst.

So it’s best to keep the relationshipstrictly on an employer-employeebasis while maintaining mutualrespect, setting clearly defined rolesand boundaries.

HOW TO FIND A MAIDSome expats will move straight intoan existing house that may alreadyhave staff employed. Failing that,there are employment agencies forsourcing help.

It’s always safer to acquire full-timehelp through agencies, unless youknow and trust a local who hashighly recommended one person. Theagency will also be able to arrangethe appropriate visas and paperworkfor foreign maids.

As there are very few Malaysianwomen who work as maids, you arelikely to employ an Indonesian orFilipina maid. The former is subject tostrict rules and regulations accordingto Malaysian law, while the latteris allowed more freedoms. ManyIndonesian maids will only speak theirown language, which is very closeto Bahasa Malaysia, whereas mostFilipinas speak reasonable English.

The agencies will help you find “theright one” for a fee. You will be givena host of resumes to look throughbefore making your choice of themaid you want. It would be advisableto request a meeting with the maidbefore making your fi nal decision.This is particularly important if yourmaid will be responsible for lookingafter your children.

COSTSDomestic labour, as mentionedearlier, is very cheap in Malaysia.Salaries and working conditions differdepending on the level of experienceand nationality of the maid:

Indonesian maid

bank account with maid in case sheleaves without notice

account at the end of every monthas she is not allowed to carry cashfor the first two years working inMalaysia

Filipina maid

open joint bank account with maidas there are no restrictions on hercarrying cash

Part-time maids are also availablevia agencies. The frequency of workper week depends on your needs.Charges are different but it averages

For more insights, visit ourDomestic Help section atwww.expatkl.com

Entrance for EXPATS

WHEN YOU’RE RELOCATING, BE SURE TO GO TO THE RIGHT PLACE.

FURNITURE RENTAL - A START OF EASY LIVING

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education

WITH Malaysia being home to an increasing number ofexpats, international schools have mushroomed to bringeducational excellence, pastoral care, and support forchildren in an affordable and enterprising way. You maychoose one that fits your bill, including those like DalatInternational School (in Penang), the International Schoolof Penang (Uplands), and Kolej Tuanku Ja’afar in NegeriSembilan that provide boarding facilities. Other prominentinstitutions in the Greater Klang Valley are the AustralianInternational School, Garden International School, AliceSmith School, ELC International School, InternationalSchool of Kuala Lumpur, and Nexus World School.

There are three leagues of price ranges. The lowest of thescale are Cempaka International, Mutiara InternationalGrammer School, ELC International, and InternationalIslamic School. The mid-range are Australian International

and other nation-specific schools like International Schoolof Indonesia, and also Garden International School. In thetop tier of price are Alice Smith, International School of KL,and Mont Kiara International, with fees hovering at aboutRM50,000 per annum for one year tuition for a grade 12student. There is usually a non-refundable registration feeand an annual re-enrollment fee to factor in as well asthe yearly tuition. In most schools, the higher the level orgrade, the higher the tuition.

All schools provide dining facilities for lunches andbreakfasts for their students. These can range fromvendors such as Starbucks and local hawker food, to theschool preparing its own menus in cafeterias.All schoolsalso provide special pricing for families (more than onechild enrolled).

You don’t need a generous expat package to send yourchild to a quality international school in Malaysia, but keepin mind there are these three different rankings of rates.All schools now have a website, or visit www.ExpatKL.comand read the education supplement which includesa directory listing of all international schools.

InternationalSchools in Malaysia

MONT KIARAGround Floor,i-Zen@Kiara IINo. 1, Jalan Kiara,Mont Kiara, 50480Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaT: (03) 6203 7001M: 016 252 4767F: (03) 6203 7002

BANGSARNo. 40, Jalan Bangkung,Bukit Bandaraya,Bangsar, 59100Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaT: (03) 2093 9592M: 014 228 7880F: (03) 2093 9591

CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY HOUSE

CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY HOUSEAt Children's Discovery House, learning experiences are balanced between self -discovery and guided lessons,paving the way to achievements and success.

AMPANG74A, Jalan Damai(entry/exit Jln TunRazak or Jln Ampang)Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaT: (03) 2144 7001M: 016 381 9541F: (03) 2144 7002

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education

Expat ParentsSpoilt forChoice in ourMelting PotWHEN i first arrived in Malaysia in 1998, education for mytwo children was of prime concern. They had spent theirentire educational experience outside of their native UnitedStates in various school mediums. My husband, a hotelier,was posted to Seremban when our children were 11 and16 years old. We were pleasantly surprised by the selectionoffered throughout Malaysia, particularly the plethora ofexcellent international schools in greater Kuala Lumpur.

We opted to send our 16-year old to the renownedboarding school with a national stream as well as UKA-levels, Kolej Tuanku Jaafar in Mantin, Negri Sembilan;and our 11-year-old son to the British-based Alice SmithSchool campus in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, a 45-minutedrive from our resort home in Seremban.

Our son later successfully passed 11 GSCEs and enrolledin Informatics College for an ICT Diploma. Our daughter,with her A-levels completed, enrolled for one semesterat HELP Institute, now HELP University College, in theirAmerican Degree Programme, and then transferred toan Australian university. We believe our children vastlybenefited from their diverse educational experienceshere in Malaysia. As a former university academic in theUS and on faculty at Nilai University College in the late1990s, as well as faculty head and school librarian atpreparatory schools in the US, I have had the opportunityto evaluate the state of international education inMalaysia over the past decade.

Currently, international school education in Malaysiais thriving. More than a dozen international schoolshave been built since I arrived, as well as the severalacademically outstanding K-12 and British Primarythrough A-levels schools in East Malaysia such asInternational School of Kota Kinabalu and Tunku PutraInternational School that have expanded campusesand curriculum. Penang is also well served with theInternational School of Penang at Uplands, Dalat

International School with its renowned IB (InternationalBaccalaureate) programme, and the St Christopher’sPrimary Elementary School among others.

Most United Kingdom- and US-based schools, includingschools also offering the IB Diploma, along withinternational schools including the French and IndonesianInternational Schools have waiting lists. And more areunder construction including the soon to be opened BritishInternational School.

Meanwhile, the International Islamic University Malaysiaoperates the International Islamic School which is highlyregarded with over 60 different nations represented intheir student body.

The majority of schools use English as the medium ofinstruction. However, major exceptions are the GermanSchool (Deutsche Schule of KL) and French InternationalSchool (Lycee Francais de KL) which use their nationallanguage and find this to be of broader appeal toexpat parents who want their children fluent in othermajor languages.

Another important trend to note is the privatisationof education in the country. For example, the Taylor’sEducation Group owns and manages Taylor’s UniversityCollege as well as three international schools: GardenInternational School, Australian International School andthe newest, Nexus-World School.

Sunway University owns the Sunway International Schoolwith its well regarded Canadian stream while developer SPSetia Bhd has designed the Tenby International School intoits Setia Eco Park residential enclave in Shah Alam, Selangor.

Many of the schools, such as the Alice Smith School andthe American, International School of KL, are nonprofitorganisations controlled by a board of directors.

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But it is not just expats who are spoilt for choice inMalaysia; local students are also allowed to attend if theycan afford the fees. Two years ago, laws were enactedgiving international schools a quota to fill for localstudents and they were quickly topped out.

