Waterfalls in Terengganu

Chemerong Waterfall
Chemerong Waterfall, a highest waterfall in terengganu. Located 100 km away from Kuala Terengganu, a thunders magnificently down a 305 m slope which offer yet untouched and diverse riches of nature and wildlife. Take a plunge and enjoy the tranquility of this green wilderness with lush green unspoiled pools.
With all the basic amenities at its base, the jungle trekking to the uphill offers an adventure not to be forgotten. In the beginning it is cemented and will take about one hour to reach the top of the waterfall. This full day excursion requires some level of fitness, comfortable loose clothing and good walking shoes are recommended. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit! We also suggest that you take along a spare set of clothes to change into at the end of the walk.

Bewah and Taat Caves
Located in the national park, Bewah and Taat Caves are two towering limestone hills that abound with mysteries and legends. The mountains, occassionally shrouded in mists, provide some of the spectacular sights of lake kenyir that will surely captivate your imagination.
Before the inundation, Mount Bewah has three entrances and the lowest, the Tok Bidan Cave,now submerged, is the site where archaeologists and historians discovered artifacts such as kitchen utensils, axes and tools that dated back to the Neolithic era (4000 B.C.).You can now visit the Mount Bewah Caves through the two visible entrances while Mount Taat nearby has only one main entrance.lnside these caves you can see various shapes of stalactites and stalagmites and it is advisable to bring along a torch light when you explore these caves especially in Bewah where it is darker. Thought to be important ancient routes used by the previous people inhabiting the surrounding areas, Mount Bewah and Taat still hold many secrets of the past.
Further excavations are now being planned by the authorities to unravel its mysteries. Ketengah, with the cooperation from the State Museum and othergovernment agencies, has planned to provide proper access stairs to the two caves, apart trom basic amenities.
Among the other proposed development projects are a mini museum, a jetty, adesignated fishing area, lighting in the caves and picnic and resting sites. For the More adventurous, hiking trails within the vicinity will be provided. The caves are expected to become a top tourist atvaction once the basic facilities proposed are completed. Safe exploration of the caves by visitors would be the main priority in the proposed development strategies. Bewah and Taat Caves beckon anyone to uncover its mystenes, and definitely is worth a visit ! it takes approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours by boat to reach these caves from pengkalan gawi.

Lasir Waterfall
Lasir Waterfall is one of the many spectacular waterfalls within lake kenyir. A majestic fall about 500 feet high, lasir drops gracefully into multi-tiered levels of boulders forming cascading showers of white foaming sprays of water.
Ponds of water are available at each of the 5 levels of Lasir and one can enjoy a cold refreshing bath here. The fall, as at all falls in Kenyir, is well shaded by the canopy of the surrounding forest. You cannot actually tell which is colder, to stay in the water or out of it ! As with other falls within Kenyir, the area is proposed to be an activity-oriented or nondevelopment area whereby no large structure or heavy physical developmentwill be allowed. This is to ensure that the natural environment will not be hurt and spoilt.
Man-made structures will be built to coexist and blend with the natural surrounding. Lasir is located about 16 km to the south of Pengkalan Gawi and it takes about 30 to 45 minutes by boat to reach here. From Gawi, Lasir is the perfect choice for a family to have a splendid day at the waterfall! A flat area at the highest level would be an excellent camping site upon the completion of an access trail or pathway. Plans are on the way to label all the trees within the vicinity with scientific and local names, and this will definitely add Interesting information to visitors.
Lasir will soon have More facilities such as a jetty, a rest hut and a suspended bridge. Apan from these, facilities such as toilets, changing rooms and stairways will soon be available. To make it More Interesting, camping sites and jungle Trekking trails will also be provided. Visitors to Lasir will probably have to consider spending a few days More than initially planned !

Other Waterfalls Around Tasik Kenyir
Snok waterfall is a favourite spot for picnickers and nature lovers, the fall is beautiful sight of cascading water over rock terraces and boulders. A flat sandy ground found at the base of the falls is ideal for picnics.
Tembat waterfall is a beautiful gradual series of flowing water on boulders and ridges. It is composed of 5 rapids with fast flowing streams that form a cascading waterfall. Camping side and hiking trail are available by the waterfall. Other beautiful waterfalls in the vicinity of Tasik Kenyir are Petang, Lebam-Terengganu, Lata Terap and Pertung.

Saok Waterfall
Located on the eastern shore of Besar Island, it is a 15 to 20 - minute boatride from Gawi. A favourite spot for picnickers and nature lovers, the fall is a beautiful sight of cascading wateroverrock terraces and boulders. To feel the cool, rejuvenating water of Saok is simply an experience not to be missed. At the ground level, there is a flat sandy area perfectly sized for a whole family to have a picnic and for children to have a fun-frolic time ! The authorities have several development plans for the area. With the visitors' convenience in mind, structures such as walkways orfootpaths will soon be constructed. A new jetty is also planned to provide easier berthing for boats coming to and fro. Activities will also be carried out to beautify the surrounding landscape, apan from the basic amenities and facilities which will be constructed soon. Saok is a unique waterfall at Lake Kenyir, and a must - visit !

Tembat Waterfall
Located on the Tembat River, the waterfall is a beautiful gradual series of flowing water on boulders and edges. Unlike Lasir and Saok, Tembat is actually composed of five rapids with fast Nowing streams to form a cascading waterfall. It is a very popular spot for visitors and campers as there is a camping site by the fall which can accommodate a fairly large group easily. In addition, there is also a hiking trail which will enable you to reach the top and from that vantage point you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the waterfall. From Gawi to Tembat you only need a 45 to 60-minute boatride.

Kapas Island

Pulau Kapas means Cotton Island and is located about 5 nautical miles or 6km off the shore of Marang, Terengganu. This island is a place where many locals and backpackers go due to its fast accessibility from the jetty. You will be able to reach the island in 10 minutes time by speed boat from Marang Jetty. Marang is located 18km south of Kuala Terengganu, the capital of Terengganu state. Do not confuse this Marang town with Merang town. Merang town is located north of Kuala Terengganu.

The activities that you can do on this island are swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing, kayaking. Motorised activities such as bannana boats are not allowed here. As you dive or snorkel, you will be able to see colourful fishes, corals, turtles and other marine creatures within the vicinity of the island. The Duyong was once spotted on this island as well. Divers, take note that there is a World War II shipwreck north of Gemia island where you can go for your diving activity.


The resorts on Kapas Island are mostly spread out over three beaches on the western shore, facing the mainland. Accommodation here ranges from dorm rooms to moderately priced air-conditioned chalets. More luxurious accommodation is available on Gemia Island, a small islet just a few hundred metres northwest of Kapas.

Pulau Kapas means Cotton Island in Malay and this peculiar name is attributed to the pure white beaches that are the trademark of this island. The name comes as no surprise once you have walked along these beaches: the sand is soft and white and slopes gently into the crystal clear water.


Another reason why Kapas Island is popular is because of the excellent snorkelling in the waters surrounding the island. There is an abundance of corals and other marine life, visibility is good and the water is shallow and calm. Because the coral is mainly around the rocky edges of the island, you can still go swimming off the beautiful beaches, even at low tide.

Kapas Island may be easy to reach, but it is much harder to leave this island after being immersed in its beauty.

Perhentian Island

Located at the north-eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. About 21 km off shores the remote town of Kuala Besut. There are two lovely unspoiled island lie amidst exquisitely clear waters. Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian) and Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian) comprise the Perhentian Island, aptly named after henti (stop) as fishermen from mainland Kelantan and Terengganu have, for centuries, stopped over at the island for a rest or to shelter during a major storm. A rocky virgin jungle provides hour of adventures for trekkers who may chance upon flying fox, long-tailed macaques and monitor lizards, while the underneath marine life shows off a splendid garden of coral.

The islands remain relatively untouched and the only permanent inhabitants live in a small fishing village on Perhentian Kecil. Apart from footpaths that cut through the jungle, there are no roads on the islands. The only way to get around is by walking through the jungle or taking a sea taxi. If you tread carefully, you may even encounter some of the islands’ shy wildlife on the way, such as monitor lizards, fruit bats, squirrels or even the elusive mouse deer. Simple chalets and some moderately luxurious resorts line the picturesque beaches along with restaurants, dive centres and boat operators advertising their services with hand-painted signs.

