west malaysia road trip

Dive Into Malaysia

Top 12 Malaysia Road Trip Adventures From Singapore, KL And Borneo

Heading to Malaysia or based in Singapore or Malaysia and looking for the ultimate Malaysia road trip?

You are not alone. Malaysia is a great country to explore by car with many fun destinations and experiences waiting for you. In fact, a road trip around Malaysia is our favourite way to explore this country as it’s just so easy and there are so many places worth visiting within a short drive of just about anywhere!

To help make planning your own road trip in Malaysia, I have listed the best 12 road trips Malaysia offers. I have separated them into sections depending on whether you want Malaysia road trip ideas for a great weekend from Kuala Lumpur, a road trip from Singapore to Malaysia, an East Coast Malaysia road trip, a Borneo road trip or the absolute best road trip in Malaysia.

Just keep reading and pick your best choice from the Malaysia road trip planner below.

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

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.

Driving In Malaysia

If you are new to road trips in this part of the world and are wondering what it’s like to be on the road Malaysia, read my full guide to driving in Malaysia here .

I spent a year living and driving in Malaysia and found it very straightforward and not scary at all. On our frequent trips back from Australia, we usually hire a car as it’s just such a great way to travel in this country. So don’t be worried!! You will be fine.

Click here for my full guide now.

If you don’t want to drive, we can book long distance taxis for you to make things extra easy.

Click here for prices and more information.

If you are starting in Singapore, we can also book long distance taxis which can take you over the border to anywhere in Malaysia. Find more information here.

Road Trip Malaysia Quick Adventures: From Kuala Lumpur

The following road trip ideas in Malaysia are written for either a weekend trip from Kuala Lumpur or slightly longer. You could also follow the first two suggestions if you are looking for a one day road trip in Malaysia.

If you are looking for something longer, keep reading for the big Malaysia road trip section below.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Port Dickson Fun

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Port Dickson – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 1.5 hours each way

Perfect For: Beach lovers looking for a weekend escape

If you need a beach break then the best place for road trip in Malaysia from Kuala Lumpur is Port Dickson.

This coastal area is just an hour and a half from the centre of KL and makes for the perfect escape of city life.

This is the place to lounge on the beach, enjoy a great resort for a great price or maybe even swim in your private pool ( see here for the top private pool villas in Port Dickson ). 

There’s also some great things to do in Port Dickson if you want to fill your days. You can go to the Army Museum, check out ostriches at the Ostrich Farm or play paintball! Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to hike to Cape Rachado and relax at Blue Lagoon .

Read more about Port Dickson in our full travel guide here .

Melaka Adventure

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Melaka – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 1.75 hours each way

Perfect For: Culture lovers looking for a weekend escape or day trip.

Malaysia road trip destinations don’t come much better than the UNESCO-listed city of Melaka.   Less than two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city is full of historic buildings from the British, Dutch, and Portuguese.  Mixed communities of Malays, Malaysian Chinese, Malaysian Indians, Eurasians and more, give Melaka an astonishing mix of culture, religious buildings, customs, and festivals. 

Discover the eclectic mix of temples and churches, and soak up the present-day atmosphere at the main squares of 1Malaysia and Alor Gajash.  Dive into more than 30 museums where you can view restored 19 th -century houses, learn about the city’s colourful history and take an in-depth look at Malaysia’s maritime adventures.

Families will adore the plethora of interactive wildlife options in the city, such as the Melaka Crocodile Farm , Bird Park , or Zoo .  And, your children will beg for a visit to A’Famosa Resort with its fun Water Theme Park , Safari Wonderland and Old West attractions.

Get discounted tickets for Melaka Crocodile Farm here , Melaka Bird Park here and Melaka Zoo here . You can also get discounted tickets for A’Famosa Resort’s Water Theme Park here , Safari Wonderland here and Old West here.   .

Dine on a fantastic variety of street food at over 50 night markets, and enjoy haggling for bargains and souvenirs at the market stalls. 

For a romantic stay, select The Majestic Malacca , a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.  Relax in sumptuous rooms and suites with four poster beds, and spoil yourself with treatments at their Spa Village. 

Families can choose to stay overnight at A’Famosa Resort Malacca – integrated with the theme park – or The Imperial Heritage Hotel in the city.  Close to many attractions, the Imperial is a favourite for children with a swimming pool and karaoke room, whilst parents will appreciate their two-bedroom suites.

Read more about Melaka in our full travel guide here .

Cameron Highlands Escape

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 3 hours each way

Perfect For: Nature lovers wanting a weekend or long weekend trip to cool down

One of the best places for road trips in Malaysia, the Cameron Highlands is another top favourite of ours.  You’ll reach this scenic hill station in a three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, where the cool climate and spectacular green views provide a welcome change from city life.

Set along a mountain plateau, high above the river valley, a trip here is a delight for all the family.  Enjoy the lush green terraces of the Boh Tea Plantation, taste sweet strawberries at Raaju’s Hill Farm and smell the exotic roses at Mrs Robertson’s Gardens.  With traditional English Cream Teas at mock-Tudor mansions you’re excused for wondering if you’ve woken up  in England!

Trek rainforest trails in search of local wildlife and revel in the spectacular jungle vegetation, followed by a cool off at a freshwater waterfall.  Along the route, look out for the Orang Asli tribe who reside in traditional villages dotted throughout the area.

Couples should splurge on a stay at the Cameron Highlands Resort – a majestic colonial hotel with stunning views across Pahang’s rolling hills.  Families can consider the mid-range Copthorne Hotel Cameron Highlands also with scenic views, an indoor heated pool, and a great location close to many attractions.

Read more about Cameron Highlands in our full travel guide here .

Perak Adventure

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Ipoh – Kuala Kangsar – Taiping – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 6.5 hours total

Perfect For: People wanting great food and culture in some of the best places in Perak and who have 4-7 nights to spare.

Perak, known as the Land of Grace, is the wonderful west coast state of the Malay Peninsula.  Follow our itinerary for an extreme road trip, Malaysia style! 

Depart Kuala Lumpur travelling three hours to Ipoh, the state’s capital, and check-in for a couple of nights.  Once a small village, Ipoh is now one of Malaysia’s largest cities but has retained its gorgeous British colonial architecture.  Best discovered on Old Town’s Heritage Walk, marvel at the pretty buildings, relax at ancient shophouses operating as cafes, and admire the city’s more recent addition of colorful street murals.

In modern times Ipoh was known for its tin-mining industry – the focus of the wonderful Han Chin Pet Soo Museum.  However, the region is most noted for its centuries-old Buddhist cave temples (check out one with Neolithic images dating back 5000 years and others with stunningly large Buddhas), and dramatic limestone cliffs best discovered at Gunung Lang Recreational Park.

The Lost World of Tambun theme park will keep children busy, with its Tiger Valley, Water Park and Lost World, and families should stay at the onsite hotel to fully appreciate the park’s many rides and attractions.

Get discounted tickets for the Lost world of Tambun here .

Ipoh is perhaps most famous for its food culture, with hundreds of restaurants and hawker food markets mixing Malay, Chinese – Cantonese and Hakka – and Indian flavours.  Hawker stalls, dim-sum restaurants, speciality noodle shops will all tempt you with wafting aromas, and dine on iconic dishes such as nga choi kai, hakka mee, chicken ho fun and wanton mee… washed down with a mug of Ipoh White Coffee.

For those looking for a little pampering we suggest taking a suite (with balcony and lake views!) at The Haven Resort Hotel , Ipoh.  For families or those on a slightly less budget, M Roof Hotel & Residences is ideal.  Set a little outside of the main hustle and bustle of the city centre, the hotel has a variety of apartments and basic hotel rooms, and features a nice rooftop swimming pool. 

Next stop is Taiping but en route take a side trip to Kuala Kangsar, the royal town of Perak.  This off-tourist-route town is home to some of the most impressive buildings we’ve seen in Malaysia, including the Ubudiah Mosque, the Royal Museum of Perak, the Sultan Azlan Shah Gallery and Istana Iskandariah, The Royal Palace.  And check out the markets for souvenirs in the form of locally made pottery items.

Reaching Taiping, check-in at your accommodation for another couple of nights, giving yourself time to appreciate this lesser known town.  Similar to Ipoh, Taiping was a centre of the mining industry for decades, with British and Chinese influences still strong today. 

The town’s Heritage Trail, 11.5km, covers over 40 attractions including the British colonial clock tower and the National Heritage All Saints Church.  And pencil in at least a half day for the Perak Museum, with national history galleries and zoological specimens.For children, ensure to include a trip to the Taiping Zoo near to the city’s stunning Lake Gardens.  Home to over 1200 animals, the zoo supports endangered species and is active in conservation and research.

In the evening, return to the zoo for a Night Safari Taiping Experience or travel slightly out of town for a lovely fireflies river cruise at the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve.

If you have time, extend your stay and visit the Orang Utan Island at Bukit Merah.  Easily enjoyed as a daytrip from Taiping, Orang Utan Island is a quiet sanctuary that’s home to endangered Orangutans. Spend a morning learning about efforts being made to protect the natural habitat of these wonderful primates.

Get discounted tickets for the Orang Utan Island Day Tour here .

The Novotel Taiping Perak , in the centre of town and minutes from Lake Gardens, is the ideal option for all travellers.  Equipped with a Kid’s Club and swimming pool, the hotel has a bar and international restaurant.

Read more about Ipoh in our full travel guide here . With extra time, you could also combine this road trip with the one above and add a stop in Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Road Trip From Singapore: Top Options

This section is especially for people who are looking for a road trip to Malaysia from Singapore. They are designed for a weekend or long weekend but you could also extend them to add more time to relax if you have more time for your road trip Malaysia from Singapore or you could combine them with the suggestions above or below.

Port Dickson and Melaka are also popular Singapore to Malaysia road trip destinations and you could follow those itineraries above as well.

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

We can book a taxi for you from anywhere in Malaysia to anywhere in Singapore for a great price.

A taxi is the best way to cross the border as you don’t have to leave the air-conditioned comfort of your vehicle.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Johor Explorer

Overview: Singapore – Johor Bahru – Singapore

Driving Time: 50 minutes each way

Perfect For: City lovers or families wanting to explore Johor Bahru and Legoland Malaysia

Less than an hour’s travel from Singapore, this popular destination makes for an easy Singapore Malaysia road trip.   Home to the amazing Legoland, Johor Bahru offers many attractions suitable for both families and couples.  Visit for a daytrip, for a weekend or make this part of a much longer Malaysia trip.

Start your day discovering Johor Bahru’s Old Town, with its mosques, temples, churches, and historical buildings.  Browse the heritage shops and art galleries, admire colorful murals, and relax at alfresco cafes. 

The Chinese Heritage Museum – Tiong Hua Museum – is a great place to spend an hour – or drop by the equally interesting Royal Abu Bakar Museum, housed in what was once the Grand Palace and home to the Royal Family.

A fun place to visit is the famous Hiap Joo Bakery and Biscuit Factory.  With a history spanning over 80 years, sample delicious buns, biscuits, and their signature banana cake.   Other family favorites include the small Johor Bahru zoo. 

But, of course, children and all those young-of-heart will be hoping to include a visit to the famous Legoland Malaysia .  Super fun for all ages, there are multiple Lego-themed zones and worlds to explore.  Lego bumper cars, Lego planes, interactive Lego… and even a Lego roller coaster!

Get discounted tickets for Legoland Malaysia here.

Looking for somewhere quieter?  Head to Danga Bay, with its 25kms of scenic waterfront that includes a pleasant park, the Danga World Mini Theme Park, Danga City Mall and some fine dining restaurants. 

In the evening check-out Pasar Karat, a large flea market with antiques and souvenirs, and sweet-smelling food stalls that offer vast Asian menus.

If staying overnight, treat the children to a wonderful Lego-themed stay at the Legoland Resort .  Rooms come in various sizes and themes, and the hotel offers special activities for inhouse guests.  Alternatively, for a city stay we suggest the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru .  Ideally located for most attractions, the hotel has an outdoor swimming pool on the 13 th floor, four restaurants and a spa, all helping to make this an excellent choice for couples or families.

Read more about Johor Bahru in our full travel guide here .

Tioman Getaway

Overview: Singapore – Mersing (ferry to) Tioman (ferry to) Mersing – Singapore

Driving Time: 2.5 hours driving each way plus ferry ride

Perfect For: Beach and nature lovers who want to escape it all

Tioman is a paradise island, fabulous for anyone looking to chill out for a few nights or families happy to immerse in nature, without the trappings of large resorts and cities.  From Singapore, travel just 2 hours to Mersing and catch the ferry – 1.5-2 hours, weather dependent – to Tioman.

