Breathtaking Islands in Sabah

For the past few weeks, we have brought you through lush green forests, interesting resorts, a walk with the turtles, and 'tasted' some delicacies in Sarawak. But we know there is something missing that you are trying to figure out so look no further because this week, we are bringing you to 3 breath-taking islands across Sabah!

1. Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is sitting 2000 ft. above seabed and is the most well-known island when it comes to scuba diving. In fact, it is widely recognized as the top 3 diving spot around the world.

Sipadan island is also well known for its biodiversity. Underneath the surface of the sea, you can find a handful of sharks, dozen varying species of turtles, schools of whirling barracudas and also a sea-bed of beautiful corals! However, it would be best to visit during the dry season which is around March to October.

2. Mabul Island

Mabul island is just 20 minutes boat ride from Sipadan island, It is populated with the native community and fishing as the way of sustaining their living.

Most visitor would prefer snorkeling over diving because of the result of overfishing in the past. In Mabul island, the reef is on the edge of the continental shelf and the seabed surrounding the reef slopes out to 25 to 30 m deep.

3. Kapalai Island

Kapalai Island also goes by another name called the 'magic island' because the island would be out of sight during high tide. It was an island with white pearly sand and vegetation 200 years ago but it was reduced to sea level due to erosion and what's left is a long stretch of bar.

It would be splendid to stay in the water chalet in Kapalai because you can enjoy the sea breeze and fishes would be entertaining you right below the chalet. On top of that, there will be marines strolling around at night to ensure the safety of the tourist.

Such tropical islands are believed to be the most effective relaxation places because of the nature environment and also water sports. But if water activities are not your cup of tea, sun tanning by the beach that is covered with white sand is also a way to relax your mind and soul.

So leave your busy schedule behind and head to Sabah to enjoy these beautiful islands.

TOP 10 FASCINATING TOURIST SPOT TO VISIT IN MALACCA

Malacca, an extraordinary city with a wealth of remarkable and precious heritage. Sightseeing around Malacca is simply cinch, either on foot or by opting the famous-must-ride trishaw which has been beautifully decorated for a memorable ride in the historical city. Malacca which has been a common route for tourists who goes to Kuala Lumpur, is regarded as a historic hub of Malaysia. It reflects the past times of the national landscape especially in the colonial years and also the culture of Baba-Nyonya or Peranakan culture.

1. Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

This is one of the most significant values in Malacca placed close to the Hindu temple Sri Pogyatha Vinoyagar along Jalan Hang Lekiu (in Jonker Street). Built in 1646, also recognised as the ‘Merciful Cloud Temple’ it is billed as the oldest Buddhist spot of respect in the country/ faithful to Kuan Yin, Goddess of Mercy. A black, gold and red-robed statue of the goddess stands in the central prayer hall. Cheng Hoon Teng temple was builted by Chan Lak Koa, son-in-law to Captain Li, Malacca’s second Chinese kapitan. (Malacca, n.d.)

2. Jonker Street

Jonker Street

Jonker Walk is a street in the historical Chinatown of Malacca starting just across the river from the Dutch Square. Being surrounded on both sides of the road with heritage houses dating back up to the 17th century, it is totally a walk in the time tunnel. Nowadays, the street houses have turned into shops selling street food, antiques, textiles, handicrafts and souvenirs.

3. Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum

Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum

The 'Straits Chinese', also called the Baba and Nyonya, are Chinese of noble descent who have embraced much of the Malay culture into theirs. (GoGoMelaka, n.d.) This has been on-going process over 400 years since the great Chinese explorer Admiral Cheng Ho first brought Chinese immigrants to Malacca. Over the eras, the Baba-Nyonya has advanced a distinct and highly remarkable culture that is rare on Malaysia's west coast, particularly Malacca. The public can now view the antique artefacts specific to this legacy at a fascinating reserved museum run by the Baba-Nyonya of Malacca. Within the walls of this tradition building, you can discover everything there is to know about this rare culture.