Perhaps it is the stretches of white beach or the crystal clear water and the superior scuba diving. Perhaps it is the untouched forests or the relaxed atmosphere and unspoiled charm. We like to think that is a little bit of all of this that makes the Perhentian Islands the perfect place to stop and take some time out.

Redang Island Terengganu

Introduction
White sandy beaches, crystal clear blue sea, brilliant underwater world..... Redang Island is located at 45 km offshore of Terengganu. Redang archipelago comprises 9 islands, the Lima Island, Paku Besar Island, Paku Kecil Island, Kerengga Besar Island, Kerengga Kecil Island, Ekor Tebu Island, Ling Island, Pinang Island and Redang Island. This archipelago is abounds with marvelous marine fishes, turtles and coral reefs, ensuring a great snorkelling and scuba-diving experience. Redang Island which is approximately 7km in length 6km in width, is the largest of all other islands in the Marine Park.



The Redang archipelago has been designated as Pulau Redang Marine Parks Malaysia as to conserve the islands’ unique ecosystem. There are 500 species of live corals, more than a thousand species of invertebrates and almost 3000 species of fishes which includes manta rays, stingrays, sharks and whale sharks, all living in harmony in the reefs fringing the islands. It is a real heaven for divers.



Diving enthusiasts and underwater photographers will definitely be entranced by the sights of the islands, which are ranked among the best coral reef in the world. Among the attractions at the twenty over different diving spots, there are shipwrecks near Pinang Island, black coral garden as well as the mysterious submerged chamber, both located in the vicinity of Lima Island. And not Forgetting is the Mini Mount situated between Kerenggan Besar Island and Kerenggan Kecil Island. Redang waters also contains two historic shipwrecks. The H.M.S Prince of Wales and H.M.S. Repulse were sunk here during the WWII, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya.



History of The People

The early settlers of Redang Island were believed to have descended from the Bugis of Celebes, Indonesia. It was said that there were seven Bugis siblings traveled from Celebes to look for new settlement. One of the members, Batin Talib has finally decided to make Redang Island his new home. He established the first village faced towards the lagoon at Telok Kalong Besar on the east of the island. To shelter from the strong monsoon wind, he moved to a smaller island on the south which he named Pinang Island due to the betel nut palms (pinang) here. Another member, Batin Mina was said to have settled down in Perhentian Island and his sister Batin Cik Siti headed to Hulu Terengganu. The whereabouts of the rest Batins was however unknown.



Population of Redang Island

Today, Redang Island is a home for a community of nearly 250 fisherman families who are believed to be the descendents of the Bugis. They build their homeland in a new village at the left bank of Sungai Redang estuary, approximately 3 kilometers inland from the previous one. It has been characterized by rapid economic growth and improvement in most social indicators in recent years, mainly contributed by tourism and fishing industry.



Legendary Redang

It is always says that, the multi races Malaysian society has created an ideal environment to the country to nurture a rich cultural background with lot of legends. This is especially obvious in name of places.



Due to its strategic location, Redang Archipelago was once a traders' passage-by between Siam (Thailand today) and the Malaya Archipelago. It was a temporary anchorage for them in their miles long trading journey.



Among these passers-by, there was a trader from Terengganu, Awang Sulong Muda whose wife was Cik Hitam Pasir Panjang Muda Elok Terenganu. The Awang couples together with their lady-in-waiting, Dayang Sri Jawa and Hulubalang, Awang Selamat were used to stop and had their break in Redang Island in their trading route. They tided the fowls which they brought along at southeastern of the island which is called Pasir Macam Ayam (chicken-alike sand) today. The rock that this family tided their fowls is still standing there in the island until today, but one might wonder the size of the fowls when looking at the huge size of this rock.



Other than this fowls tided rock, there are two other rocks both embedded with each other standing on a hill in Teluk Kalong. These embedded rocks look very much like the rears of an elephant and therefore are called Batu Gajah (elephant rocks) by the local. Batu Gajah is believed to be the marine elephants or Gajah Laut which were turned into stones due to some unknown reasons.

The cultural rich condition in Malaysia has further enriched by mythos found in folk’s believes. The existence of Orang Bunian (the fairies) in legendary stories is no longer an unfamiliar topic.



In Redang Island, Orang Bunian were said to have resided at the five cluster stones, Batu Surat or Batu Bedung (letter stones) near Pasir Changar Hutang. It was very usual in those days that the villagers will come to these Orang Bunian to inform them of any kenduri (banguet) to be held. They will also inform the fairies of the number of guests expected. Then, on the day of the kenduri, a full set of crockery will appear from nowhere for the kenduri purposes.



Not far from here is another group of rocks, the Batu Tok Kong which, is a worshiping place for some devotees due to the belief that there are Orang Bunian reside here.

To the southeastern of the island is another worship rock, Tanjung Telaga Batu. The worshipping practices started due to a saying that there stayed a man called Syeikh Samarani who would grant requests. No one can tell how true is the saying but up to late 1970’s, there were still people placing their offering and requesting for favours.

The legendary of Redang Archipelago will never be completed if without the turtle like stone laying on top of a rock at Tajung Batu Pepanji, somewhere between Teluk Dalam and Pasir Changar Hutang. This turtle stone is said to be the guardian of all the turtles in Redang Waters.



Whether the fragrant reported by the villagers came from Puteri Mayang Mas who is reputed to reside at Pasir Mak Kepit or there are magic which made the water puddle in Pasir Gontang supplies inexhaustible water, it is all suggesting a room for the readers to imagine and buy-in. However this will never influence the mysterious of Redang Archipelago, instead has become part of its heritage which added to the fascination of these islands.



Marine Life

Garden Under The Sea

As the largest island among the Redang Archipelago, Pulau Redang is not only made famous by its white sandy beach but also the world lying beneath this crystal clear water which, is not only paradise for marine life but also for natural lovers. Snorkeling or diving in the sea around Pulau Redang is a breathtaking experience where, the water surrounding Pulau Redang is home to some 3,000 species of fish, 1.000 of species of bivalves and 500 species of reef-building coral.



Coral reefs are found in the shallow as well as the deep water around the islands. They are formed by gradual accumulation and transformation of tiny soft-bodied animals, closely related to sea anemones. One of the very common coral found in the waters of Pulau Redang is Staghorn corals. This reef-building corals are often found in shallow areas. They are green, brown or yellowish in colour and they provide shelter for a variety of small fishes and other sea animals.



In the deeper water there are sea fans, soft tree corals, cup coral and several species of nudibranch. Some deeper rocks are covered with leathery soft corals with some soft tree corals, cup corals, tunicates and sponges. Large giant clams are often found here.



Then on the sand itself are larger soft corals and sea fans, whip corals, table corals, mushroom corals, boulder corals, nudibranch, sea stars, cushin stars and sea urchin.



Perhaps you will agree that the glory of this underwater garden will eclipse if without the existence of fish. Fish chasing each other in the coral or swimming in groups in the dark blue sea like a group of patrolling soldiers, making this garden as fascinating and as colourful as the colour palette of an artist.



Shoaling fish such as jacks and snappers and rabbitfish, or groupers silver barracudas, clownfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, stingrays, hammerheads and Green turtles etc. is always surprises the divers. There have been a few times when divers have spotted a whale shark at Big Mount, one of the popular dive sites in Pulau Redang. And if you are lucky, you might spot a cuttlefish, squid and/or Eagle ray while snorkeling.



The best location for snorkeling on this island is found at the southern coast around the Pulau Pinang and Pulau Ekor Tebu. Below sea level, you will get to see some of the more beautiful sea creatures including the batfish, angelfish, boxfish and butterfly fish. There are also many multicolored creatures that eat off anemone, sponges and bivalves. For diving enthusiasts, there are about 18 dive sites around Pulau Redang, each has its own way to surprise the divers.



Conservation has been taken place by gazetted this island as one of the marine park in Malaysia in order to protect the marine life in this marine paradise. Activities such as fishing, collecting corals and marine life, and anchoring boats directly on the reef are prohibited within two nautical miles of these islands.



