I first visited Malaysia in 2015 and then subsequently in 2018. My first stop was Kuala Lumpur which is a massive Asian cosmopolitan with residents from different parts of Asia. The country is a former British colony and therefore has an interesting story of how it gained its identity and its demographic make-up over the years, with Indian, Chinese and Japanese influences all contributing somewhat to present day Malaysia. The city is bustling, but one of the things I appreciated about the town planning for this city is that they retained many green spaces across the city. The water fountains at Kuala Lumpur City Centre are worth checking out with a symphony light show at 8pm, 9pm and 10pm.

The Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur are easily the most famous Malaysian building but the country has so much more to offer than the giant towers. There are multiple museums across the city, many mosques and temples to reflect the diversity of residents who occupy the city. Just outside of this roaring city sits the Batu Caves, a natural wonder, which are a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugun (the god of wealth, wisdom and courage) whose golden statue stands at 42m tall. The shrine receives thousands of visitors every year, especially for the Thaipusam Festival at the beginning of each year. Visitors in attendance carry gifts in the form of food or milk to be presented at the shrine. Some shave their hair or have skewers pierced into their skin as a sign of penance. If you are going to visit the temple do not carry loose foods as the local monkeys that wander around the entrance of the temple occasionally try to grab at visitors’ bags. 

Over 100km South of Kuala Lumpur lies the city of Malacca. Malacca is full of stunning architecture and has several buildings and monuments preserved as UNESCO heritage sights. As a former Portuguese colony, the area is full of red lacquer buildings housing different museums, art galleries and other historical sites of interests to visitors. Further up north of Malaysia is another UNESCO heritage sight, known as George Town in Penang. The town was previously an important trading hub for the country and is characterised with quaint British colonial buildings, Chinese shop houses, mosques and temples. Due to the UNESCO heritage status the external appearance of these buildings cannot be changed. 

Malaysia also has fabulous rain forests which can accommodate some exciting hiking trails, views of tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands or a place to enjoy various indigenous flora and fauna. In addition, there are various coastal areas and islands around the country with and the water is welcoming for a cool down from the sometimes scorching heat. The beaches are lovely and a place for relaxation or water sport. 

The food culture in Malaysia is phenomenal with a unique fusion of Indian, Chinese and Malay cuisine. The night markets are not to miss and once you understand the principles of consuming street food, this is definitely worth experiencing. Also the nightlife is quite vibrant in Kuala Lumpur and definitely worth trying.