For people not yet involved in international education,the nature of what are termed international schoolscan be puzzling. Most of us go to school within oneeducational system. It is this experience that forgesour educational beliefs. When families first exploreinternational education, they discover a world ofdifferences which often collide with some of the beliefsand values that families hold dear.

First, we need to dispel some of the myths that surroundinternational schools. The term “international” isconfusing and ambiguous. Do we mean the curriculum orsyllabus is international in scope? Are we referring to theteachers in the school? Is it the assessment procedure thatis international? Before we can answer these questions,we should look at the way in which international schoolsare established. It is generally recognised that the firstschools describing themselves as “international” began in1924 (International School of Geneva and just after this,Yokohama International School).

There were many such schools by the 1960s, but it is inthe last 40 years that international schools havecome of age.

Most are set up to serve the needs of a particular group ofexpats working in an overseas location. The founders ofsuch a school generally design the curriculum to reflect theeducation system of their home country. This accounts formuch of the diversity in international education.

The many international schools are rooted in the varioustraditions of the groups they were founded to serve,almost by definition an educational system other than thatof the host country. The result is that a given internationalschool will relate to a particular national educationsystem. While the students attending the school may beinternational, the curriculum is usually not.

To meet the needs of expat communities, internationalschools tend to base their programmes on the educationsystem of the country representing its predominant groupof parents. This also means a range of choice, includingbut not limited to, as host country Malaysia can attest –French, German, American, Australian, Japanese, Korean,and British schools.

International schools meet four criteria that almost allinternational schools have in common: They have acurriculum that differs from the host country, they serve theeducational needs of an expat community living in a hostcountry, they have a student population that is internationaland inclusive of local students, and they have modified theircurriculum to make the most of the international settingand emphasise the host country’s customs.

For parents considering international schools, an awarenessof the diversity that is offered in Malaysia is crucial. Parentsneed to understand the varying natures of each schoolif they are to make the best decisions for their childrenwhen moving abroad. Understanding and managing thedifferences in international schools is the key to ensuringthat the family makes a smooth transition to their newlocation. Inability to consider educational issues can lead tounnecessary failure in the overseas assignment process.

For children of school age, school placement is a primeconsideration. The decision about whether to place a childin an American, British, private, parochial or even a localschool is a decision to be carefully researched. The age,grade level, maturity and social skills levels, special needs,and interests of the child are of paramount importance.The school’s curriculum, language base, distance fromhome, transportation to and from, and costs lie on theother side of this equation.

A desired balance will be vital to discourage anyunhappiness, resentment or anger the child may befeeling, and these feelings can easily result in behaviouraland academic problems at the new school, all of whichserves to undermine the success of the posting.

By Marybeth Ramey

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Kuala Lumpur Garden City of LightsPopulation: 1.60 million Area: 243sq.km Industries: Hotels, tourism, commerceTourist Information: www.kualalumpur.gov.my

Capital city of Malaysia, the “muddy confluence” of the Klang and Gombak rivers has grown to becomea modern marvel of epic urban proportions.

WHAT TO SEEAlso known as KL’s “green lung”,KLCC marks the northern endof Malaysia’s famed MultimediaCorridor. Amid the Petronas TwinTowers, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel,Menara Maxis, the KL ConventionCentre and other pillars of gleamingglass and steel, you’ll find apicturesque park with a small lake,dancing fountains and children’splaygrounds. Inside the twin towersyou are also spoiled for choice withSuria KLCC shopping mall, world-class concert hall Dewan Filharmonik,Galeri Petronas, Petrosains discoverycentre and much more.

The most popular park in KL, TamanTasik Perdana (Lake Gardens) is 92hectares of beautiful tranquillityamid the modern pace and stressesof KL’s modern setting. The parkencompasses the KL Bird Park,the Butterfly Park, Orchid Garden,Hibiscus Garden, Deer Park, paddleboats, the National Monument, herb

and spice garden and the ASEANSculpture Garden. Each of theseis a separate and worthy touristattraction but you don’t need aspecific reason to visit the LakeGardens. If you’re a naturalist, youwill find many days of recreationstrolling the grounds, takingphotographs, or just breathingthe jungle-purified air.

The oldest Taoist temple in KL, theSze-Ya Temple in Chinatown is a fineexample of traditional architecture,with ornate interiorsand elaborate roof ridges. Sze-Yais accessed through a lane entrancein Jalan Tun H.S. Lee. It can be tricky,but once you get there you will beglad you made the effort.

A wonderful display of Malayarchitecture, the National Museumis a treasure trove of Malaysia’s richhistory. Displays include currency,weapons, musical instruments,vintage cars, and more.

Located on 2.3 hectares betweenthe Istana Budaya (NationalTheatre) and the National Library,the National Art Gallery is aspace for the preservation,development, exploration, andexperimentation of art in Malaysia.Facilities include permanent andtemporary exhibits, a sculpturegarden, and a bookshop.

WHAT TO DOSee KL from above. KL has some ofthe best vantage points of any worldclass city. See the sights from atopthe 421m KL Tower or the Sky bridgethat connects the Petronas TwinTowers.

Find for excellent deals at CentralMarket or Petaling Street. CentralMarket is a great place to buy localcrafts and souvenirs for friends andfamily, while Petaling Street is agreat exploration into the murkierside of retail sales. Bring yourbargaining skills.

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Attend a concert by the MalaysiaPhilharmonic Orchestra Said to beone of the region’s finest ensembles,the MPO makes its home in DewanPhilharmonik, nestled at the foot ofthe Petronas Twin Towers.

Shop the Bintang Walk, one ofKL’s most popular shopping spots.Bintang Walk is packed withshopping malls, eateries, and smallershops. Another good place forbargaining, it’s also a great place topeople-watch.

One of the most popular spotsto enjoy KL’s nightlife, the Telawidistrict of Bangsar is an oasis ofclubs, bars, and restaurants, and afavourite nightspot for tourists andexpats alike.

Visitors to KL always rave about theamazing variety available to anyonewho wants to satisfy a craving forgreat International food. Japanese?Try Yoko’s along the Tengkat Tong

Shin strip. Tapas? La Bodega inBangsar. Asian blends? TamarindSprings in Ampang. Malay? Enak inStarhill Gallery on Jalan Bukit Bintang.The list goes on and on.

WHERE TO GOMalaysia Tourism Centre (MTC)was originally constructed as aresidence in 1935, and since thenthe MTC building itself has a longand storied history. Today it serves asKL’s premiere tourist information andwelcoming centre, offering a touristinformation counter, a Tourist Policekiosk, money changers, access totourist websites, ATMs, and more.

There are also regularly scheduledcultural shows, as well as displays ofhandicrafts and traditional games.

If you’re visiting KL without a car,you’ll very likely pass throughKL Sentral Station. With majorconnections to the city’s Light RailTransit (LRT) lines, an express rail link

to KLIA, rail links to Singapore andThailand, arrival/departure areas forlocal buses, and counters for taxiservice, it’s a major connection pointin the city.

KL’s Golden Triangle is thecommercial, entertainment, andretail heart of KL, dominated bythe Petronas Twin Towers. Hotels,restaurants, and nightlife come in allforms and shapes, and mostly caterto an upscale crowd. It’s a perfectstarting point for anyone looking forthe “beat” of KL.