Did You Know?



Bioluminescent Ostracods (also know as Firefleas/Sea firefly) Found at front beach of Redang Reef Resort, The guide call as blue sand. Ostracods are microscopic crustaceans, typically 0.2mm to 2mm long but are readily fossilised and can occur in enormous numbers in some sediments. Ostracods inhabit in aquatic environment use bioluminescence during mating where the males will attract females to them. Males ostracods flash in a sequence as they swim to attract females. Bioluminescence is blue colour because all colors of light do not transmit equally through ocean water, so if the purpose of bioluminescence is to provide a signal that is detected by other organisms, then it is important that the light be transmitted through seawater. Blue light transmits best through seawater.



Turtles

Turtles has appeared on earth for more than 100 million years, to the age of dinosaurs, with the different that these living dinosaurs are still surviving through the decades, despite that environment on earth has been changing throughout the this period. Studies reports show that it is possible for a turtle to live for hundreds years of time, and this explains why the Chinese society treats turtles as a symbol of longevity.



Turtles are categorised according to its physical appearance, behaviour and nesting site. To your surprise, sex of hatchings is determined by the temperature of the surrounding sand, which a female turtle lays its eggs. A warm nest will result in mostly female hatchings while males are mostly come from a cooler nest.



There are seven recognized species of sea turtle in the world, which are divided into two families, Dermochelydae and Cheloniidae. The only species that is categorised in the Dermochelydae family is the Leatherback turtle The rest six species, i.e. Green turtle, Olive Ridley turtle, Hawksbill turtle, Loggerhead, Kemp’s Ridley turtle and Flatback turtle are all belong to the Cheloniidae family. Among these seven species, four choose to nest in Malaysia beaches.



Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

The name Leatherback turtle derives from its smooth leathery carapace or shell. Because of its star fruit-like leathery soft shell, the locals also call Leatherback ‘Penyu Belimbing’. An adult Leatherback can reach a length of 2 meters and weigh up to 900 kg. It is the largest turtle in the world.



Although leatherback breeds in the tropics, they spend much of their life foraging in very cold seas. Their body temperature raises several degrees above that of their environment. The powerful front flippers of these turtles enable them to swim for a long periods of time in the sea. They regularly dive to depth of over 400 meters with a recorded maximum depth of 1200 meters. Leatherbacks are excellent swimmers and divers, indeed.



In Malaysia, Leatherback nests only in beaches in Terengganu with Rantau Abang famous to be the major nesting concentration.



Green turtle (Chelonia mydas)

Green turtle or Penyu agar is called by this name because of its greenish soft body and jelly like substance. Unfortunately this special feature has also made them a very popular food in some restaurants. Green turtles are carnivorous in the first few days of their lives and subsequently become herbivorous. They feed on seaweeds and algae. An adult Green turtle can reach the length of 110cm and weight of 150kg. Female Green turtles can lay 140 eggs per nesting and each takes 50-70 days for incubation.



To date, Green turtles are among the most widely spread turtles in Malaysia waters with the nesting site can be found in Pulau Redang Pulau Perhentian and Cherating in east coast, Pantai Remis in west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and some other beaches in west Malaysia.



Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

The Hawksbill turtle or Penyu Karah derives it names from the hawk-like beak. Hawksbill turtle has hard attractive dark brown shell or shell with yellow and brown overlapping scales. This beautiful shell makes Hawksbill turtle a hunting target for the tortoise-shell jewelry trading which lead them to endangering. Adult Hawksbill has a carapace of 70-90cm and weighted up to 60kg.



Beaches in Pulau Gulisaan of Sabah is the major nesting site of Hawksbill turtle found in South East Asian region. However, this beautiful turtle can also been found in Pulau Redang of Terengganu.



Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)

Another species, which is found in Malaysia waters is the Olive Ridley turtle. Olive Ridley turtle is the smallest of all the turtle found in the world where an adult Olive Ridley is only 60-65cm in length and 35-40kg in weight. It is also called Penyu Lipas by the locals. Just like the name implies, Olive Ridley turtle has olive-green or gray colour shell. This turtle feeds mainly on shrimps, jellyfish, crabs and snails.

Although nesting of Olive Ridley in Malaysia is not concentrated and sparse, some nesting can still be found in Pulau Redang and beaches in Kelantan.



Conservation

Marine Park Regulation and Conservation

Marine park are ideal places for viewing the rich aquatic life that abound in Malaysia's water. There are 5 marine parks and tourist wishing to visit these parks must take note of regulations.



What is Marine Park ?

A Marine park is an area of the sea zoned as a sanctuary for the coral reef community which is considered as possibly the most productive ecosystem in the world, with its diversity of flora and fauna. Coral reefs are also important breeding and nursery grounds for many commercially important species of marine organisms and fish. Among the objectives of the marine park and Marine reserves are :



Preservation and protection of coral reef areas from the impact of development.

Upgrade and preserve the natural habitat of endangered species of aquatic life.

Establishment of zones for preservation of the aquatic flora and fauna and also for the purpose of research and educational activities.

Establishment of zones for recreational uses consistent with the carrying capacity of the area.



What are the benefits of Marine Park?

With the establishment of the Marine Park, the benefits are as follows:

The ecosystem and habitat of marine life will be protected and maintained

Rejuvenation of over exploited zones and their maintenance for the protection of endangered species of marine organisms.

Establishment of zones for research and educational purposes.

Establishment of zones for recreational uses and tourism.

Do's and Don'ts in Marine Park



Provisions for the establishment and management of the marine parks in the Fisheries Act 1985 allows for the control of the following activities. Permitted Activities :

- Underwater photography
- Swimming
- Observation and appreciation of the aquatic flora and fauna
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkelling



Prohibited Activities (except with permission) :

- Water skiing, speed boat racing and jet skiing
- Destruction, removal or collection of the corals
and other aquatic life
- Vandalizing and structure or object within the marine park
- Anchoring of boats over the coral areas.
- Carrying and using weapons that endanger aquatic life.
- Fishing in the park vicinity. (within a 3.2km radius)
- Discharging of pollutants and rubbish



Conservation fees

A levy of RM5.00 for adult and RM2.50 for children is charged for entry to all marine parks in the country.



Dive Site

Malaysia is renowned for its natural beauty but it is the coral reefs located primarily around these off -shore islands that will lure you to one of the best diving destinations in the world, the Redang archipelago. Suitable substrates, clear water with temperatures ranging from 27 ° to 31.5 ° C as well as salinity in range of 31 to 34 ppt are conducive to coral reef development and healthy growth of marine life. These conditions are just as suitable for you to explore the underwater realm of the following islands in comfort and ease.

Visibility generally depends on sea conditions but is excellent from the months of April till October. All dive spots are located within a 30 minute speedboat ride from the resort.



A. PULAU REDANG

Dive Site # 1. Tanjung Lang
Located on the northern tip of Pulau Redang, this spot offers a variety of corals such as hydrozoans, siphonophorans and anthozoans which include sea fans and sea whips as well as crustaceans and fish of different colours for all to feast their eyes upon. With a maximum depth of 60 feet, it is accessible to any certified diver.



Dive Site # 2. Tanjung Tok Kong
Situated a short distance away, this dive location offers an amazing array of marine flora and fauna till a depth of 80 feet. Sea turtles are an almost site of green and hawksbill turtles. Sights include feather stars; tube worms, nudibranchs and schools of tuna forming a magnificent screen right before you.



Dive Site # 3. Tanjung Gua Kawah
At a maximum depth of 70 feet, this dive spot is a must for those who are willing to brave the currents and waves. Rest assured that your efforts will be rewarded handsomely in the from of the marvelous underwater realm before you.



Dive Site # 4. Pasir Panjang
Just a stone's throw away from the resort, one is able to see fascinating species of corals and sea life living in harmony. With a maximum depth of just 40 feet, this spot could very well be your first taste of Redang. Not to be missed is the sight of the resident grouper recently christened KAREN.



Dive Site # 5. Batu Mak Chantek
Situated near Pasir Panjang, this spot which reaches down to 60 feet, is bountiful with colourful reef fishes and invertebrates including echinoderms, moluscs are well as feather stars and hydrozoans. Night diving here features the nocturnal world at its best.



