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10 Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on October 3, 2023

The country of Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, is an incredible mixing pot of cultures. Bordering everything from Thailand and the South China Sea to Brunei and Indonesia , Malaysia has a central location that shouldn’t be skipped when exploring Southeast Asia.

What makes Malaysia so fascinating is its diversity. In the same country, you can explore thriving, modern cities, explore colonial architecture, relax on some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet and hike through lush green jungles. Here are just some of the top reasons to visit Malaysia on your next trip to Asia.

10. Modern Architecture

The city of Kuala Lumpur is a fantastic place to admire the more modern architecture found in Malaysia, and in particular the contemporary skyscrapers that create one of Asia’s most iconic skylines. If possible, take time to see the Petronas Twin Towers in the district known as the Golden Triangle.

Once the tallest buildings in the world, and now connected by a skybridge, the Petronas Twin Towers are just a short walk from other incredible structures like the KL Tower and its viewing deck.

9. Chinatowns

Malaysia has been influenced and colonized by cultures from around the globe. Proximity to China means that Malaysia is home to excellent Chinese cuisine and a vibrant heritage. You can experience this influence first hand by exploring one of the Chinatowns in Malaysia, the largest of which is in George Town.

In this Chinatown, you can see a 200-year-old Kuan Yin Teng Temple or indulge in the local street fare. Don’t miss dining at one of the local dim sum restaurants or trying the hot egg waffles sold from vendors right on the street.

8. Tea Plantations

The tea industry has long been a part of development and trade in Malaysia, particularly in areas like the Cameron Highlands . There, near the highest point of the country, temperatures are cool enough for tea plantations.

In the Cameron Highlands, you can take a guided tour of the nation’s largest tea company, hike through the plantation itself or sip local teas at some of the smaller plantations in the vicinity.

Hiking may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Malaysia, but the country actually boasts a number of excellent hiking spots. None, however, can compare to Mount Kinabalu. In the state of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu boasts miles of hiking trails that pass through six distinct vegetation zones at varying elevations. To climb the entire summit, expect to spend two days hiking with a night of camping in between.

6. Colonial Architecture

With Malaysia’s long colonial history, it boasts an array of colonial architecture. If you’re interested in this blast from the past, there can be no better spot to visit than Melaka . The city has been ruled by the British, the Dutch and the Portuguese, and its architecture reflects that.

Just some of the buildings you can explore include the ruins of a 16th century Portuguese fortress, the oldest Protestant church in Malaysia and the Stadthuys Town Hall, which still stands as the oldest as well as the largest Dutch colonial building in the region.

One of the most popular reasons to visit Malaysia is for the chance to go diving. Just off the tip of Malaysian Borneo is Sipidan, known as one of the world’s best dive sites. Diving in Sipidan’s protected waters is limited to just a set number of people each day, and it provides the chance to see things like turtles, barracudas, sharks and parrotfish.

If you can’t make it to Sipidan, islands like Redang and Tioman are also excellent, although their diving seasons are more limited.

4. Diverse Culture

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of Malaysia is its diverse culture. In addition to colonial influences, there are a mixture of Asian cultures present in the country. Malays make up approximately half of the population, Chinese make up roughly one quarter and there is a strong Indian community.

In addition, the Orang Asli people, a group indigenous to Malaysia, still makes up 12 percent of the population. These groups live together harmoniously in Malaysia and give the country its vibrant culture and heritage.

3. Wildlife

Much of Malaysia is undeveloped, allowing wildlife to roam freely. One of the top spots to admire wildlife in its natural habitat is in Taman Negara National Park. Among waterfalls and canopy walks, you can spot tapirs, wild boar, deer, monkey and countless birds and insects.

In Borneo, you may be able to see even bigger animals, and guided tours can get you up close and personal with the likes of elephants, tigers, rhinos and orangutans.

2. Beaches & Islands

Malaysia is a tropical country with a warm climate and miles of coastline, so it should come as no surprise that beaches are plentiful. While there are excellent beaches on the mainland, it is Malaysia’s islands that are the most popular for beach lovers. Langkawi is the ultimate spot for a relaxing beach vacation, complete with shopping and dining. If you’re after a more secluded, less touristy getaway, Redang is a pristine island that also serves as a turtle sanctuary.

In Sarawak, on the island of Borneo, is Gunung Mulu National Park. This park has a history dating back for more than 3,000 years, and it is best known for its incredible caverns. On guided tours, you can explore Turtle Cave, the so-called Garden of Eden or the Wind Caves, all of which are in the park.

Some caves require you to bring flashlights and rapel, but others are simple strolls in incredible environments. If you’re staying closer to Kuala Lumpur, you can set off on a day trip to the Batu Caves, which are made from limestone and offer some challenging hikes as well as amazing scenery.

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November 4, 2016 at 5:25 am

Thanks for featuring my home country, i am really proud with our beaches and islands, rated one of the best in Asia 🙂 Especially Perhentian Island and Tioman Island, both a diving paradise 🙂

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• 10 Reasons To Visit Malaysia That Will Trigger Your Wanderlust

As they say, Malaysia is Truly Asia. This is one country where you can set foot and get to experience the best of what Asia has on offer. A multicultural country, Malaysia gives you a glimpse of the heritage of Chinese, Indians, Sri Lanka and other Asian countries as well. In terms of landscape, this country allures with beaches, hills and even glistening cityscapes like that of Kuala Lumpur. It has its arms open wide to greet travelers from across the world, serving them delicious food, pampering them with a buzzing shopping scenario and traditional spas.

Top Reasons To Visit Malaysia That Will Compel You To Pack Right Away

If you ask us to give reasons to visit Malaysia, we’d suggest you to take a deep breath as the list is going to be lengthy. But, in this post we have managed to keep it short, listing the top ten reasons that are indeed irresistible.

1. This is a tourist destination for every pocket

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Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or are looking for a splurging vacation, Malaysia will please you! You can choose to stay in a welcoming hostel or pick a luxury hotel with all the modern amenities. Most of the sightseeing attractions in this country have reasonable entry charges. You can also save money on commute by opting for frequent public transportation. Or if you want some special treatment, you can always hire a limo for yourself.

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2. Malaysia will mesmerize you with its stunning beach getaways

Almost everyone wishing to travel to Malaysia knows about the beauty that Langkawi is. But that’s not this country’s tropical beauty is all about. There are number of archipelagos here in Malaysia, which honestly will put even the Bahamas to shame. You will agree too! Just sneak a peek of Perhentian Island and you’ll ride on the same boat.

Best beach and island getaways in Malaysia: Langkawi, Perhentian Island, Tioman Island, Redang Island and Borneo

Must Read: 10 Blissful Beaches In Malaysia

3. The country is bestowed with lush rainforests

We don’t even need another reason once we realize how affluent Malaysia is in terms of nature and wildlife as well. Almost two-third of this country is covered in rainforests, serving as a habitat to twenty percent of world’s animal species. Trekkers and wildlife and bird enthusiasts from around the world find themselves being pulled by the beauty and rawness of its nature.

You don’t even have to compromise on luxury while exploring these areas as you have many resorts to pick from. But if you’d rather keep it real, just pitch your tent wherever you please, just make sure you know it’s safe.

Best places in Malaysia for nature and wildlife: Taman Negara National Park, Kinabalu National Park, and Gunung Mulu National Park

Suggested Read: 14 Top Festivals In Malaysia In 2022 To Witness Its Vibrant Culture & Rich Traditions

4. There are a myriad of adventure activities to try

This country understands that travel is not limited to sightseeing, so it spoils you with choices of activities. You could be a beginner or an expert, there still be a long list of things to do in Malaysia for you. So scuba dive to witness the enchantment of marine life or jump out of a chopper to skydive; choice is yours.

Top adventure activities in Malaysia: Scuba diving, skydiving, white water rafting, paragliding, parasailing, bungee jumping and jungle trekking

Top places in Malaysia for adventure-seekers: Kuala Lumpur , Langkawi, Selangor, and Kota Kinabalu

Suggested Read: You’d Be Sorry If You Miss These Awesome Malaysia Tourist Attractions

5. It’s a melting pot of different cultures with intriguing history and architecture

As you wander through the streets of Malaysia, you will realize there are not just Malays who call this place home; the country also belongs to a significant amount if Indians, Chinese and Sri Lankans, as well as others. Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures from around the world, and this blend of different ethnicities is what makes this country stand out.

There are various UNESCO Heritage Sites here that narrate tales and flaunts a heritage that will inspire you from within.

Best places in Malaysia for culture-enthusiasts: Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, George Town, Ipoh, and Putrajaya

6. The capital, Kuala Lumpur is a global city with attractions for all ages

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a city which leads with its futuristic infrastructure, nightlife and what not. This global city is in the list of travelers and immigrants regardless of their geographical boundaries. You could be traveling with kids, spouse or even solo, and there’s never going to be a time you’ll find a dearth of anything.

Kuala Lumpur is one of the main gateways to the country and will spoil you with choices, whether you are talking about accommodation, shopping, sightseeing or food. Just make sure you are dedicating significant amount of time to this city during your visit to Malaysia.

Best tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur: Petronas Tower , Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, Merdeka Square , Aquaria KLCC, Petaling Street, and National Mosque of Malaysia

Suggested Read: 19 Cardinal Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur

7. The country will lure you with its buzzing shopping scenario

Want to pop tags of exclusive premium brands? Or would you rather go street shopping in Malaysia and bargain? Well, guess what Malaysia is a paradise anyway. This country is every shopaholics dream come true, even if they are traveling on a budget. Different cities such as Ipoh, George Town and Kuala Lumpur have shopping malls where you can find stores of brands like Zara, Armani and Gucci. While you also have option of shopping for local handicraft etcetera as you wander through street markets.

Best places in Malaysia for shopaholics: Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Ipoh, Malacca and George Town

8. Malaysian street food will leave you asking for more

It’s said if you don’t let yourself indulge in the street food of Malaysia, your trip isn’t really complete. Here, you get to titillate your taste buds with a delicious blend of flavors and spices. This is where you get to relish the best of noodles, rice, soup and what not!

Best known for its continental food, Malaysia might not sound too appealing for vegetarians. But there is always something for them too, you can get to know better through this guide to Malaysia for vegetarians .

Top street foods to try in Malaysia: Assam Laksa, Rojak, Koay Chiap, Chee Cheong Fun and Ice Kacang

Suggested Read: 21 Malaysia Islands You Must Visit For Having The Best Holiday Of Your Life

9. Locals are friendly and welcoming

Let’s get real, as we travel overseas, or even a few hundred kilometers away from our home, the way locals treat the travelers can make or break an experience. Malaysia is one such countries where locals are welcoming and friendly. They are there to help you with directions, they’ll smile at you as you pass them in the streets, they will be around to talk about their culture and everything. The people here truly add on to the experience.

10. Thanks to its favorable year-round weather you can plan a trip to Malaysia anytime you want

The country experiences favorable weather conditions almost all around the year. Thanks to its huge size, you can always pick the best for yourself regardless of when you are traveling. As most part of the country is covered in rainforest, you will indeed enjoy pleasant weather.

There are indeed a zillion reasons why this country has to be in your bucket list, shortening that to a list of ten was quite a task, but we hope you got the idea about what awaits. If you are planning a visit, which we’re sure you are after reading the post, you must assure eradication of all the hassles, and Travel Triangle’s Malaysia tour packages will be your saviour in that.

Further Read: Best Hotels In Malaysia: For Those Who Love Living Life To The Fullest

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11 reasons to visit Malaysia that will trigger your wanderlust

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From shoes to spas and highlands to islands; for the young or old, thrill seekers or sun seekers – Malaysia is an extraordinary country that offers it all.

Steeped in history and rich in culture – there is never a dull moment for the inquisitive traveller. 

From the buzz of city high fashion, trendy hot-spots and modern cuisine, a natural escape is never far away. Be it sandy beaches or highland rainforests, a visit to the many spa or country resorts in Malaysia is a must. 

Some like it luxurious, others like it organic – whatever it may be, there’s something here for everyone as Malaysia Truly Asia awaits to amaze you.

1. Kuala Lumpur

The experience begins from the moment you arrive at the world-class Kuala Lumpur International Airport, where smiles and friendly greetings welcome you to the country. For a city that never sleeps, Kuala Lumpur will leave you hungry for more – be it the food, colourful culture, shopping, spas or nightlife. In this city where East meets West, architecture of all sorts – colonial, traditional and religious – all share the same space with ultra-modern infrastructures to create a spectacular cityscape. The multiracial element of Malaysia defines the nation and contributes to its exceptional concoction of culture, tradition and food.