Click here to see the latest timetables and prices

Stunning beaches and coves are surrounded by jungle on one side and the beautiful turquoise sea – teeming with live corals and colourful fish – on the other.  Explore by bicycle, ATV or on foot, trekking jungle trails, passing waterfalls and quaint traditional villages.

Renowned for its excellent diving and snorkelling, the island lures divers from all corners of the globe.  Families visit for a back-to-nature experience, spending relaxing days island-hopping and enjoying reef-protected swimming and water sports in the South China Sea.

Turtle encounters, an 18-hole golf course and duty-free shopping are just a few other available attractions… if you can pull yourself away from the beach!

Treat yourself to a stay at the highly rated Berjaya Tioman Resort , beach-facing with an outdoor pool and home to the golf course.  The resort offers spacious chalets with air conditioning and private balconies, and often promote special packages for families and honeymooners.

Read more about Tioman in our full travel guide here .

Desaru Adventure

Overview: Singapore – Desaru Coast – Singapore

Driving Time: 1.75 hours driving each way plus a ferry ride

Perfect For: Beach lovers who want a fun and easy escape

22 kilometres of Desaru Coast awaits you, with stunning beaches, terrific water sports, and a range of top resorts and accommodation options.  Easily reachable from Singapore – by a short ferry ride and 30 minute drive or alternatively by a 2-hour drive via the Causeway – the Desaru Coast is ideal for weekend or longer stays.

Surprisingly, this popular region continues to have an unspoilt, untouched feel, despite the development of a 21-acres integrated resort.   Boasting five spectacular wet and dry zones in the Adventure Waterpark , a world-class golf course and other attractions, there’s something for everyone! 

Don’t forget to explore the local region too, checking out wildlife interaction at the local Ostrich or Crocodile Farms, cultural experiences at the Tanjung Balau Fishing Village, and fresh-water fun at the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls.

Just looking to relax?  Head to any one of the empty stretches of beach that the area is famous for, all with fine golden sand and calm waters ideal for the plethora of water sports on offer. 

Many of Asia’s top hotel brands can be found at Desaru Coast, including One & Only , The Westin , Anantara and – our favourite – the Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast .

Read more about Desaru in our full travel guide here .

Singapore To Kuala Lumpur

Overview: Singapore – Legoland Malaysia – Melaka – Port Dickson – Kuala Lumpur

Driving Time: 6.5 hours in total

Perfect For: People who like variety in their road trips! Have fun at Legoland, experience the culture in Melaka, relax the beach in Port Dickson and then dive into Malaysia’s biggest metropolis at Kuala Lumpur

While you could do this as a direct trip between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, why not have more fun and visit some destinations along the way?

If you are looking for a fun and varied Malaysia adventure, this Singapore to Malaysia road trip itinerary, with exciting stop-overs along the route between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, is perfect.

Commencing from Singapore, drive the short drive to Johor Bahru and check-in at your city-based hotel (we recommend the Double-Tree by Hilton ) or the unique Legoland Resort .  

Take a walk through Old Town and enjoy a snack at any one of the local cafes.  And then it’s time for fun and adventure-overload, as you enjoy a day at Legoland Malaysia .  Offering more than 70 rides, shows and Lego-themed attractions, you’re sure to have a blast!

Next morning, it’s a leisurely drive (2h15m) along AH2 to Muar. This is just a quick stop to check out the amazing street art and to have a little wander around this award-winning clean city.

Not much foreign tourists here so you may have it to yourself! Head to Muar Cultural Walk and Maharani Mural Lane.

Read more about Muar here.

After you’ve filled up your phone with photos, it’s time to head on to nearby Melaka just an hour away on route 5.  Stay for two nights at The Imperial Heritage Hotel or check here for other recommendations, and prepare to discover this ancient UNESCO-listed city. 

Travel by trishaw, taxi or on foot, spending your days exploring museums, historic buildings, temples and churches that all reflect the city’s turbulent history of colonial rule under the Portuguese, British and Dutch.  Feel the Chinese culture, from early settlers of the Ming Dynasty, that continues on today in the Baba & Nyonya communities. 

Take a ride on the Taming Sari Revolving Tower for great city views – noting colonial buildings covered in traditional cherry-red facades – and enjoy a river cruise along the Malacca River. 

Get discounted tickets to Taming Sari Revolving Tower here .

Melaka Zoo and the local Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary are great escapes from the bustling streets.  Or immerse yourself fully in the craziness of the city at the Jonker Walk Night Market and at the bars and karaoke clubs of Melaka Raya.  

And, if all that’s not enough to keep you busy, one of the most famous theme parks in Malaysia – A’Famosa Resort – is on the outskirts of town!

Melaka’s mix of nationality and heritage has spawned a completely unique cuisine in the form of delicious Nyonya dishes, best experienced at street hawker stalls.  Boasting rich food traditions and unique mouth watering flavours, ingredients include tamarind, lemongrass, laksa leaves and coconut milk.  Dine on tasty desserts of sweet potato and yams, combined with glutinous rice.

After two days of fun, it’s time to wave goodbye to Melaka.  Take the coastal road (or re-join the AH2 motorway) for the 1h40m drive to the beach resort town of Port Dickson.  With many affordable hotels, often with ocean-views, select from our listing of best hotels in Port Dickson . Get your suntan-lotion and a book ready, as it’s time to relax!

For your first day, discover the famed 18km shoreline with over a dozen beaches and excellent water sports.  For a real get-away-from-it-all-day, head out to Cape Rachado with 75 hectares of forest wildlife reserve, a historic lighthouse and small secluded beach.  Alternatively, relax at the busier beaches of Pantai Cahaya Negeri or Pantai Saujana offering great facilities and food stalls.

The following day, wake refreshed and ready to explore the region’s history at Lukut with its fort ruins, rainforests at Sungai Menyala, or up the adrenaline with ATV, archery and go-karts at Extreme Park Port Dickson.  Phew!

After two days at Port Dickson it’s time to depart to the bright lights of the capital city Kuala Lumpur.  We recommend a minimum three night stay to enjoy the great range of attractions and things to do in Kuala Lumpur.  

Visit Chinatown, head to the top of the world’s tallest twin towers at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers , and discover the rainforest at KL Forest Eco Park.  Massive shopping centres, temples, wildlife experiences, busy street markets, iconic food, art and cultural museums… the list of things to do is truly endless!  Check out our Kuala Lumpur 3 Day Itinerary to help plan out your stay.

A multicultural and dynamic favourite city of ours, accommodation options in Kuala Lumpur run from hostels to world-class luxury hotels.  To help you book your ideal stay we’ve reviewed the best areas and our top selections here: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur . 

Read more about Kuala Lumpur in our full travel guide here . 

The Big Malaysia Road Trip

For the ultimate Malaysian road trip, you can combine both of the following by driving between Penang and Kota Bharu to make a big circuit. This also means you can start and finish your Malaysia East Coast road trip from any of the points on this itinerary.

You could use either of these itineraries for a road trip to Thailand from Malaysia as both get you closer to the Thai border.

Kuala Lumpur To Penang

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands – Ipoh – Penang

Driving Time: 7 hours in total

Perfect For: People who love exploring different areas and love great food! You need at least 4 nights for this road trip.

Time to hit the road for a West-Malaysia tour!  Commencing from Kuala Lumpur, set off on the 3-hour drive along Route 59 to the cooler climate of the Cameron Highlands hill station.  Check-in to your hotel for a couple of nights and relax, taking in scenic views of rolling hills and rainforests, tinged with colonial nostalgia.

We recommend a 2-night stay to enjoy all the fun activities, and to explore the nature of this gorgeous mountain plateau region.  Temples, tea plantations, rose gardens, cream teas at mock-Tudor mansions, butterfly and bee farms, and possibly your first-and-only taste of Lavender Ice-Cream, will keep you and the family well entertained! 

With fresh mountain air and stunning views, this beautiful region is a delight for trekking.  Follow trails in the lush rainforest to waterfalls and through Orang Asli native villages.  Climb Mount Batu Brinchang, or discover the Mossy Forest and Cactus Valley.

Hotels are speckled throughout the small towns that combine to make up the Cameron Highlands.  One of our favorites is the mid-range Heritage Hotel Cameron Highlands , with private balconies offering breathtaking views. Discover more about the towns and accommodation options here .   

Time to say goodbye to the Highlands and head down the twisting mountain road to Ipoh, 2 hours by Route 59 and 185.  Capital of the Perak state, Ipoh is Malaysia’s third largest city and is famed for its cave temples, towering limestone cliffs and well preserved British colonial architecture. 

A pleasure to explore by foot, Ipoh centre is split in two by the Kinta River with Ipoh Old Town on the west side and Ipoh New Town on the east.  Walk the historic streets of the Old Town, lined with ancient Chinese shophouses, admiring wall murals that street artists have added to the crumbling walls.  

Take a hit of Ipoh White Coffee at any one of the cool hipster coffee shops in this laid-back area, set against the backdrop of heritage architecture.  Head to Kong Heng Square, full of vine covered ruins with renovated buildings now housing stylish boutique shops and colorful market stalls.

Spend a day discovering the famous Buddhist cave temples (some with ancient images dating back thousands of years) and the oldest in the region, Sam Poh Tong Chinese Temple.  Travel slightly out of town for spectacular lakes and gorgeous limestone scenery at the Gunung Lang Recreational Park, or to Gopeng for the Gaharu Tea Valley. 

A mixture of Malay, Chinese Hakka and Cantonese, and Indian flavours have helped make Ipoh famous for its food culture.  Hawker food markets are numerous and cheap, offering an endless array of local specialties, or head to Jalan Leong Sin Nam for some tasty dim sum!

Luxury resorts, family hotels with pools and Kids Clubs, and cheap budget hotels are all available.  Splash out on a stay at the majestic Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat with garden, lake or water villas.  Slightly easier on the pocket is the Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites with standard and suite rooms, including 2 and 3-bedroom apartments great for families.   Compare Ipoh hotel options here .

Stay in George Town or at any one of the sprawling beach resorts.  Diverse in location, style and budget, accommodation options are numerous.  Indulge with a stay at the 5-star Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa Penang , located by the beach at Batu Ferringhi.  With multiple pools, restaurants, Kids Club, private golf course and gym, there are endless activities that make it hard to find time to explore the rest of the island! 

Discover more of our favourite Penang accommodation options here .

Depart from Penang International Airport, or continue your adventure by road travelling approx. 2-hours to the Thai border at Wang Prachan, making this part of a wonderful road trip from Malaysia to Thailand.

Read more about Penang in our full travel guide here . 

East Coast Malaysia Road Trip

Overview: Kuala Lumpur – Cherating – Kuala Terengganu (ferry to) Redang Island (ferry to) Kuala Terengganu – Kuala Besut (ferry to) Perhentian Islands (ferry to) Kuala Besut – Kota Bharu

Driving Time: 8 hours in total plus ferry times

Perfect For: People who love gorgeous beaches, tropical islands and interesting cities and have at least 9 nights

Let’s explore East Coast Malaysia!  Departing from Kuala Lumpur, it’s a 3-hour drive across the country on E8 highway to the coastal resort town of Cherating. 

A popular beach resort area in Pahang, Cherating is a quiet fishing village opening onto a wide beach.  Indulge in snorkeling, surfing and kitesurfing. 

Nearby, the Cherating River is good for kayak adventures or jump on a short cruise to explore the local mangroves.  Keep an eye out for snakes and monkeys along the way and head back in the evening for thousands of fireflies.  Drop by the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary in the north of the village, walkable from most accommodation, to see baby and rescued leatherback turtles.

Dotted with guesthouses and small hotels/chalets, Cherating is also home to Asia’s first Club Med – a 5-star all-inclusive beach resort.  Somewhere a little quieter to stay, the Royale Chulan Cherating Villa is excellent  with 34 beachfront villas and suites.

After a night or two at Cherating, travel north along Highway E8 (2h15m) to Kuala Terengganu.  The royal capital of the Terengganu region, this town was once a simple fishing village until developers discovered oil and rapid development took off! 

It is home to one of the best Chinatowns in Malaysia with Kampong-style stilt houses, and the beautiful “Floating Mosque”.  Discover the history of the region at the largest museum in Malaysia, the Muzim Kompleks Negeri Terengganu.  And head to Bukit Puteri for a 200-metre hill climb for great views across the city, the Sungai Terengganu river mouth and the South China Sea.