4. A’ Farmosa

A' Famosa

A’Famosa or known as "The Famous" in Portuguese is the prime landmark in Malacca. Built in 1511, it is among the oldest surviving European architectural remains in Asia. Previously it was a settlement stretching across the hillside, located downhill from St. Paul’s Church. The fort was almost demolished in 1810 by Sir Stamford Raffles. Nowadays, only Porta de Santiago, a small gatehouse, is the only part of the fortress salvaged from the destruction. It is a must go for tourist, and you can view the spectacular view of the city from the top of the hill.

5. Christ Church

Christ Church

This 18th-century Protestant church in the town of Malacca, Malaysia is the oldest operative Protestant church in Malaysia and is within the authority of the Lower Central Archdeaconry of the Anglican Diocese of West Malaysia. The Dutch take-over Malacca from the Portuguese Empire in 1641 saw the direction of the Roman Catholicism and the adaptation of existing churches to Dutch Reformed use. The old St. Paul's Church at the conference of St. Paul Hill was renamed the Bovenkerk (High Church) and used as the main town church of the Dutch community.

6. The Stadthuys

The Stadthuys

The Stadthuys which was built between 1641 and 1660 on the ruins of a Portuguese fort is believed to be the oldest-surviving Dutch building in the East. This massive bright terracotta-red riverfront building with prominent Dutch colonial architecture was once the official residence of Dutch governors and officers. The Stadthuys was reformed into a museum in 1982 displaying common Dutch colonial architecture with massive walls, louvered windows and chunky doors with wrought-iron hinges. (Quayside Hotel, n.d.)

7. Malacca River Cruise

Malacca River Cruise

Malacca River is the watercourse that cuts across Malacca town, flowing through the Straits of Malacca. Small boats transport tourist up and down the historical buildings, old warehouses (godowns), exotic mangrove stands, churches, and villages.  The tours last about 45 minutes in boats ranging from 20- to 40-seaters, and generally a minimum of eight passengers is required before departure. (Melaka River Cruise, n.d.)

8. Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum

Malacca Maritime Museum has been opened to the public starting from 1994. Being a facsimile of the Flor de la Mar, a Portuguese ship said to have been shipping wealth robbed from Malacca when it sank off the coast of Malacca on its way back to Portugal, this unique museum is an illuminating trip back into Malacca’s past. (Malacca, n.d.) The museum is divided into different eras that Malacca has gone through, from the Melaka Sultanate period, to Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. The Melaka Maritime Museum aims to highlight Malacca’s importance back in the day as ‘a regional and international business centre’. 

9. Taming Sari Tower

Taming Sari Tower

The Taming Sari Tower the first and only gyro tower in Malaysia so far was officially opened for business on the 18th of April 2008. With a height of 110 metres, this rotating tower provides a 360-degree panoramic view of Malacca town and beyond from the top. A magnificent view of Malacca as far as the eye can see, up to the Straits of Malacca, is clearly visible, especially in a good weather, with the Malacca River running through the grand panorama below.

10. Cultural Museum / Malacca Sultanate Palace

Cultural Museum / Malacca Sultanate Palace

The building is a contemporary rebuilding of the palace of the Sultans of Malacca. It is a showcase of the past of the region. Melaka Sultanate Palace is a wooden model of Sultan Mansur Shah’s 15th-century palace. Placed at the base of St. Paul’s Hill, it was carefully constructed in 1985 using old-fashioned building methods and resources, based on credits in the 16th century, Malay Annals text.

Paradise in the Forest, Negeri Sembilan

Are you yearning for a short getaway from the pressure from work and the sound of honking? Hoping for a secluded place to relax and pamper yourself during the weekend? If you wish to find a place to recharge and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul, the best choice is to unwind in the presence of Negeri Sembilan’s natural tropical rainforest!