Site of the proclamation ofIndependence in 1957, MerdekaSquare is where Malaysia began itsclimb from colony to autonomy.The Square, where the English onceplayed cricket, is surrounded bysome of KL’s most historic buildings,including the Royal Selangor Club,the National History Museum, andthe magnificent Victorian-MoorishSultan Abdul Samad Building.

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Putrajaya & CyberjayaIntelligent CitiesPUTRAJAYA25km from KL, Putrajaya is just over a decade old, andthis new seat of Malaysia’s federal government has grownfrom a palm forest into an architectural wonderland.

At the centre of Precinct 1 is the Dataran Putra (PutraSquare), a 300m circular plaza bordering Putrajaya Lake.A symbol of unity, the concentric circles are laid out inpointed stars that represent the 11 States of Malaya atIndependence, the 13 States of Malaysia in 1963, andthe addition of the Federal Territories. The Perdana PutraComplex, which houses the Prime Minister’s offices,along with the offices of the Deputy Prime Ministerand Chief Secretary to the Government, sits next toDataran Putra and overlooks Putrajaya Lake. Beautifullydesigned, culminating in a magnificent domed ceiling,the Perdana Putra Compex rates as highly as anynation’s seat of government.

Nearby is Masjid Putra. Constructed of rose-tintedgranite, its dome stretching far into the sky, the mosquecan accommodate 15,000 worshippers at any one time.The mosque’s single minaret is 116m tall, overlooking alarge courtyard (the “sahn”). In all, Precinct 1 is truly anamazing sight (and site). Dubbed the “Intelligent Garden

City”, Putrajaya is also home to the Botanical Gardens,the largest of its kind in Malaysia. Complemented bythe Putrajaya Wetland and the Nature InterpretationCentre, Putrajaya is very much an eco-tourist’s favoureddestination. As Tan Sri Azizan Zainul Abidin, President ofthe Putrajaya Corporation, has stated, keenly pointingout the value of Putrajaya as a day-trip from KL: “Bothcities complement each other. Kuala Lumpur providesthe urban environment such as cafés, pubs, andshopping centres, while Putrajaya is tops with oureco-tourism products.”

CYBERJAYAThe twin city of Putrajaya, Cyberjaya is a ‘truly intelligentcity’ that features a unique mix of eco-friendlyenvironment and the latest IT infrastructure. Thoughstill a work in progress, Cyberjaya is quickly becoming adestination – if only to see what all the talk is about. This isa dreamy place of perfectly blended homes, environment,and high technology. The Cyberjaya Neighbourhood Parkand its beautifully landscaped grounds was given theprestigious ‘Best Landscaped Community Park Award’in 2004, and Cyberjaya has also received awards for theCyberview Lodge Resort & Spa, the Street Mall, and theCyberjaya Lake Gardens.

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Selangor Gateway to MalaysiaPopulation: 4.8 million Area: 7,956sq.km Capital: Shah AlamTourist Information: www.selangortourism.com.my

Progressive and diverse, Selangor completely surrounds Kuala Lumpur.

WHAT TO SEEDiscovered over a century ago,the Batu Caves are a year-roundattraction, but most popular duringthe Hindu festival of Thaipusam,when an estimated one milliondevotees make the pilgrimage up itslong stairway. One word of advice:Do not take any food up with youand make sure your camera isstrapped on tight. As famous as itis for the 100m-tall Temple Cave,Batu Caves is infamous for itscheeky, thieving monkeys!

About 9km from Kuala Selangor,Kampung Kuantan is where you cansee one of the largest firefly coloniesin the world. Come in the earlyevening for some excellent seafood,and then hire a boat (orjoin an arranged hire) for a nightriver tour to see the amazingnatural luminescent display.

24km from Kuala Lumpur, theMuzium Orang Asli (Orang AsliMuseum) is a fascinating showcaseof the ancient customs and traditionsof Malaysia’s indigenous peoples.Displays include crafts, costumes,musical instruments, tools, animaltraps, and even homes.

Also known as the “Blue Mosque”,the Sultan Salahuddin AbdulAziz Shah Mosque is an immense

building that can accommodate upto 24,000 worshippers under its vastblue dome.

Officially opened in 1963, Zoo Negarahouses over 400 species and 4,000animals within a total area of 25haof land. A perfect family outing forthose who want to learn more aboutMalaysia’s wildlife, the zoo has bothday and nocturnal tours.

WHAT TO DOWatch a Race at Sepang. One of thebest facilities in the world, SepangInternational Circuit comes aliveevery March/April as a stop on the F1circuit. Other races are held there andit provides areas for go-karting andmotocross riders.

Located 16km northwest of KL, theForest Research Institute of Malaysia’sforest reserve is a “must do” forany eco-tourist. No visit is completewithout a walk along the suspendedwalkway atop the FRIM canopy 30metres above the ground. Otherattractions include arboretums, abotanical garden, a waterfall andnature trails.

Travel 20 minutes north of KL, tovisit Templer’s Park which sitswithin 500ha of jungle, near thepicturesque limestone hill, BukitTakun. It’s a great place to do

some trekking, and the KanchingWaterfalls here offer picnic spots anda few swimming spots.

Selangor offers some of the bestplaces to go shopping. Withcountless malls, including 1 Utama,Ikano Power Centre, and SunwayPyramid. Visit during the MalaysiaMega Sale Carnival to get more bangfor you buck!

The shopping malls in Selangor aren’tjust for shopping; they also caterto active people who can’t find thetime to get out and enjoy Malaysia.Go skating at Sunway Pyramid, wall-climbing at 1 Utama, try your hand atarchery or bowling, the list is endless.

WHERE TO GOSelangor’s capital city, Shah Alamoffers a day-tripper from KualaLumpur a lush green respite andbroader perspective of Islam. TheShah Alam Lake Gardens is a greatplace to picnic, but the city has manyother green spaces hidden among itsmosques, monuments, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur is completelysurrounded by neighbouring cities inSelangor, including Petaling Jaya (PJ),Subang Jaya, Ampang, and so on.With a little exploration, you’ll findthe charm and attraction of eachof them.

around malaysia

asia.WSJ.com

When it comes to getting to grips with Asian business, no other regionalnews source comes close to The Wall Street Journal Asia. Backed by oneof the world’s largest business news gathering networks, you get thenews, the facts and the insights delivered in a way no one else can. Ifyou’re business in Asia, we’re in business for you.

Visit wsj-asia.com/sub/148 to start your subscription today.

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Negeri Sembilan The “Nine States”Population: 897,900 Area: 6,643sq.km Capital: SerembanTourist Information: www.tourismnegerisembilan.com

Picturesque and undulating, Negeri Sembilan is a destination for beach lovers, gourmands,history buffs, and everyone else.

WHAT TO SEEMake certain to visit Gunung TampinRecreational Forest just 15 minutesby road from Tampin. The climbto the summit of Gunung Tampin(Tampin Mountain) gives you an extraworkout and an awesome view.

Formerly a palace, Taman Seri Budaya(Cultural Handicraft Complex) inSeremban is home to the TeratakPepatih (State Museum) and theIstana Ampang Tinggi. Along with itsmany cultural performances, this isa great place to see some traditionalMinangkabau architecture.