Feeling hungry?  Head back to Chinatown and try some delicious Peranakan dishes at Madame Bee’s Kitchen or the Town City Food Court.   For your overnight stay, we recommend the Grand Puteri Hotel .  Only five minutes’ walk from Chinatown and with reasonably priced all-air conditioned rooms, it’s ideal for all travelers.

After a good night’s sleep, wake refreshed and ready for your boat trip to exotic Redang Island!  Ferries depart – usually in the morning – from the Shahbandar Jetty, within Kuala Terengganu.  Remember to check the timings directly at the jetty or have your hotel assist as schedules can be volatile.  See here for full details on travelling to Redang Island.

Reaching Pulau Redang – best visited between late March-October – you’ll gasp in awe at the stunning white powder beaches and crystal-clear waters, set to the backdrop of lush tropical rainforest.  This is paradise, Malaysian-style!

Check-in for 3 nights at our recommended hotel – Laguna Redang – located on one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Spend your time relaxing beachside or poolside, snorkeling or diving with the onsite PADI team, sampling treatments at the D’Manja Forest Spa or trekking in the cool rainforest.

After 3 nights at Laguna Redang it’s hard to pull yourself away but there’s still much to discover.  Catch the return ferry to Kuala Terengganu and travel (1h40m) further north along the coast to Kuala Besut for your small ferry (15-pax speedboats) to the Perhentian Islands. 

Expect the boat crossing to be a little wet and to stop at multiple locations dependent on where your fellow travelers are staying… which gives you a great chance to check-out hotels and the islands along the way!  Learn more here .  

Check-in for a 3 night stay at either Kecil – the party-backpacker style island and more livelier of the two, especially at Long Beach – or Besar, the more chilled and family-orientated.

Both islands have simple hotels usually opening directly onto the beach, serving Asian and some international cuisine.  Water sports are popular, as is exploring the interior jungle of the islands.  

No super-luxury resorts on offer, but arguably in the best position and with a swimming pool – a rarity for Perhentian hotels – is The Perhentian Island Resort .  Located on Besar, it has its own stretch of beach with restricted boat access. 

Enjoy slow, peaceful days where time almost seems to stand still until… it’s time to leave!  Jump back on the small ferry/speed boat to Kuala Besut and transfer 1 hour north along the coast to Kota Bharu. 

The largest city in Malaysia’s north-east, we suggest a one-night stay at Hotel Perdana , Kota Bharu – 4-star accommodation near museums and markets.  The city offers a handful of tourist attractions, all located within walking distance of each other.  Discover our Things To Do In Kota Bharu guide, whilst you wait for your onwards connection.

A popular transit point with its well-established airport – the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport – and railway connection to the south, Kota Bharu is also near to the Thai border for those looking to extend their tour into Thailand. 

Read more about Redang Island in our full travel guide here and Perhentian Islands in our full guide here .

Borneo Malaysia Road Trip Itinerary

Looking for a road trip in Malaysian Borneo? Here’s two great choices!

Overview: Kota Kinabalu – Poring Hot Springs – Sandakan – Sungai Kinabatangan – Tawau – Kota Kinabalu

Driving Time: 20 hours in total

Perfect For: Nature lovers who want to see the best Sabah offers on land with two weeks available

On the northeast coast of Borneo is the Malaysian state of Sabah.  Most visitors fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport and spend a few nights in the city before heading out for epic Borneo nature and wildlife adventures.  We suggest to check-in for four nights as Kota Kinabalu, its surrounding rural jungle, and beautiful coastline offer an awesome array of activities and tours!  

Discover the town’s bustling markets selling locally made handicrafts, admire the beautiful City Mosque built on stilts above a lagoon, visit Chinatown, take in spectacular views at Signal Hill Observatory Platform, and don’t miss a ride on the famous Borneo Railway through leafy jungles along the beautiful Sabah coastline.

Outside of the city, you can undertake a fairly easy (relative!) 1N2D climb of 13,000ft Mount Kinabalu, challenge yourself with white-water-rafting at Kiulu River, visit the Klias River for a wetland river cruise searching for proboscis monkeys, or the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park home to tigers, monkeys, gibbons and orang utans!

A full day is needed for island hopping at the spectacular Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, the “jewel in the crown” of Sabah.  Covering five islands just off the coast from Kota Kinabalu, enjoy your day snorkeling and lazing over a bbq beach lunch. 

A final favorite of ours is the Monsopiad Cultural Village, 30 minutes outside of the city, which offers a fabulous fun glimpse of life in a traditional Kadazan village. 

The city’s accommodation caters for all budgets with many backpacker style options, alongside more luxurious global-brand hotels.  The Magellan Sutera Resort is our top selection, located at the Sutera Harbour. This sprawling resort is set amongst tropical gardens and has beautiful South China Sea views.  If time allows, split your stay with a couple of nights at the 5-star Gaya Island Resort , set on an island within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. 

Dragging yourself away from action-packed Kota Kinabalu, drive across Borneo to the northeast coastal town of Sandakan.  This long 330km travel is on well sign-posted but often pot-holed roads.  Passing alongside Mount Kinabalu, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the Kinabalu National Park.  

Break up the journey with a few stops, including at the awesome Poring Hot Springs to float in their high sulfur pools, and the Sabah Tea Resort Restaurant is a good spot for lunch. 

Reaching Sandakan and Sepilok check-in to your hotel.  There aren’t too many great options in Sandakan with the best options being in nearby Sepilok close to the wildlife experiences. Consider the Sepilok Nature Resort .

For most travelers, Sandakan is synonymous with The Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre , being the main draw for many tourists to Borneo.  Combined with a visit to the adjacent Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre , you’ll spend an interesting day learning about these endangered animals and their disappearing habitat. 

Around Sandakan you’ll find many tour companies offering a myriad of wildlife day tours and encounters, such as visiting the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary or Turtle Islands National Park , special Rainforest Discovery Tours and exploration of the Gomantong Caves, home to millions of swiftlets. 

Best arranged with the hotel as part of a package tour, depart Sandakan for possibly the highlight of your trip, with two nights at the Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort on the Kinabatangan River.  Stay at simple rainforest accommodation and spend your time enjoying day cruises and night treks in search of primates – such as the endemic proboscis monkey – birds, and other wildlife.

After two amazing nights depart on a very bumpy drive towards Tawau, where we recommend a 3 night stay.  Many tourists will use this time to head into the Danum Valley Conservation Area – approx. 2.5 hours from Tawau town and, unless you have your own 4WD, only accessible as part of a package with the Danum Valley Field Centre.  

Stunning secondary forest leads slowly into the warm humidity of the primitive jungle.  Stay overnight at the basic Danum Valley Field Centre chalets and experience epic early morning birding, night jungle drives and ancient rainforest day and night guided treks.  Extremely remote, the Danum rainforest is one of Borneo’s most legendary adventures. 

If long travel and muddy treks is not your thing, choose to stay in Tawau – Sabah’s third largest city – and check-in for 3 nights at the Borneo Royale Hotel .  

Spend a day visiting the Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau) with several easy, low-altitude jungle treks, a canopy walk and bird-breeding centre.  22km north of Tawau, you’ll enjoy towering flora, a botanical garden, hot springs and swimmable waterfall, alongside the easy- trekking peaks and trails.

Another full day can be enjoyed at the nearer Bukit Gemok Tawau, only 10km from the town.  With untouched forest full of giant trees and some unique elusive creatures, hike for approximately an hour to the Titian Silara canopy walkway.  

Back in the town, visit local markets specializing in dried salted fish, anchovies and prawns, or handicraft markets full of handwoven baskets and wooden souvenirs. And drop by the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum factory to watch first-hand cocoa processing into beverages and chocolate.  

Return to Kota Kinabalu on direct domestic flight from Tawau Airport.

Click here to see the prices for your dates

Read more about Kota Kinabalu in our full travel guide here . 

Kuching Explorer

Overview: Kuching

Driving Time: Minimal

Perfect For: Nature lovers who want an easy way to see Borneo without switching hotels a lot and have a minimum of 4 nights

Capital of the Malaysian state of Sarawak, Borneo, the fantastic city of Kuching is slowly becoming a top tourist draw.  Charming, compact, with riverside walks, historic buildings and colorful street art, there are many options for easy day trips to the surrounding wilds of Sarawak.

Check-in to your hotel – with our top choice, the Hilton Kuching , centrally located with excellent views of Sarawak River- for 4 nights, giving ample time to discover the city and enjoy our suggested day trips.

One of the most charming cities in southeast Asia, the city’s architectural heritage of White Rajah Brooke-era buildings and 19th-century Chinese shophouses is well preserved.  Though  perhaps the focal point is the winding Sarawak River, flowing through the historic heart of the city.  

Stroll along the river walkways and you’ll find historic buildings such as the Square Tower, Chinese History Museum and Sarawak Steamship Building.

Kuching also has some excellent museums and galleries, reflecting on the region’s fascinating history.  The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita is a must see, telling the remarkable story of the White Rajahs of Sarawak.  And visit the Sarawak Museum, said to hold one of the best collections in southeast Asia.

Cross Kuching’s famous Darul Hana Bridge for good views, and at night enjoy the Darul Hana musical fountain and light show.  Drop into the Main Bazaar and Carpenter Street at Kuching’s old Chinatown, for temples, Chinese medicine and food stalls.

Now it’s time to head out of town, travelling self-guided or as part of a guided tour for some terrific wildlife experiences! 

For the best national park experience in Sarawak – and one of the best places in the area to spot those funny, long-nosed proboscis monkeys – spend a day exploring Bako National Park .  A hot destination for hiking, with a mix of easy and longer trails, and epic jungle rainforest, mangrove swamps and limestone cliffs. 

To reach the Park, get an early start and travel approx. 1 hour outside of Kuching to the small pier next to the Bako Market.  A 20 minutes (often wet!) boat crossing takes you to the Park, where you’ll complete a quick registration at the National Park Headquarters and then you’re all set to explore!

Trails from 0.5km to 5.8km, with varying difficulties, spread out through the park with usually a wide range of wildlife easily spotted not too far from the Headquarters.  Keep binoculars at the ready for cheeky monkeys, Bornean bearded pigs, large monitor lizards and many colourful birds.   

If you prefer to explore the park by kayak, join an organized tour from Kuching for a peaceful 11km river kayak. 

Next up, how about meeting the orangutans at Semenggoh Nature Reserve ?  Probably the most popular day trip from Kuching, whilst there is no guarantee of seeing these semi-wild intelligent primates, there is a fairly good chance outside of the fruiting season (Dec and Jan).  Previously rehabilitated at the centre and returned to the wild, the animals regularly return for twice daily feedings.

Check latest schedules but expect a 9-10am and 3-3.30pm feeding schedule, with the best chance of viewing them at the earlier session, and also be aware of the 1.5km walk from the main building to the feeding area. 

Another great day out is a full day at the Santubong Peninsula , only 35km outside of Kuching.  A popular weekend destination for locals, enjoy the beach and swimming in the South China Sea.  

Take lunch at the gorgeous Damai Beach Resort and walk over to the Sarawak Cultural Village, an open-air “living” museum featuring a collection of longhouse replicas and traditional instruments.  Aim to catch their twice-daily splendid cultural show.

In the late afternoon make your way to the nearby Kuching Wetlands National Park, with over 6000 hectares of mangrove forest.  A mosaic of small rivers, creeks and streams meander through the Park, and are best explored on a Santubong Wildlife Cruise.  Cameras at the ready in search of Irrawaddy dolphins, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and as the light fades fireflies come out to play…   

I hope you enjoyed this Malaysia road trip guide! For more information on Malaysia itineraries, read all our itineraries here . You can also find all our guides to planning a Malaysia trip here .

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!

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.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Going Places by Malaysia Airlines

Dedicated in publishing the latest, trending and unique stories.

8 of Malaysia’s best road trips

Words by Going Places

August 2020

9 minute read

With a great network of highways, gorgeous coastal roads and rewarding detours and pitstops, there’s no better way to see the country than on four wheels

With international borders still closed, it’s the ideal time for a great Malaysian road trip – one that begins right at your doorstep. If, however, you aren’t up for quite so much driving and want to start closer to the finish, just take one of Malaysia Airlines’ newly reinstated domestic flights to your starting point, and pick up a rental car from there.

What’s more, if kicking back on a beautiful white-sand beach – as you sip on an icy cold drink and listen to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore – sounds like your idea of paradise, we have some great news for you. Redoxon has just launched its Travel Immunity Contest , where you stand the chance to win an all-expenses paid 4D3N holiday at Tanjung Rhu Resort  in Langkawi.