2. Mind-blowing wilderness experiences

Malaysia is plentiful in its rainforests, national parks and wildlife. An escape from the daily noise into the wilderness is a therapeutic experience that you cannot miss.

Did you know that 75 per cent of the animals live on the crowns of the rainforest? What better way to watch these animals than by walking along the world’s longest rainforest canopy walk. Sungai Sedim’s Tree Top Walk is 925 metres long and stands 26 metres high from the forest floor. Along this walk you can bird watch and spot animals. You can also take part in jungle trekking, tubing and white water rafting.

Lose yourself in the 130 million-year-old pristine rainforest at Danum Valley . The 43,800-hectare area is home to more than 500 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Danum Valley is also home to the world’s tallest tropical tree; the 100.8 metre Yellow Meranti or Shorea faguetiana was discovered by a team of scientists from the United Kingdom and Malaysia.

3. Endless beach getaways

Soak up the sun at any of Malaysia’s pristine beaches. We’re talking about spots such as Langkawi , Mataking Island, Penang, Perhentian Islands and Sabah . 

You can recline in the sun or make a splash with water activities like snorkelling, diving or water sports all day long. Plus the convenience of first-class luxury and budget accommodation means you can stay just footsteps away from the sand and sea.

4. Adventure park thrills

Unleash your inner child at Malaysia’s many amusement and adventure parks. Whether you’re travelling with kids, friends, as a couple or solo, a theme park is always a thrilling experience.

Adventure-seekers should head to Sunway Lagoon Theme Park , Selangor to slide their way down from an 11-storey slide tower. The Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is also home to the 5D Waterplexx, the first of its kind in Malaysia. It offers an amazing cinematic ride with multi-sensory thrills of wind, fog, mist, sprays, lasers, and more to give you a close-to-real water adventure.

Do you dare to walk 100 feet above the ground? Those yearning for that adrenaline rush can stroll across the sky on the glass cliffs at Tower Walk 100 while enjoying the beautiful cityscape of Kuala Lumpur.

If heights aren’t really your thing, perhaps you’d prefer the thrills of the sea. About two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the Kampar River is a hotspot for water rafting. The river provides three thrilling classes of rafting and along the way you can appreciate the natural beauty of Gopeng Forest.

5. Wellness travel

Why not pamper yourself at a luxury resort with traditional massages and spas? Or try glamping within ancient rainforests with waterfalls as your natural jacuzzies. Malaysia is the ultimate destination for wellness travel.

Enjoy a traditional Malaysian Urut massage at the Banjaran Hot springs Retreat , Ipoh, Malaysia’s first luxury natural hot springs wellness retreat. The retreat’s techniques have been handed down for generations, including the recipe for its distinctive herbal massage oil, which is painstakingly prepared by boiling palm oil with various herbs and spices with warming and detoxifying properties.

For five-star luxury head to Tanjong Jara Resort . The resort offers accommodation, dining and an award-winning Spa Village. It has gardens, pools and houses a therapy centre featuring programs for relaxation, reinvigoration and stress relief based on traditional Malay, Arab, Indian and Chinese healing methods.

6. A foodie’s paradise

No visit to Malaysia is ever complete without a gastronomic adventure of the country’s multi-ethnic culinary diversity.

Each region in Malaysia has something unique to offer. If you’re in Penang, you can’t go past an Assam Laksa, which was rated seventh on the World’s Best Foods by CNN Travel.

For a taste of authentic Malaysian street food visit Jalan Alor . Located near the ever-bustling area of Bukit Bintang, the whole stretch of Jalan Alor is designated for hawker stalls. Sample the best street food from Malaysia’s different cultural communities including the Malays, Chinese and Indians, as well as the many ethnic groups in Sabah and Sarawak.

7. A land of myths and legends

Stories that are told and passed from generation to generation are an integral part of Malaysian culture. These stories are told by tribal and community leaders and deliver important lessons about life.

Today, these stories are told at tribal gatherings, through street art, shadow plays and traditional dances.  

You can hear or see the telling of these stories at Moon Shadow Stories , Convergence, the street art murals of Penang or Perak , or watch a play at the Malaka Encore theatre.

8. Cultural diversity

The term multicultural is an understatement when describing Malaysia. The country has its own unique blend of religions, traditions, festivals and people that truly embody the spirit of diversity and unity. 

Cultural activities and festivities are celebrated all year round, and visitors are welcome to take part. During Hari Raya (Eid Ul Fitr), at the end of Ramadan, it has become a long-standing tradition for Malaysians to open their homes to gather and feast.

Celebrate Chinese New Year by sampling some of Malaysia’s most popular dishes such as Yee Sang, Char Kuey Teow and Bak Wa. Then, head to Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur to experience lion and dragon dances as well as fireworks.

Witness Deepavali (also known as Diwali) preparations in Kuala Lumpur’s Brickfields district, known locally as ‘Little India’. Or visit the Batu Caves just outside of the city. The stunning natural limestone caves are adorned with temples and shrines and are a place of pilgrimage for Hindu devotees.

9. A home away from home

You’ll feel at home with Malaysia’s world-renowned hospitality. For a truly authentic cultural experience, take part in one of the country’s many homestay programs.

Experience living with the indigenous people of Sarawak with a Longhouse stay . Replace hot showers with cool and refreshing river dips and reconnect with nature in this immersive and communal living space. Here you can dance to traditional music played on unique Sarawakian instruments, sample local dishes and listen to stories, folklore and legends.

Enjoy traditional Malaysian village life with the Mescot Kopel eco-tourism initiative. Take part in activities such as cooking, farming, wildlife encounters and village sports.

10. Rich heritage

Malaysia as we know it combines the tradition of indigenous communities with colonial influences and contrasting modernity. The result? A melting pot of architecture and history, as diverse as the people that inhabit it.

Embark on a historical trail and watch heritage unfold. In Penang, the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site features Malaysia’s best restored traditional architecture as well as a multitude of heritage trades and arts. Inside, the ‘Street of Harmony’ reflects the influence of the diverse communities that have made Penang their home. The World Heritage Site is compact enough to be explored on foot, bicycle or trishaw (a three-wheeled bike with a driver).

Discover Malaysia’s treasure-trove of iconic historical buildings. In the Penang region, visit Pinang Peranakan Mansion , an ornate abode combining Chinese, Malaysian and European design. When in Kuala Lumpur, be sure to visit the hyper-modern Petronas twin towers and Saloma Bridge. The Sultan Abdul Samad Building is another must-see,  one of Malaysia’s most prominent and treasured heritage buildings.

11. Mountain adventures

Malaysia’s terrain is built for adventure with hundreds of peaks just waiting to be conquered.

Take on Mount Kinabalu , one of the highest mountains in South East Asia. Witness the beauty of Borneo from above on the ‘Walk The Torq’ trail, suitable for hikers of all fitness levels.

At the summit of Mount Brinchang in Pahang sits the enchanting Mossy Forest . Said to be the oldest forest in Malaysia (around 200 million years old), a visit with a local guide is a must.

Or discover dizzying views on the  Mulu Canopy Skywalk , one of the longest tree-based walkways in the world.

This article on 11 reasons to visit Malaysia was produced in partnership with Tourism Malaysia .

Image credits: Tourism Malaysia

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13 Reasons to Visit Malaysia in 2024

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Malaysia is one of my favourite countries. My very first solo travels were to Malaysia in 2010 and that’s where the travel addiction started.

Since then, I’ve been back countless times and have fallen in love with a different part of the country each time. Whilst it’s neighbours, Thailand and Indonesia, often get all the plaudits and tourism dollars, I think Malaysia is massively underrated. There are so many reasons to visit this unique county with a fascinating history.

I think their tourism slogan of “Malaysia Truly Asia” sums up this south east Asian country. It has a little bit of everything you think of when you think of Asia. The mix of local cultures from Chinese, Indian and Malay along with a modern western influence, gives Malaysia so many opportunities on the world stage as it is starting to grow into a regional economic powerhouse.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why you should visit Malaysia, I’ve got thirteen reasons below that will give you that little push to book that trip.

The 13 Reasons To Visit Malaysia

Malaysia has everything  .

I won’t go into it too much here because otherwise there is no point in the rest of the post, but it really does have it all. From cities to jungle, street food to fine dining, traditional way of life and an ultra modern outlook. It’s one of those places that has a bit of everything for every taste.

The beaches

Some of the beaches in Malaysia are to die for. The picture perfect white sand in places like Langkawi are a holiday makers dream. Go to quieter destinations like Perhentian or Tioman for beaches without the crowds. And the white sand surrounded by coral reefs on Pilau Sipadan make it seem like you’re in dreamland.

Even when it may seem like you’re in a built up city in Penang, a golden sand beach isn’t that far away.

Malaysia is affordable

For those coming from western countries, Malaysia is an incredibly affordable destination for travel. Day tours start at £30, budget hotel rooms at £20 and a bowl of noodles from a street vender can be less than £1.

To get around is also cheap, flights on Malaysian Airlines to popular destinations such as Penang, can be less than £20 in a sale, or choose one of the ever increasing budget airlines for even more discount fares. Intercity buses have fares that cost RM15-20 for extremely comfortable seats for journeys of 2-3 hours.

For those that like luxury, its easy to find 5 star chain hotels for £90 per night.

Malaysia has the best food in the world.

There, I said it.

The mix of cultures, of Indian and Chinese, gives rise to an incredible mix of foods and flavours that an unlike anything else. Penang is known for its incredible street food such as char kuey teow and mee goreng (both noodles dishes) due to the heavy Chinese influence.

Curry noodles, beef rendang, laksa (a spicy and sour noodle soup), nasi lemak, amazing seafood. I could go on and on about the variety and quality of foods in Malaysia.

Friendly people

I have found time and time again that Malaysians are genuinely friendly. I have struck up random conversations with people in the street who are just curious about you and want to get to know you.

I have found in other countries in the region that the people are friendly, but you are still a tourist to them and they will still want something in return. In Malaysia, you’re just another person who they want to get along with.

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A mix of cultures

Malaysia is made up of a variety of cultures that all live and mix togther.

The traditional Malays are muslim and have been living on the Malay peninsula for generations. Chinese settlers came as traders from southern China over the last few hundred years and brought their own culture and food. Indians arrived first as traders, then as workers on farms msotly from southern India bring Tamil culture and language with them.

As these cultures mixed, European cultures were also added creating Nyonya and Perankanan cultures which is best describes as a fusion between them all.

And that hasn’t even touched on the variety of ethic groups and tribes in Sabah and Sarawak where Christian missionaries coverted a lot of the Dayak, Iban and countless more of the more than 30 ethnic groups from Borneo.

Incredible nature

I feel like you could film and entire David Attenborough documentary in Malaysia.

The rainforests of Borneo, known as one of the most remote and inaccessible places on the planet, offers one of the last places on earth to see orang utans in the wild. Add to this probiscus monkeys in Bako National Park , the variety of sea snakes that can be found on some smaller islands, lush tropical rainforest in Taman Negara…. I could go on and on…

Many UNESCO sites

Malaysia has numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Georgetown in Penang and Mulu National Park in Sarawak. Mount Kinabalu and Malacca are also included as is the Lenggong Valley, home to one of the earliest records of human kind outside of Africa.

Each of these sites has been added to the list for different reasons; wild rainforest, soaring mountains, European colonial architecture and Chinese culture. I think those reasons sum up the difference in Malaysia.

SCUBA diving

Malaysia is know for having some of the best scuba diving in the world . Around Mabul and Sipadan, crystal clear waters, healthy coral and schools or fish are in abundance. The diving there is literally world class and if often on lists of the best dive sites in the world. Pulau Tiga, Pulau Tioman, Perhentian and Langkawi also offer diving of various qualities throughout the year.

Can climb mountains

If getting deep isn’t your kind of thing, what about getting high?

Climb the highest mountain in South East Asia, Mount Kinabalu and watch sunrise from 4095m above sea level. The highest point between the Himalayas in India and the Southern Alps in New Zealand, it’s a relatively straightforward climb that can be done with a good level of fitness and no mountain climbing experience.

Go with a guide and make the trip in 2 days return.

It’s modernising rapidly

Malaysia is a rapidly modernising country with the capital Kuala Lumpur , epitomising it. With the Petronas Towers being built in the late 90’s creating an iconic skyscraper and world monument standing tall in the middle of the city, it is now surrounded by similar size buildings.

The brand new Mereka 118 will be the second tallest building in the world when it fully opens in 2024. Smartphones are QR codes are everywhere with even the smallest hawker stall having the possibility to pay with their phone.

Easy visa entry for many

For many nationalities, it’s possible to enter with just your passport and receive a 90 day visa on arrival for social visits. Although nearly 3 months isn’t enough to see everything in Malaysia, it’s possible to leave and re-enter shortly after.