Located atop Bukit Gajah Mati, KotaLukut was built by chieftain RajaJumaat in 1826 to control a thrivingtin trade. Among the ruins you’ll findthe courtyard used to practice martialarts and other traces of this periodof history.

Pengkalan Kempas HistoricalComplex is Malaysia’s version ofStonehenge, with megalith stonesequally enshrouded in mystery.Local myths have dubbed the trioof carved stones “Batu Hidup” (the

Living Stone). The Complex alsohouses the mausoleum of SheikhAhmad Majnun, rival of the Sultan ofMalacca from 1457–1477.

The sandy stretches at Port Dicksonhave a lot to offer as a weekendgetaway. Whether you prefer anawe-inspiring sunset across the Straitsof Malacca or wish to take part in anyof the water sports on offer, NegeriSembilan’s beaches are popular withlocals who want a weekend or even aday away from the city.

Famed throughout Malaysia for itscultural diversity, the eateries ofSeremban are a haven for a true mixof Malay, Chinese, and Indian food.

Negeri Sembilan opens its naturalsplendour as the backdrop for anyonewith an adventurous determinationto trek its wild paths. If you preferwaterfalls, visit Jeram Toi, a 10mthundering falls made convenientlyaccessible with bus service, camping,and wilderness trails. A little furtheraway from Seremban (and a bit moreof a trek) is Jeram Panjang and itsstunning 33 cascades. Even further into

the jungle is Lata Kijang... two hours by4WD from Kuala Klawang along steepand slick roads, an hour’s hard trekkingthrough the forest, and you finallyarrive at a spectacular 45m falls.

For those with quieter spirits, NegeriSembilan has plenty of places torelax and enjoy a good book, or justpicnic with the family in splendidsurroundings near well-beaten paths.

WHERE TO GOKnown for its food, culture, andhistorical locations, Seremban, thecapital of Negeri Sembilan, is just45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur, andmakes for a relaxing day or overnighttrip. For a start, take a day-trip to theSeremban Lake Gardens, one of themost picturesque in Malaysia.

Only about an hour from KualaLumpur, Port Dickson is the nearestbeachfront along the Straits ofMalacca. A favourite for urban jungledwellers to escape the noise and thetraffic, Port Dickson or“PD” has all thetrappings of a quaint seaside village(and depending where you are, somegreat beaches!)

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Melaka History UnfurledPopulation: 713,000 Area: 1,683sq.km Capital: Melaka TownTourist Information: www.tourism-melaka.com

Arguably the most historically interesting of the states, Melaka still retains remnants of its Chinese, Sumatran,Portuguese, Dutch, and English heritage.

WHAT TO SEEMelaka is teeming with remindersof the past and Melaka’s historicaltown lets you see it all. St. FrancisXavier’s Church overlooks most ofMelaka, while St. Peter’s Churchwas constructed in 1710 and is theoldest functioning Catholic Churchin Malaysia.

In the heart of Melaka’s historicdistrict is Christ Church which wasbuilt by the Dutch in 1753 andremains a testament of their heritageand occupation. Perhaps Melaka’smost famous landmark is A’ Famosa,built in 1511 by the Portuguese,and today an enduring symbol ofMelaka.

Scattered about Melaka are someincredible museums that vividlyportray the region’s long andfascinating past. Among thosethat give you great insight to thetown’s history are the MaritimeMuseum, the Baba and NyonyaHeritage Museum, and the ChengHo Museum.

WHAT TO DOMelaka is brimming with history ofinhabitants past, both those whosettled here temporarily and thosewho made Malaysia their new andpermanent home. Go exploring andyou will find centuries-old Chinesetemples, Dutch churches, Malaymausoleums, and more.

Lined by a row of houses andshops with hints of Dutch, Chinese,and English architecture, JonkerStreet is the ideal place to do a bitof shopping. It is also known asAntiques Row for its many antiquedealers and second-hand shops.

One of Melaka’s signature touristactivities, trishaw rides are a greatway to tour the city. Usually foundnear Christ Church, these colourfulcarts are for rent on an hourly orper-trip basis.

Finally, here in ‘Malaysia’s meltingpot,’ you’ll find many dishesin Melaka that you won’t findelsewhere. Try some Nyonya

dishes, the chicken rice ball,satay kajang, or “ikan bakar”(grilled fish).

10km from Melaka is Klebang Beach,where you’ll find roadside stallsselling tasty deep-fried bananas.

WHERE TO GOMelaka (town) is the most populartourist destination. Home tomuseums, temples, and living history,Melaka will not disappoint the historybuff or the enthusiastic shopper.

Just 16sq.km, Pulau Besar has cleansandy beaches, clear waters, andsnippets of Melaka’s ever-presenthistory (Japanese bunkers). Close toseveral cities, Pulau Besar is a goodday-trip for a family outing.

Just off the Ayer Keroh Toll on the E2North-South Expressway (an alternateroute to Melaka), you’ll find a bevyof tourist attractions like the ButterflyFarm, Crocodile Farm, Mini Malaysia,Mini ASEAN, and the Ayer KerohRecreational Forest.

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Johor Southern GatewayPopulation: 3.17 million Area: 18,986 sq.km Capital: Johor BahruTourist Information: www.johortourism.com.my

Third largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, Johor is a mix of modern culture, island life, urban settings,and ancient biodiversity.

WHAT TO SEEStart with Johor’s Beaches, includingDesaru Beach. Twenty-five kilometresof white, sandy beach and lushtropical greenery makes up Desaru– just onevisit will tell you why this is themost popular beach in the state.

Located 98km northeast of JohorBahru, Desaru, also known asthe “Village of Casuarinas”,was developed by the SouthJohor Development Authority(KEJORA) to boost the tourismindustry in Johor.

Desaru is a great destination forfamily vacations as it offers avariety of activities for the wholefamily. No matter what age,there are plenty of things todo, including swimming, fishing,snorkeling, canoeing, horseriding, jungle trekking, go-carting,golfing and windsurfing.

JB is a great place to sightsee. Lookfor the hilltop Sultan Abu BakarMosque. The Sultan Ibrahim Building,its blend of Westernand Saracen design, and itsdominating tower are also wortha stop.

The Royal Abu Bakar Museum housesa large collection – treasures ofthe Royal Family, an extensive artcollection, and much more.

Endau-Rompin National Park is oneof Malaysia’s few remaining lowlandforests, and a good place for ajungle trek. 16km from Kota Tinggiis the 30m Kota Tinggi Waterfall, agreat place for picnics or overnightstays. Orchid lovers will enjoy OrchidValley located 28km northwest ofJohor Bahru.

WHAT TO DOOne of this country’s best kept secrets,even to Malaysians themselves, are theenchanting sites to go scuba diving,scattered around the islands in theeast and west coast of the peninsula,Sabah and Sarawak.

In fact, visitors are so spoiled forchoice than something else you canchoose to do is go island hoppingand get a little more of everything.

While many have enjoyed sun-bathing on the cotton-whitebeaches, admiring the sway of tall,graceful coconut palms and takendelight in a swimming or snorkelingtrip in the turquoise waters, only a

relatively small number have had theopportunity to enjoy its underwatertreasures.

From the peninsular west coastislands of Payar and Sembilan, tothe farthest east coast island ofSipadan, Sabah, over 40 islands andat least twice as many individual divesites lay in the cradle of one of theworld’s richest and most biologicallydiverse marine habitats.