The contest runs from 1 September to 31 December 2020, and a total of two families can win the grand prize. All you have to do is post your personal travel immunity story and tips with an accompanying picture; include the caption “I travel with Rexodon because…” and share it on your Facebook or Instagram page. Do remember to set your account to public, include the hashtag #RedoxonTravelImmunity and tag @RedoxonMY.

Wherever you choose to go, we guarantee you’ll be floored by what you see: from dense ancient forests and Unesco Heritage sites, to dreamy coastlines and staggering mountains – not to mention all the amazing food. These eight Malaysian road trips will quench your wanderlust until foreign travel is back on the cards, and make you fall in love with our amazing country all over again.

From the nation’s capital to the food capital of Malaysia

Total distance: 355km

Before leaving KL, stop by the beautiful Istana Negara, Malaysia’s national palace, which commands a prime position overlooking the Klang River. You can’t go inside, but you’re welcome to take photos by the main entrance.

Then make your way to Kuala Selangor, before trundling down quiet back roads along the Strait of Malacca to the town of Sabak. Just before you enter Penang, drive through Taiping, voted third-most sustainable city in the world. Stretch your legs with a hike up Bukit Larut, also known as Maxwell Hill. Standing at 1,250m tall, Bukit Larut is no walk in the park, but the fresh air and lack of crowds make it an ideal day climb.

Hop back on the highway into George Town, where you can make a longer stop to explore the heritage sites and slurp up the street food that Penang’s capital is famous for. Make sure to allow enough time for a stop by Butterworth Bird Park (also known as Penang Bird Park), Malaysia’s first and largest avian-focused park.

Suggested stops along the way include:   The Ascott KL, The Somerset KL, De.Wan KL, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang and Spa, Sunway Hotel Seberang Jaya  and  Projek Nasi Lemak. See our full itinerary here

A nature-filled drive that takes you to the Jewel of Kedah

Total distance: 494km

It usually takes less than two hours to reach Ipoh from Petaling Jaya, but to make a trip of it, you could explore Fraser’s Hill along the way, or even make an overnight detour to the Cameron Highlands for some cool mountain air.

To start your drive feeling fresh, stop in Rawang, about 30 minutes from Petaling Jaya on the AH2/E1, for a quick dip in the spectacular Taman Eko Rimba Kanching Waterfalls. There are seven tiers to the waterfall, and each has a pond for swimming.

Drive on another half hour or so and you’ll reach the Selangor Fruit Valley, where you and your family can experience being a farmer for the day and, of course, sample some of the delicious produce.

After a food- and heritage-filled jaunt in Ipoh, make your way farther north to the Kuala Perlis ferry terminal where you can park your car at the port or take it to the island via a car ferry (operated by either Langkawi Auto Express or Langkawi Ro-Ro Ferry Services). Enjoy a mangrove cruise to admire tranquil coastal forests or explore the rice fields around Padang Matsirat on a bike.

Suggested stops along the way include:  Sunway Lagoon, Somerset Damansara Uptown Petaling Jaya, Citadines DPulze Cyberjaya, Glaze Eatery, Lost World Of Tambun, Angsana Ipoh Mall, Tiga Bar, Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi. See our full itinerary here

A  journey marked with key religious sites and royal palaces

Total distance: 367km

Federal Route 3 is one of the most scenic highways not just in Malaysia but in all of Asia. Before you hit the highway, though, pay a visit to Batu Caves, just 20 minutes from central KL. This limestone cave complex houses Hindu temples filled with shrines and mystical dioramas, accessible via 272 rainbow-coloured steps. It’s definitely worth taking a tour to witness some of the fascinating plants and animals that live in the caves.

If you have time for an overnight stop, drive another hour or so up into Genting Highlands. The hotels, shopping malls, theme parks and casinos that make up this sprawling hillside resort guarantee round-the-clock fun. If natural attractions are more your thing, take a hike up Gunung Nuang or pay a visit to Genting Strawberry Leisure Farm to pick (and eat) your own fruit.

From Mersing, the highway joins the coastline, making for some scenic seaside views out the window. At Pekan, which is the royal seat of the Pahang sultanate, you’ll cross the Sultan Abu Bakar Bridge over the Pahang River before continuing on to Kuantan. From there, it’s an hour’s drive to the resort town of Cherating.

Suggested stops along the way include: Element Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Garden Inn Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman South, Miss Ellie Tea House, Ancasa Royale Pekan, Pahang and Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa. See our full itinerary here

For a grand Malaysian adventure that takes you up mountains and deep into the sea

Total distance: 120km

Drive over the Penang Bridge and head north to Kuala Perlis. Along the way, stop at Tupah Recreational Forest in Kedah. This lowland forest has a mighty river running through it and is a popular spot to hike, swim and picnic. Adventure-seekers can do an additional detour further south, to the Lojing Highlands, which form the start of the trail up Mount Yong Belar. It’s not an easy climb, even if you’re fit, but the views are worth it.

When you arrive at Kuala Perlis, take your car on the ferry to Langkawi or leave it in a parking lot, which costs about RM10 per day.

When you have had enough time lounging out in one of Langkawi’s many beach bars, head on a hike to Gunung Raya Reserve Forest’s granite peak. Schedule in enough time for birdwatching, kayaking and dives to explore the secret sights of the seabed.

Suggested stops along the way include: Stone Nine, Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La, JungleWalla, Mega Water Sports, Ambong Pool Villas. See our full itinerary here

An epic trip that takes you from the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula to its eastern tip 

Total distance: 826km

The drive from Johor Bahru to Port Dickson is relatively short (just over three hours) but you can maximise your road trip by making stops along the way at towns such as Batu Pahat, Muar, Malacca and Seremban.

Malacca is best known for its delicious traditional food, but Seremban is no lightweight either. This underrated foodie haven is most famous for the Seremban siew pau , a flaky pastry bun with a meat filling.

From Seremban, it’s just 30 minutes to the resort town of Port Dickson, where you can feast on fresh seafood. When you’re ready to hit the road again, continue on to Kuala Lumpur on the North-South Highway before cutting across the interior of the country and taking the scenic B-roads that hug the eastern coastline all the way to Terengganu. Stop by the Lentang Forest Reserve, an hour from downtown KL, where you can cool off in one of the many natural pools. Alternatively, drive a little further on to the Sungai Pandan waterfall for a dip beneath the 100m-high cascading rapids, followed by a relaxing picnic lunch. When you get to Terengganu, find out more the city’s artistic heritage at the Terengganu Handicraft Centre or the Bazar Warisan (Heritage Bazaar). Terengganu is also the jumping off point for islands such as Redang and the Perhentian Islands.

Suggested stops along the way include: Angsana JB Mall, DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, Somerset Medini Iskandar Puteri, D&F Boutique Hotel, AnCasa Residences, Port Dickson, AnCasa Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Terengganu Golf Resort. See our full itinerary here

A quick and easy getaway from the capital to the beaches along the eastern coast   

Total distance: 294km

The journey from downtown KL to Kuantan takes just 2.5 hours if you drive nonstop but where’s the fun in that?

Your first refuelling stop should be Bentong – famous for its durians – to feast on the King of Fruits.

Do also schedule a visit to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, about 1.5 hours from KL, to witness the great work the sanctuary does in caring for young elephants that have been orphaned by poaching or logging. You can even help the mahouts give the elephants their bath.

After stopping in Kuantan for a hearty meal of nasi kukus (rice with spiced chicken) and curry noodles, it’ll take you less than an hour to reach the resort town of Cherating, where sun, sand and even a little surf await.

Suggested stops along the way include: Mountain Cat Durian, Ascott Sentral Kuala Lumpur, Oh Cha Matcha, Puteh Beach Bar, White & Black Cabin, MTree Hotel Puchong and The Kasturi. See our full itinerary here

An adventure through the eco-tourism hub of Southeast Asia  

Total distance: 332km

It’s a relatively easy drive from Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu, to its nearest town, Kundasang, but pay attention around the lower slopes of Mount Kinabalu as there are some sharp bends, and roads in Sabah can sometimes be bumpy.

About an hour out of Kota Kinabalu, make a stop at Upside Down House Sabah, a quirky tourist attraction where, you guessed it, a traditional house stands on its roof. After snapping some pictures, drive another hour or so to Kundasang. This is the highest settlement in Malaysia and just 6km from Kinabalu National Park, home to more than 4,500 species of plants and animals and of course, Mount Kinabalu, Borneo’s highest peak. Definitely schedule in some time to explore this amazing park.

From there, it’s a four-hour drive to Sandakan, on the northeast coast. Here, make a short detour to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to experience one of the twice-daily feeding sessions.

Suggested stops along the way include: Borneo Divers, Borneo Exotika, Teppanya, 50 Shades Bistro, Shangri-la Tanjung Aru and Hilton KK. See our full itinerary here

A carefree journey along the coastline with plenty of sun, sand and sea  

Total distance: 365km

It’s just 215km from JB to Malacca, making for a breezy 2.5-hour drive with several interesting pitstops along the way.

The first should be Pekan Nanas, or Pineapple Town, just 30 minutes from JB, to pick up some juicy road snacks. From there, Batu Pahat and Muar both have plenty of old-time coffee shops where you can perk up with a cup of traditional kopi.

Forego the highway from Malacca to KL in favour of the old coastal roads. It will take you a few extra hours’ driving, but it’s a much more scenic and interesting drive.

After about 1.5 hours on Route 5, you’ll reach Port Dickson, where you can stay overnight at one of the many beach resorts. If you prefer something quieter, head to Carey Island, about an hour outside KL. Here you can learn about the ancient culture of the Mah Meri indigenous community before digging into a seafood feast at one of the town’s fantastic restaurants.

Suggested stops along the way include: AladdinTi Malaysia, San Shu Gong, DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka, Stone Nine, Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. See our full itinerary here

Related Articles

Others + Sarawak

Three ideas to inspire your next trip to Sarawak

Others + Bali

Ways to enjoy Nusa Islands, the tranquil side of Bali

Peninsular Malaysia Road Trip Exploration: Chapter 1

Peninsular Malaysia also known as West Malaysia, is the part of Malaysia that lies on the Malay Peninsula and surrounding islands.

I’ve ridden the Malay Peninsula twice at this point. In this article, I will share the first chapter of my peninsular Malaysia motorcycle ride. You can also read my peninsular Malaysia Chapter 2 later on.

Page Contents

Below is the map of the states/routes that I’ve ridden.

Roads Less Travelled

I’ve been avoiding as many highways as possible and explored Peninsular Malaysia via the old / country roads. I always believe in the roads less travelled are the roads one should explore 🙂

As the Malay proverb says Hujan emas di negeri orang, hujan batu di negeri sendiri, lebih baik di negeri sendiri which means It may rain gold in someone else’s country, and be hailing stones back in your own country, and yet it is still best to be back in your own country.  Yes! it is best to ride in your own country!

Day 1 Routes (494 KM) | KL – Port Dickson – Melaka – Sungai Rambai – Parit Jawa- Muar – Batu Pahat – Pontian Kecil – Kukup – Southernmost Tip of Mainland Asia (Johor) – Johor Bharu.

Accommodation in Johor Bharu: Haistar Homestay NL1 | RM 75.00/Night

Day 2 Routes (490 KM) | – JB – Desaru – Penggerang – Renggit – Kota Tinggi – Mersing – Endau – Kuala Rompin – Pekan – Teluk Cempedak – Kuantan

Accommodation in Kuantan: EZ GuestHouse | RM 80.00/Night (walk in)

Day 3 Routes (419 KM) | Kuantan – Chukai – Kijal – Kemasik – Kerteh – Paka – Dungun – Marang – Kuala Terengganu – Setiu – Jerteh – Besut – Tok Bali – Bachok – Kota Bharu.

Accommodation in Kota Bharu: Flora Place Hotel | RM 76.00/Night

Day 4 Routes (426 KM) | Kota Bahru – Wakaf Bahru – Rantau Panjang – Ayer Lanas – Jeli – Banjaran Titiwangsa – Grik – Pengkalan Hulu – Baling – Sik – Gurun – Bukit Kayu Hitam – Changlun.

Accommodation in Changlun: T Hotel Changlun | RM 85.00/Night

Day 5 Routes (198 KM) | Changlun – Padang Besar – Wang Kelian – Kaki Bukit – Kuala Perlis – Langkawi – Gunung Raya – Pantai Cenang.

Accommodation in Langkawi: Shell Out Chalet | RM 90.00/Night

Day 6 Routes (209 KM) | Langkawi – Kuala Perlis – Ayer Hitam – Penaga – Alor Setar – Kuala Muda – Bukit Mertajam – Georgetown.