Check out the top picks of forest resorts in Negeri Sembilan that you can wake up to every morning to the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, the rays of light through the trees. Fall asleep each night to the creaking of cicadas and crickets, the cool jungle air, the stars and clouds over moonlit skies.

1. The Dusun

The Dusun

The Dusun, a serene forest resort next to the Berumbun Forest Reserve of Negeri Sembilan. The Dusun was developed in 1984 and turned in to a forest resort in 2009. By sitting 800 feet above sea level, The Dusun not only offers a breathtaking view of greenery, but also a paradise for the aves.

Pool in The Dusun 

There are six different houses available, which is Berembun, a Malay-style house surrounded by the greenery forest which you can listen to the river gushes from Perling; Tembusu , an open-concept house surrounded by trees; Sora, a Japanese-style villa and Emas, a kampung-style villa with the view of the rolling hills. Apart from the rainforest view, there are also few daytime activities that you can do in this resort which is jungle trekking to the waterfall, explore the bird life nearby, visits an ostrich farm or get a traditional Malay massage.

2. Awanmulan

Get disconnected from the busy city, relax and enjoy peace and serenity at Awanmulan.  Awanmulan is located on a stunning hilltop which is about a thousand feet above sea level. It is only a short journey from the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur and it hideaway in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan. 

Awanmulan

It is not only a perfect short holiday destination for family and friends but also a romantic gateway for couples. You can choose from various rooms which are Teratak, offering an open air deck that looks out to greenery view while Sunrise, offers a sunrise views over the hills.

Greenery view from the room

There is also two different pools which is the jungle pool and the sky pool. You can enjoy the rising sun on the east and a view of the lush Berembun forest or facing hillside with a grand vista of a valley in this two pools. The pools here refrain from chlorination, and instead, salted water is pumped in for ocean-like freshness. 

Infinity Pool

3. The Shorea

You can have your forest resort gateway in The Shorea which is right next to the Berembun Forest Reserve located in Negeri Sembilan. It is an architect’s family retreat, which most of the resort is constructed by using mainly the shorea timber species which is sourced locally. 

The Shorea

You can choose from four different kinds of villas which is Shorea, Bougainvillea, Kemboja and Halia, every one of them provide views of lush greenery forest. 

Greenery view from the room

The Shorea also provides 2 pools which consist of an infinity pool and plunge pool. The infinity and plunge salt-water pool is an attractive feature here because both the pools do not contain chloramines. Hence, it is easy for the eyes and skin.

The infinity pool

They also provides few recreational activities such as exploring the beauty of Berembun Forest reserve with jungle trekking, breathtaking nature walk and there are four major waterfalls in the park which is about 30 minutes from the resort.

So what are you waiting for?

Start planning your short gateway to the forest resort in Negeri Sembilan right now!

TOP 8 ICONIC FOOD DISHES of SARAWAK

      Sarawak is one of the two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo known as Bumi Kenyalang. It consist of 40 sub-ethnic groups, each with their own culture, background, language and lifestyle. That is why, Sarawak is one of the best place for food in Malaysia.

1.       Sarawak Laksa

A perfect Sarawak Laksa

Sarawak laksa is a Sarawakian Chinese dish which has become so dear to almost every Sarawakian wherever they are. Sarawak laksa is essentially vermicelli rice noodles, cooked in shrimp-based broth and mixed with coconut milk and also laksa paste. It is normally topped with fresh bean sprouts, prawns, and slices of egg omelette, shredded steam chicken, a little bit of sambal paste and lime.

2.       Kolo Mee

The delicious Kolo Mee

The next must have while visiting Sarawak would be kolo mee. Kolo Mee is a local favourite food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even supper. Kolo mee is a flash-boiled noodle, served with garlic, shallots, barbecue pork (char siew),  and delicious minced pork. You can choose to add red cha siew sauce to your kolo mee to add in more flavor.