Finally, you can always choose to gogolfing at any of the dozens of golfcourses and resorts dotting Johor.

WHERE TO GOThe capital of Johor, Johor Bahru,is located at the tip of PeninsularMalaysia, just across the Causewayfrom Singapore. Shopping and diningare popular, as is sightseeing.

A departure point to Tioman andJohor’s islands, Mersing is only 15kmsouth of Air Papan, a popular beachand picnic area. Muar, on the otherhand, is known for its deliciousand inexpensive food stalls. Muaris also a good place to see someof Johor’s colonial buildings.Nearby is the Gunung LedangRecreational Forest.

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Penang Pearl of the OrientPopulation: 1.47 million Area: 1,030 sq.km Capital: George TownTourist Information: www.tourismpenang.gov.my

Known for its food and rich history, this former Straits Settlement exudes an old-world charm in a tropical climate.

WHAT TO SEEAbout 3km from Bayan LapasInternational Airport, the SnakeTemple is named for the manypoisonous snakes coiled aroundthe temple’s pillars and beams. Thesmoke of burning incense is believedto render the snakes harmless.

With brightly painted ‘naga’ serpentsoutside and a 33-metre gildedreclining Buddha inside, Wat ChaiyaMagkalaram is one of many templesworth visiting to discover the roots ofPenang’s cultures and history.

Formerly the site of a 1930’s Britishmilitary fortress that protected theisland from its enemies, the PenangWar Museum now protects artefactsfrom times in which the vulnerableisland played a pivotal role in bothWorld Wars.

The five-acre Bird Park is hometo about 800 avian guests fromaround the world. The park featurespicturesque ponds completewith ducks, swans, and carp amidthe water lillies and ornamentalplants, a walk-in aviary, and achildren’s playground.

Created by the British in 1884, theBotanical Gardens are a haven ofPenang flora. A favourite spot fortranquil picnics by the waterfall, taichi and jogging, the 30ha garden isalso known for its bold monkeys.

The star-shaped Fort Cornwallis iswhere Francis Light landed on 11August 1786 to take possession ofthe island from the Sultan of Kedah.The fort offers a unique look intoBritain’s military past. Among thedisplays are the fort’s chapel and theinfamous Sri Rambai cannon.

WHAT TO DOA short walk in Georgetown showsyou the indigo blue Cheong Fatt TzeMansion, the famous E&O Hotel, thePenang Museum & Art Gallery, St.George Church, Fort Cornwallis, andGeorge Town’s Clock Tower. UpperPenang Road is also becoming knownfor its nightlife.

Penang has a reputation as afabulous food paradise. There’sChinese, Nyonya, vegetarian, Indian,Malay, Hakka-style Western, andmany hybrids. Nasi kandar, asamlaksa, satay... the list goes on and

on. These dishes are availableeverywhere you go, from sidestreethawker stalls to open-air restaurantsand upmarket hotels.

Ride the Cable Car at Penang HillMalaysia’s first hill station, Penang Hillis 830 m above sea level, and visitorscan reach it either by tackling thefour-hour hike or riding the historicfunicular railway. Cool and refreshing,the summit offers fantastic views, aswell a kiosk for refreshments.

Though not the most famous beachesin Malaysia, if you’ve come to Penangfor the food and history, you canstill enjoy the sun and sand at BatuFerringhi, also known as “Foreigner’sRock”, and Teluk Bahang near theBatik Factory and Butterfly Farm.

WHERE TO GOThe capital of Penang, Georgetownis located on the northeast corner ofPenang Island, which is connected tothe mainland by one of the longestbridges in the world. Establishedin 1786, George Town is a uniqueblend of new and old – colonial andmodern architecture, rickety trishawsand brand new luxury automobiles.

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Perak Tin and naturePopulation: 2.2 million Area: 21,000 sq.km Capital: IpohTourist Information: www.peraktourism.com

Second largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, almost half of Perak’s area is covered by lush green tropical rainforestsand mangrove forests.

WHAT TO SEEFormerly known as Maxwell Hill, BukitLarut this is the oldest hill station inMalaysia and some 10 minutes frompicturesque Taiping. After a windingforest drive up the 1000m hill, theview from the summit’s Larut Resthouse offers magnificent viewsand some much sought-aftermountain air.

Ipoh’s most famous Cave Temples arethe Perak Tong and Sam Poh Tongtemples, each about 5km from Ipoh(Perak Tong to the north, Sam PohTong to the south). At Sam Poh Tongyou’ll find a pond with hundreds oftortoises; at Perak Tong, numerousBuddha statues and murals and agreat view of the countryside.

Located near Simpang Pulai, Kellie’sCastle is named for rubber tycoonWilliam Kellie Smith. Kellie diedbefore the castle could be completedand remains as it was. Today, it isrumoured to be haunted and to have,somewhere, a network of secrettunnels and hidden rooms.

WHAT TO DOBring your clubs and hit the links,for this is where visitors from all overthe world come to play golf. Perak isdotted with some of Malaysia’s finestcourses, including the picturesqueMeru Valley Golf Club, Bukit JanaGolf & Country Club, the TelukRubiah Beach & Golf Resort, andthe Royal Perak Golf Club. (Checkfor membership and handicapregulations before planning agolf vacation)

If you are travelling with your family,beat the heat at Lost World ofTambun water park where you canall have a restful or exciting day ofcool fun.

WHERE TO GOPerak’s state capital, Ipoh grewfrom a small kampong around thefl ourishing tin mining industry. Todayit is known for its delicious cuisine(a mix of Chinese and local Malay)which makes it popular withMalaysians taking an “eatingholiday.” Ipoh is also worthy of

a walking tour to see the Moor-infl uenced Railway Station, the BirchMemorial Clock Tower, and theState Mosque.

Perak’s royal town of Kuala Kangsaris dominated by Istana Iskandariah(official residence of the Sultan ofPerak) upon Bukit Chandan, andIstana Kenangan. Other sights tosee here are the Pavilion SquareTower, Masjid Ubudiah, and theRoyal Museum.

Once a thriving mining town,Taiping’s past is now hidden underthe greenery of the gorgeousLake Gardens. It’s also home tothe Taiping Zoo (the oldest zoo inMalaysia), and the Taiping Museum.

A very popular west coast islanddestination, Pangkor Island catersto all budgets and interests. Whitesand beaches, clear waters, diveand snorkelling sites, a full range ofwater sports, and a leisurely bike ridearound the island, and “keropok”(delicious prawn crackers) await!

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Pahang Beautiful BeachesPopulation: 1,37 million Area: 35,967sq.km Capital: KuantanTourist Information: www.pahangtourism.com

Famous for its range of natural extremes – exotic islands, mountainous forests, cooling highlands,and beautiful beaches – Pahang is Peninsular Malaysia’s largest state.

WHAT TO SEEMalaysia’s oldest National Park,Taman Negara also encompassesthe world’s oldest tropicalrainforest (about 130 million yearsold). Here you can spend daysjungle trekking, take the treetopcanopy walk, go caving, shoot therapids of the Tembeling River,take one of the four-wheel drivenight safaris, watch wildlife froma jungle hide, and much,much more.

Tioman Island is an island-lover’sparadise amid the crystal bluewaters of the South China Sea.Divers forever remember theamazing coral reefs, while non-divers never forget their firstTioman sunset.