Accommodation in GeorgeTown: Hutton Lodge | RM 75.00/Night

Day 7 Routes (483 KM) | Georgetown – Kuala Kangsar – Batu Gajah – Tanjung Tualang – Teluk Intan – Sabak Bernam – Sekinchan – Kuala Selangor – Rawang – Kuala Lumpur.

• Total Mileage: 2823 KMs (Inclusive of sightseeing, going to restaurants, Off roads etc)
• Total Fuel Cost: RM 285.00
• Total Accommodation Cost: RM 481.00
• Total Food Cost: RM 175.00 (RM25 X 7 Days)
• Grand Total Cost: RM 941.00

Video Highlights

Some of the videos that I took along this ride are as per below:

Teluk Ramunia, Johor (Video)

Teluk Cempedak, Kuantan (Video)

Bukit Keluang, Terengganu (Video)

Gunung Raya, Langkawi (Video)

Questions & Answers

Any problems with your motorcycle.

I had a flat Tyre (front) at Padang Besar which I fixed it at the roadside and my front brake oil reservoir tank was empty but I managed to fill it up by purchasing DOT 4 brake fluid at Petronas.

Performance of the Benelli TRK 502?

Excellent! It has been good all the way. If you would like to read my review, click here .

Any other route you would recommend for a ride?

If you love corners, try Thousand corners of Malaysia.

How did you ship your motorcycle to Langkawi Island?

Detailed steps can be found here .

What are your luggage and tools like?

I’ve compiled a Motorcycle Travel Checklist and for most of my rides, I just follow my travel checklist and modify it accordingly to suit the trip.

How was the condition of Peninsular Malaysia roads?

Whilst most of the roads are Tarmac, some of the areas have quite a number of potholes but it is passable.

How do you manage to ride for long hours?

I sleep for at least 6 hours a day, I don’t eat heavily (less or no rice before and during the ride as I tend to be sleepy on a long hours ride), I take chocolates, bananas, bread, drink a lot of water and sometimes, energy drink helps.

Do you do any reservations in advance for your accommodation?

I usually reserve accommodation in advance but for this trip, I only reserve it (using the booking dot com app) when I arrived at the destination or decided to stop riding for the day. One of the factors that I consider to stay in a place is to have secured parking for my motorcycle. All the places that I’ve stayed have secured parking or at least someone keeping an eye on it.

Photo Gallery

Below are some pictures that I took along the route and if you wish to view the complete Photo Album, please click on this link.

It has been a great 7 days for me and I’ve really enjoyed riding around Peninsular Malaysia and I must say, most of the places that I’ve been to have fewer or no tourist and if you’re just like me and enjoys beautiful natural scenery, beaches, hiking, riding this loop would be one good adventure that one can look forward to.

That’s a wrap of my ride and I am looking forward to riding in Borneo (East Malaysia) in the future. If you had something on your mind, go for it, don’t let anything stop you but do proper planning, and research, have some basic troubleshooting/repair skills and most importantly, enjoy every second of your ride. The road is an open highway, go and explore them. It will be your story which will last forever.

Update: I’ve completed my Borneo Ride  to complete riding in Malaysia. You might be also interested in reading about the best motorcycle routes in Malaysia .

Related Articles

• Travel Info
• Places Of Interest
• Trips Report

Reminder: Having travel insurance is important and some even choose not to have one but honestly, accidents do happen and they also seem to happen when you least expect it & least need it.

Follow us on our WhatsApp Channel and Facebook Page for updates.

Similar Posts

Places Of Interest In North Vietnam: Attractions & Activities

Places Of Interest In Malaysia: Attractions & Activities

Rimba Valley Campsite In Janda Baik: Ecotourism Destination

Visiting Blue Lake In Lompukiew, Ngao Lampang,Thailand

Visiting Kuang Si Waterfall in Luang Prabang, Laos

Places Of Interest In Labuan Malaysia: Attractions & Activities

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Most Amazing Destinations in West Malaysia

By Carl Austin · Last updated on February 5, 2024

The country of Malaysia is is divided into two main geographical regions, commonly known as Peninsular Malaysia (or West Malaysia) and Malaysian Borneo (East Malaysia). Nature lovers will find West Malaysia quite appealing. There’s tropical rainforests, hills covered with tea plantations, beautiful sandy beaches with crystal-clear water, and plenty of opportunity for hikes through jungles and forests.

City lovers also will find much to interest them in the big cities. Kuala Lumpur , the Malay capital, is home to some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers; Georgetown has an historic old town of note. Both boast tremendous shopping opportunities. Perhaps western Malaysia should wear a banner that reads, “One size fits all.”

10. Batu Caves [SEE MAP]

Batu Caves are both easy and hard to get to. It’s easy because the caves are only 11 km (7 miles) from Kuala Lumpur . The hard part starts after you arrive because you need to climb 272 steps to get there – the steep steps have been compared to a cardiac stress test. If you take it slowly, you’ll be glad you made the climb to one of the most important Hindu religious sites outside of India. The artistry of the Hindu sculptures is simply amazing, beginning with the gold-covered 43-meter (140-foot) high statue of Lord Murugan, a Hindu god, at the entrance.

9. Melaka [SEE MAP]

Melaka, located on the southern Malay Peninsula, was once a great trading center. Today it’s a hot tourist destination because of its centuries-old architecture. Governed at one time by the Portuguese and then by the Dutch, you’ll see hints of its historical heritage today. A top site is the remains of A’Famosa, an old Portuguese fort that, in its heyday, occupied a whole hill. The impressive red brick Christ Church, built by the Dutch, is one of Melaka’s prime historic structures. Shoppers and foodies need to check out Jonker Street, a night weekend market with bargains galore and local snacks.

8. Redang [SEE MAP]

When you just have to have some beach time on your holiday, head to Redang, located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, with its white sand beaches and crystal clear water. Redang is the largest of an archipelago of islands off the Malay Peninsula. This island is resort-oriented, but other accommodations options are available. Wherever you stay, though, is handy to beachcombing (the largest beach is Pasir Panjang) and other water activities. The island’s main attraction is snorkeling on the spectacular coral reefs. Scuba diving is a close second. Don’t know how to do either? Dive shops offer lessons for students of all levels.

7. Cameron Highlands [SEE MAP]

Named for the man who mapped them in 1885, the Cameron Highlands are a good place to hightail it to if the summer heat gets to be too hot for you in the lowlands. The habit of retreating to higher elevations during the summer began with British colonists in the 1930s. Travelers come today not only to cool down but to enjoy a cuppa and the spectacular views of tea plants growing on plantations throughout the region. Whether you tour a tea plantation, get in some good hiking or maybe visit a temple or two, the Cameron Highlands are a good place to chill out.

6. George Town [SEE MAP]

George Town, named after Britain’s King George III, is one of the oldest British settlements in southeast Asia. Established in 1786 on the island of Penang , the old town is a mixture of colonial and Chinese architecture. It’s considered the food capital of Malaysia and is known for street snacks. The city has a lot to see and do, so plan on spending a few days here. If you believe in feng shui, visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion that was designed with this in mind. The graceful white city hall is a grand example of British colonial architecture. The Buddhist temple Wat Chaiyamangalaram has one of the world’s largest sleeping Buddhas.

5. Kuala Lumpur [SEE MAP]

Kuala Lumpur, the capital and largest city in Malaysia, is a cultural melting pot that also blends the old with the new. Founded by tin prospectors in the 19th century, the British claimed it as a colony just a few decades later. The population is made up of Malay, Chinese and Indian peoples, each bringing their culture to the scene. Kuala Lumpur, or KL as it is frequently referred to, has a cityscape that features the world’s tallest skyscrapers (Petronas Twin Towers) and Buddhist and Hindu temples, with the minarets of the Sultan Abdul Salad Building fitting right in.

See also: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

4. Pulau Tioman [SEE MAP]

Pulau Tioman, an island about 30 km (20 miles) off the east coast, is reputed to be one of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful places. If you’ve seen the movie South Pacific, you’ve seen Pulau Tioman; it was Bali Hai. Hills covered with lush vegetation are a nice contrast to the beaches and white coral reefs, so popular with scuba divers. While jungle treks are another popular activity, you won’t need to go there to see huge monitor lizards; they roam through the villages. Hiking trails follow the power cables. For something different to do, you can volunteer at the Juara Turtle Project, a hatchery.

3. Langkawi [SEE MAP]

Langkawi is the main island in an archipelago of 99 islands of the same name off the west coast. Because it’s so scenic, it’s been called the “jewel of Kedah” after the state it’s located in. Conservation is important to the island as it should be with this much nature at stake. If you’re energetic, you may want to climb the 350 or so steps to the Seven Wells Waterfalls where you can swim in one of the pools or walk through the jungle. Or you can take a cable car to the top of a hill then walk across a sky bridge for a short trek in the jungle.

2. Taman Negara [SEE MAP]

Ecotourists definitely will want to visit Taman Negara, site of one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, estimated to be 130 million years old. Formerly known as King George V National Park, Taman Negara is a wonderful place to enjoy nature , from jungle hikes that may include crossing a river on a rope suspension bridge to mountain climbing on Gunung Tahan, at 2,187 meters (7,175 feet) high the highest point in Malaysia. Taman Negara also is a good place to see wildlife such as the sun bear, Malay tiger and Indian elephant. The best time to visit is the dry season between February to September.

1. Perhentian Islands [SEE MAP]

At some point during your travels in western Malaysia, you’ll just want to sit back and relax, maybe do a little diving. The Perhentian Islands are just the place to do this. The islands feature palm trees swaying in the breeze, coral sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water. There are two main islands, Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian) and Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian). Kecil attracts more travellers due to cheaper accommodation options, while Besar is a little more expensive and caters more to families and those who want to avoid the backpacker party scene.

Because the water is so clear, the Perhentian Islands are a favorite with snorkelers and scuba divers. FYI: You don’t have to feel guilty about skipping out on monuments and museums here; there are none. If you really want to exert yourself, however, there are some nice hiking trails on the island.

Share this post:

8 Best Day Trips from Kuala Lumpur

Where to Stay In Kuala Lumpur: 7 Best Neighborhoods

24 Top Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur

10 Best Things to do in Taman Negara, Malaysia

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Kota Kinabalu

10 Most Amazing Destinations in East Malaysia

10 Top Attractions in Penang Island

12 Top Tourist Attractions in Kuching, Malaysia

12 Most Beautiful National Parks in Malaysia

10 Best Malaysia Beach Resorts

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Welcome to HHWT

• Phone Number

Enter verify code

Join the community..

Sign up to access your saved articles across all your devices.

By continuing with your action, you agree to Have Halal, Will Travel’s Term of Use

Create your account

Password should contain atleast 8 characters with combination of alphanumeric, special characters and one uppercase letter.

Multi Factor Authentication

IF you have need multi face Authentication?

key generated for 2FA. Please verify through QR scan

key generated for 2FA. Please check your mail to get key and manually enter in on Google authenticator app and verify the token

Enter your email and we'll send you a link to reset your password

Enter your new password to reset your password.

• Travel Guide
• Inspiration
• Country and City

10 Picturesque Road Trips In Malaysia For The Perfect Weekend Escape

Aishah  •  Apr 07, 2018

[Updated 14 December 2020] One of the best ways to see what a country has to offer is by going on a road trip and the same can be said of this beloved country of ours - Malaysia! It's a great opportunity for some bonding time with your precious ones and we're sure that the time you spend on the road is sure to create a lasting memory ☺️ Read on as we present a list of weekend road trips to satiate that burning wanderlust of yours without the need to travel far and away! Note: Our list predominantly consists of road trip routes that start from KL, but we've also included some that start from other cities like Ipoh, Penang and Kota Bharu. If you're looking for something more than a weekend trip, you can also add on any of these routes if you're coming from KL! Do note that the driving time indicated denotes the time taken to drive the direct route from the start destination to the end destination, but if you're making pit stops along the way to explore some of the attractions we've highlighted below, do allocate for extra time ? From KL

1. Kuala Lumpur - Seremban - Melaka (3 hours 45 minutes)

2. Kuala Lumpur - Cameron Highlands (3 hours)

3. Kuala Lumpur - Temerloh - Kuantan (3 hours 15 minutes)

4. Kuala Lumpur - Bukit Tinggi (1 hour)

5. Kuala Lumpur - Kuala Selangor - Sekinchan (1 hour 45 minutes)

6. Kuala Lumpur - Teluk Intan - Ipoh (3 hours 45 minutes)

7. KL - Johor Bahru (4 hours)

8. Ipoh - Taiping - Penang (3 hours 30 minutes)

9. Penang - Alor Setar - Perlis (2 hours 30 minutes)

10. Kota Bharu - Tasik Kenyir - Kuala Terengganu (3 hours 55 minutes)

Save to Bucket List

10 underrated road trip destinations in Malaysia from Singapore with scenic natural wonders, delicious eats & more

As Singaporeans, many of us are no strangers to weekend getaways to popular destinations like Johor Bahru and Cameron Highlands . But why not shake things up with these 10 hidden gems that have long been overshadowed by the likes of Penang and Malacca , and try going on these road trips in Malaysia that will offer you a different experience?