B. PULAU PAKU BESAR
Dive Site # 6. Offering spectacular sights till a depth of 50 feet, this area is rather popular with local and foreign diving enthusiasts alike. This is no surprise as it is teeming with a diversity of marine organisms like Tubinaria, Tubastrea, mushroom and brain corals, staghorn coral plus giant clams, shrimps and crabs.



C. PULAU PAKU KECIL
Dive Site # 7. This island, an extension of Tanjung Tengah in Pulau Redang, is commonly included in any diver's itinerary as it offers a mix of soft corals, invertebrates and fish until a depth of 60 feet. Sights include staghorn coral, tube worms and moluscs.



D. PULAU LING
Dive Site # 8. The Northern Side.
This relatively shallow dive spot where maximum depth is at 60 feet is teeming with Acropora sp. coral, also known as staghorn coral, providing a nutriently rich home for an array of marine organism including anemones and small wrasses, bottlebrush worms, plychaetes, crustaceans and moluscs.



Dive Side # 9. Batu Chipor
Standing independently like a minute island off the coast of Pulau Ling, this rock is constantly washed over by he waves. Rich with sea fans and soft corals as well as unique shaped fish which include pufferfish reaching all the way down to 80 feet, it is a must for all to see.



E. PULAU PINANG
Dive Site # 10. Submerged Wreck
Located 40 feet below surface, this wreck is carpeted with corals and sponges. Reef fish including groupers and snappers as well as a variety of moluscs including cowries, helmet shells and spider shells plus an array of hermit crabs live in the deeper areas of the ship.



Dive Site # 11. Terumbu Kili
Another popular location for divers where inhabitants include soldier fish, black tip sharks and the majestic lion ish. Maximum depth is at 70 feet. Do look out for the magnificent array of hard and soft coral, sea fans, and feather stars.



F. PULAU LIMA
In a class of its own, this island is renowned for its beauty, this making it a diver's paradise.

Dive Site # 12. Terumbu Putih
Offering a maximum depth of 120 feet, only those willing to accept the dare rewarded with unbelievable pristine beauty of the sea whips, barrel sponges and reef inhabitants which included soldier fish, cardinal fish, sea-squirts, bryozoans and squid living here.



Dive Site # 13. Black Coral Garden
Venture to the depth between 90 to 110 feet and an underwater Garden of Eden filled with Antipathes sp. corals or more commonly referred to as black corals, will unfold before your very eyes. Also interesting are the sights along the way, which include sea fans, sea fans, sea whips, harp corals and a kaleidoscope of fish.



Dive Site # 14. "Mysterious Submerged Chamber"
A newly discovered dive spot with spectacular sights and sounds providing a serene surrounding to soothe all ills. Unbelievable? Come and experience it for yourselves. Be seen until a depth of 70 feet.


Dive Site # 15. The Southeastern Side
Pocked surface underwater housing minutes and colourful reef fish including pipefish and wrasses and bottom feeders such as schools of fusiliers and crustaceans can be seen until a depth of 70 feet.



Dive Site # 16. The Northeastern Side
Another area common among divers with the sea floor located 100 feet below the surface. Colours and shapes in the from of corals, sponges, sea-squirts, feather stars and fish will put a smile on any diver's face.



G. PULAU KERENGGA KECIL
Dive Site # 17. Feast your eyes on the Mini Mount at depth of 60 feet off the waters of this island featuring a unique blend of sponges, shrimps, moluscs, echinoderms and soft corals.



H. PULAU KERENGGA BESAR
Dive Site # 18. Uneven terrain offering caves and other crevices make this island popular among all divers. Maximum depth is at 60 feet. Marine life includes rainbow-like wrasses, clown fish, coral trout and delight looking nudibranches.



I. PULAU EKOR TEBU
Dive Site # 19. Divers will enjoy the sights along the steep walls located on the eastern side of the island. Corals found here include staghorns, vase corals, dead mans's finger and daisy corals. Not to be missed are the reptiles and rays roaming around freely in the sea. Located almost 100 meters off the coast of this island is a submerged reef with the maximum depth of 60 feet. It is abundant with fish of various size, shape and colour. An irresistible dive site!



Dive Sites Of Lang Tengah Island:
1. Goby Garden
2. Blue Coral
3. Batu Banyak Keras
4. Batu June
5. Terumbu Kuning
6. Karang Bahar
7. Tanjung Telunjuk
8. Batu Kuching
9. Batu Kapal
10. Terumbu Putih
11. Batu Bulan
12. Batu Broler
13. Tanjung Nibong
14. Karang Nibong
15. Karang Nibong Laut

Terengganu

Beach Land Paradise

Terengganu which overlooks the South China Sea on the east coast of Malaysia is another charming holiday destination. Its long coastline is endowed with truly magical beaches of white sand and washed by clear, warm waters. It is small wonder, that this east coast paradise is renowned for activities such as beach-combing, sea sports, fishing and boat-making. Its numerous islands offer ideal getaway spots for sun-worshippers and diving enthusiasts or simply for pure relaxation. Among the islands that are certain to enrapture its visitors are the marine parks of Redang, Kapas, Perhentian and Tenggol. Redang in particular offers excellent dive sites and its superb coral reefs abound with an amazing diversity of marine life.

Between May and September each year, at Rantau Abang, 60 km south of Kuala Terengganu, visitors gather to watch giant Leatherback turtles clamber ashore to lay eggs. Some of the turtles weigh as much as 375 kg and measure 2.5 m in length. It is a rare treat to take in the sight of the creatures laboriously digging holes in the sand to lay eggs, covering them again and heading back into the sea. This spot is acknowledged to be one of the six in the world where this rare phenomenon unfolds.

Despite the offshore oil and gas activities, life in Terengganu is still less hurried compared to some other Malaysian states. This is apparent in the quaint villages as well as the towns. Kuala Terengganu is the capital town and places of interest include the State Museum, Central Market and Istana Maziah. 6 km away from the town at Chendering, is the Sutera Semai Centre, the country's first silk weaving venture which offers interesting insights into the whole process of silk-weaving. It is also the site of the Malaysian Handicraft Centre. Near the mouth of the Terengganu River at Pulau Duyong, you can see skilful boat builders constructing colourfully decorated vessels purely from memory. At Rusila, just outside Kuala Terengganu, visitors can watch local artisans weaving exquisite handicrafts such as baskets and mats as well as beach and fishing activities.

On the extreme west of the state, Tasik Kenyir, South East Asia's largest man-made lake is a major tourist attraction. The huge lake with its hundreds of islands, numerous caves, waterfalls and luxuriant tropical jungle is a paradise for a wide range of outdoor activities like fishing, swimming, canoeing, trekking, cave exploration and camping. For golfing buffs, there is a fabulous golf resort with a panaromic sweep of the lake. The Sekayu Recreational Park, west of Kuala Terengganu, is a popular picnic spot famous for its series of seven cascades making up the Sekayu waterfalls and its orchards.

Chinatown in Kuala Terengganu is favoured by most travellers as the best place to visit on the island. But what first introduced this island to the public is the discovery of oil around the area of Kuala Terengganu.
Visitors may notice the overall looks of the shophouses first, as it is unlike any ordinary chinatown shops. The shophouses here gives out an old feel to it, the wooden tables, books which are decades old, and familiar scents of the past. Some shops there sells similar products, but different quality. Visitors can look around to see what they would want to purchase. The most recommended purchase would be the reprinted version of art pieces by a well known local artist, Chang Fee Ming. There are many other artworks to look around too, as well as batik for sale. Shops there mostly closes in the late evening.
Sometimes visitors can also spot fishermen coming back from the sea with their catch.

Another Place of interest in Pahang

The Royal Palace
While Kuantan is the administrative capital of the state of Pahang, Pekan is its royal capital. PLACES OF INTEREST include The Royal Palace, the State Museum and silk weaving centre. The ruler of Pahang, his royal highness the sultan, resides at the magnificent palace in Pekan. A stopover to view this authentically fascinating malay palace is worth your trip to Pahang. If you happen to be there during the celebrations of the ruler's official birthday on 24th of october, you would be able to witness the annual outburst of culture and tradition of this special town.