Sungai Lembing’s glory days arepreserved in a museum that focuseson the area’s tin mining industry,showing how tin was mined andwhat it was like to work in the tinmines during the tin boom.

Site of a revered Buddhist sanctuary,the Charah caves (Gua Charah)are located 25km northwest ofKuantan, and continue to serveas a solitary meditation retreat for

Buddhist monks and nuns. Explorethe caves, including the one thathouses a stone sculpture of thereclining Buddha.

WHAT TO DOEstablished to assist elephantcapture and relocation programmes,the Kuala Gandah ElephantSanctuary is a permanent base forthe capture unit. It offers visitors aunique chance to get close to thesemajestic mammals.

Three hours from KL, Jeram Besu isgaining popularity as a challengingand exhilarating places for white-water rafting and kayaking.

The Belum national park is anatural jewel full of wildlife (manyof which are endangered) that runsnorth to the Thai border. Althoughthe battle for conservationrages on, this could be one of the“last chances to see what istruly rare” of Malaysia’s preciousnatural history.

Pahang’s east coast is a paradise forbeach lovers, with beautiful stretchesof white sands at Balok, Beserah,Chendor, Lanjut, Cherating, TelukChempedak and more..

WHERE TO GOCapital city Kuantan offers somegreat food and a wealth of traditionalhandicrafts like batik painting. And aslong as you are there, do not miss thecity’s impressive State Mosque!

A 45-minute drive from Kuantan,Cherating has grown from a smallunknown village to a haven for touristsof all budgets. Along its fabulousstretch of beach (where the water isonly waist deep far out from shore),there are mini-markets, food stalls,and art galleries. Further up the road isthe Cherating Turtle Sanctuary, whereyou can learn more about Green,Leatherback, and Hawksbill turtles.

One of Pahang’s most invitingattractions are its cool and picturesquehighlands. The dew rolls over the hills,the chilly night air brings relief to thosewho spend most of their times in thesearing lowlands. Learn about thehistory to enjoy your visit all the more.

The three main hill stations –Cameron Highland, Fraser’s Hill, andGenting Highlands – are all within ashort drive of KL; each has its ownspecial attractions, and all offera pleasant change of scenery foranyone who visits.

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Kelantan Cradle of CulturePopulation: 1.4 million Area: 14,920 sq.km Capital: Kota BharuTourist Information: www.tourism.gov.my

Kelantan also means the Land of Lightning. It is a land rich in culture and heritage, influenced by its Siamese and Chineseneighbours. This state borders Thailand in the north-east and Perak in the west, Terengganu in the east and Pahang tothe south.

The major towns are Kota Bharu, Bachok, Pasir Puteh, Tanah Merah, Tumpat and Gua Musang. As a travel destination,Kelantan is well known for its golden beaches, marvellous handicraft and as a haven for food connoisseurs. You can finddining options to suit your taste buds practically everywhere, from traditional Kelantanese food to Siamese cuisine. Shoppingis also a must for visitors and there is a duty-free zone for shoppers at Rantau Panjang and Pengkalan Kubor.

WHAT TO SEEAs Kelantan was the landing pointof the invading Japanese ImperialArmy in World War II, Kota Bharuis home to the War Museum(itself a previously occupied armyheadquarters) that details andpreserves the history of thisturbulent period.

Other museums in Kota Bharu –the Royal Museum and theIslamic Museum – tell equallyfascinating stories.

A cascading 120m waterfall nearKuala Krai, the verdant surroundingsof Lata Beringin and an awe-inspiringview make this a very popularcamping spot.

At 1,422m, Gunung Stong isKelantan’s highest peak in theDabong Forest Reserve. Also foundin the Reserve is Gua Ikan (FishCave, a huge chamber filled withstalagmites and stalactites) and

seven waterfalls, including JelawangFalls – at 305m, it’s the highest dropin Southeast Asia.

WHAT TO DOTake it in. For most visitors, the charmsof Kelantan are found in the vitalityof its culture and its remote, unsulliedbeauty. The traditional sports of giantkite-flying, top-spinning, silat, wayangkulit, bird-singing competitions andthe making of exquisite handicraftssuch as songket, batik, silverwareand mengkuang products still remainfixtures here, offering a glimpse oftraditional Malay culture in a trulyspectacular setting.

Kelantan’s coastline is almostcompletely undeveloped, and offersa number of idyllic beaches. Vaststretches of tropical forest cover thestate, and its southeastern cornerforms part of the Taman NegaraNational Park. With names like Beachof Whispering Breeze (Pantai BisikanBayu), Beach of Melody (Pantai Irama),

Beach of Seven Lagoons (PantaiSeri Tujuh), and Beach of Moonlight(Pantai Cahaya Bulan), it’s no wonderKelantan’s seafronts are one of itsmajor tourist attractions. All are fairlyclose to Kota Bharu, and each has itsown attraction to the casual tourist.Also nearby is Pantai Sabak; now apleasant beach and a Malay fishingvillage, it was the site of invadingtroops in 1941.

Famed for handicrafts, Kelantan isalso a wonderful place to go shoppingand you’ll find some great deals in thebazaars and markets of Kota Bharu.Bazaar Bulu Kubu (Bamboo Fort Bazaar)is packed with silverware, batik, andmore; New Central Market is a nicestop for authentic ambience and freshproduce; the Night Market is a greatplace to dine al fresco under the stars.

About 4km north of Kota Bahru(on the road to Pantai Cahaya Bulan)is Kampung Penambang and theSongket (Cloth of Gold) Bazaar.

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Terengganu East Coast ExoticaPopulation: 898,825 Area: 12,955sq.km Capital: Kuala TerengganuTourist Information: www.tourism.terengganu.gov.my

One of Malaysia’s pre-eminent East Coast states, Terengganu is known for a picturesque 225km stretch of white sandbeaches and the paradise islands just off its mainland shores.

WHAT TO SEEA great place for a picnic, you’ll findSekayu Waterfall near Kuala Berangafter a delightful drive throughsome lush jungle hills. Campgroundsand chalets are also available forlonger stays.

The beach at Rantau Abang is nice,but the primary reason why touristsflock here is to see the leatherbackturtles that wade ashore to lay eggs.The best time to go is between Marchand November.

WHAT TO DOWhether it is to go diving andsnorkeling or merely to relax onpowdery white beaches, boatloadsof tourists make their way over thewater to visit the islands.

Some of the islands are perfect fornature-loving backpackers, others

are more commercialised andserviced, with excellent hotels andrestaurants to cater for a luxuriousbeach holiday.

Boats ferry passengers regularly frommainland to island, leaving from anumber of different jetties. The KualaBesut jetty is where to get a boat to thePerhantian islands. To get to Tenggol,catch a boat at the Dungun jetty andfor Kapas, Redang and Lang Tengah,get transport at the Merang jetty.

(Waiting for a speedboat in KualaBesut? Check out the LA Hot Springs,acclaimed for their mineral contentand temperature).

The pristine settings above thewaterline of Terengganu are onlyhalf its beauty; open your eyes tothe undersea worlds. The reefs areteeming with life, easily accessed by

snorkellers, while divers can reachsome truly amazing dive sites.

If sea travel is not your thing, mainlandTerengganu has some great beaches atTanjung Jara and Pasir Pajang.