3.       Kueh Chap

Kueh Chap

The third food that you must try in Sarawak would be Kueh Chap. Kueh chap is a famous dish originated by the Teochew which contain a mixture of the pig’s intestines, bile, belly, skin from the head, meat, ear, fried tofu and and hard boiled egg. Kueh means the cake while Chap means ‘mixture’.  The condiment that goes with the dish is light sambal belacan with white vinegar. The black salty broth is quite similar to the other famous dish in Malaysia which is Bak Kut Teh.

4.       Midin

Midin Belacan

If you are only allowed to try one unique, local food in Kuching,Sarawak, make it midin. Midin is a famous wild fern dish which you can’t find in any state other than Sarawak. There are a few different ways to stir fry midin. It is usually fried with belacan chilli or sambal belacan. The other ways to cook midin is with just garlic or add a bit of red wine. It is appetizing and has crispy texture even after the cooking process.

5.       Ayam Pansuh

Ayam Pansuh fresh from bamboo

Ayam Pansuh is an emblematic Iban dish in Sarawak. Ayam Pansuh is also called Manok Pansuh which the chicken meat is cooked in a bamboo. It is stuffed with water, seasonings and covered with tapioca leaves from the cassava plant. The bamboo chicken is then sealed and cooked over burning wood or charcoal. Ayam Pansuh is a must have cuisine for the Iban and Bidayuh during festive season like Gawai Dayak. 

6.       Kampua Mee

Kampua Mee with pork rind

Kampua mee, which is also called Foochow mee, is originated from the Foochow from Sibu. Normally, Kampua mee is served with minced pork, BBQ pork and shallots with dark soy sauce but people nowadays has modernized it by adding crunchy roasted pork or pork rind. Kampua mee is now available in instant packaging which you can DIY at home.

7.       Sarawak Layer Cake

Sarawak Layer Cake with different patterns

In the Malay language, Sarawak Layer Cake is known as Kek Lapis Sarawak. Sarawak layer cake is mostly baked by the Malays during an occasion which is a necessity to serve to the guest during Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Nevertheless, nowadays you can see it being served during festive seasons like Chinese New Year, Christmas, Hari Deepavali and also Hari Gawai in Sarawak. Sarawak layer cake can be divided into two categories which is the ordinary layers and the one with patterns, motifs, or shapes. Each layer of the cake is tastefully interlaced with several flavors in between the original recipe and the modern taste. It is normally sold at RM10 - RM15 for a row.

 8.       Dabai

Dabai 

Dabai is an exotic seasonal fruit which you can only find in Sarawak. It is commonly known as or-kana for the local. Dabai are white in colour when immature and it will turn black when full-grown. To eat dubai, first you have to soak the dabai in hot water until it turns soft. Eating the skin is a personal preference. For taste, try either soy sauce or salt. You can also preserve it just by soaking them with dark soy sauce, coarse salt or sugar. The amazing fact about Dabai is the nut inside the seed. Just simply crack it open with a mortar and pestle set and use a toothpick to remove the nut. How fascinating is that?

Tourist Paradise: Perak

Perak is one of the largest states in Peninsular Malaysia with an area of over 21,000 km² (8,108sq.mi).  The state is placed along Malaysia's western coast at the northern retreat to the Strait of Malacca.

Perak is enriched with histories, cultures, folktales and heritages. It is the land of everlasting architectural glory, an island with sun, sea and sand including tropical forests. It is a beautiful vacation destination to find peace from the busy cities.

Perak also comprises several natural leisure parks and museums. For instance, the Kellie’s Castle. It was built by William Kellie Smith, a Scottish engineer precisely 100 years ago. It is located near Batu Gajah, a suburban district of Perak and it is a 20 minutes drive from the city of Ipoh. The construction started in 1915 but came to a halt in December 1926 with the unexpected death of Smith. There have been lots of legends and stories spreading around about the mysterious castle ever since.  