The Tun Razak Memorial Hall
Dedicated to the second Prime Minister of Malaysia, this memorial hall houses some of the late Tun Abdul Razak's personal effects and memorabilia. Completed in 1994 the showcase depict aspects of the life of Tun Abdul Razak, an historic figure in the early days of the nation's development.

The house where Tun Abdul Razak was born has been rebuilt on its original site and in the exact style of the day. The house displays the characteristic 3 section construction, comprising a threshold, the 'ibu rumah' (the house proper) and the kitchen.

Measuring 8.5 metres by 14.15 metres, it offers the visitor a life like experience of the atmosphere of a typical Malay village house at the turn of the century.


Pulau Keladi Cultural Village
Located in the royal town of Pekan the cultural village primarily consists of the 'kampung' house where tun abdul razak was born, the tun abdul razak memorial hall the penghulu's (village chief) office and the Pahang Silk Weaving Centre.facilities available in the cultural village include a recreational area by the river, a service counter, an exhibition and display centre, handicraft and souvenir stalls, malaysian style food and refreshments, public restrooms and carpark.

Royal State Museum
A visit to Pekan would not be complete without browsing around the State Museum. Located at jalan sultan ahmad, the museum houses a fairly large collection of ancient chinese glassware and ceramics. The old history of Pahang and its ancient kings is also well documented here.



Pahang Silk Weaving Centre
Pahang proudly boasts of the quality of its silk produced here at Pulau Keladi, Pekan. Its traditional intricate weaving method has been passed down for generations. A wide array of silk scarves and fabrics are on sale at the centre.

Place of Interest
Nature and Adventure
Kuantan
. Kuantan
. Gua Charah
. Gunung Tapis Park
. Indera Mahkota Agricultural Park
. Kuantan infocraft
. Lake Chini
. Sungai Kenau
. Sungai Pandan Waterfalls
. Tanjung Pelindung
. Turtle Sanctuary and Information Center

Pekan
. Pahang Silk Weaving Centre
. Pekan
. Pulau Keladi Cultural Village
. State Museum
. The Royal Palace
. The Tun Razak Memorial Hall

Taman Negara
(National Park)
. Taman Negara

Jerantut
. Jerantut
. Kota Gelanggi
Kuala Lipis
. Empang Jaleh
. Kenong Wildlife Park
. Kuala Lipis
. Merapoh

Bentong
. Air panas Bentong
. Bentong
. Chamang Waterfalls
. Lentang Forest Recreational Park

Temerloh
. Gunung Senyum Cave
. Lake Bera
. Temerloh

Raub
. Jeram Besu
. Lata Jarum
. Raub

Kuala Rompin
. Endau Rompin Park
. Kuala Rompin
. Tanjung Gemok
. The Orang Asli


Island and Beaches
Tioman Island
. Tioman Island
. Tioman Marine Park
. Tulai Island

Kuantan
. Balok & Beserah Beaches
. Chendor Beach
. Cherating Beach
. Teluk Chempedak Beach
. Ular Island

Pekan
. Nenasi Beach

Kuala Rompin
. Lanjut Beach
Highlands
. Cameron Highlands
. Fraser's Hill
. Genting Highlands

CHERATING BEACH

LOCATION:
From Kuantan city, head north for about 45 minutes. The should be ample signboards that will lead you to Cherating. From Kuala Lumpur, Kuantan city is a breezy 2.5-hour drive away on the scenic East Coast Expressway (ECE). Alternatively, there are 2-3 daily flights from KLIA to Kuantan (KUA) on Malaysia Airlines (MH). AirAsia (AK) does not fly to Kuantan.

DESCRIPTION:
The eternal lure of Cherating is embodied by the decision by the Club Med hotel chain to establish Asia's first Club Med resort here many years ago. Since then, various international class hotels and resorts sprouted along this long beach stretch.

What is known as Cherating is actually a series of different beaches with different access points. If you are driving from Kuantan, the row of medium-class resorts such as The Legend, Holiday Villa, and De Rhu Beach Resort should mark the starting point of the beach area. Another 10 minutes further, there is a small right-turn into the rustic village of Kampung Cherating. Further up on the main road brings you into Club Med Cherating. One may not be able to enter the resort (unless you are a hotel guest), but the beach fronting Club Med Cherating should be for everyone to enjoy. Then, little further is the area of Chendor beach where Suria Cherating and Impiana Resort are located.

I think the beauty of Cherating is immortalized by foreigners in its rustic villages - small roads with kampong-style chalets that can be rented cheaply, and the basic lifestyle of the people here. The actual beach is some distance away - I estimate that one need to walk for about 1-km, passing through an expansive natural lagoon area. There are necessity shops here; mini grocery stores, internet cafés, local handicrafts and food outlets.

Right at the Club Med's entrance is a turtle hatchery centre operated by local Marine & Fisheries Department. You can see hatching turtle eggs being buried in the warm sands. To be honest, I'm not really sure where do the turtles land in Cherating area - most likely the areas are closed to the public as a measure to arrest further decline in turtle population in the East Coast.

Taman Negara Pahang

Welcome to the world's oldest tropical rainforest.

Taman Negara National park spread out over 4343 sq. km of the formidable Titiwangsa Mountain Range ,one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. A sanctuary to hundreds of species of birds, butterflies, insects, fish and plants. Home to Malaysia’s friendly aborigines, the Orang Asli. A shy yet gentle race, they continue to live the nomadic way they’ve lived for centuries although fully aware of the country’s fastest-paced progress.

Come discover the living treasure Mother Nature has to offer. Whether it’s shooting thrilling rapids, exploring spectacular caves, tackling a 20-pound fish, scaling up Peninsular Malaysia’s highest mountain, trekking through dense, tricky forest pathways or swimming in crystal clear pools, Malaysia’s National Park is a nature paradise you must experience. An adventure of a lifetime awaits you.

To experience the full glory of the tropical rainforest there is perhaps no better place on earth than Taman Negara (National Park). Legally declared an area for conservation in 1938, the 135 million year old Taman Negara is a haven for the nation’s flora and fauna.

Jungle tracks, campsites and the Taman Negara Resort have all being constructed to blend with the natural surroundings, to be in harmony with the forest. Many structured have been built strictly for the observation and appreciation of the grandeur of the towering forest and its inhabitants.

Having enjoyed protection for almost 60 years a wealth of undisturbed habitats exists for the intrepid explorers to discover. You can take day or night time jungle walks or stay in a hide and maybe catch a glimpse of some of the 250 or so species of fauna that exists within the parks boundaries, from hornbills, pheasants and kingfishers monkeys, gibbons, wildboar, deer, tapir, and maybe even an elephant or tiger. Six observation points have seen set up specifically overlooking salt licks and grassy clearings for the observation of wild, often shy animals. These hides allow the visitor to spend a night away from the resort to observe the nocturnal activities of the animals of the forest. Activities within the Park are primarily nature based, taking full advantage of the many streams, rivers, caves hills and the forest itself. Enjoy a bracing swim in cool waters, a full day’s trek, a boat ride and even a spot of angling should you so desire.

A visit to Taman Negara, however, is not complete until you have done the canopy walk. The world’s longest such walk, it winds over 400 meters in the forest canopy allowing you to view the rich and diverse flora and fauna at the very summit of the forest, 25 meters above the ground.

Orang Asli guides can be engaged for excursions to specific areas in the Park, such as the various caves. A visit to the orang Asli settlement is also worthwhile here.

Accommodation in the Park is at the jungle lodge, chalets and a hostel, all with basic facilities. Superior rooms at Taman Negara Resort are air-conditioned and have private bathrooms.

Campsites and camping equipment are available for hire and restaurants in the Park serve an international cuisine.

Taman Negara, Taman Negara Pahang

Pahang River

Pahang River or (Sungai Pahang in Malay) is a river in the state of Pahang, Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula. With 459 km in length, it is the longest river on the Malay Peninsula. The river begins at the confluence of Jelai and Tembeling rivers on the Titiwangsa Mountains and drains into the South China Sea.