WHERE TO GONot just a hopping-off point forair travellers, capital city KualaTerengganu has some attractions thatmake it worth visiting before headingto the beach or an island.

Chinatown and its shop housesattract many tourists, while CentralMarket at the end of Jalan Bandarbustles with vendors selling all sortsof wares and sundries.

Whether on mainland or island, townor beach, Terengannu’s appeal is itsslow pace which invites you to matchit for a truly relaxing holiday.

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Kedah Rice Bowl of MalaysiaPopulation: 1,78 million Area: 9,430sq.km Capital: Alor SetarTourist Information: www.tourism.gov.my

Kedah has the distinction of being the “Rice-bowl of Malaysia” – a term that takes on aesthetic significance whenone sees the rice fields for themselves: the flat expanse of paddies set against a backdrop of rolling hills provides apicture of utter serenity that lulls the senses.

Off Kedah’s western shores are clusters of sun-drenched islands that comprise the legendary archipelago ofLangkawi, easily the most popular resort location in the country. More than a land of mere scenery, however,Kedah is also the site of Malaysia’s most extensive ruins. In the Bujang Valley are the sprawling remains of a Hindukingdom believed to date back to the 6th century A.D.

WHAT TO SEEAn absolute must-visit is LembahBujang Archaeological MuseumDating back to the 6th century,the historical records of Chinese,Arab, Indian, and Greek scholarsdescribe the fabled land of Kataha(Kedah), Srivijaya, and Trambalinga.With over 50 temples and shrinesstretching out across 224sq.km,the area was once a powerfulmaritime empire that controlledthe Straits of Malacca.

The museum, which is located 26kmfrom Sungai Petani, was built in1978, and exhibits a good selectionof artifacts found in the area. Youcan also view the excavated sites,and guided tours are available (byappointment).

A favourite with locals for swimmingand trekking in the nearby jungle,the four-level Puncak Janing Waterfallis breathtaking, and a beautifulplace to stop between your outdooradventures here.

Langkawi isn’t Kedah’s only beachparadise; 60km south of AlorStar is Pantai Merdeka, a 1kmstretch of white sand that’sperfect for sunbathing, picnics,swimming, and water sports.

Designated as a marine park in1985, Pulau Payar Marine Parkis a study centre for marine research(though many divers also say it’sone of the best dive sites on thewest coast). Access to the parkis by ferry from Penang.

WHAT TO DOKedah offers many opportunitiesfor eco-tourism and adventuresports such as jungle trekking,mountain climbing, white-waterrafting and diving. There areample attractions on the mainlandto keep visitors occupied. Theycan soak in the hot springs atBaling, bathe in waterfalls allover the state, or pamperthemselves at the luxury resortin Pedu Lake.

Kedah has a wide range of Malay,Chinese, Indian and Thai delicaciesin its cuisine, which comprises suchtraditional dishes as gulai nangka(jackfruit curry) and pekasam (fishpreserved in salt and pounded,fried paddy). Nasi ulam, which isprepared by blending rice with freshvegetables and spices, is a favouriteamong locals.

WHERE TO GOCapital of Kedah, Alor Setar retainsquite a bit of its old world charm, andhas a large number of attractions thatmake it worth a visit for any touristwith a day to spare there. There’s theMuzium Di-Raja, Balai Besar, MasjidZahir (The Zahir Mosque), the StateMuseum, and the octagonal BalaiNobat tower to name a few.

Kuah is the centre of “urban” lifeon Langkawi Island. It may not behuge but Kuah has enough malls,franchise restaurants and assortedoutlets to maintain your islandstay indefinitely.

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Perlis Land of DreamsPopulation: 198,335 Area: 810sq.km Capital: KangarTourist Information: www.tourism.gov.my

Malaysia’s smallest and most northern state, Perlis is a crossing point to Thailand, a ferry trip from Langkawi, and awelcome stop for the urban-weary tourist.

WHAT TO SEEThe Bird Park, Batu Pahat River Recreational Park, Snakeand Reptile Farm: All these are just 10km from Kangar andclose enough for a quick day trip from the state capital.The Bird Park has countless beautiful birds on display, theSnake and Reptile Farm is home to 34 species of snakes,and the Batu Pahat River Recreational Park is a good placefor a lazy picnic.

WHAT TO DOIf your spririt of adventure needs some attention, Perlisis the perfect place to go caving. This state home tomany amazing cave systems including Gua Kelam (“DarkCaves”) located at Kaki Bukit which is a huge 370m-longlimestone cave. Walkways and lights make it a goodattraction for amateur cavers.

More advanced cavers will enjoy the muddy underworldand rock formations of the Wang Burma Cave, thoughhiring an experienced guide is necessary as part of thestate park’s rules.

One of strongest attractions of Perlis is its proximity toThailand. Crossing into Thailand at the Padang Besarborder, you’ll find ample opportunity to shop forduty-free goods, handcrafted items, and clothing.

Try your hand at golfing against some magnificentBatu Pahat scenery. The Putra Golf Club (near the BirdPark) is said to be one the most challenging courses inMalaysia. This 18-hole, par-72 won’t disappoint.

WHERE TO GOThe Perlis capital city, Kangar is low-lying and scenicallybordered by vast stretches of verdant padi fields.

Though no longer a part of Kedah and now a federalterritory, the stunning island of Langkawi is easilyaccessible by ferry from the terminal in Kuala Perlis.However, there are more reasons to visit and even if youare just there to wait for the ferry, take some time tocheck out the nearby Kota Mayang Museum or visit thePerlis Craft Cultural Complex.

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Labuan Offshore financial hubPopulation: 88,000 Area: 92sq.km Tourist Information: www.labuantourism.com.my

A tiny presence of six islands off the coast of East Malaysia, Labuan is fast becoming an offshore financial giant.

WHAT TO SEESurrender Point is where the 32ndJapanese Southern Army formallysurrendered to the 9th DivisionAustralian Imperial Forces on 9September 1945. The retaking ofLabuan served as a base for theAllies that eventually helped torecapture Singapore.

Close to Surrender Point is PeacePark, whose landscaped gardensand pavillion serve both as amemorial and a promise that thehorrors of war will neither beforgotten nor repeated.

A large boulder in the shape of astooping man, the myth surroundingBatu Si Bongkok tells of a master ofmagic, his beautiful daughter, anda promising student who becameforever turned to stone.

Beneath Labuan’s northern tip is anexpansive network of tunnels anddeep wells, which once suppliedcoal to the burgeoning 19th centuryIndustrial Revolution. The mines areno longer used, but you can enter

one of the lower tunnels, includingTanjung Kubong Tunnel and(with the help of a short rope)emerge at the top.

If you can, take this opportunity tovisit Labuan’s beautiful Marine Park.Labuan Marine Park is located 2kmoff the southern part of Labuan’smain island, and encompasses10 sq.km of crystal clear waterand three secluded islets.

WHAT TO DOThe waters off Labuan Island attractsport fishing enthusiasts from aroundthe world. Join them for a day offishing, where tuna, mackerel, blackmarlin, and sailfish are abundant inthe warm ocean currents, and all arebiting year-round.

Its shallow waters and stunningcoral reefs make the Marine Parkan ideal spot for eco-diving andsnorkelling. Visitors will find itvery easy to rent the equipmentthey need, as well as to getguided excursions and even divingclasses by qualified instructors.