Flying into Kuala Lumpur airport is the major gateway of entry, but with cheap flights to Singapore and Bangkok, a short connection makes it easy to visit via a variety of routes.

A growing digital nomad destination

With the growing hordes of digital nomads heading to neighbouring hotspots of Chang Mai and Bali in Thailand and Indonesia respectively, Malaysia is often overlooked. However, with a new digital nomad visa, excellent internet speeds and an affordable cost of living, I don’t think it will be long until Malaysia is a preeminent digital nomad destination in its own right.

Currently, Penang and Kuala Lumpur are hotspots for digital nomads, although Langkawi isn’t far behind.

Why you should visit Malaysia

Ever since my first trip to the country in 2010, Malaysia has been one of my favourite destinations. Each time I return, I find another reason to rank Malaysia as highly as I do.

What most people look for in a great destination (good food, good people, good weather, good nature), Malaysia has in abundance. The thing that appeals most to me is the variety that is on offer. Whether you want to travel slow and be awed by nature or relax on a beach in a resort, Malaysia has just the option for you.

All these and many more reasons to visit Malaysia should make it top of your list when looking for your next destination.

Check out my other posts for travelling around Malaysia:

• 13 Reasons to Visit Malaysia

Essential Malay Phrases For Travellers

• Visiting Bako National Park From Kuching: A Detailed Guide
• How To See Orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve
• Visiting Mulu National Park: The Essential Guide

Kuala Lumpur

• How To Get From KL International Airport To The City Centre
• What To Do In Kuala Lumpur: Top 10 Things
• Which Lounge Should You Choose at KLIA
• Petronas Twin Towers vs KL Tower: Which Is Best To Visit?
• Visiting Pantai Pasir Panjang, Penang from Georgetown
• The Best Coffee Shops in Georgetown, Penang
• What You Must Eat in Penang: Top 10 Foods To Try
• Top Things to do in Penang - Travel Guide for First Timers
• 16 Things to See and Do in Langkawi
• Langkawi Digital Nomad Guide

Dan is an avid traveller from London. His first big adventure was in 2010 living in Malaysia for 3 months. He has been on the road almost constantly since 2015 travelling to destinations that aren’t on the mainstream tourist trail and working full time and travelling since 2021.

Related Posts

20 Top Things to do in Penang – 2024 Travel Guide for First Timers

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » 13 EPIC Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia

13 EPIC Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia

Pretty Malaysia is now well and truly established as an essential port of call on the Southeast Asia circuit and it is very easy to see why. Malaysia naturally & effortlessly melds together influences from all across Asia offering the flavours of Southeast Asia (but without the crowds) mixed with tantalising far-Eastern delights.

In so many ways Malaysia is an ultimate backpacker travel destination – cheap, cheerful and packed with adventure. It is a country where the old meets the new and where tradition collides with modernity. This makes it a perfect backpacking destination and many travellers have now  placed at the top of their travel bucket lists.

From the secluded Tropical Spice Gardens in Penang, to the peaceful quiet resorts, we will show you exactly why you too should be excited about visiting Malaysia.  So, let’s take a look at our 15 EPIC Reasons why you should visit Malaysia.

1. Malaysian Street Food

2. explore kuala lumpur, 3. see the wildlife of borneo, 4. take in the malaysian rain forests, 5. drink endless cups of tea, 6. hike kinabalu national park, 7. visit penang, 8. shop at malaysian markets, 9. celebrate the festivals, 10. get bang for buck, 11. the pulau gemia private resort, 12. unwind on malaysian beaches, 13. meet the malaysian people.

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Ok so why visit Malaysia? Well the food for one!

I am starting with this one partially because Malaysian street food is amongst the best in the whole world, but also because it’s getting kinda close to lunchtime and I think my stomach is trying to send a message to my brain.

Malaysian street food is a delicious mix of Asian cuisines with appreciative nods towards the culinary scenes of Thailand, China and Vietnam. Classic Malaysian Street foods dishes include “Penang Assam Laksa” (drunken rice noodles in a fish soup), “Lok Lok” (mixed skewers cooked in broth) and “Apom Balik” which a sweet, savoury sticky rice pancake.

Malaysian street food is ubiquitous and you can usually find it anywhere, any time of day so you won’t go hungry when visiting Malaysia. It is also very damned cheap – which is perfect for budget travel in Malaysia – but unless you exercise some serious restraint, you may gain a waist size of two. To find the best stuff you can simply head out and explore, ask the locals (provided you get over the language barrier) or join a street food tour where your guide can show you the best places.

There are now Malaysian Street food stalls cropping up all over the world but absolutely nothing beats the real thing.

Classic Malaysian Street Foods

• Penang Assam Laksa – Rice Noodles in Fish Soup
• Ipoh Hor Fun – Flat Rice Noodles Served in Broth
• Hokkien Mee – Yellow Egg Noodles in Soy Sauce
• Nasi Lemak – Breakfast Dish Served in Banana Leaf
• Char Kuey Teow – Flat Noodles Cooked in a Hot Chinese Wok

When I was a kid and I heard people mention Kuala Lumpur on the television, I honestly thought it was a made up place like Never-never-land, Hogsmeade or Kathmandu. I guess I just presumed that a city named after a hybrid between a cute little Australian bear and a not-so-cute, orange chocolate factory worker had to be some kind of a joke?

But I was wrong! Kuala Lumpur is a real city and what a real fine city it is. Kuala Lumpur represents bright, bold new Asia at its very best and over the last decades have transformed into a modern metropolis. There are loads of great places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and a city tour is one of the very best things to do Malaysia.

The skyline is now dominated by high-rise glass skyscrapers and is a sugar rush of shopping malls, street vendors and Malaysians on the go. Of course, the city has still retained its own charm and you’ll still find Kuala Lumpur’s colonial neighbourhoods , quaint suburban areas, and one of the biggest China towns outside of China.

Best Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

If you only have a short time in KL then we recommend the following Kuala Lumpur itinerary for a handy microcosm of Malaysia;

• The Iconic Petronas Twin Tower
• Batu Caves Hindu Shrine
• Sultan Ahmed Building – Moorish style former British HQ

Your Malaysian odyssey may well well either start or end at KL as this is where the major airport is. It is definitely worth hanging out for a few days. However, the city can get a bit intense and the real magic of Malaysia is found outside of the capital.

Check out  Kuala Lumpur’s best hostels .

And the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur .

Plan your  trip itinerary to Kuala Lumpur .

Or take swanky Kuala Lumpur Airbnb  instead?

Borneo is my go-to image of all things exotic, lush & untouched and the island is covered in some of the most enchanting, green forests on earth.

Straddling both hemispheres, Borneo is actually the 3rd largest island on earth and is currently divided between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Kingdom of Brunei. Malaysian Borneo is home to Orang-utans, Malaysian Gorillas and some incredibly unusual animal species the likes of which are found nowhere else on earth.

You can go and visit them too. There are wildlife sanctuaries, reserves and eco-resorts dotted up and down Malaysian Borneo.

In case you get bored of seeing animals in the wild, then instead go and check people living (kind of) in the wild. The Iban people of Borneo continue to live a traditional way of life even with the application of mod-cons. They were once feared warriors but these days are quite welcoming and you can arrange to stay on their land and live amongst them.

There are regular, good value flights from Kuala Lumpur to Borneo and you can visit using your Malaysian visa as long as you are staying in the Malaysian controlled areas.

Borneo is for many, the very best of areas in Malaysia and an experience not to be missed.

In case you don’t have the time or money to get to Borneo, there are also some incredible rain-forests back on the mainland as much of the country is covered in them. You can arrange guided tours, treks or even stays at eco-resorts to get your fill of nature, tranquility and fresh air. There are even bungalows for rental just outside of Kuala Lumpur just in case you can’t bear to me more than 50km from the nearest Starbucks.

Considering the rate at which humanity seems determined to destroy the rainforests, you really should go and visit now while you can.

Sorry to put you a bummer there. Don’t worry, I’ll make it all better in the traditional British way – with a nice cup of tea!

Who doesn’t love a nice hot tea? Whether you take black, green, milky or sugary, a good old cuppa is a go-to ritual across cultures. Tea is used for starting the day, ending the day, socialising or for a fix of energy. It’s probably even used as an aphrodisiac someplace but to be honest, that’s not a place I ever wanna go.

Malaysia is blessed with countless acres of tea plantations, making it one of the world’s major producers. The stepped, tiered plantations are absolutely breathtaking and make for some seriously impressive photographs. You can take tours of the tea plantations and see for yourself how the stuff is grown, harvested and blended.

You may even get the chance to brew your own and take some back as a souvenir if you behave.

Alternatively, seek out the forest trail, plan to stay in the Cameron Highlands for a while. There are loads of one-day or multi-day treks through the tea zone – this is another highlight of Malaysia.

Not that many people know about it, but there are quite a lot of places to go on epic hikes in Malaysia , especially in Mayalsia’s national parks .

Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Borneo. The area surrounding it has become the Kinabalu National Park. The primary attraction of the park is scaling the mountain and at just above 4000 metres, it is very doable. You can book a 2 tour trek which will take you up and down the summit with the aid of a guide.

Packages cost around $400 and it no longer possible to DIY it. It’s still about $96,600 cheaper than Everest and you are less likely to die here too!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

The island state of Penang sits adrift the north-western tip of Malaysia. “The Pearl of the Orient” is widely held as being the food capital of Malaysia so if you are hungry after all that mountain climbing, dig in!

The best things to do in Penang include staying in the city of George Town famed for its colonial architecture, iconic street art and the Chinese mansions. Then there is the serene Tropical Spice Garden and the delightful sandy beaches of Tanjung Bungah. The Buddhist Snake Temple also has real-life Vipers so you won’t get me in there. 

Penang is home to one of the most entertaining Malaysian festival ; The Dragon Boat Festival. The event has been running for over 30 years and the experience is not to be missed.

Backpackers, book a  Penang budget hostel !

And then scope out Penang’s coolest sights .

Need some help with your  Penang itinerary ?

Or planning where to stay in Penang ?

In case all of that time spent in rainforest and up mountains was a bit boring for you, then you will be delighted to know that Malaysia is also a consumerists paradise (in fact, consumerism is fast overtaking Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism as the major religion of Malaysia).

There are day and night markets across the country although the biggest are found in KL and Georgetown. The markets of Malaysia are a great place to pick up “Made in China” wares ranging from USB chargers to Yo-Yo’s to novelty vacuum cleaners.

Thankfully, there are also artisan markets selling traditional wares which make great souvenirs. Do be sure to leave some extra case in your backpack for all the extra stuff you are gonna buy. Or if your backpack is full, simply buy a new suitcase at the market and then fill it up!

The sheer breadth of cultures here ensures that somebody somewhere is celebrating something at pretty much any time of day or night. There are festivals for Chinese New Year, Ramadan, the Hindu festival of Diwali and that’s without even taking into account the countless indigenous festivals.

Which festival in Malaysia is happening will depend on when exactly you visit. 

Still wondering why to visit Malaysia? Well you will love this next reason! OK so another great reason to visit Malaysia is simply its price tag. Like much (all?) of Southeast Asia, a holiday in Malaysia won’t set you back too much at all and the country is pretty cheap.

For example, a hostel dorm in Kuala Lumpur will cost you $8, soft drinks under $1 and street food is usually around $3-$4. Note that beer is pretty expensive and may cost $5 – I have noticed this also happens in “cheap” countries like India, Morocco & Pakistan too and is kind of annoying.

Of course, cheap doesn’t always mean cheerful and sometimes we need to splurge. But Broke Backpackers can be encouraged to learn that with a few budget tips and tricks , a cheap trip to Malaysia is more than possible.

If you have 70 euros to spend on a night, we advise considering a visit to the private island resort of Pulau Gemia.

The crystal-clear waters are populated by turtles, rays and sharks and the quiet and peaceful beaches will certainly help you unwind quite easily. The charge per night is far from being a fortune, and the resort administrators frequently organize kayak incursions in the surrounding waters and islands.

If you go kayaking, make sure to visit the neighbouring island of Kapas, which will make a sensory delight. The white sands here have a flour-like texture: puffy and fine.

If you have the money to spare, this could be one of your personal Malaysia highlights. And even Broke Backpackers need some creature comfort sometimes.

Most tourists to Southeast Asia know all about the incredible beaches of Thailand and Indonesia but not many appreciate that Malaysia also has some amazing beaches .

Whether you are on the mainland, Penang or Borneo, Malaysia has some cracking beaches that are 1000 times quieter than the ones in neighbouring Thailand.