River course
From the mountainous upper reaches of Mount Tahan (2187 m) or locally called Gunung Tahan, it meanders in a south-easterly direction, passing Kuala Lipis, Temerloh, Chenor, Mengkarak and turning east at Lepar into the floodplain of Pekan, Kuala Pahang and drains in the South China Sea.

History
The banks of Pahang River was settled as early as 1400 by warriors and seafarers from around the Malay Archipelago such as Aceh, Riau, Palembang and Sulawesi, forming settlements. The earliest historical records of Pahang River, the riverine habitants or the people of Pahang were found in the Sejarah Melayu (Malay Annals) and Hikayat Munshi Abdullah.

Historical Sites of Pahang River
Many historical sites can be found along Pahang River. Among the sites is Makam Lubuk Pahang. This tomb is situated near to Kampung Jeranggang. This burial site consists of the tombs of Sultan Abdul Jamil, Datuk Budiman and Puteri Buluh Betong, the consort of Sultan Abdul Jamil. Their death were associated with attacks from Aceh in 1617. Sultan Abdul Jamil and Datuk Budiman were killed by Seri Mahkota Alam from Aceh. The bodies of Sultan Abdul Jamil and Datuk Budiman were buried side by side with their heads facing the Pahang River. Sultan Abdul Jamil's tomb is on the right whereas Datuk Budiman is on the left of the Sultan's tomb. Puteri Buluh Betong was buried at the foot of their tombs.
A fortress and a castle, which was mentioned in "Sejarah Melayu", described as Kota Biram or Kota Pahang (Buyong Adli 1984, 26), was completely destroyed. On that site, a building for the British Resident was erected. It was later converted into a palace for the Sultan. Now it is the Sultan Abu Bakar Muzium.

Environmental History: Pahang River was connected with Thailand, Vietnam and Borneo
During the Pleistocene epoch or Mesolithic period about 10,000 years ago, there was a 5 degrees Celsius drop in the global temperature. At mountaintops, rainfall as snow and accumulated as huge icy sheets (including Mount Kinabalu), thus making a break in the global hydrological cycle. Due to lack of water discharge into the sea, there was a 120-meter drop of sea levels from the present time. The South China Sea dried up, exposing the Sunda Shelf and previous deep trenches became huge ancient rivers called the North Sunda River.
Asian Mainland, Malay Peninsular, Sumatra and Java became connected to Borneo via the landbridge of exposed Sunda Shelf. The North Sunda River provided vital connection to Mekong River in Vietnam and Chao Phraya River in Thailand to the north, Baram and Rajang rivers in Sarawak to the east and Pahang River and Rompin River to the west of the massive land mass. Freshwater catfishes from those rivers migrated and mated to exchange their genetic materials about 10,000 years ago. Thus, after the Holocene, when the temperature increased, the landbridges and Sunda River were inudated and the catfish populations were isolated. However, their genetic motives are still in the DNA as an evidence of the previous connections of Pahang River to other isolated rivers in Indochina and Borneo.

Towns along the river
Jerantut is 15 km from the confluence of Jelai river and Tembeling River. Temerloh is situated on the confluence between Semantan River and Pahang River. The town of Pekan, which is Pahang's royal town, is situated on the southern bank of the river,near the river mouth.

Pahang

Places to visit in Pahang



Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is Malaysia's lagest and best-known hill resort. Discovered by, and named after William Cameron, a goverment surveyor who, in 1885 explored the area by hacking a path up through dense jungle and came across, "A fine plateau shut in by mountains". At 1524m above sea level the area enjoys a cool climate, with temperatures no higher than 20°C and rarely falling below 10°C, a welcome change to the generally oppressive heat and humisity at sea level.
Without doubt the most interesting aspect of a visit to the resort is its tea plantations, the first of which were established in 1929 by John Archibald Russell and belong to the most famous Malaysian tea producer, Boh Tea. The estates are wonderfully manicured and visitors are welcome to view the factory production process and enjoy a cuppa' at the tea shop. Other interesting places to visit include the numerous vegetable farms dotted all around the area. There are also strawberry farms, flower nurseries, butterfly farms, a challenging 18 hole golf course and for the more adventurious various jungle treks. The three main highlands towns are Ringlet, Tanah Rata and Brinchang with most visitors staying in and around the latter two. Accommodation varies from small inexpensive hotels and guest houses, to self-catering apartments and first class hotels. Any time of year is suitable for a visit, but try to avoid the main public and school holiday periods as the area can become very busy. It is also best to be prepared for the 2 hour journey from the entry point at Tapah to Tanah Rata, the drive is not steep and is extremely interesting, but the road is quite narrow and very winding, so drive carefully and try to stop occasionally to enjoy the various sights along the way. These include the impressive Lata Iskandar waterfall, amazing tropical vegetation and various Orang Asli (indigenous people) dwellings. Without doubt Cameron Highlands is the place to visit on Peninsular Malaysia.

Taman Negara
Peninsular Malaysia’s most popular rainforest park is spread out over 4,343 sq. km. of virgin jungle. Millions of life forms call this place home – Colourful birds, glittering insects, nocturnal animals, shiny fish – these are some of the creatures you’ll see when visiting this park.

Tasik Bera
Lake Bera is Malaysia’s largest lake at 35 km long and 20 km wide. Eco-lovers will be thrilled to find nearly 328 species of flora that live on the edges of the lake as well as 50 mammal species. The lake has about 95 species of fish, making it a fantastic place for fishing.

Lake Chini
Both located in Kota Bahru, the Craft Museum houses many fine examples of Kelantanese craftsmanship in the form of wooden and silver articles. The Handicraft Village, on the other hand, demonstrates how items such as Batik, ‘Songket’ (prayer hat) and other embroidery are made. These products also go on sale here.

Jeram Besu
The Besu rapids are a prime destination for white-water rafting. Located 30 km away from Raub town, Jeram Besu is popular with rafting enthusiasts. Navigate down precarious boulders as you slide through fast-flowing waters in jittery canoes. Other activities you can do here include abseiling, off-roading and caving.

Kota Gelanggi Caves
The Kota Gelanggi Caves are located 30 km east of Jerantut and was once a home to prehistoric communities. Geological formations dot the caves and if you’re lucky, you may chance upon artifacts from the Stone Age or even bones.

Gunung Senyum Recreational Forest
The main attractions of this beautiful forest are the Gunung Senyum and Jebak Puyuh Caves, favourites among researches for their abundant cave life, fossils and rock formations. Gunung Senyum is about 40 km away from Termerloh town.

Deerland Park
This deer sanctuary houses not only deer, but ostriches, peacocks and even a sun bear! Located in Lanchang, about 140 km away from Kuantan, the Deerland Park is an interesting place to visit. Besides the animals, there is a Nature Garden which grows a variety of herbs and plants.

Cherating
Arguably Pahang’s most popular beach, Cherating feels a lot like Hawaii in a tropical climate. Just 47km away from Kuantan, the capital, Cherating is home to a whole range of water sports and one Club Med. The excellent wind conditions facilitate windsurfing and kite flying and occasionally, you get to ride some pretty tall waves.

Tioman
The island of Tioman is one of Pahang state’s hidden gems. Said to be the final resting place of a dragon princess, Tioman’s beaches are unparalleled in beauty. The waters hold a rich stretch of corals and aquatic creatures such as moray eels, Napolean fish, golden-stripped trevally, bumphead parrotfish and black-tip sharks. In Tioman, you can admire the seabed by diving or through a glass—bottomed boat. Evening walks on the beach will reward you with a spectacular sight of the horizon as the sun burns into the background.

Arts

Frieze depicting Malaysian history at the National Museum

Kuala Lumpur is a hub for cultural activities and events in Malaysia. Among the centres is the National Museum which is situated along the Mahameru Highway. Its collection comprises artifacts and paintings collected throughout the country.

Kuala Lumpur also has an Islamic Arts Museum which houses more than seven thousand Islamic artefacts including rare exhibits from China as well as a library of Islamic art books.This museum features some impressively decorated domes and large open exhibition spaces. It is located at Jalan Lembah Perdana next to the National Mosque.

The premier performing arts venue is the Petronas Philharmonic Hall. The resident orchestra is the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), consisting of musicians from all over the world and features regular concerts, chamber concerts and traditional cultural performances.
Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park at night.

