Split between the rugged and lush island of Borneo and the Malaysia peninsula, the country of Malaysia is a dichotomy of the old and the new that have been harmoniously brought together. The two separate regions, divided by the South China Sea could really be considered different countries with their own unique landscapes to explore. Visitors, be prepared to discover one of the greatest success stories of Southeast Asia, where differences have been honoured and fused together seamlessly to establish one of the most beautiful and richest cultures of the world.

Landscape and Climate

Despite the separation, there are of course, some similarities between East and West Malaysia. For starters, both enjoy a tropical climate along its coastal plains that rise into beautiful verdant forests and mountainous highlands. Meanwhile, the overall area is subject to the standard monsoons and humid conditions of an equatorial location.

However, while West Malaysia, featuring the capital of Kuala Lumpur, is generally well developed, it sits in stark contrast to the region of Borneo which still boasts local tribes and wild orangutans. Clearly this is a natural wonderland unlike any other and visitors are offered the unique opportunity to traipse through its treasures. Alternatively, you may opt for urban glory of the peninsula with some of the most impressive and awe inspiring high rises in the city of Kuala Lumpur.

History

Both Chinese and Indian kingdoms ruled the area in Malaysia's early history, with Srivijana Empire maintaining control through the 13th century. The 15th century saw the establishment of the Malacca Sultanate which was eventually conquered by the Portuguese until the Dutch established colonial rule. Meanwhile, as British settlements emerged on the peninsula, many of the local Malaysian communities turned to the British to help settle some of their own conflicts, with many states eventually coming under de facto British rule. Malaysia remained under British protection, except for a brief colonization by the Japanese until it was eventually granted independence in 1953 and has since been a Commonwealth state.

Getting There, Around and Enjoying your Stay

First and foremost, travellers to Malaysia are swept away by the breath taking high rises of Kuala Lumpur (KL), the international gateway to the country. International flights are serviced by most major carriers and there are hot deals abound.Meanwhile, Singapore serves as a handy stopover for many flights operating to and from KL with visitors from one city eagerly and easily hopping over to the other.

Once there, public transport within KL is efficient, clean and timely. Getting out of the city and around the peninsula is easily accomplished by bus, and they'll also take you to nearby Singapore or Thailand. However, visitors wanting to hop over to Eastern Malaysia and the island of Borneo may be surprised to find this journey is a bit more challenging. There is no physical connection between East and West Malaysia, and the only way to travel between the two is via domestic flight, usually to Kota Kinabalu in the state of Sabah or Bandar Seri Begawan the quiet capital of Brunei which sits near the north end of the island of Borneo. As a result, East Malaysia remains comparatively wild and untouched by development, a great natural haven for those seeking a picturesque holiday destination.

Culture and Cuisine

Malaysia is a melting pot of various cultures and a dynamic combination of local and exotic influences. The country is multi-lingual and many locals will speak up to four languages fluently. Malays are the most populace ethnic community, but you'll find many Chinese, Indian and other Southeast Asian populations all throughout the region. The food reflects these dynamic influences and you'll find a delicious sampling of ethnic dishes everywhere you go. Communities celebrate their own religious and cultural holidays, with the nation coming together for "Independence Day" on the 31 of August.

Travel to Malaysia - Fast Facts

Area: 329,000 sq km
Capital: Kuala LumpurPopulation: 28.3 million
Language: Malay, English is the primary language in many cities
Currency: Ringgit
Economy: GDP: $221 billion

DID YOU KNOW?

The Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, featured in the 1999 film Entrapment, starring Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta-Jones, were once the tallest buildings in the world. Standing at 452 metres high, they are still the tallest twin buildings in the world to date, with the infamous Sky Bridge connecting the two buildings. The bridge itself holds the world record for being the highest two story bridge in the world.

Wai Chim writes for Student Flights, selling cheap flights to popular destinations worldwide.