The beaches in of the Langkawi area and archipelago is possibly the most well. It is renowned for accessible snorkelling although there are plenty of other things to do in Langkawi Beach if you are not comfortable in the water.

Long Beach in Perhentian Kecil is great for backpacker parties and turquoise waters and Perhentian Besar is one of our favourites in the region.

Make sure you tick off as many Malaysian islands as you can, because these places are like a buffet of tropical awesomeness

Note that some areas of Malaysia observe pretty conservative Islamic values. Nude or topless sunbathing is not encouraged anywhere. Pay attention to regional dress norms and follow local cues but remember that as a rule of thumb, beach-wear is for the beach.

Finally, we meet the people!

Malaysia is well renowned as an Asian melting pot and peoples from across the continent have settled here over the centuries from Thailand, India & China. There are all kinds of historical, political, economical reasons for this. Whilst we will not go into them here I totally suggest you do learn all about the, once you are in Malaysia by checking out the fine museums, taking walking tours and hanging out in neighbourhoods.

But the upshot of this rich fusion of Asian cultures can be tasted in the food which borrowers ingredients from China and Thailand and in the nation’s architecture. You can also experience it in the nations spiritual side.

All 3 of the great Asian religions are practiced here (sometimes simultaneously). The Batu Cave temples are one of the holiest Hindu sites outside of India, there are Buddhist temples across the nation and the big Mosque in Kuala Lumpur is a marvel of modern religious architecture.

This also means that there are religious festivals happening pretty much all the time.

For me, it is usually the people that make or break a country. When people ask me why my favorite countries are Colombia, Spain and Romania then my answer is simple – the friendly, helpful, amazing people (or in Colombia’s case the female people…).

Whatever you are seeking from a backpacking adventure in Southeast Asia , you will find at least a little piece of it in Malaysia. From street food to Orang-utans to pristine beaches, and then back to street food, you will have an amazing time in Malaysia.

Did you find our guide to the best things to do in Malaysia helpful? If so, let us know. Or maybe you missed out your personal best place in Malaysia? Well let us know that!

Always Be Insured

Don’t forget to sort your travel insurance! We’ve put together a roundup of the travel insurance for Malaysia, or if you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads now, our favorite travel insurance provider.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Aiden Freeborn

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Hi Aiden, Hallo from Tanah Aina resorts, Malaysia !

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Dive Into Malaysia

Top 21 BEST Places To Visit In Malaysia [2024]

Malaysia is a popular travel destination but when many visitors think about where to visit in Malaysia, they settle for the big city of Kuala Lumpur and the beautiful beaches in Penang and on the island of Langkawi, leaving so many other best cities in Malaysia to visit.

The reality is that there are so many more Malaysia tourist attractions to see. Malaysia spans several large and small islands, and the truth is there are many answers to the question “where to travel in Malaysia”!

A diverse country, there are so many wonderful and attractive places in Malaysia. Not just in its pristine beaches and islands but nature parks too. You could spend months visiting Malaysia tourist places and not cover it all.

What’s more, Malaysia is very budget friendly, the locals are warm and welcoming and the food is inexpensive and delicious.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

So, if you’re wondering Malaysia – where to travel or perhaps you need more encouragement to visit Malaysia? Read on for our list of 21 of the best places to go in Malaysia. This is our ultimate list of the very best Malaysia travel destinations and you’re sure to find some must see places in Malaysia that are perfect for your vacation!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Malaysia

Kuala lumpur.

A list of the best places to visit in Malaysia would be incomplete without the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Top on my list of Malaysia attractions 2024, KL is often the first place people think of when planning where to go in Malaysia, and regularly features as one of the top cities to visit in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia, the major financial center of a melting pot of different cultures. This makes it one of the most exciting cities in Malaysia and shouldn’t be missed.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur include a trip to the world famous Petronas Towers if you’re looking for the best place to visit in KL, taking a trip to the ancient Hindu temple at the Batu Caves, sampling some of the most amazing street food, visiting markets, mosques, theme parks, shopping and much more.

There’s no shortage of wonderful places to visit in Kuala Lumpur and you’ll likely struggle to fit in all the Kuala Lumpur tourist spots in a single visit. When it comes to the Malaysia best places to visit, Kuala Lumpur is a very strong contender, and it’s also one of the most fun places to visit in Malaysia.

If you’re wondering where to start with where to travel in Malaysia 2024, then you can do no wrong with starting in KL.

Getting to Kuala Lumpur: Kuala Lumpur has two major airports – KLIA and KLIA2. It is also well connected to the rest of Malaysia by bus and train.

Top Attraction to visit: The Petronas Towers are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia.

Top place to stay:  Berjaya Times Square Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Kuala Lumpur here .

One of the top travel destinations Malaysia has (especially for beach vacations), Langkawi is a Malaysia must see and many would argue the best island in Malaysia. Not only a beautiful destination with great beaches and attractions, there’s something to suit everyone in Langkawi on either ends of the main island.

When you picture best places to visit Malaysia in your head, it’s very likely the image you see is of Langkawi. This island is definitely one of the options for best place for vacation in Malaysia.

Langkawi is actually an archipelago but the main island offers a range of different locations to visit and stay. Pantai Cenang is one of the most popular beach destinations and home to Underwater World. Other more peaceful destinations are dotted throughout the island. If you love beaches, Langkawi is definitely one of the places to visit in Malaysia that you’ll want to consider. 

Temurun Waterfall is another popular attraction in Langkawi, as well as the Langkawi Cable Car which takes you to the peak of Gunung Machinchang where you’ll find restaurants, shops and other attractions. This is the best way to see that this option of Malaysia best places is not just about gorgeous beaches but also gorgeous jungle interior.

Getting to Langkawi: The best way to get to Langkawi is to fly. Flights leave multiple times daily from Kuala Lumpur and other cities.

Top Attraction to visit: Langkawi Cable Car 

Top place to stay:  Ritz-Carlton Langkawi – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Langkawi here .

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience in KL?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

There are three different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food, nightlife or off the beaten track places.

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Kuala Lumpur.

There’s no better way to discover this great city.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

Another popular Malaysia tourist spots and top destinations in Malaysia is the state of Penang. This state offers many Malaysia places to visit for both first time and return visitors as it’s quite diverse, and it’s one of my personal favourite places to go Malaysia.

There’s a multicultural mix of influences and plenty of beaches, interesting architecture and affordable resort style accommodation. It’s also one of the best places in Malaysia to eat, offering some of the best cheap food.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Malaysia, you will love the array of things to do and see in Penang. Penang is home to important and culturally significant temples like Lok Si Temple, as well as British colonial leftovers like Fort Cornwallis, dating back to the 18th century when Penang was occupied by the British, as well as the historic George Town.

There’s so much to see and do in Penang, making it one of the top places in Malaysia and somewhere you should add to your list of what to see in Malaysia!

In fact, the combination of great food, interesting heritage, beaches and ease of getting here and around makes Penang my personal pick for the best place in Malaysia and definitely one of the best holiday places in Malaysia. If you’re new to Malaysia, best place to travel options are plenty here in Penang.

Getting to Penang: You can get to Penang by train, bus or plane. From Kuala Lumpur, flying is the quickest way to get there.

Top Attraction to visit: George Town

Top place to stay:  Shangri La Rasa Sayang – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Penang here .

Bukit Merah

Malaysia is well known as the home of the orangutan, and another thing visitors often include on their list of what to do in Malaysia is seeing orangutans.

One of the famous places in Malaysia where you can see orangutans is Bukit Merah.

Located just outside of Taiping, the town is surrounded by a lake. Its main attraction is Orang Utan Island – a sustainable tourist destination and one of the top things to see in Malaysia. The town is home to another sustainable attraction, the EcoPark – an enclosure home to many native and rare animals.

When you’re comparing Malaysia vacation destinations, know that this isn’t a cheap destination to visit, but this eco-tourist destination puts what they receive back into maintaining the environment, so it’s a place you can feel good about visiting. It really is the best place to see the orangutan in peninsular Malaysia.

If you want to support ecotourism and want to have a once in a lifetime experience, then Bukit Merah is definitely one of the best place to vacation in Malaysia options for you.

Getting to Bukit Merah: The best way to get there is to drive from Taiping. There are also buses. It’s also possible to day trip here from Penang.

Top Attraction to visit: Orang Utan Island

Top place to stay:  Bukit Merah Laketown Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Kuala Kangsar

Kuala Kangsar is a royal capital, and there is some amazing architecture to see and explore. When we visited, we found the city quiet yet still with a commanding presence owing to the grand buildings. These buildings are why it’s on this Malaysia place to visit list.

This is a town of palaces, and there are plenty to view like the Istana Iskandariah, the Istana Kenangan (constructed of wood), and the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery.

If you want to go and explore somewhere off the beaten tourist track, then this best destination Malaysia might just be right up your street.

The major draw-card of this town is definitely the pretty architecture. There aren’t many attractions, but it does make a nice Malaysia tourist destination for a day trip.

Getting to Kuala Kangsar: You can get there by car, train and bus. The journey takes about an hour from Ipoh.

Top Attraction to visit: Ubudiah Mosque

Top place to stay:  The Shop Hotel – Click here for the latest prices

When we visited Ipoh, we didn’t know what to expect. We ended up loving it. Ipoh is the state capital of Perak and a fantastic destination for a short getaway with plenty of interesting places in Malaysia located in this city. Ipoh is definitely one of the nice places to visit in Malaysia which sees fewer tourists (a good thing in our view!).

If you’re idea of a Malaysia best place to visit includes fantastic food, interesting attractions and lots of fun then visit Ipoh.

There’s the unfinished Kellie’s Castle to explore, Tempurung Cave, the popular Sunway Lost World Of Tambun (great for families) and much more. The Old Town area is a fabulous place to walk around with cute alleyways and numerous street art to find and enjoy.

Plus, there’s Ipoh’s famous white coffee – a must try.

Ipoh is also a gateway to the Cameron Highlands – coming up next. If you’re wondering where to go in Malaysia for short trip, or just looking for an interesting place to visit in Malaysia, Ipoh is somewhere to consider.

Getting to Ipoh: The best way to get there is train, bus or hiring a car. You can also fly.

Top Attraction to visit : Old Town street art

Top place to stay:  Regalodge – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Ipoh guides here.

Want the Easiest (and BEST) Way to travel around Malaysia?

We can book a taxi for you between anywhere in peninsular Malaysia. Travel straight from one hotel to your next without any fuss or sweat.

You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Cameron Highlands

To escape the city life in Kuala Lumpur and the heat at lower altitudes, Malaysians go to The Cameron Highlands. It’s easy to see why and be tempted to join them if you’re looking for the best place for holiday in Malaysia to escape the heat and see something of the interiors of Malaysia too.

This best place to go in Malaysia option is beautiful. Its located high in the hills with rolling tea plantations, places of worship, museums and more. It’s also home to the highest point in Malaysia – Gunung Brinchang , as well as many beautiful hiking trails.

The higher altitude makes it a great place to cool down in tropical Malaysia, and with plenty of places to eat, drink and stay to suit all different budgets, it makes for a great place to see in Malaysia. If you love hill stations and greenery, the Cameron Highlands are definitely one of the best places in Malaysia to visit for your trip.

Getting to Cameron Highlands: The best way to get to the Cameron Highlands is by bus or hiring a car. Top Attraction to visit:   Boh Tea Plantation

Top place to stay: Nova Highlands Resort and Residence – Click here for the latest prices

Find all our Cameron Highlands guides here.

Port Dickson

Port Dickson is a popular destination from Kuala Lumpur for a beach getaway. There are plenty of top quality resorts with particularity good accommodation for families. We found the Avillion Port Dickson to be the best resort in Malaysia for family visits to Port Dickson or the Grand Lexis if you want your own pool. If you’re looking for a beach holiday within easy access of KL and fun places in Malaysia by the beach, PD is a place to consider visiting.

The resorts are generally outside of the main town, which is small but does have some nice restaurants and shops. There’s also some pretty beaches, but many of these are private.

There’s not a huge range of Malaysia attractions in Port Dickson, but there is the Tanjung Tuan lookout. Time is best spent here at one of the great resorts or the beach. This is my pick of the Malaysia destinations if you want some great priced resort time.

Getting to Port Dickson: You can get there by bus, taxi or rental car. It is about 60km from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Tanjung Tuan

Top place to stay: Lexis Hibiscus – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Port Dickson here .

Melaka (also known as Malacca)

One of the other best places to see in Malaysia is Melaka. This is also one of the top historical places in Malaysia to visit, and a contender for the best city in Malaysia if you like your cities bite-sized, navigable and full of history. Malacca is also home to some of the main tourist attractions in Malaysia when it comes to cultural history.