The National Art Gallery of Malaysia is located on Jalan Temerloh, off Jalan Tun Razak on a 5.67-hectare (14.0-acre) site neighbouring the National Theater (Istana Budaya) and National Library. The architecture of the gallery incorporates elements of traditional Malay architecture, as well as contemporary modern architecture. The National Art Gallery serves as a centre of excellence and trustee of the national art heritage.

The Petronas Art Gallery, another centre for fine art, is situated in Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). The Galeri Tangsi near Dataran Merdeka houses exhibitions of works by local and foreign artists.

The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac) in Sentul West is one of the most established centres for the performing arts, notably theatre, music, and film screening, in the country. It has housed many local productions and has been a supporter of local and regional independent performance artists.One of the highlights in 2006 was the KL Sing Song 2006 music fest which featured Malaysian singer-songwriters of various cultural backgrounds, from both West and East Malaysia, through two days of performances and workshops.

Kuala Lumpur holds the Malaysia International Gourmet Festival annually.Another event hosted annually by the city is the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week,which includes international brands as well as local designers.

Royal Selangor has an ultra modern Visitor Centre, which allows tours to be conducted through its pewter museum, gallery and its factory. In its pewtersmithing workshop, "The School of Hard Knocks," participants are taught to create their own pewter dish using traditional tools and methods.

Place to shop in Kuala Lumpur

Suria KLCC
The Suria KLCC shopping mall is nestled between the world's second tallest structures, the Petronas Twin Towers. An up market shopping mall, the choice and standard of shops here reflect its classy atmosphere but the mall still attracts many locals, wealthy or not. The mall has six levels of retail outlets that include big names in categories fashion and accessories. These include Marks & Spencer, Tiffany & Co, DKNY, Calvin Klein and Polo. The famous Japanese department store Isetan has a branch here along with a Japanese book store called Kinokuniya.
The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra Theatre is also located inside, along with a nice range of cafes, dining establishments and Cineplex theatres. Besides shopping, visitors can also visit a nice, landscaped park that fronts the mall from the back which is complete with fountains, jogging trails and mini pool. The mall is connected via a tunnel to Aquaria KLCC and a LRT station.

Mid Valley Megamall
The Mid Valley Megamall is an extremely popular mall that's also one of the biggest in Southeast Asia. Located near Bangsar facing the Federal Highway, the mall has an area that is 4.5 million square feet in total, which consists of the mall, office blocks, a boulevard and two hotels. Since opening in 1999, it has attracted droves of visitors and shoppers for its wide variety of shopping outlets, entertainment features and dining opportunities.
Its anchor tenants include big department stores and hypermarkets such as Jusco, Metrojaya and Carrefour. There also two large food courts while the boulevard area has some nice international restaurants. Retail outlets inside Mid Valley cover a wide scope which includes but is not limited to; fashion, electronics, computers, gifts, souvenirs, groceries, appliances and much more. Many famous designer brands have shops here, as well as popular names in watches and diamonds. Mid Valley truly offers a great shopping experience to both locals and visitors.

Berjaya Times Square
Times Square in Bukit Bintang is one of the latest shopping malls to hit the Klang Valley. With a massive 3.4 million square feet in total build-up area, the mall is stacked with shops galore. However its sheer size is not so evident from outside, as most of the space comes from having many floors, making into a tower-like mall. An adjoining hotel and office block completes its architecture, giving the appearance of a modern, European-like twin tower block.
The mall accommodates up to 1,000 retail outlets with 65 of them being restaurants. In addition, there is an indoor theme park called the 'Cosmo's World Theme Park' and a massive 2D and 3D cinema theatre dubbed the 'Imax Experience'. Stores within the building range from fashion to toys and books to musical instruments. Avid bookworms will be delighted with the Borders bookstore, the largest in Southeast Asia.

Bukit Bintang and Sungai Wang Plaza
These two plazas located in Bukit Bintang have a long history in Kuala Lumpur. They are both connected and housed within the same structure, though the administration is different. Today, it remains one of KL's most popular shopping malls for its sheer number of establishments and trendy shops with a culture for bargaining.
These two malls are the place to look for wild and unorthodox fashion with a distinct Chinese flavor. You can also get a good number of electronics, especially cell phones and other mobile accessories.
In addition, there are a large number of Chinese restaurants and avant-garde cafes where you can feast on some delicious food. Otherwise, you can binge in fast food outlets such as McDonald's and Kentucky Fried Chicken. As the space is tight, weekend visits can get pretty claustrophobic with the sheer amount of local shoppers.

Lot 10 and Star hill
Located in Bukit Bintang, the Lot 10 shopping centre is a popular haunt for mid-market shoppers. The main tenant is Isetan, a Japanese department store that stocks a good range of goods from groceries to electronic appliances and clothes to tools, many of them being Japanese brands. However, there are many other retail shops selling things from gifts to books inside.
Next door is the Star hill Plaza, an up market shopping centre that's run by the same management of Lot 10. The plaza has a distinct level of luxury and class in its trimmings, décor and choice of shops which include famous designer brands in watches, jewellery, fashion and leather good. A large chandelier hangs from the ceiling, overlooking the many levels of shops below giving this place the feel of richness.

Pavilion
The Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is the latest shopping mall to open in the Bukit Bintang area. This posh and trendy shopping mall has a European design and contemporary environment, with classic grey hues to the walls. At seven storey’s-high, the Pavilion has over 1.37 million sq ft of shopping space with an exciting array of designer brands and fashion goods among the retail outlets.
The luxurious surroundings are evident in the fine marble floors, stone pillars and columns that permeate the building. The bottom floor has a wide range of dining outlets that include local food and international cuisine housed in fancy restaurants and posh food courts. In addition, the mall has a wide-open public space fronting its entrance, complete with al-fresco cafes and modern landscapes lining the surroundings, providing a feel of walking in a street of 20th century Europe.

One Utama
The One Utama shopping centre in Bandar Utama, is one of Petaling Jaya's largest and popular malls. It consists of two wings connected directly to each other over a wide road. With a total build-up area of over 5 million sq feet, One Utama has over 600 shops that cater to a wide range of shoppers retailing fashion accessories, electrical appliances, pets, knick-knacks and other merchandise.
The mall has several prominent sections meant to entertain visitors, including a Rainforest House, which is a zone planted with over 100 species of flora and dotted with al-fresco cafes and restaurants. The entertainment section on the other hand, has cinemas, a bowling alley, karaoke lounge and indoor rock climbing gym. As the mall is extremely wide, be prepared to walk quite a distance to cover all the shops!

Sunway Pyramid
Sunway Pyramid, located in Sunway of Petaling Jaya, has a distinct Egyptian architecture in its outlook. When it was first built, it was one of the biggest and most popular shopping centres in the Klang Valley, but it has been superseded by more recent mega-malls. With a total build-up area of over 2.5 million sq feet, the mall houses more than 350 outlets that retail fashion clothing, accessories, shoes, jewellery, timepieces, music, videos, gifts, souvenirs, leathers, books and electrical products.
For entertainment, Sunway Pyramid was the first mall to incorporate an ice-skating rink which is still popular today. In addition, the mall has a 48-lane bowling alley and cinema halls. The boulevard outside the mall entrance has some fine restaurants, cafés and pubs, some of which are al-fresco. During the night, many young people flock to this area to enjoy the entertainment opportunities.

Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

The National Zoo and Aquarium
The first place that you should visit is the National Zoo and Aquarium. The National Zoo is located 13 kilometers north-east of Kuala Lumpur is the National Zoo, which has many different species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The aquarium too is impressive with its enormous collection of marine life and other and freshwater species. Both sites are open to the public between 9am and 6pm all week.