From delicious food to stunning natural sights, there’ll be plenty to see and do at each and every one of these exciting destinations! 

1. Muar, Johor

First up on the list is every foodie’s favourite, the Royal City of Johor, Muar . 

The name Glutton Street alone is bound to pique your interest. As the oldest culinary attraction in Muar, this street is known for its otak otak , fried oysters , pork satay , and more. 

The deep, aromatic flavours of Sai Kee’s 434 coffee is also something you can’t miss. ZZ Satay Warisan also offers incredible satay for breakfast — it feels as though everyone in this city is crazy about food.

For those looking to have a taste of the city’s history and culture, how about going down the Muar Cultural Walk where rows and rows of murals make for Instagram-worthy photos? At night, the street becomes even busier with attractive performances, cultural shows and street vendors.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 2 hours 15 minutes

2. Kuala Rompin, Pahang

Kuala Rompin is a nature retreat with an all-in-one package. Being so close to the river, sea and rainforests, you can visit friendly Orang Asli villages , gorge on the freshest seafood , admire the picturesque “mirror” Lanjut Beach and marvel at the ethereal blue lake, Tasik Biru .

Most notably, it is located right at the borders of Malaysia’s second largest national park, the Endau-Rompin National Park . It is home to some of the oldest rainforests in the world, as well as majestic waterfalls , serving as the perfect place for urbanites looking to immerse themselves in nature.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 2 hour 45 minutes

3. Bentong, Pahang

Rather than Genting , how about visiting its underrated neighbour that has hot springs, a stunning waterfall and serene forest retreats? The Bentong Hot Springs , Chamang Waterfall , Kechara Forest Retreat and Lentang Forest Recreational Park is your go-to for a relaxing trip.

If you happen to be there on Saturday, check out Bentong Walk , a night market in a historic district featuring live performances and captivating art.

Surprisingly, Bentong also has a Japanese Village that has kimonos for rent, a teahouse and Tatami Spa!

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 4 hours 50 minutes

4. Sekinchan, Selangor

Sekinchan can fulfil all your dreams of feeling like a drama protagonist — run through the endless paddy fields with the blue sky at the back and listen to the sound of the rice plants rustling in the wind.

But make sure to visit before the harvesting seasons, ideally during mid-March to May and during mid-September to November , or else you won’t be seeing lush green fields but empty barren ones instead.

Don’t forget to make a wish at the Sekinchan Wishing Tree , or chill at the Pantai Redang Beach before touring the Bagan Fishing Village for some tasty seafood.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 20 minutes

5. Kuala Selangor, Selangor

Road trips in Malaysia can’t do without the dreamy Kuala Selangor . This seaside town is best appreciated at night, when you can go hunting for fireflies and watch them light up the night sky. It is also only at night when you can witness the mesmerising “ Blue Tears ” as Selangor River glows in splendid blue hues.

The magic continues with Sky Mirror where shallow waters become a reflective surface, mirroring the sky and creating illusions of walking on water.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours

6. Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor

Locals call it the KKB, but please do not mistake this town for a certain crude local slang. Kuala Kubu Bharu is a popular weekend spot that is known for outdoor activities and adventure amongst Kuala Lumpur locals.

Boasting incredible views of rolling hills and waters from the summit of Bukit Kutu and at the Sungai Selangor Dam , it offers an ideal escape from the bustling cities. Nature-lovers looking for some exercise can take on one of the many waterfall hiking trails at Kuala Kubu Bharu , like the Lata Medang Waterfall and Chilling Waterfall trails.

If lazing around in the sun sounds like a better option, picnic at Taman Tasik Millennium and enjoy views of the lake and hills in comfort.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 10 minutes

7. Sungai Lembing, Pahang

Sungai Lembing is an old tin mining town that has turned into a haven for outdoor and nature enthusiasts. Like Kuala Kubu Bharu, Sungai Lembing is also home to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic sights — they literally have Bukit Panorama and Sunrise Hill , titular hills that live up to their very names.

The Rainbow Waterfall and Berkelah Waterfalls ( it has seven tiers! ) are definitely not to be missed, as well as this hidden Hindu cave temple with a gigantic nine metre long Buddha statue in Gua Charas , tucked away in a grand limestone massif more than 400 million years old.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 30 minutes

8. Gopeng, Perak

Also a former tin mining town, Gopeng has caves that have spelunking enthusiasts lining up at their doorstep. Similar to Gua Charas, Gua Tempurung is also around 400 million years old, although it is one of the longest caves in Malaysia with three enormous chambers and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Want something brighter on your itinerary? Why not pay a visit to Cameron Highlands’ cousin, the Gaharu Tea Valley ? It’s less misty, and you can get a clear view of the majestic mountains and verdant tea plantations.

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 5 hours 51 minutes

9. Taiping, Perak 

Taiping is constantly overshadowed by Ipoh even though it is the second largest city in Perak. Rich with colonial history and architecture, it’s the perfect destination for history buffs. They have the oldest museum ( Perak Museum ), the oldest hill resort ( Bukit Larut ), the oldest zoo in Malaysia ( Taiping Zoo ) and markets that date back hundreds of years ago.

Another of their most famous attractions is the Taiping Lake Gardens , which is Malaysia’s first park! 

Not to mention, Taiping is only an hour away from a spectacular waterfall, the Lata Titi Dua , also known as Air Terjun Sungai Tebing Tinggi ( don’t get it confused with Lata Tebing Tinggi which is also in northern Perak ). Road trips in Malaysia

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 6 hours 52 minutes

10. Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu 

While this destination might be the furthest, it undoubtedly is the most rewarding, with unparalleled scenic views and unique island hopping opportunities. The allure of road trips in Malaysia lies in being able to see sights that can’t be found in Singapore. Drive along Federal Road 3 which traces the coastline, offering you incredible coastal views throughout the entirety of your road trip.

You’ll be spoilt for choice no matter whether you’re exploring the city or the outdoors. Enter the iconic Crystal Mosque located at the Islamic Heritage Park , which is made out of steel, glass and of course, crystals . Browse through exotic ingredients at the Central Market and learn about the Chinese community at Teck Soon Cultural House .

You can take the ferry out to various islands like Redang Island with its white sandy beaches, snorkel at the Perhentian Islands , or explore the largest man-made lake in Southeast Asia, Kenyir Lake .

???? From Johor Bahru checkpoint: 7 hours

Embark on a new flight-free experience and start packing for these road trips across Malaysia!

For more lifestyle updates like this, subscribe to our Telegram channel at @confirmgood .

Like, comment and subscribe for more content like this

• Kaye Yeo https://confirmgood.com/post/author/kaye-yeo/ This Santorini-themed attraction in Cameron Highlands is nestled among fields of colourful flowers alongside a petting zoo, bird park & more
• Kaye Yeo https://confirmgood.com/post/author/kaye-yeo/ 40 best vegetarian and vegan eats including lesser known spots, all-you-can-eat buffets and more from just S$4.80
• Kaye Yeo https://confirmgood.com/post/author/kaye-yeo/ Immerse yourself in a real-life fairytale at this multi-sensorial forest in Langkawi with stunning light projections, 360-degree animations, interactive fireflies & more
• Kaye Yeo https://confirmgood.com/post/author/kaye-yeo/ Experience what it’s like to ride across the treetops in this 180-degree panoramic train in Indonesia with skylight windows and picturesque views

Related Posts

This cave-like cafe in malaysia serves fluffy artisanal..., ipoh town kopitiam in jewel has hearty nasi..., this 24-hour private gym “pod” lets you attend..., din tai fung opens in novena with outlet-exclusive..., fire away your stress at this popular entertainment..., toku nori at telok ayer serves premium handcrafted..., pâtisserie clé is a french-inspired bakery with artisanal..., here are the best family-friendly activities to do..., kozen dessert bar is hidden inside a sushi..., this cafe in johor bahru lets you cuddle,....

2 Weeks in Malaysia: 3 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

I have been to Malaysia twice. The first one, I spent nearly a month there exploring top cities such as KL, Langkawi, and Penang. The second time, I only had 2 weeks and I focused on the beaches and the Sabah region.

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia that is divided into two regions , Peninsular and East Malaysia (also known as Borneo).

Peninsular shares a land border with Thailand and Singapore, while East Malaysia shares a maritime border with Brunei and Indonesia. It is included in one of the megadiverse countries and is the 45th most populous country.

Malaysia is a must-visit because of its modern and colonial architecture, tea plantations, wildlife, diverse culture, caves, multicultural cuisine, stunning beaches, and islands. Diving and hiking are some of the most famous activities in Malaysia.

If you have 2 weeks in Malaysia but don’t know how to spend it, this article will show you 3 travel itineraries that you can choose from or use as a guide until you make your own Malaysia travel plan.

>> DO YOU KNOW THAT YOU CAN COMBINE MALAYSIA AND SINGAPORE IN JUST 14 DAYS ?

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING MALAYSIA

Malaysia is easily one of the most hassle-free countries I’ve visited. The fact that the locals speak amazing English, but getting around and cost – everything simply makes sense and is convenient. To give more information, you’ll find helpful travel tips for Malaysia below.

When is the best time to go to

The best time to visit Malaysia is between November and March , as it is not too hot or rainy. The rainy season is from June to October and must be avoided, while the months of April to May are immensely dry and humid, which could make you feel uncomfortable throughout your trip.

Are 2 weeks enough for Malaysia

Well, that depends. If you only have 14 days in Malaysia, plan to see 3-4 cities only. Adding more will result in rushing and spending the most time in airports or taxis. Don’t fret; although you have limited time during this trip, that means you’ll have more locations to explore on your next visit.

Getting around

The most common mode of transportation is by bus , as the country has a limited railway network. The buses are also quite comfortable for me as they are well-air-conditioned.

You can also get around by flying since major cities have domestic airports . Boats are being used if you want to travel to small, remote tropical islands.

Renting a car is also an option, but remember that in Malaysia, they drive on the left.

Language and currency

The official language of Malaysia is Malay , and the largest native languages spoken in East Malaysia include Dusunic, Kadazan, and Iban. English is widely understood all over the country.

The currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit. Cash is still widely used in the country, with more than 50% of transactions still using this mode of payment. However, many establishments also accept credit cards and digital wallet payments. Cirrus and Maestro are the most commonly accepted here, as well as Visa and Mastercard.

Malaysia has a pretty easy visa policy . Pretty much everyone can enter and travel to Malaysia without applying for a visa in advance. For passport holders from most countries, depending on your nationality, you can stay in Malaysia for 14 days, 30 days, and 90 days.

Come travellers might have to apply for an evisa such as China, India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, to name a few.

For visa-free travellers, you still have to fill out and get the Tourist Arrival Card , which is free. Do it in advance and save time from lining up at the airport.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks in Malaysia

Malaysia, in general, is an affordable destination. A basic double room in a mid-range hotel should cost between $25 to $35 a night. While transportation, food, and tours are also on the budget-friendly side.

With that, a budget of $55 a day will be pretty good . So that’s around $770 for 14 days in Malaysia. If you want to be in the backpacker range, you can do it at $600, or the luxury spenders, $2,000 , will make your trip super comfortable.

The flights to Malaysia and back home are not included though. Plus, don’t forget your travel and medical insurance. Malaysia is actually known as a medical tourism destination in Southeast Asia, so you know that if anything happens, you’ll be in great hands.

Other basic travel tips

Here are some travel tips that you must know before staying for 2 weeks in Malaysia. I recommend you book your flights and hotels in advance if you’re visiting during peak season, which is from December to February, then again from June to August.

PINNED MAP OF TOP THINGS TO SEE IN MALAYSIA

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN MALAYSIA ITINERARY

I prepared not only one, not only two, but three itineraries that you could choose from for your two weeks in Malaysia. The itineraries are divided into one’s preferences. For instance, if you are a history buff or someone who is very fond of nature, there’s a specific itinerary for you.

This doesn’t mean I am limiting your travel options. You could modify these travel plans to your heart’s content. These itineraries only serve as a guide as to what each place offers and which ones you could group together in one trip.