This is a very pretty city and one of Malaysia points of interest for those interested in theology. The city is dotted with numerous churches like St Paul’s church, as well as temples and mosques, thanks to its rich cultural past.

There are also numerous other heritage sites around the city. What’s more, it’s a super easy place to explore on foot or on a trishaw.

Two of the major attractions in Melaka are the A Famosa Resort and the Dutch town of Stadthuys. Jonker Street is where you’ll find many of the main attractions. You’ll also want to visit Melaka River and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

Melaka isn’t just a great place to visit but also makes top 10 places to visit in Malaysia lists because it is so easy to get here. It’s very accessible from Kuala Lumpur or Kuala Lumpur International Airport and you can day trip here from either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

Getting to Melaka: You can get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Jonker Street

Top place to stay:  Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka – Click here for the latest prices.

Read our best guides to Melaka here .

Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru is one of the easy places to go in Malaysia from Singapore as it’s just across the border.

While not necessarily being one of the Malaysia holiday destinations, it’s still worth a visit, particularly if you are in Singapore. The city offers visitors several attractions including a mix of museums and natural landmarks like the Gunung Ledang National Park and Gunung Lambak.

For families with young kids, there’s also the famous Legoland which makes the city one of the best places to visit in Malaysia with family.

Other attractions include the traditional Kukup Fishing Village. You can also explore the shops and restaurants at Jalan Tan Hiok Nee.

As the city is also just across the border from Singapore and one of the practical places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore, it’s one of the best place to visit in Malaysia for a one day trip.

Getting to Johor Bahru: Get there by plane, bus, car and boat.

Top Attraction to visit:  Legoland Malaysia

Top place to stay:  Hotel Jen – Click here for the latest prices

Read our best guides to Johor Bahru here .

Tioman Island

Tioman Island was once named one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Despite being a somewhat popular nice place to visit in Malaysia, it’s easy to feel like you have escaped the world here. It’s relatively untouched and makes for a wonderful destination to visit in Malaysia. And the beaches are some of the best in Malaysia.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs which make it great for scuba diving. Must see spots include Air Batang (or ABC Beach), one of the main settlements on the island, where you can find cheap beer and meals, and J uara beach.

The Island is also great for hiking. You’ll want to visit Aash Waterfall, hike across the island from west to east , as well as visit Paya beach.

If you are looking for Malaysia places to go which are not too hard to get to but feel like you are away from it all, consider Tioman.

Getting to Tioman Island: You can get to Tioman Island by ferry or plane. Flights leave from both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Click here for full details.

Top Attraction to visit: Air Batang is the main village on the island.

Top place to stay:  Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here for our full guide to Tioman Island.

Taman Negara National Park

You may have noticed a theme – Malaysia is home to a vast array of beautiful national parks. Taman Negara National Park holds the title as Malaysia’s largest national park. This 130 million year old rainforest is home to a huge array of local plants and animals and offers plenty of short and long hikes. It’s definitely worth adding to your Malaysia where to go list.

Once inside the park, there are several attractions to visit including Lata Berkoh , which is a short boat ride and a place where you can swim. You can also opt to climb Bukit Teresek, a 334m high hill. The Canopy Walkway is also a must do – and the longest like it in the world.

Note that the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is between February and September each year. If you are visiting at this time of year, definitely go to this Malaysia best place.

Getting to Taman Negara National Park: You can get there by train, taxi or car. It is a 3.5 hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Lata Berkoh

Top place to stay:  Mutiara Taman Negara Resort – Click here to see the latest prices.

Speaking of tourist places in Malaysia, have you considered Cherating if you’re planning to visit Malaysia 2024? This laid back coastal town has some lovely beach resorts and guest houses, as well as Club Med is also located here – arguably the best beach resort in Malaysia.

While the main attraction in Cherating are the beaches and resorts, there’s other Malaysia interesting places to visit like the nearby Turtle Island. This island is free to enter but you need to pay for the boat there. It helps nurture endangered turtles in an environment where they can thrive.

The beaches in Cherating aren’t as pretty as other parts of Malaysia (apart from the stunning option at Club Med) but the resorts are great and many are well priced. It’s a great place for a short trip in Malaysia.

Getting to Cherating: The best way to get there is by bus or hire car. You can take a bus from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Cherating Beach

Top place to stay:   Club Med Cherating Beach

Kuala Terengganu

Kuala Terengganu is the state capital of Terengganu, a city on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. It is one of the best places Malaysia if you love good food, friendly locals and an interesting range of low key attractions, and you’re looking for places to visit in East Malaysia.

It’s also the jumping off point for beautiful Redang Island (coming up next as it’s also a best place to visit Malaysia).

There is an interesting Chinatown to visit complete with street art, some great museums and some magnificent mosques. What really stood out to me when I visited this best destination in Malaysia, however, is the friendly locals. I have never felt so welcome anywhere in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuala Terengganu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there with direct flights from Kuala Lumpur but it’s also a major bus hub.

Top Attraction to visit : Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque (or Floating Mosque)

Top place to stay:  Grand Puteri Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices.

Click here to see our full guide to Kuala Terengganu..

Redang Island

A list of the most beautiful places in Malaysia often includes Redang Island, and it’s easy to see why. This is most simply, the most beautiful place I have ever visited, and unsurprisingly Redang was my best trip in Malaysia of recent years. 

Redang Island is a mix of pleasant resorts and pristine, white sand beaches. It makes for the perfect relaxing getaway and best tourist place in Malaysia. Several of my memories of the best travel in Malaysia are from here.

The main beach is Pasir Panjang (or Long Beach) and, located on the east side of the island, it is one of the popular holiday places in Malaysia for those visiting the east of the country.

While there’s not a whole lot to see if you aren’t a nature lover nor is there a big nightlife scene like some other islands in Malaysia, this is a best place to travel in Malaysia for a calm stay and for cheap, beautiful and easy snorkeling. If you love islands and beaches, then Redang is definitely one of the best place to travel in Malaysia!

Getting to Redang Island: You can get there by plane or boat. Several flights leave daily from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: Pasir Panjang

Top place to stay:  The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to Redang Island here.

Kenyir Lake

An artificial lake located in Terengganu, Kenyir lake is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. This lesser known attraction in Malaysia has been developed as an ecotourism destination and the lake provides hydroelectric power to the region.

It’s also one of the top inland fishing destinations in Malaysia and a gateway to Taman Negara.

This interesting place in Malaysia has several attractions around the like the caves of Bewah and Taat as well as Anglers Heaven, jungle walks and waterfalls. Lake Kenyir Resort is also a pleasant place to stay.

To access the actual lake you’ll need to have a boat to access the lake which you can organise with a tour operator easily. A visit to this Malaysia travel place is the perfect way to see a different slice of Malaysia while enjoying nature.

Getting to Kenyir Lake: A 50 minute drive from Kuala Terengganu Airport. You can fly there from Kuala Lumpur.

Top Attraction to visit: The lake

Top place to stay:  Lake Kenyir Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Perhentian Islands

Less explored than Langkawi, but rated by many as the best holiday destination in Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands offer serene beaches with crystal clear water.

These islands are a travel place in Malaysia that you won’t want to leave, and although there are no museums or culturally significant monuments, there are pristine beaches, crystal clear water and beautiful coral reefs at the appropriately named Coral Bay with sunsets that’ll linger in your memories for a while after you do have to go home.

This is the ultimate place to go snorkeling and scuba diving in Malaysia. You can also go jungle trekking and do activities like kayaking.

Although there’s not much else to do on the island, its natural environment shows the best of Malaysia and it’s one of my personal best places to travel in Malaysia.

Getting to Perhentian Islands : You will need to take a boat there. The main ferry terminal is in Kuala Besut. Instructions are here.

Top Attraction to visit: Coral Bay

Top place to stay:  Perhentian Island Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Read our best guides to the Perhentian Islands here .

Kota Bharu is the state capital of Kelantan, a conservative city on the east coast of the mainland.

This one of the Malaysia cities to visit is relatively laid back with some interesting places to visit like Istana Jahar, a 19th century royal residence, Istana Balai Besar or Grand Palace, as well as other museums and mosques.

There’s also a vibrant night market and street art scene. While Kota Bharu may not make it to top of the list for the top place to visit in Malaysia, spending a few hours or a couple of days in Kota Bharu allows you to see laid back Malaysian life – without the tourists – and it’s a useful stop over if you’re heading to Kuala Besut for the Perhentian islands as well.

The one of the best cities to visit in Malaysia offers visitors a chance to experience a different pace of life and to see the cultural heart of Malaysia. As such, it’s one of the interesting places to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kota Bharu: Flying is the fastest/easiest way to get there, but you can also get there by train, bus and car.

Top Attraction to visit : Istana Jahar

Top place to stay:  Hotel Perdana – Click here to see the latest prices

Click here to see our guide to Kota Bharu.

Kuching, also known as Cat City, is a port city located on the island of Borneo. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sarawak, Borneo. The city is interesting yet still one of the more relaxing places to visit in Malaysia, so if you want to head to Borneo, why not give Kuching a try?

This charming city is abound with museums like the Sarawak Museum and Cat Museum (a must visit in Cat City!) and places of worship like Tua Pek Kong Temple.

It’s also located near some beautiful national parks like Bako National Park as well as Kubah National Park.

The range of activities to visit in the surrounds and the lovely riverfront area makes Kucking my pick for the best city to visit in Malaysia.

Getting to Kuching: The best way to get to Kuching is to fly. Several budget airlines fly here.

Top Attraction to visit: Cat Museum

Top place to stay:  Hilton Kuching – Click here to see the latest prices

Kota Kinabalu

A quiet destination in Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a pretty city on our Malaysia tourist places list offering visitors several attractions and activities.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the top places to visit in Malaysia to go island hopping – but think relaxation, not partying. Gaya Island is one of the most popular, as well as Manukan which is one of the islands that make up the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands great for jungle trekking and diving.

In town, you can climb to Signal Hill Observatory to soak in the city sites and do some shopping at the local markets.

The access to beautiful beaches as well as nature treks make Kota Kinabalu a top destination in Malaysia Borneo. If you’re looking for the best place Malaysia to stop over en route to trekking and jungle exploration, consider stopping off in Kota Kinabalu.

Getting to Kota Kinabalu: The easiest way to get to Kota Kinabalu is by flying.

Top Attraction to visit: Signal Hill

Top place to stay:  Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Click here to see the latest prices

Sandakan is a small option of where to go Malaysia with few attractions inside the town itself. However, it has huge historical significance from World War II. The Sandakan Memorial Park pays homage to this dark part of history.

The small museum and accompanying walk is dedicated to the prisoners of war from the Borneo Death Marches and commemorates those who lost their lives. This makes for a confronting memorial. While it’s not the most obvious of vacation places in Malaysia, it’s well worth a visit if you’re interested in history or are visiting to see the graves and memorials here.

The city itself has plenty of cheap markets and places to eat, and is a gateway to other significant attractions like the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, one of Malaysia famous places. Here, you can get up close to rescued orangutans who are being rehabilitated. There’s also the Turtle Islands Park.

Getting to Sandakan: Located on Borneo, the quickest way to get there is to fly.

Top Attraction to visit: Sandakan Memorial Park

Top place to stay:  Sabah Hotel – Click here to see the latest prices

Looking for the easiest way to get around Malaysia to these great places? Find our long-distance taxi service here . It can take you door-to-door anywhere in peninsular Malaysia.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

We hope you found somewhere just right for you in this Malaysia tourism place list. Read more about other destinations in Malaysia or find the best time to visit Malaysia here or the best things to do here. Looking for places to visit in Malaysia in 2 – 4 days? Read our itineraries here  and find our ultimate article to planning your trip to Malaysia here.

Related posts:

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Wow, Very beautiful places I must visit this year. Love from Pakistan

It’s worth it!

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Smart Tourism: Future of Tourism in Malaysia

Tourism is the third-largest contributor to Malaysia’s GDP, after the manufacturing and commodities sectors. In 2019, the sector contributed about 15.9 per cent to the total GDP. In the last few years before the outbreak of COVID-19, the tourism industry in Southeast Asia had experienced a significant growth phase, and Malaysia launched the “Visit Truly Asia Malaysia 2020” campaign with a target of 30 million visitors and RM100 billion in tourist revenue for 2020. However, the COVID-19 outbreak severely impacted the Malaysian tourism industry, which led to the cancellation of the campaign.

The Government then launched the National Tourism Policy (NTP) 2020-2030 on 23 December 2020 to ensure the continuity of the country’s tourism industry and make Malaysia a preferred tourist destination globally. Key approaches in achieving the NTP’s agenda include effective recovery of the tourism industry based on new norms, strengthening competitiveness, sustainable and inclusive tourism development, as well as disaster risk management.