It is difficult to determine which is the best attraction in Perak but you can always visit the Sam Poh Tong cave temple if you like the traditional culture of Buddhism. Sam Poh Tong is a famous cave temple situated in Gunung Rapat. It is said to be the biggest cave temple in Malaysia. You will be able to see countless figurines of Buddha in the cave temple which can be easily found among the stalactites and pillars in the cave.

Other than that, the Lost World of Tambun could be your absolute first choice of places to visit if you are seeking for an adventurous, fun filled vacation. The Lost World of Tambun is claimed to be the most popular theme park in Perak and is located in the middle of the natural landscapes of the North-South Corridor of Perak. There are five primary components that light up this kingdom of adventure which are the Lost World Hot Spring, Tiger Valley, Water Park, Amusement Park and Lost World Petting Zoo.

On the other hand, for those who loves the Sun and sound of the waves, Pangkor Island would be your ultimate choice for beach. Imagine holding a glass of tropical juice in your hand, laying down on a beach bench under the shades of the coconut trees, enjoying the scenery as the sea breeze gently caress your face. You could just stay at this beautiful island for an incredible getaway with your friends and family or a sweet vacation with your significant other.

All of these priceless elements truly made Perak a tourist paradise.

After reading this article, be sure not to miss out this unbelievable state in Malaysia. What are you still hesitating for? Come quick and have fun in Perak!

The statue of Chinese ancient myth named “Journey To The West” in Sam Poh Tong cave temple.

The majestic entrance of Sam Poh Tong cave temple.

The breathtaking scenery of Kellie’s castle.

You can see the aged brick walls with old window frames as you walk into Kellie’s Castle.

The water chalet at Pulau Pangkor.

The longest inflatable tube rides in Malaysia.  –Lost World of Tambun Waterpark.

Relax yourself in the natural hot spring of Lost World of Tambun.

Tiger valley. - Lost World of Tambun.

Rare animals can be seen in the Lost World Petting Zoo. 

Small Town Story: Chinatown Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu, the capital of Terengganu state which is located at the east coast of Malaysia. It was upgraded to city status and awarded with the title "Bandaraya Warisan Persisir Air" (Coastal Heritage City) on 1st of January 2008.

Although Chinese only occupy 3.5% in the city, Kuala Terengganu keeps the historical Chinese settlement Chinatown (Mandarin: Teng Lang Po) since the 19th century. Chinatown has more than 200 years history, the old-designed shop houses and temples can be seen there. 

Ho Ann Kiong, the oldest temple in Terengganu was built by Hokkien community in 1801. Most of the Chinese pray or celebrate the festivals such as Chinese new year and mid-autumn festival there. Ho Ann Kiong has been a tourist spot and was rebuilt in December 2011 after the fire in 2010 which burnt 80% of the heritage.

Chinatown is not the place where to know the history but become the tourist spot in these few years after it changed the new looks. Chinatown was repackaged to attract tourists visit the small town by building some Terengannu's unique alleys. 

People well-known that turtle is the logo of Terengganu, Turtle Alley was created to emphasis the logo. Turtle in mosaic artworks are full in the wall and the ground of the alley, the sign to protect this rare species is shown in mosaic artworks also. A big turtle model is displayed for photo taking at the end after walk along with the mosaic turtles. 

Big turtle model at the end of the Turtle Alley.

"I Love Penyu", the slogan that remind people to protect turtles.

Mosaic artworks by kids show on the wall.

Mosaic turtles go along the Turtle Alley.

Apart from Turtle Alley, there are batik theme, umbrella theme and different themes of alley in Chinatown that attract local or tourist. 

Umbrella Street.

Telephone booth and the street art.

Couple Lock wishes the forever with the love one.

Batik theme shows the unity between each race.

Part of the batik design wall.

Combination of wall art and objects shows the tradition of Chinatown.

Colourful road sign gives the direct of the alleys.

Chinatown Kuala Terengganu is the place to discover the history and create the new memories. It is a a special place that cannot find in other place. We are glad to welcome you come Kuala Terengganu to have a visit.