Itinerary #1: First-time (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Perhentian Islands)

This first itinerary is perfect for first-time travellers in Malaysia as Kuala Lumpur is basically the gateway for the whole country, and moving around from one place to another is easy as the cities are well-connected.

The cities are also filled with world-famous tourist attractions, including the Petaling Street Flea Market and the Menara KL Tower, Malaysia’s tallest tower.

Penang is famous for George Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It has hawker food and skyscrapers such as Komatr, where you can even walk outside the tower with a rope.

On the other hand, Langkawi is well-known for its scenic landscapes and diverse activities, such as cable car rides, kayaking through mangroves, sightseeing tours, and ATV rides, among others. Not to mention, it’s a duty-free island so many imported items are much affordable.

At the same time, Perhentian Island is the perfect epitome of laid-back island life, as people come here to slow down, relax, and soak up the sun.

Kuala Lumpur for 4 days

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s largest city and is among Asia’s fastest-growing cities. I think this is a perfect starting point for your 2 weeks in Malaysia because most of the international flights arrive at its airport. It is a must-visit because it has many beautiful skyscrapers, cultural sites, and incredible food.

For those who are fond of island tours, it also offers island getaways, and the people are very welcoming, so I’m certain that your stay here will be quite unforgettable.

The world-famous Petronas Twin Towers can be found here. As well as KLCC Park, Merdeka Square, and Sunway Lagoon Theme Park.

Penang for 3 days

Penang is a Malaysian state that is divided into two parts, Penang Island and Seberang Perai. These two are connected by two of Malaysia’s longest road bridges, so if you’re someone who is fond of road trips just like me, you could cross these bridges.

This state is well-known for its diverse cuisine , 3D street art, melting pot of different cultures, greeneries, mouthwatering food, and hiking trails. Some of the must-visit places here include Penang Hill, Fort Cornwallis, Dark Mansion Museum, Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Little India, and more.

You could travel to Penang from Kuala Lumpur either by bus, plane, train, taxi, or car. The distance between the two is 357 km. The cheapest option is by bus, which costs $10 but takes 5-6 hours. The most recommended option is by plane, which is the fastest and has a travel time of 1 hr and 5 min. Ticket prices range from $34 – $40.

Langkawi for 3 days

Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands, with an additional five that only appear during low tide. It is a must-visit because it is abundant with wildlife , including several monkey species and around 200 bird species.

Some of the places to see here are Eagle Square, Mahsuri Tomb and Museum, Langkawi Park & Bird Paradise, and more.

The distance between Penang and Langkawi is 122 km . There are three modes of transportation here, including ferry, plane, and bus then ferry. The travel time by plane is 35 minutes and costs around $29-$53. The ferry ride lasts for almost 3 hours and costs $18, which is the most convenient option for an affordable price.

IMPORTANT : The ferry between Penang and Langkawi is no longer in operation (since the pandemic), and is yet to be back in business. The best option is to take the plane or by land, although that will take a long time.

Perhentian Islands for 4 days

The Perhentian Islands comprise two main islands and five uninhabited islands. The two main islands thrive off of nature tourism, where you’ll find clear waters, fine sand, and even turtle sanctuaries.

This island is known for diving and snorkelling , plus it is a perfect place to lie back and be lazy. This is the perfect way to end your trip: you can rest and unwind by chilling at the beach.

The distance between Langkawi and Perhentian Islands is 322 km . The flight time lasts almost four hours and costs between $107 and $137. However, you don’t actually arrive at the island. You still need to take a boat. The cheapest option is by riding a ferry and then riding a night bus, which only costs $25.

Itinerary #2: Historical (Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Penang, Kota Kinabalu)

This second itinerary is focused on people who are very fond of history . Kuala Lumpur, for instance, has tons of historical landmarks such as Merdeka Square, Istana Negara, and Central Market. Melaka, on the other hand, has sights that seem like they were frozen in time.

Some include the Dutch Square, Little India area, St. Paul’s Church, and Jonker Street, a central hub filled with museums, restored houses, religious buildings, and quaint shops.

Penang’s historical richness can only be found in this area. Some places that come to mind are Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion and Fort Cornwallis. Of course, let’s not forget about Kota Kinabalu, as you’ll also be able to glimpse its past by looking at its well-preserved structures.

Some historical places include Masjid Bandaraya, Sabah State Mosque, and Mari Mari Cultural Village.

Kuala Lumpur for 3 days

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s largest urban area and transportation centre. It is a must-visit as it is a cultural melting pot of the worl d. So much so that it has a plethora of international cuisines. Malaysian history is also well-preserved here, and it shows in its museums and old structures.

It offers many day trips, including one where you’ll see Batu Cave, which is 400 million years old, and another featuring tilt houses in fishing villages. It is the perfect starting place as most of the international flights land here, and transportation to another city is very easy.

Melaka for 2 days

Melaka is a perfect getaway if you want to break from the hustle and bustle of urban cities . Melaka has tons of historical sights that will surely draw you in, including A Famosa Fort, Melaka Warrior Monument, and Red Square.

This is also an ideal place to check out if you’re on the way to crossing the land border to Singapore.

The road distance between Kuala Lumpur and Melaka is 144.9 km . The best and cheapest option to reach Melaka is by bus, which only costs $5. The travel time lasts for more than 2 hours. Other options include riding a taxi or driving.

Have a respite from your hectic itinerary by staying in Penang. I t is a must-visit because this place is known to serve the best foods in Malaysia , such as Mee Jawa, Muah chi, and char kuey teow.

For those who are looking forward to events, they have a Georgetown literary festival held annually. There are also tons of temples and boutique hotels here.

Melaka to Penang has a distance of 507 km and can be reached by plane in more than an hour. Plane tickets cost around $46 for a non-stop flight. Other modes of transportation include a bus ride from Melaka Sentral to Sungai Nibong, Penang.

Kota Kinabalu for 3 days

I suggest you stay for at least 3 days in Kota Kinabalu during your two weeks in Malaysia as it has many tourist attractions, including Tanjung Aru Beach, Kinabalu Park, and Mt. Kinabalu.

If you have more time, around one week, including a hike to the famous Kota Kinabalu Mountain, is perfect. This is a great place to end your trip because you can be around the nature, and also enjoy the beach.

The distance between Penang and Kota Kinabalu is 1745 km via plane, with a travel time of almost 3 hours. Flight tickets cost anywhere from $93-$147. There are direct flights and ones that connect to Kuala Lumpur.

Itinerary #3: Hiking and Wild Life (Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands/Taman Negara, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan)

This itinerary is perfect for hikers and those who are fond of wildlife . Kuala Lumpur actually has tons of hiking trails and nature walks, including Bukit Broga, Chiling Waterfall, and KL Forest Eco Park.

There are other things to do aside from hiking. In Cameron Highlands, you could go bird watching and Heritage Discovery and you could even drink tea and eat scones.

You would definitely have a wildlife encounter here in Malaysia, particularly in Kota Kinabalu. There are tons of day tours involving wildlife, including a river cruise and fireflies tour, Sepilok Orangutan tour, and Kinabalu Park and Desa Cow Farm tours.

Last but not least is Sandakan. Aside from Orangutans and Proboscis Monkeys , you can visit turtles, see bears up close, walk at a heritage trail, and stay at a nature resort. Seriously, the list of things you could do here is endless.

Kuala Lumpur for 2 days

Kuala Lumpur is a perfect starting point for your 14 days in Malaysia as the transportation here to basically anywhere in the country is seamless.

A wide variety of cuisines are also available at street and night markets, such as Jalan Alor. The foods being sold here are prepared authentically and are affordable.

Aside from staying here to plan the rest of your trip , you can also get a local SIM card and get local money. Aquaria KLCC, Bukit Bintang, and the National Museum are a couple of must-see places here.

Cameron Highlands and Taman Negara for 3 days

One place in Malaysia with abundant flora and fauna is Cameron Highlands. I t is famous for its tea plantations, rainforests, and various fruits, such as strawberries. It also has tons of hiking trails, including Sam Poh Buddhist Temple to Arcadia, Arcadia to Gunung Berembun, and Brinchang Town to Gunung Brinchang, among others.

Maximise your tropical vacation experience by visiting Taman Negara. It is a 130 million-year-old virgin forest with acres upon acres of diverse plants and species waiting to be explored.

The distance between Kuala Lumpur and Cameron Highlands is 208 km . You’ll be able to reach your destination by bus or driving, and the travel time is almost 4 hours.

Kota Kinabalu is a coastal city located in the Malaysian part of Sabah Island. It is famous for its hiking trails, rainforests, and beaches.

You can also see the world’s largest flower (rafflesia) here , and since they have an international airport, it’s very easy to travel, both within and outside the country.

The distance between Cameron Highlands and Kota Kinabalu is more than 3,000 km, so you must ride a plane to reach your destination.

There’s an airport in Ipoh, but a flight from there to Kota Kinabalu means you must connect twice. Another option is to get to Penang by land and then fly from there to Kota Kinabalu.

Sandakan for 3 days

Sandakan is one of the places in Malaysia with much to offer, but it isn’t being talked about much. This place is perfect for hikers who want to hike off the beaten paths . You’ll also get to see Orangutans and Proboscis Monkeys here, as they have sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres.

If you come during the right time, you can see turtles , visit the beautiful Turtle Islands, and witness the “sending off” season when baby turtles will be released into the ocean.

Other places to see include rainforests, caves, the Sandakan Heritage Museum, and the Sim-Sim Water Village. The distance between Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu is 337 km.

You can ride the plane to reach Sandakan from Kota Kinabalu. The travel time lasts 50 minutes, and the flight ticket costs range from $29 to $73. Other travel options include riding the bus, which is the cheapest but takes more time.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN (per city)

Here’s a list of activities you can do in each city, plus recommended tours that you can book:

Kuala Lumpur

• Petronas Twin Towers – Twin Tower observation deck and Batu Caves combo tour
• Malacca/Melaka – you can enjoy a full-day trip from KL
• Menara Kuala Lumpur
• Genting Highlands – get on a day tour from KL that includes Batu Caves
• Dataran Merdeka
• KL Tower – buy your admission ticket to skip the line
• Central Market
• Try local street food – book a night tour
• Thean Hou Temple
• Batu Caves – you can book a half-day tour or combine Batu Caves with the National Mosque tour
• Ilham Gallery
• Kuala Selangor – see the glowing Kuala Selangor firefly tour
• Buffet Dinner at Atmosphere 360

Cameron Highlands

• Jungle Trail 1 (Gunung Brinchang)
• Mossy Forest
• Tringkap Hiking Trail
• Lavender Farm
• Strawberry picking at Kampung Taman Sedia
• Boh Tea Estate Habu
• Day trip to Taman Negara
• Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No. 5
• Lata Merkor or Geruntum Falls
• Walk around and find Penang Street Art – there’s a full-day tour for this
• Fort Cornwallis
• Dark Mansion Museum – book a tour
• Hawker Centres – to try local street food
• Penang Hill – combine this with Temple Tour
• Masjid Terpung Tanjung Bungah
• Kek Lok Si Temple
• George Town Street Food – enjoy a 4-hour tour or an evening food tour
• Penang Little India
• Countryside Cycling – read the tour reviews
• Penang National Park
• Explore the colonial architecture of Penang: Queen Victoria Tower, City Hall, and St. George’s Church
• Orangutan Island – join the half-day tour
• Upside Down Museum
• Escape Penang Water Park
• Cheong Fatt Tze’s Blue Mansion – visit with a local guide
• Wonderfood Museum
• Explore George Town with a local guide visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Langkawi Skybridge Cable Car – get on a private tour
• Pulau Payar
• Pulau Lembu
• Kilim Geopark Mangrove – check this tour or this Mangrove Safari boat tour , you can also do a Kayak tour
• Eagle Square
• Mahsuri Tomb and Museum / Kota Mahsuri
• Galeria Perdana
• Tanjung Rhu Geoforest Park – get there on a sunset kayak trip
• Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls
• Dayang Bunting Island – visit this place and the Langkawi archipelago on a jet ski tour
• Gunung Raya
• Langkawi Countryside – go on a bike tour
• Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise
• Parasailing on Langkawi Beach
• Private island tour – visit all must-see attractions and will save you time as well

Perhentian Islands

• Scuba Diving
• Snorkelling
• Jungle Trekking
• Turtle Beach – you can simply take a look or volunteer at the sanctuary
• Adam and Eve Beach
• Terengganu Marine Park
• Tupai Beach Bar

MUST-TRY MALAYSIAN DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

There are lots of amazing dishes in Malaysia due to its diverse culture. Whether you’re a foodie or not, try at least 3 foods and see how you like them. Here’s a quick list of tasty Malaysian food. If you like this cuisine, maybe you should also check-out India for 2 weeks .