Among the Transformation Strategies outlined in the NTP is to embrace ‘Smart Tourism’. Advances in digital technology have influenced the way people travel, causing tourism-related businesses to change the way they operate.

The Malaysia Smart Tourism 4.0 initiative launched by Tourism Malaysia on 5 April 2018 aims to take the industry to the next level by taking advantage of opportunities in the digital age. These efforts will pave the way for new innovative sub-sectors and create employment opportunities in line with the NTP and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). In a study conducted by Monitor Deloitte, ‘Smart Tourism’ has the potential to increase Malaysia’s tourism-based revenues from the current USD25 billion to USD110 billion by 2030, an increase of more than 4-fold.

According to Dr Hayley Stainton, the founder and CEO of Tourism Teacher, “Smart Tourism is defined according to the technological capabilities of a particular destination, attraction or the tourist themselves.”

The definition is supported by The European Capital of Smart Tourism which defines a smart destination as:

‘A destination facilitating access to tourism and hospitality products, services, spaces and experiences through ICT-based tools. It is a healthy social and cultural environment, which can be found through a focus on the city´s social and human capital. It also implements innovative, intelligent solutions and fosters the development of entrepreneurial businesses and their interconnectedness.’

The ultimate aim of smart tourism is to improve resource management efficiency, enhance tourism experiences, maximise competitiveness, and enhance sustainability through technological innovation and practices.

The five most common methods of implementing smart tourism

While the tourism sector has taken a hard blow due to the pandemic, the focus on digitalisation and developing smart products and infrastructure are among initiatives to build a more resilient and sustainable future in Malaysia. Taking a positive spin, a crisis is often an opportunity to rethink and reinvent old processes, particularly to adopt more sustainable tourism practices. According to UNWTO (UN World Tourism Organisation), sustainable tourism ‘has the potential to advance urban infrastructure and universal accessibility, promote the regeneration of damaged areas and preserve cultural and natural heritage, assets that depend on tourism’.

In recent years, there has been a demand for high-class hotel development in response to the increase in global wealth and higher living standards among developed and developing countries. The upcoming mega projects and large mixed-use development in TRX, Bandar Malaysia and KL Metropolis are expected to attract upperupscale and luxury hotels. It is estimated that the proposed investment for the establishment of 4 and 5 star hotels in Malaysia amounted to RM7 billion in 2021.

In efforts to develop Malaysia’s tourism landscape into a sustainable, competitive and resilient sector, incentives are provided to encourage existing operators of 4 and 5-star hotels and smart tourism. MIDA welcomes quality investments that involve high-value and innovative tourism products and services, and contributes to a comprehensive ecosystem such as special tourism investment zones without compromising on environmental policies and legal requirements. MIDA also encourages companies to invest in modern and higher standard infrastructure and facilities to build up the resilience and long term competitiveness of the tourism sector.

Explore other related content to further explore MIDA’s insights.

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism in Malaysia - statistics & facts

Slow but steady recovery, visit malaysia 2026, key insights.

Detailed statistics

GDP direct contribution from tourism Malaysia 2013-2022

Tourism receipts value Malaysia 2014-2023

Tourist arrivals to Malaysia 2014-2023

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

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• Basic Statistic Value of international tourism spending APAC 2022, by country
• Premium Statistic GDP direct contribution from tourism Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Tourism industry direct contribution as share of GDP Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Tourist arrival growth in Malaysia 2013-2022

Value of international tourism spending APAC 2022, by country

Value of international tourism expenditure in the Asia-Pacific region in 2022, by country or territory (in billion U.S. dollars)

Gross domestic product direct contribution from tourism in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Tourism industry direct contribution as share of GDP Malaysia 2013-2022

Direct contribution of the tourism industry as a share of the gross domestic product (GDP) in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022

Tourist arrival growth in Malaysia 2013-2022

Year on year growth of tourist arrivals to Malaysia from 2013 to 2022

Inbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Tourist arrivals to Malaysia 2014-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of tourist arrivals in Malaysia 2022, by country of residence
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia 2015 to 2022
• Premium Statistic Inbound tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia 2022, by product

Tourist arrivals to Malaysia from 2014 to 2023 (in millions)

Number of tourist arrivals in Malaysia 2022, by country of residence

Number of tourist arrivals in Malaysia in 2022, by country of residence (in 1,000s)

Inbound tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia 2015 to 2022

Inbound tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia from 2015 to 2022 (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Inbound tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia 2022, by product

Inbound tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia in 2022, by product (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Domestic tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of domestic visitors in Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic tourism trips in Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Average length of stay on domestic tourism trips Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Domestic tourism expenditure in Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Average expenditure on domestic tourism trips Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Domestic tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia 2022, by product

Number of domestic visitors in Malaysia 2013-2022

Number of domestic visitors in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in millions)

Number of domestic tourism trips in Malaysia 2013-2022

Number of domestic tourism trips in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in million)

Average length of stay on domestic tourism trips Malaysia 2013-2022

Average length of stay on domestic tourism trips in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in days)

Domestic tourism expenditure in Malaysia 2013-2022

Domestic tourism expenditure in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Average expenditure on domestic tourism trips Malaysia 2013-2022

Average expenditure on domestic tourism trips in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in Malaysian ringgit)

Domestic tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia 2022, by product

Domestic tourism expenditure of visitors in Malaysia in 2022, by product (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Hotel industry

• Premium Statistic Value added by the accommodation services industry in Malaysia 2017-2021
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of hotel rooms available Malaysia 2022, by state
• Premium Statistic Average occupancy rates of hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of foreign hotel guests in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2013-2022

Value added by the accommodation services industry in Malaysia 2017-2021

Value added by the accommodation services industry in Malaysia from 2017 to 2021 (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Number of hotels in Malaysia 2013-2022

Number of hotels in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022

Number of hotel rooms available Malaysia 2022, by state

Number of hotel rooms available in Malaysia in 2022, by state (in 1000s)

Average occupancy rates of hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2013-2022

Average occupancy rates of hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 2013 to 2022

Number of foreign hotel guests in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2013-2022

Number of foreign hotel guests in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in millions)

Economic impact

• Premium Statistic Gross value added tourism industries (GVATI) Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Share of GVATI in Malaysia 2022, by sector
• Premium Statistic Number of employees in tourism industry Malaysia 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Tourism receipts value Malaysia 2014-2023
• Premium Statistic Breakdown of tourist expenditure Malaysia 2021

Gross value added tourism industries (GVATI) Malaysia 2013-2022

Gross value added tourism industries (GVATI) in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Share of GVATI in Malaysia 2022, by sector

Share of gross value added of tourism industries (GVATI) in Malaysia in 2022, by sector

Number of employees in tourism industry Malaysia 2013-2022

Number of people employed in the tourism industry in Malaysia from 2013 to 2022 (in millions)

Total value of tourism receipts in Malaysia from 2014 to 2023 (in billion Malaysian ringgit)

Breakdown of tourist expenditure Malaysia 2021

Breakdown of tourist expenditure in Malaysia in 2021

Consumer behavior

• Premium Statistic Common issues about traveling among Malaysians 2023
• Premium Statistic Perceived level of safety when traveling with COVID-19 among Malaysians 2023
• Premium Statistic Main reasons for domestic travels Malaysia 2022

Common issues about traveling among Malaysians 2023

Most common concerns about traveling among tourists in Malaysia as of January 2023

Perceived level of safety when traveling with COVID-19 among Malaysians 2023

Perceived level of safety when traveling during COVID-19 among tourists in Malaysia as of January 2023

Main reasons for domestic travels Malaysia 2022

Main reasons for undertaking domestic trips in Malaysia in 2022

Further reports

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9 of the best places to go in Malaysia

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

From the top food destinations to getting away from it all in the highlands, here are the best places to visit in Malaysia © Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Split across two different land masses, Malaysia instantly poses a dilemma. Do you visit Peninsular Malaysia, which borders Thailand to the north and Singapore down south? Or do you head across the South China Sea to Borneo – a jungly island shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and the Kingdom of Brunei? 

Good news: both sides of Malaysia have soft sandy beaches and snorkel-worthy coves, though Malaysian Borneo has superior access to marine life. Borneo is also the best pick for jungle trekking, though you can explore national parks and hilly hiking terrain across Peninsular Malaysia, too – like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands . Many parks and beauty spots are almost on top of the cities, making Peninsular Malaysia an excellent choice for families who want to spot hornbills by day, but bed down in modern comfort.

Peninsular Malaysia is also where you'll find the buzz. Gastronomes, shoppers and museum hounds can enjoy their fill in cosmopolitan Kuala Lumpur , food-forward Penang  and cultural jigsaw Melaka . Plot your own path with a little help from our list of the best places to go in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is the best place to go for a whirlwind tour 

If you have grand ambitions but limited time, head to Kuala Lumpur. Parts of KL feel like a quintessential capital city, with chic shopping malls (like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC), a competitive cocktail scene and a sci-fi skyline – the Petronas Towers rise up like twin rockets, while Menara KL glows like a futuristic lighthouse (head to the 300m-high (984ft) sky deck for an expansive view). But KL offers more than fast-paced urban commotion. 

KL's city swagger comes accompanied by nature and history, courtesy of time-worn temples, kopitiam (traditional coffee houses), and rainforests almost side by side with high-rise buildings. Places of worship like scarlet multi-story Thean Hou Temple and ornate Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad inspire contemplation and wonder.

If you're looking for places to visit in Malaysia in three days, KL has day-trip potential, too. Listen to birdsong at KL Forest Eco Park , picnic by a waterfall at the Forest Research Institute ; and less than an hour's drive away is Mah Meri Cultural Village , where you can immerse yourself in indigenous Orang Asli art and history. 

Encounter pristine nature in Gunung Mulu National Park

Remarkably rocky, tremendously old and a theater for eye-popping natural spectacles, Gunung Mulu is arguably Malaysia's best national park. Between Gunung Mulu (2376m/7795ft) and Gunung Api (1710m/5610ft) are old-growth forests, limestone pinnacles and deep caves, home to millions of bats that take flight every twilight – watch the drama unfold at Deer Cave . 

Where to begin exploring? DIY experiences include the Mulu canopy walk (a suspended ladder through the treetops), an easy ramble to Paku Waterfall or the Botanical Heritage Loop Trail.

If you have tough hiking boots and even tougher endurance, book a guide and tackle the three-day Pinnacles trek. The climbs are steep, but you'll be rewarded by panoramic views of dense jungle spiked with fins of limestone. 

Penang is the top destination for food, drink and sensory pleasures

Penang's foodie status is uncontested. Travelers flock from across Malaysia (and beyond) to experience Gurney Drive's seafood restaurants, slurp Penang laksa at Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls , and follow their noses to barbecued seafood at the Chew Jetties . But even beyond the sizzle of char kway teow (rice noodles with prawns, eggs and more), Penang can tickle your senses.

Inhale the tang of 500 herbs and aromatics at Tropical Spice Garden . Listen to the chatter of macaques at Penang National Park , the country's smallest. Gawp at the architectural splendor of Khoo Kongsi clubhouse and the intricately carved Pinang Peranakan Mansion . Alternatively, get bang up to date with contemporary art at Hin Bus Station .  

Tip for timing your visit: Penang is one of the best places to visit in Malaysia in December, when the west coast enjoys good weather while winds batter the east. 

Kuching is the perfect urban-jungle mash-up

We hear the dilemma: you want access to nature without committing to a tent in the jungle. And you want to experience the buzz of a Malaysian city without the high-octane hubbub of KL. Kuching , the capital of Bornean state Sarawak, is your happy medium. 

Kuching is a launchpad to Borneo's glorious wilderness. From here, you can easily meet orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre , or day-trip to Bako National Park to look for bearded pigs and proboscis monkeys.

But before stepping beyond the city limits, let Kuching work its charms. Stroll the waterfront promenade, where you can see views of Kuching's architectural treasury: the Astana (palace) and its trim gardens, the State Assembly  and the swirling Darul Hana pedestrian bridge. Admire Chinese temples, browse the weekend market and learn the history of Sarawak's White Rajas at hilltop Fort Margherita . 

Pulau Perhentian are the best islands for sunshine and snorkeling

Mentioning the Perhentians to Malaysian people elicits a longing smile. The Perhentian Islands are synonymous with brilliant beaches and marine life, plus there's a party scene to keep beach bums dancing until the wee hours. The trick is to find your perfect beach.