National Museum
The National Museum or Muzium Negara is located just outside the Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens, and is Malaysia's main museum. The building itself is a mix of traditional Malay and modern architecture, built in 1963. Outside, a restored old railway train greets visitors along with other old transportation vehicles such as the very first Proton Saga car, bullock carts and a vintage automobile.
The museum consists of two wings that house a variety of exhibits, dioramas and galleries which include historical relics and artifacts, cultural items, arts and handicrafts, flora and fauna, weapons and currencies. From time to time, there are special theme exhibitions to educate and enthrall visitors.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
This is another place you must visit, which is located at Jalan Hishamuddin. It has a remarkable Moorish-style terminal that architect A.B. Hub bock designed. It has the modern facilities that travelers find a convenience.
This includes:
• air-conditioned waiting halls
• snack kiosks
• money changing booths
• souvenir shops
• restaurants
• A tourist information counter.
At walking distance from the terminal is the Malayan Railway Administration Building. It also has been designed in the same manner leaving its impressive traces of British colonial rule. The administration Building is linked to the train station by an underground passage.

Central Market
The central market in Kuala Lumpur is also another place to check out for its beauty. It used to be a wet market more than 50 years ago, and today it is an emblem of Malaysian culture. The market is not simply a place where things are bought and sold, but is in fact a major location where demonstrations and activities take place, such as batik painting, fortune telling, shadow puppet plays, glass blowing, dance classes, and art classes. This is so well known for its activities and designs that it was awarded the Coronation Architecture Design Award in 1953.

National Library:
This library is located at Jalan Tun Razak. It has a magnificent is blue in color and was made with the concept of a tengkolok (Malay headgear). The library is a recent structure in Kuala Lumpur; it opened in 1982. It has a collection about Malaysia by Malaysian authors in addition to historic Malay manuscripts. If you want to visit this place, you may do so between 1Oam and 5pm everyday except Monday.

Petaling Street:
This street is the center of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, and it still maintains the traditional atmosphere it had in its genuine form. One well-known tradition in the older days was for vendors to spread out their items on the street at night. Though one may purchase any kind of stuff available, it must be said that the night market holds a treasure of the visitor that does not cost anything. This means that just experiencing the sites and sounds is more than a treat this place has to offer.

Merdeka Square:
The Malaysian flag was first hoisted at this place in 1957. Giving the place its due respect, it has the tallest flagpole in the country with the Malaysian flag hoisted on it.

Masjid Jamek:
One of Kuala Lumpur’s oldest Mosques is Masjid Jamek. It is situated at a point where two rivers (Kelang and Gombak) converge. It is often said to be the birth place of Kuala Lumpur.

Taman Tasik Perdana
This is Kula Lumpur’s most well-known park. It has a variety of recreational facilities. In addition to this there are also the Bird Park, the Hibiscus Park, the Orchid Garden, the Butterfly Park, the Deer Park and Memorial Tun Razak.

KL Tower:
Another must-see is the third highest telecommunications tower in the world; the KL Tower, which was completed in 1995. It has a bird’s eye view of Kuala Lumpur and other areas.

Kampung Baru
The oldest Malay residential area in Kuala Lumpur, Kampung Bahru is about ten minutes away from Chow Kit Market. Founded in 1899 there are still authentic traditional Malay wooden houses there, a sharp contrast to the concrete houses and high-rise apartments of Kuala Lumpur. On Saturday evenings, one section of Kampung Bahru is a hive of activity with the Pasar Minggu, or Sunday Market. Starts from 6 p.m. on Saturday evenings and ends in the wee hours of Sunday morning at 1 am
This market has a totally Malay feel to it, and this is obvious in the style of jeweler and clothes, the fabrics, the handicrafts and aromas of Malay cooking

National Library
The National Library in Jalan Tun Razak is a repository for locally-written and international books of an academic nature. The library is most often used by avid readers, students and researchers as a resource centre. The library, which has several floors, divides its collection of more than 6,500 books into Malaysian, Rare Collection, Manuscripts, Serials, General, Media Resources, United Nations and National Collections. Other facilities include a photographic studio and web browsing stations.

National Art Gallery
The National Art Gallery located along Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin was established in the former Majestic hotel, which itself is a historical building built in 1932. It houses a number of galleries that range from permanent exhibits to temporary ones. The permanent collection amounts to over 2,500 art pieces, featuring the work of local and international artists. From time to time, educational programmed, workshops, competitions and seminars are organized.

Royal Selangor
The Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is located in Setapak where visitors can see how pewter is manufactured and turned into intricate handicrafts. Established more than a century ago, Selangor Pewter is world-renowned for its beautifully-crafted pewter items that have won several international awards. At the centre, you can also glimpse how fine jewelry is made in the factory besides pewter products.

National Mosque
The National Mosque is located near the Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens. Opened in 1965, the mosque is elegantly designed with contemporary interpretations of traditional Islamic art and calligraphy. Its unique feature is the umbrella-like roof which is cast in a blue hue. Visitors are required to remove their shoes as well as dress appropriately before entering.

History of Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur began life in 1857. It was then that a member of Selangor's royal family, Raja Abdullah, decided to open up an area in the Klang Valley for tin prospectors. Miners from China soon arrived and despite pestilence that killed a large number of them, the Chinese miners thrived, attracting merchants and businesses. The commercial area of tin trading was located in the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers and it was here that Kuala Lumpur was established.

This trading post was a wild frontier town plagued by floods, fires, disease and the Selangor Civil War (1870-73). During this time, Kapitan Cina Yap Ah Loy emerged as a leader, responsible for the survival and growth of the town. In 1880. in view of its strategic location, the Selangor state capital was moved from Klang to Kuala Lumpur. Nothing of this earlier period remains as all structures were of wood and atap (thatch) which were destroyed in the fire and subsequent flood of 1881.

Thereafter, Frank Swettenham, the British Resident of Selangor who was Instrumental in the development of the town, required that buildings be constructed of brick and tile. The advent of the railway increased accessibility. The development of buildings intensified in the 1890s so that it warranted the establishment of the Sanitary Board. In 1896, Kuala Lumpur was chosen as the capital of the newly formed Federated Malay States.

The multiracial community of this period settled in various sections of town. Market Square, east of Sungai Klang, became the commercial centre for the whole town. The Chinese congregated around this Square and south into Chinatown. To the north, across Java Street (now Jalan Tun Perak). were the Malays. Nearby, a number of Indian Chettiars (money-lenders), and in later years Indian Muslim traders, set up business. West of The river, the Padang (now Merdeka Square) was the focal point or the British administration.

Kuala Lumpur continued to grow despite two World Wars. the rubber and tin commodity crash and the State of Emergency (1948-60) during which Malaya was preoccupied with the communist insurgency. In 1957, the Federation of Malaya gained its independence from British rule. Kuala Lumpur remained the capital through the formation of Malaysia, achieving city status in 1972, and was established as the Federal Territory in 1974.

Geography of Kuala Lumpur

The geography of Kuala Lumpur is characterized by a huge valley known as Klang Valley. The valley is bordered by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east, several minor ranges in the north and the south and the Strait of Malacca in the west. Kuala Lumpur is a Malay term which translates to "muddy confluence" as it is located at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers.[28]

Located in the center of Selangor state, Kuala Lumpur was previously under the rule of Selangor State Government. In 1974, Kuala Lumpur was separated from Selangor to form the first Federal Territory governed directly by the Malaysian Federal Government. Its location on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, which has wider flat land than the east coast, has contributed to its faster development relative to other cities in Malaysia.[citation needed]

The municipality of the city covers an area of 243.65 km2 (94.07 sq mi), with an average elevation of 21.95 m (72 ft).


Climate and weather

Protected by the Titiwangsa Mountains in the east and Indonesia's Sumatra Island in the west, Kuala Lumpur has a year-round equatorial Tropical rain forest climate (Köppen climate classification Af) which is warm and sunny, along with abundant rainfall, especially during the southwest monsoon season from September to April. Temperatures tend to remain constant. Maximums hover between 31 °C and 33 °C (88-92 °F) and have never exceeded 37 °C (99 °F), while minimums hover between 22 °C and 23.5 °C (71-74 °F) and have never fallen below 19 °C (66 °F). Kuala Lumpur typically receives 2,266 mm (89.2 in) of rain annually; June and July are relatively dry, but even then rainfall typically exceeds 125 mm (5 in) per month.

Flooding is a frequent occurrence in Kuala Lumpur whenever there is a heavy downpour, especially in the city centre and downstream areas.[29] Dust particles from forest fires from nearby Sumatra sometimes cast a haze over the region. It is a major source of pollution in the city together with open burning, emission from motor vehicles and construction work.[30]