For some underwater sightseeing,Labuan is also a popular place forwreck diving. Further into deeperwaters are four wrecks that awaitexploration by diving enthusiasts.The Australian Wreck, the AmericanWreck, the Blue Water Wreck, andthe Cement Wreck are all accessibleto experienced divers, each withinteresting submarine sights and anaccompanying history.

For a change of pace, trade inyour moneybags for saddlebagsand go horse riding! The LabuanHorse-Riding Centre gives you theopportunity to trot Layangan Beach,and gives you a unique and elegantway to sightsee.

WHERE TO GOFormerly known as Victoria, BandarLabuan is a bustling business centremixed with shopping complexes,relaxing pedestrian zones, and tastyethnic eateries. Sharing dominanceon the Labuan skyline are thefuturistically designed MasjidJamek An’nur and the FinancialPark Complex.

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Sarawak Land of the HornbillPopulation: 2.3 million Area: 124,450sq.km Capital: KuchingTourist Information: www.sarawaktourism.com

Malaysia’s largest state, Sarawak stretches over the rainforests and flowing rivers of Borneo and is inhabited byMalaysia’s most ethnically diverse populations.

WHAT TO SEELocated on seven hectares about40 minutes by car from Kuching,the Sarawak Cultural Village givesyou the opportunity to “see” all ofSarawak in one place. Here you’ll findreplicas of traditional longhouses,huts, and roundhouses around a lake.There are storytellers, the chanceto participate in the various culturalactivities and daily performances ofmusic and dance.

Sarawak’s main beach resort area,Damai Beach is a 40-minute drivefrom Kuching (near the SarawakCultural Village). International-class resort hotels offer jet skiing,windsurfing, and much more. Nearbyis the Damai Golf & Country Club,and the fishing villages of Buntaland Santubong offer excellent freshseafood dishes.

With over 52,000 ha of rainforestand criss-crossed by rivers and junglestreams, Gunung National Park offersan amazing diversity of natural caves,dominating mountains, and somegreat opportunities for adventuretrekking. Added to the UNESCOlist of World Heritage Sites in2000, the park is famous for theSarawak Chamber and its 2,377msandstone mountain.

WHAT TO DOEstablished in 1975, SemengohWildlife Rehabilitation Centreis a favourite destination for animallovers, both local and international.The centre is dedicated to therehabilitation of Borneo’s surrenderedand confiscated wild animals such asorang utan and hornbills.

The National Parks and NatureReserves of Sarawak have manyopportunities for the eco-tourist. Forcaving, you can explore the world’slargest cave passage (Deer Cave),the world’s largest natural chamber(Sarawak Chamber), and the longestcave in Southeast Asia (ClearwaterCave), as well the Wind Cave andFairy Cave at Bau.

A walking tour of Kuching isan enlightening tour throughtime. More than surpassing theexpectations of any history buff, atour lets you drop in on ChineseHistory Museum, the Sarawak StateMuseum, the Timber Museum, andthe Islamic Museum. Take a tripacross the river and you can geta close look at the the impressiveFort Margherita. Nearby is also theAstana which was built 140 yearsago by Sarawak’s second White RajahCharles Brooke.

WHERE TO GOSarawak’s capital, Kuching is a mix ofmodern facilities, colonial buildings,and Chinese and Malay shop houses.Set on the Sarawak River, thewaterfront is a great place to starttouring the city. Across the road isthe Main Bazaar, where vendors sellantiques and curios, ideal for buyingantiques, crafts and souvenirs

Within a few hours of nationalparks and adventure travel, theoil and timber boomtown ofMiri is becoming known for itsnightlife as well as shopping andaccommodation to suit all budgets.You’ll also find a number of travelagents here, specialising in localadventure excursions.

Founded by Foochow immigrantsat the turn of the 20th century,Sibu is Sarawak’s third largest town,and offers a unique glimpse into itsunderlying Chinese origins. The TuaPek Kong Temple, a seven-storeypagoda, and a bustling centre ofsmall shops selling anything fromname brands to handicrafts to jungleproduce welcome you at Sibu,while its pasar malam will honeyour bargaining skills. Sibu is alsothe staging point of Rejang Riveradventure trips into the Iban interior.

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Sabah Land below the WindPopulation: 3.0 million Area: 73,620sq.km Capital: Kota KinabaluTourist Information: www.sabahtourism.com

Lush rainforests, sub-aquatic splendour, magnificent mountains, colourful cultures... Sabah is a rugged place foradventurers, a playground for divers, and a paradise for explorers.

WHAT TO SEE83km from Kota Kinabalu, is theKinabalu National Park whichwas added to the UNESCO listof World Heritage Sites in 2000.Designated as a Centre of PlantDiversity for Southeast Asia, thepark is exceptionally rich in species offlora from China, Australia, Malaysia,and the Himalayas.

Best of all Kinabalu NationalPark, surrounds the majesticMount Kinabalu. At at 4,095m,not only is it Malaysia’s highestmountain, it is also the highestpeak between the Himalayas andNew Guinea.

20 minutes away from KotaKinabalu by speedboat, is TunkuAbdul Rahman National Park. Thismarine park is comprised of PulauGaya, Sapi, Manukan, Marnutik,and Sulug, and characterized bywhite sand beaches, beautiful coralgardens, and a shallow-water reefideal for novice divers.

The islands off Sabah’s coastsare legendary among divers andeco-tourists. Each is known forits own niche: Mabul Island isone of the best ‘muck-diving’ sitesin the world; Pulau Tiga is hometo some very rare mammals andbirds (and once the setting forthe Survivor TV series); theisolated Pulau Layang-Layangis one of the world’s top ten divelocations; and though visitationis now tightly regulated by thegovernment, divers still lineup to visit the magical islandof Sipadan.

WHAT TO DOThe primary reason so many visitorsflock to the state is to go diving.Sabah is teeming with fantastic divesites and established, affordablediving tours.

Many of the sub-ethnic groups ofBorneo warmly invite you to visitthe longhouses in which they live.Guides advise you on protocol.

Few can resist the challenge to climbthe towering Mt. Kinabalu Thosein good form who take up thechallenge to make the two-daytrek are rewarded with a stunningsunrise in perfect tranquility andincomparable views of Sabah.

WHERE TO GOMore than just a landing stripand a stop off before heading onto further destinations, capitalcity Kota Kinabalu has its ownlist of attractions. Explore theSabah museum and its HeritageVillage, or take a short drive out tothe Tambunan Rafflesia Reserveand trek out to see the Rafflesia, thelargest flower in the world.

The beating heart of Boreno’seco-tourism, Sandakan is thejumping-off point for theSepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary,the Danum Valley ConservationArea, Gomantong Caves, TurtleIslands National Park, and much,much more.

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Malaysia’s Top 20 for 2011DAVID BOWDEN, ONE OF SOUTHEAST ASIA’S MOST PROMINENT TRAVEL WRITERS,PRESENTS HIS “TOP 20” LIST OF THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN MALAYSIA. IF YOUHAVE FRIENDS OR FAMILY VISITING YOU HERE IN 2011 USE THIS LIST TO HELP YOUSHOWCASE YOUR NEW HOME WITH THE BEST MALAYSIA HAS TO OFFER.

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