Searching for spectacular sunsets? Head to Coral Bay. Green turtles? The turtle project on Main Beach. Late-night beach parties? Long Beach. There are numerous beaches where you can go sea kayaking and snorkel among parrotfish and giant clams; hardened divers can go deeper to visit wrecks and commune with clownfish, reef sharks and stingrays. Time your visit for dry season between March and October (but avoid July, when crowds reach their peak).  

Melaka is a cultural smorgasbord 

Nowhere in Malaysia is the tumult of past colonial rule felt more strongly than in port cities, and Melaka is emblematic of this cultural collision.

Melaka is perched on Peninsular Malaysia's west coast, and successive colonists (Portuguese, Dutch, British) vied for control over this trading port and maritime waystation. Today, Melaka harbors a number of variegated food cultures, a hodge-podge of architecture and alluring night markets.

Glimpse Portuguese history by clambering aboard the replica Flor de la Mar ship and sampling baked fish at Medan Portugis. Time-travel forward to Dutch rule by touring the Stadthuys (now a history museum) and salmon-pink Christ Church . Other cornerstones of history are "China Hill" cemetery and Peranakan (Straits Chinese) mansions, notably the Baba-Nyonya Heritage Museum . 

Melaka's multidimensional cultures have helped fuel a roaring tourist trade. Colorful trishaws offer joyrides and history tours, while Jonker Walk Night Market is the evening's entertainment, offering everything from open-air karaoke to nibbling on Nyonya zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings).

Take refreshing upland hikes in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia's most famous hill stations snooze among the vivid green tea plantations of the Cameron Highlands . Temperatures seldom stray higher than 30°C (86°F), attracting locals and tourists alike to cool off in these 4265ft to 6000ft (1300m to 1829m) heights. Many folks pick strawberries at Raaju's Hill or make a beeline (sorry) for the honey farm – but there are more authentic natural encounters in the Camerons. 

Take a guided hike with Eco Cameron to marvel at orchids and hunt for the whopping rafflesia flower. You can also go alone: numbered hiking trails extend right from main towns Brinchang and Tanah Rata (ask locally about trail safety, as robberies have been reported on some routes). Inevitably, you'll reward your outdoor exertions by sipping a cup of tea (or three) at a plantation. Boh Sungei Palas has some of the best views, with Boh Tea Garden a close second. 

Ipoh is Malaysia's best unsung destination

To Malay people, Ipoh is deservedly famous. For one, Ipoh's sweet, creamy white coffee is legendary. The town is the capital of Perak, a region of past tin-mining wealth that spawned colonial follies like Kellie's Castle . Then there are the regional delicacies – chicken bean sprouts, bean curd pudding – that bring KL day trippers piling into Ipoh eateries. 

But for international travelers, Ipoh has remained firmly off the map – overlooked on the rush between KL and Penang. So if you're looking for unique places to visit in Malaysia, buck the trend and head to Ipoh. Its hilly outskirts are jeweled with cave temples; statue-studded Sam Poh Tong has a crimson pavilion secreted away among the limestone cliffs. In town, street art by famed Lithuanian muralist Ernest Zacharevic splashes the walls, shophouses on once-notorious Concubine Lane retain their antique flavor, and the train station has attracted the nickname Taj Mahal (you be the judge). 

Tioman Island is the best place to unwind

Picture it: palm trees and hibiscus flowers swaying in the sea breeze, and perhaps a sea breeze cocktail making its way into your hand as you settle in at a bar. This 52.5 sq mi (136 sq km) island begs you to unwind, embrace a slower pace and maybe get that tie-dye T-shirt.

Your only burden? Picking a village where you can settle down, uncrick your neck and maybe catch a wave or two. Kampung Juara is the best surf spot, with two wide, sandy beaches, plenty of places offering board and kayak hire, and, better yet, a turtle sanctuary on Mentawak Beach. Kampung Salang is backpacker central, with access to popular shores like white-sand Monkey Beach and occasional beach parties. To feel far from the beaten track, head to tucked-away villages like quiet, traditional Kampung Mukut . But wherever you sling your rucksack, make time for marine encounters. Tioman has extensive coral reefs (and abundant manta rays), and March to October is prime time for divers.

This article was first published Feb 23, 2022 and updated Jan 29, 2024.

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• 10 Reasons Why You Should...

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Kuala Lumpur

The capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit destination. It is an eclectic and gorgeous hub of culture and class, a true gem of Southeast Asia. KL is also one of Malaysia’s major business centers, bringing people together – so here’s why it’s worth a trip.

The world’s melting pot.

Kuala Lumpur has undergone so much development since its heyday as one of the major areas for tin mining during the Industrial Revolution and as a Commonwealth nation. With its colorful inhabitants of every race and religion adding their flair to the city, KL has now become a center for Malaysia to invite and accommodate the rest of Asia; creating a metropolis like no other . On every corner is a testament to the assimilation into urban life regardless of origin and class, adding to the vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur in every way possible, from the glittering skyscrapers to the quaint coffee shops. Marvel at the tenacity and beauty of every walk of life coming together as you tour the sights and flavors it has to offer.

International buffet

In addition to the already many cultures that have nested in the land of Malaysia, international demand for other cuisines via globalization have both transformed and diversified the delicacies available . With Kuala Lumpur being a transit point for the world, the city has invited and accommodated many new flavors, bringing pieces of home from all over to ensure that globe trotters would always be close to a slice of familiar life. Imagine the beautiful French cream puff given a Japanese flair in the making, and filled with local flavors such as durian and banana as dessert after a beautiful meal of simple nasi lemak .

Preservation of the Old

To preserve the rich and diverse history of Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur, many museums dedicated to the arts and lives of Malaysia’s people have been established all over the heart of the city. Whether it be carefully curated collections in polished galleries or the still living, breathing streets filled with old timers and curious explorers, Kuala Lumpur is undoubtedly proud of the rich chaotic mix of history grown and blended by its people. Spend an entire day doing a history crawl, from the beautiful halls of the National Islamic Museum to the alleys of Jalan Pudu and Brickfields and witness the city grow through its architecture and inhabitants.

Capital transportation

Despite the apparent chaotic nature of the city’s development, Kuala Lumpur is quite tightly connected through an extensive series of train lines and bus routes. You will surely not miss a stop at KL Sentral, the central station beating life into the veins of Kuala Lumpur, on your journey to explore the many attractions of the city. The many new developments to the transit line have opened up even more access points all over the Klang Valley, providing ease of commute to the entire state. It is advisable to be mindful of the rush hours, as you might be stuck waiting for up to three trains.

Monumental monoliths

The beacons of this shining city, Kuala Lumpur Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers proudly claim their record as being among the tallest towers of the world, showcasing world-class architecture and deep-rooted artistry. These fantastic pieces of skyline are instantly recognizable all over the world, showcasing the achievements of Malaysia as a global force. And if the man-made ones aren’t enough, the area of Kuala Lumpur also stretches out to the natural giants; the most popular of which are the Batu Caves and the Klang Quartz Ridge to the North. Most of Malaysia’s mountains are composed of limestone, which cultivates an entirely unique eco-system both in and on the exterior of the crags.

Sensational shopping

Like its shopping-centric neighbor Singapore, Kuala Lumpur takes equal standing in providing visitors with some of the most illustrious shopping malls this side of Southeast Asia. Many popular luxury brands have established flagship stores in premier malls such as Bukit Bintang, Starhill Gallery, Pavillion and even the lower cost Sungei Wang. In addition to those are boutiques of brands that are home-grown, bringing Malaysian designers to the ranks of global fashion. And if a normal shopping experience wasn’t enough, visit Berjaya Times Square for an amazing indoor theme park, the largest of its kind this side of Asia.

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Affordable for all budgets

Whether you’re habitually thrifty or on a treat splurge, most of the things in Kuala Lumpur are reasonably affordable. From the fancy restaurants and flagship luxury stores in Bukit Bintang to the food courts and small stalls on the roadsides of Petaling Street, anyone at any budget can enjoy a nice day out shopping and eating to their hearts’ content.

Nightlife like no other

Malaysians are generally not known for hitting the hay early, so an evening in Kuala Lumpur is sure to bring the term nightlife a whole new meaning. Changkat is a popular spot catering to tourists from all over the world for a night of booze and exotic foods; while the cheaper alternatives in the rest of the city are popular among locals who don’t want to retire for the night just yet. Stop by the Indian Mamaks, popular for being open 24 hours a day for a simple yet refreshing meal of roti chanai and a glass of teh tarik after partying or catching up on a live football match. Fun fact, most of the mamaks pull out a giant projector screen for all their customers during the season, so don’t feel bad occupying a table for more than four hours.

Wondrous wildlife

As Malaysia is home to some of the most fascinating wildlife on planet Earth (think of the many BBC nature programs featuring Borneo), Kuala Lumpur is the next best place to go looking for exotic creatures. While it may not be as impressive as the East Malaysian reserves the animals originate from, the National Zoo and Aquaria KLCC host the largest collection of native and international fauna available for public visiting. For the more specific wildlife lovers, visit the KL Bird Park for a dizzying collection of birds and the KL Butterfly Park for creepy crawlies of every kind.

Everywhere you look, everything your eyes fall upon is a unique pattern made by the many inhabitants of Kuala Lumpur. From the temples to the food to the skyscrapers, marvel at the knowledge that each is pieced together through the blending of more than one culture; from the Indian Hindu motifs of the Sri Mahamariamman Temple to the Spanish tiles that adorn its gates. An even more obscure challenge to have fun with is the taste-testing. Keep an eye out for some hawker stalls bearing the names of more northern states and compare their foods with similar variants from the southern regions. Minds and taste buds will be blown when discovering how different a bowl of laksa is constructed down the country.

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4 major takeaways for M’sia to learn from Macao in pushing itself as a tourist destination

T hink Malaysian tourism and the PETRONAS Twin Towers come to mind. They’re featured in almost every advertisement material to promote our country.

Sure, they’re a grand sight to behold, and our pride in them is justified. But Malaysia has so much more to offer, and its potential just isn’t being given enough attention to. 

So, how do we address this?

At the recent The Macao Showcase and MICE & Luxury Forum in Singapore, we got to see for ourselves and hear from a panel of experts on how to successfully showcase a location as a tourist destination.

Both events were hosted by Sands China Ltd , which owns and operates multi-use integrated resorts in Macao, and held at Marina Bay Sands , its sister property in Singapore.

Why look to Macao as an example?

Macao has always had a strong tourism sector, with annual arrivals above 30 million for consecutive six years before reaching its peak of 39,340,181 visitors in 2019 .

Following the reopening of its tourism sector for international visitors, Macao has also seen a strong recovery performance. 

It began welcoming over a million visitors monthly in 2023, and in April 2023, tourist arrivals broke the 2 million mark , bringing its current total in Q1 of the year to 4.96 million visitors. If it simply maintains this rate, Macao will easily hit close to 20 million visitors by end 2023. 

(For contrast, Malaysia has targeted a more modest 16 million visitors in 2023 , and is banking on a “late surge” in tourist arrivals to bring our numbers up.)

There could be many factors as to why Malaysia is seeing a slower pickup rate of visitors. But after visiting Macao’s showcase and forum, it’s clear that Malaysia has a few things to learn from the region when it comes to showcasing our tourism appeal.

1. SMEs’ role in tourism is currently overlooked, both the government and private companies should step in to fix that.

Something that was palpable at the showcase was Macao’s pride in its SMEs, and the lengths that Sands China Ltd went to, to make sure that they were spotlighted as part of Macao’s tourism.

This included highlighting a 90-year-old bakery that’s famous for its almond cookies (Yeng Kee Bakery), Macao’s first gin distillery born during the pandemic (Owl Man), and a fashion brand that has made it into British Vogue, Vogue Italia, and the London Fashion Week (Nuno Lopes).

These aren’t the types of SMEs we’d typically think of when we’re asked which local brands make us proud, and that everyone else should know about. 

Instead, a lot of our focus is on tech-slanted SMEs, who are more likely to receive support from government-owned programmes to commercialise successfully in domestic and international markets.

But do these SMEs play a role in highlighting Malaysia’s heritage and rich culture specifically? 

To that end, Malaysia needs to identify its own SMEs that have tourism appeal, and the government along with private companies must recognise their value and lend support to uplift them.

We need to move beyond specific attractions like KLCC, our islands, or caves, and encourage international visitors to come and explore our foodscape, our heritage-rich fashion scene, and more.

Let’s give these SMEs a global platform to attract foreign customers too, because it’s time to move past local supporting local, and head towards global supporting local if we want to grow both our SMEs and our tourism sector.

2. Tourism isn’t just about one hotel or one location, but the cohesive and comprehensive experience that visitors get from a community.

During the MICE & Luxury Forum, we learnt that one hotel or one location alone cannot carry a country’s tourism sector.

For a tourist visit worth remembering, a country or community should offer a cohesive and comprehensive experience.

Cohesive meaning that all the tourist attractions (whether a natural attraction, a food spot, or an SME’s offerings) play off each other well. 

They all must have a purpose to be highlighted, and how do their individual purposes contribute to the bigger picture? How can they come together to create a comprehensive experience for visitors?

An example of a comprehensive experience could start in a hotel, where it serves or uses products from local SMEs, organises tours to specific local attractions, and has a shopping complex in its vicinity. 

All this will make the hotel more than just a place to rest and rejuvenate, and tourists don’t need to feel like the burden of finding things to do is on their shoulders, because they already have these “packaged” experiences in one place.

3. The destination’s story matters and a wholesome narrative is important to put us on tourists’ radar.

Following the above, when more attention is paid to curating cohesive and comprehensive experiences for visitors beyond a single location or activity, it’s easier to shape a narrative around a destination.

Although Macao is a destination that many see as being for either business or entertainment, its best-known narrative is still that it’s a place with a rich colonial heritage, proven by its 22 sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Modern structures like luxury hotels and conference centres and shopping complexes can be replicated anywhere with the right resources—but a destination’s culture is one it calls its own, and that is what should be the backbone of its story.

So, what is Malaysia’s story, and how can different stakeholders, from the government to SMEs, contribute to and complement it?

4. MICE events that encourage open communication and discourse with major and minor stakeholders in tourism and other sectors will up the destination’s global appeal.

From The Macao Showcase to the MICE & Luxury Forum, all of our senses were well engaged. 

We enjoyed the sights of detailed sets replicating Macao, smelled and tasted F&B unique to the region, got to touch various fashion products on display, and had the pleasure of listening to panels of experts in their fields.

Combined, these experiences really cemented the appeal of Macao as a must-visit tourist destination in our minds. 

It speaks to the importance of having well-organised MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) events catered to an international crowd if we want to up Malaysia’s tourism appeal.

Alongside the sights, we should have substance in our events and provide the involved stakeholders with a platform to have open communication and impactful discourse. 

These stakeholders shouldn’t only be from the tourism industry either, but should also come from the fashion, arts, and culture sector, and of course, be made up of SMEs too.

Data is king in effective tourism

All of the above points only have credibility because Macao has proven that it knows its numbers, and it knows how to grow those numbers.

That’s why it’s important for stakeholders in a country’s tourism sector to have the right data.

We need to know what people are coming to our country for, how long they’re staying for, what they’re spending on, how many are returning in the following or subsequent years, and other data points. Only then can we plan the right kinds of tourism MICE events.

It’s time for Malaysia to stop hiding in KLCC’s shadow and only depending on the government to push Malaysia as a tourist destination. 

Everyone needs to come together to offer up the best version of Malaysia as a go-to destination, be it for business or leisure, and we can take a page out of Macao’s book for starters.

• Learn more about Sands China Ltd here .
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Holistic approach needed to capture growing Muslim tourist market, says Tourism sec-gen

Monday, 03 Jun 2024

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KHIVA: A holistic approach that prioritises sustainability, resilience and equity is needed to capture the growing and significant Muslim tourist market, says Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman.

In reading the national statement, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry secretary-general said the Islamic tourism sector has grown significantly over recent years, driven by the increasing number of Muslim travellers seeking destinations and services that respect their religious beliefs and practices.

"With some two billion Muslim population worldwide, the Muslim tourist market is

shaping a new and significant segment of the tourism industry. This is strategically advantageous for OIC member states to satisfy the growing demand for Muslim-friendly products and services, especially in the tourism supply chain.

"We must adopt a holistic approach to Islamic tourism development that prioritises sustainability, resilience, and equity, particularly in the face of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, geopolitical challenges, and socio-economic inequalities," he said at the 12th Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers (ICTM12) here late Sunday (June 2) evening.

Roslan led the Ministry's delegation to the (ICTM12) organised by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held from May 31 to June 2, 2024, in Khiva, Uzbekistan.

Two working sessions were organised during the conference.

In this regard, he said that Malaysia has developed the National Tourism Policy

(NTP) 2020-2030 which advocates inclusivity, sustainability, innovation, and digitisation in the transformation of the country's tourism sector, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Goals (UNSDGs).

"This policy serves as a guide and basis for planning the development of the tourism industry to optimise its potential as one of the key economic drivers," said the former ambassador.

He added that Malaysia has identified the Muslim Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) segment as one of the crucial drivers of economic progress that could be further explored.

"Since 2009, Malaysia has been actively expanding and enhancing its MFTH segment.

"In 2023, Malaysia received over 4.5 million Muslim international arrivals and retained its top position as the premier destination for Muslim travellers.

"This marks the ninth time Malaysia has maintained its top spot in the Mastercard-Crescentrating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024," he noted.

Meanwhile, during the ICTM12 senior official meeting's presentation, Roslan pointed out that the tourism industry in Malaysia has shown gradual growth since the reopening of the country's borders on April 1, 2022 post Covid-19 pandemic.

"According to the latest data recorded, a total of 5.8 million tourist arrivals were identified in the first quarter of 2024, an increase of 32.5% compared to the first quarter of 2023", said Roslan.

"Based on this positive development, Malaysia targets the arrival of 27.3 million foreign tourists to Malaysia with a total expenditure of RM102.7bil for the year 2024 in line with the UN World Tourism barometer prediction of the tourism performance post-pandemic following a strong rebound that the industry has shown in 2023," he added.

He said that air connectivity remains one of the main priorities to increase tourist arrivals in a particular destination.

Based on the Official Airline Guide (OAG) data, Roslan pointed out that Malaysia has 31.6 mil. international flight seats in 2024 which is way lower than Singapore which has 31.6% more flight seats than Malaysia’s.

"It is imperative that Malaysia capitalises on Singapore’s air connectivity to increase the arrivals to the country.

"This can be done through multi-destination offerings either via Singapore – Malaysia’s international airports such as KLIA, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, or via Singapore – Johor land borders," he noted.

Tags / Keywords: OIC , Muslim Travellers , Uzbekistan , Muslim Tourists Market , Roslan Abdul Rahman

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MALAYSIA RETAINS TOP SPOT AS LEADING DESTINATION FOR MUSLIM TRAVELLERS IN GMTI 2024 REPORT

Photo: Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur by Chander Mohan on Unsplash

PUTRAJAYA, 30 MAY 2024 – Malaysia has retained its top position for the ninth time in the Mastercard-Crescentrating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024 report released today. This prestigious recognition coincides with Malaysia also being named the “Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC)” for the second year running at the Halal in Travel Awards 2024 held in Singapore today.

The Halal in Travel Awards celebrate the travel industry’s efforts to make Halal travel a seamless experience. They recognise destinations, organisations, companies, and individuals who have made a significant impact on the Muslim lifestyle travel segment across various categories. 

En. Nizran Noordin, Director-General of Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), congratulated both CrescentRating and Mastercard on the launch of GMTI 2024 in his acceptance speech. “Alhamdulillah, since the index’s inception in 2015, Malaysia has been honoured to hold the top spot,” he said. “We remain dedicated to championing Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) on both local and global scales. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of industry practitioners and stakeholders in advocating for the MFTH sector.” 

Caption: Mr. Nizran Noordin, Director-General of ITC receives the Halal in Travel Awards 2024

This prestigious recognition underscores Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality (MFTH) supported by ITC’s research, training, and standards development in the sector. It is the third time that Malaysia shares the top spot with Indonesia, the previous two being in 2019 and 2023.

The global Muslim market presents a vast opportunity, with a population exceeding 1.9 billion individuals. Pre-pandemic figures reported by Mastercard and CrescentRating showcased significant growth in the Muslim travel market, with the number of travellers rising from 108 million in 2013 to 160 million in 2019. With borders reopening worldwide, the latest GMTI report forecasts a revitalised market, with an estimated 230 million Muslim travellers expected by 2028. 

This burgeoning market holds promising prospects for Malaysia as well, as it contributed to 4.5 million international arrivals and generated RM14.70 billion in revenue in 2023. The government and industry stakeholders remain committed to attracting Muslim tourists and solidifying Malaysia’s position as their preferred travel destination.

“On behalf of Malaysia, I also would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality Assurance and Recognition (MFAR) premises and Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guides (MFTGs) in Malaysia who play a vital role in this achievement,” said Nizran.

Malaysia’s popularity among Muslim travellers stems from its accessibility to Halal food and faith-related facilities and services, beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and incredible shopping experiences. Additionally, it offers a wide range of Muslim-friendly tour packages, allowing tourists to experience the country’s rich history, mosque architecture, heritage, gastronomy, nature, and arts and culture.

As a Muslim-majority country, Malaysia leverages its existing infrastructure, including readily available prayer rooms, Halal food options, and water-friendly toilets. Through the ITC, an agency under MOTAC, Malaysia continuously strives to improve the experience for Muslim travellers in fulfilling their religious obligations during travel.

The ITC provides training and capacity building, research, and standards and certification development. This ensures industry players understand the needs of Muslim tourists and are prepared to deliver value to this segment.

To strengthen the Muslim-Friendly tourism ecosystem, ITC has developed the MFAR programme, allowing Muslim travellers to easily identify Muslim-friendly facilities in Malaysia. MFAR covers 10 areas in MFTH, namely; tourist accommodation premises, spa and wellness, travel management operating businesses, medical facilities, transportation hubs, tourism products, shopping centres, theme and amusement parks, rest and service areas, and trade and convention centres.

Meanwhile, the MFTG program is another ITC initiative aimed at improving the marketability of licensed tourist guides to attract the Muslim tourist market. ITC has trained 211 Muslim-Friendly Tourist Guides (MFTGs), equipping them with the knowledge and expertise needed to cater to the specific needs of Muslim travellers.

Nizran noted the importance of having a standard Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality recognition marking to ensure consistency of quality products and services for the Muslim market. He said: “I would like to urge industry players to come on board with ITC for this Muslim-friendly marking. We need to establish MFAR as a global brand and common logo that we all can refer to, and market it together to make the world more inclusive. I would like to call upon all industry players to champion just one MFAR logo, promoted by Fazal Bahardeen (Founder and CEO) of CrescentRating.”

The recognition in GMTI 2024 reaffirms Malaysia’s position as the preferred destination for Muslim travellers.

About the GMTI 2024

The Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) is a yearly report that analyses and ranks destinations based on their appeal to Muslim travellers. It considers factors like availability of halal food, prayer facilities, Muslim-friendly amenities, and overall cultural sensitivity.

The recent GMTI 2024 report revealed some positive news for Malaysia. For the ninth year in a row, Malaysia secured the top spot as the leading destination for Muslim travellers. This achievement coincides with Malaysia being awarded the “Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC)” at the Halal in Travel Awards 2024. These recognitions highlight Malaysia’s longstanding commitment to creating a seamless and enriching travel experience for Muslim visitors.

Download the report at https://www.crescentrating.com/reports/global-muslim-travel-index-2024.html

About Islamic Tourism Centre

Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC) is an entity under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Malaysia, tasked to develop the Islamic Tourism segment for Malaysia. It advocates for Muslim-friendly tourism (MFT) by offering research and market intelligence, training, industry development consultation, Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality (MFTH) services standards and recognition, and information exchange.

Malaysia was named the top country in the region in the MFTH sector by the State of the Global Islamic Economy (SGIE) Report 2022. The country also retained the top-ranked destination in the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2024, a position it has defended since the launch of the Index in 2015. In the same year, Malaysia was recognised as the Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (OIC) in Halal in Travel Awards 2024.

In addition, ITC was named the recipient of the Strategic Business Alliance Award at The BrandLaureate World Halal Best Brand E-Branding Awards 2021. It is a recognition of ITC’s efforts and endeavours in formulating new strategies to meet the new normal of the business environment to ensure business continuity and sustainability, notwithstanding its role in developing and growing the Islamic tourism segment in Malaysia.

These recognitions are an added motivation for ITC to continue to strengthen its efforts in being a prime mover and leading institution to ensure Malaysia is at the forefront of MFTH.

For further details, kindly contact:

Islamic Tourism Centre,

Level 13, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia

No. 2 Tower 1, Jalan P5/6,

Precinct 5, 62200 Putrajaya, Malaysia

Tel: 03-8891 7177 or via email [email protected]

Follow ITC on these social platforms:

Facebook: Islamic Tourism Centre

Instagram: @itc_my

LinkedIn: Islamic Tourism Centre

TikTok: @itc_my

YouTube: Islamic Tourism Centre

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