• Nasi Lemak – Malaysia’s national dish, consisting of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk
• Satay – skewered and grilled marinated meat
• Roti Canai – a flaky, flatbread of Indian origin served with a side of curry sauce
• Char Kway Teow – popular stir-fried noodle dish
• Laksa – spicy and flavorful noodle soup with a coconut milk-based broth
• Hainanese Chicken Rice – Steamed or roasted chicken served with fragrant rice
• Mee Goreng Mamak – stir-fried noodle dish commonly found in Indian-Muslim stalls
• Rendang – rich and spicy meat curry
• Cendol – refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, green jelly noodles
• Teh Tarik – popular Malaysian milk tea made by “pulling” the tea between two containers
• Ais Kacang (ABC) – also known as “shaved ice dessert
• Kuih – refers to a variety of bite-sized traditional Malay cakes and pastries
• Roti Jala – this delicate and lacy pancake
• And don’t forget to drink local Malaysian tea

ACCOMMODATIONS (per city)

Lastly, you need a good place to rest in each place. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge a bit, you’ll find some recommended accomdations below:

• Affordable: Space Hotel in Chinatown or Amethyst Dorm in KLCC
• Mid-range: Ceylonz Suites by Five Senses or Queens Service Suites at Times Square
• Luxury: The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel or Eastern Suites at Platinum KLCC
• Affordable: Traveller Bunker Hostel 1 or Bricks Backpackers Sleeper Box
• Mid-range: Peony Square Residences or TR Homestay
• Affordable: Cocoa Mews Cafe and Homestay or Tony’s Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Modern Hotel or Gallivant Hotel
• Luxury: Eastern & Oriental Hotel or Maritime Suites by Comfy
• Affordable: Motordorm Backpackers Hostel or Dar Yasmine Motel
• Mid-range: Cloud9 Holiday Cottages or Chill Suites
• Luxury: Villa Molek or Ombar Villa
• Affordable/Mid-range: Samudra Beach Chalet or Perhentian Chomel Chalet
• Luxury: Bubu Resort or Aluna Resort

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN MALAYSIA

You can have a mind-blowing wilderness experience, unlimited beach getaways, and walking trips to well-preserved towns, heritage sites, and museums. Malaysia also has some of the oldest tropical jungles in the world. You’ll also see one of the longest tree-based walkways in the world here.

So whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, a foodie, or want to relax and unwind all throughout your vacation, Malaysia has got you covered.

TO SAVE THIS ITINERARY, PIN THIS IMAGE BELOW:

Travel photography, travel blogs, photography, wedding photography, event photography, architecture photography

• Feb 1, 2019

Malaysia Road Trip - From Coast to Coast

Updated: Apr 13, 2022

#Roadtrip #MINI #Countryman #Malaysia #Bekok #Paloh #Melaka #Portdickson #Sekeping #Serendah #Sekinchan #Cameron #Belum #Kelantan #Penarik #Terengganu #Tanjungjara #Cherating #Kuantan #Mangala #Desaru

4 Wheels, 3 Leeches, 2 Coasts, 1 Trip, and 0 Elephant

I'm a big fan of road trips. Hence, it's not surprising that I've made umpteen drives into Malaysia since I bought my first car some 14 years ago. Looking back and counting, I've driven 40-plus times to Melaka, 13 times to Cameron Highlands, many times to other towns and cities, plus 1 epic trip to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai ( Singapore-Thailand Road Trip ). Not forgetting countless times to many Singaporeans' favourite neighbourhood - Johor Bahru.

Unfortunately in the past decade, it seemed like there had not been any chance to take on a longer road trip into Malaysia beyond a 3D2N window, not until recently. Without hesitation, I quickly charted a 12-day road trip plan for Peninsula Malaysia with the aim of visiting some places I've always wanted to, including staying in the forest retreat of Sekeping Serendah, spotting wild elephants along Gerik Highway, and driving along the entire east coast of the Peninsula from Kelantan to Desaru.

Hotel booking was straightforward and packing my bag was even more so. The most difficult and indecisive part of packing was probably my photo-video equipment. DSLR or mirrorless, which lenses, which point-and-shoot, GoPro, drone, tripod - it was a big headache which system and equipment I should be throwing into my bag. And choosing the right bag(s) was also a part of that complication (equipment list at end of blog).

Being a longer than usual road trip, a quick pre-trip health check for my senior citizen MINI Countryman was done at MCF Auto (https://www.facebook.com/MCFAutoSg/). This is my trustworthy go-to workshop to assure that she is in good health and ready for the 2,000+km marathon.

With (hopefully) everything packed and accommodation booked, I set off and embarked on my most extensive Malaysia road trip to date - a trip where 4 wheels had rolled and gripped through tarmac, mud and sand; where 3 leeches had feasted on me from neck to toe; where sunsets and sunrises were witnessed on 2 coasts on 1 single trip; and a disappointing 0 elephant sighting along the Gerik Highway.

Day 1 Singapore - Bekok - Paloh - Melaka - Port Dickson

Day 2 Port Dickson - Sekeping Serendah Retreats

Day 3 Sekeping Serendah Retreats - Sekinchan

Day 4 Sekinchan - Cameron Highlands

Day 5 Cameron Highlands - Belum Rainforest Resort

Day 6 Belum Rainforest Resort

Day 7 Belum - Bukit Banga - Penarik - Kuala Terengganu - Tanjung Jara

Day 8 Tanjung Jara - Cherating - Mangala Resort & Spa

Day 9 Mangala Resort & Spa

Day 10 Mangala Resort & Spa to Kuantan

Day 11 Kuantan to Desaru

Day 12 Desaru to Singapore

SINGAPORE - BEKOK - PALOH - MELAKA - PORT DICKSON

Timelapse of the rising tide from 3pm to 7pm from my villa's bay window.

PORT DICKSON - SEKEPING SERENDAH

SEKEPING SERENDAH - SEKINCHAN - CAMERON HIGHLANDS

CAMERON HIGHLANDS - BELUM RAINFOREST RESORT

Arriving at Royal Belum, crossing the scenic bridge towards Banding Island over the Temenggor Lake (pardon the background voice from my TomTom GPS, courtesy of Yoda).

BELUM - PENARIK - KUALA TERENGGANU - TANJUNG JARA

ABOVE: Sunrise at Teluk Bidara beach, Tanjung Jara.

MANGALA RESORT & SPA, GAMBANG, KUANTAN

KUANTAN - DESARU

Shall end with a splash... literally, with a closing video of Desaru taken on a previous trip, making splashes on the beautiful Malaysian coast.

Photo/Video Equipment Used:

Panasonic Lumix LX10 (small, light, fast - my main everyday camera)

Sony RX10 III (for bird photography, e.g. catching the hornbills at Belum)

Huawei Mate 20 Pro

Nikon D750 w/ 17-35mm f2.8 and 24-120mm f4

GoPro Hero 7 Black

DJI Mavic Pro

2 X Crumpler Camera Bags

• South East Asia

Recent Posts

Wherever I May Roam

Leica Q: Hands-On, Impression & Sample Gallery

Melbourne & Great Ocean Road

hi, may i know how much did u spend on accomodation and food throughout the trip?

Like your itinerary and is planning a similar one for July. Driving along the coastline is interesting, any advice or things to look out for to drive on the sand along the coastline? Eg, the tide times or etc?

Hi Joyce. That's a very nice route and itinerary! But to cover all destinations in 8 days, you'll likely have a 1 night stay at most places. Perhaps with only 1 destination that has 2 nights. Depends on what your interests are and who's coming along with you, it might be a bit tiring for some. Let me know if you need any more info on any of these places. Happy to share my experience and thoughts :)

Awesome road trip the well rounded way. I'm just worried my body couldn't cope.

Had done small distances along west coast till KL. But currently looking at route options in East Coast. Any suggestions up to Cheating?

Thank you! Yes, the long drives can be quite tiring. But first and foremost, we must love to drive and love road trips to overcome the tiredness. I would also take short breaks to break the monotony of my drives, especially when I'm doing these trips alone. I'll also try to plan for some interesting destinations so that I'll look forward to it (like hoping to see wild elephants at Gerik Highway). Staying at good hotels and pampering oneself with spa/massage would also help. I've only been to Cherating once and I love that place! Didn't stay overnight but just had dinner there. Can consider going to Kuantan before Cherating. For Kuantan, I've stayed at Hyatt Hyatt Regency a few times…

Go Road Trippin’ At These 10 Malaysia Destinations From Singapore

Looking to visit neighbouring Malaysia for a short getaway? Apart from hitting up the shopping malls at Johor Bahru, why not expand your radius by heading on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore! Blending vast, untouched forests and cities packed with classic architecture, Malaysia is an underrated treasure trove of culture and beauty that’ll definitely appeal to visitors of all ages. Wondering where are the best places to visit in Malaysia from Singapore? Read on for our favourite places to visit in Malaysia!

Overview of Best Road Trip Destinations in Malaysia from Singapore

Malaysia road trip from singapore: within 5 hours drive.

Wondering where are the fun places to visit in Malaysia? Known as Johor’s royal city, Muar easily earns a spot on our list for road trip destinations in Malaysia because of how it offers something for everyone. For those looking to try authentic Malaysian food, Muar serves a lip-smacking variety to overwhelm your taste buds! You can’t go wrong with local favourites like aromatic Otak-Otak (grilled fish cake) and creamy laksa .

Fan of colonial architecture? As a must-see remnant of Malaysia’s colonial era, the Sultan Ibrahim Jamek remains one of the most beautiful sights to spot in Muar! Providing a serene view of the Muar River, the sky-blue mosque was built with Western and Eastern influences in mind and adopts a unique neoclassical aesthetic. Ultimately, it’s the intricate designs of the mosque’s columns and balconies that help it stand out from the rest in Malaysia!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours

For those seeking an all-inclusive holiday experience, check out the Lotus Desaru Beach Resort And Spa! The wealth of facilities combined with the naturally beautiful surroundings here make the resort a highly sought after destination for families and those looking to recharge and relax. These include adrenaline-filled water sports, therapeutic body scrubs and relaxing fun at their mini waterpark . So if you’re unsure of what are the things to do in Malaysia, this is the place for you!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 1 hour 30 minutes

When you’re planning your Malaysia road trip from Singapore, be sure not to miss out on this exciting destination – Gombak. It’s home to the iconic Batu Caves, one of the world’s most popular Hindu shrines and also one of the popular places to visit in Malaysia. Every year, thousands of tourists pay a visit to get a glimpse of the towering gold statue at its entrance, as well as to snap some Insta-worthy pics while braving its 272-step rainbow stairs. 

That’s not all – Gombak is also a mere half-hour’s drive away from Sunway Lagoon, one of Malaysia’s biggest amusement parks, with over 80 attractions that’re split into 6 different theme parks. From dry and wet parks, to more thrilling activities like bungee jumping, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Overall, Gombak is definitely one of the best places to visit in Malaysia, and also a place worth including in your road trip itinerary from Singapore.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 3 hours 58 minutes

If you’re a fan of Little Nyonya , we understand why you’re thinking about taking a drive from Singapore to Malaysia. Malacca’s Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum is one of the many Peranakan houses that line the streets here. Home to four generations of a local family, this house has now become a museum that honours the Peranakan culture. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in this ethnic culture when you can get up close with the classic Peranakan artefacts!

Fuel up at the Jonker Walk Night Market after your visit to the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum! From Nyonya popiah and fried ice cream at the street stalls, to restaurants and cafes, no wonder it is one of the popular things to do in Malaysia! Don’t forget to pick up some quirky souvenirs along this bustling street.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 2 hours 41 minutes

Malaysia road trip from Singapore: Beyond 5 hours drive

5. kuala selangor.

Prefer quieter locations for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore? Here’s a place you should check out on your next visit to Malaysia. Located within a stone’s throw away from the nation’s capital, Kuala Selangor is one of our favourite destinations on road trips to Malaysia – abundant with natural attractions. If you’re a nature lover, Taman Alam nature reserve will be perfect for you! You can catch sightings of migratory birds and agile monkeys among staggering varieties of other flora and fauna.

Don’t forget to add Melawati Hill to your travel itinerary when researching things to do in Malaysia! The Altingburg Lighthouse set on this hill is a popular destination as it offers a beautiful view of the sea. You may even be able to catch the lighthouse in action as it’s still being used to guide vessels navigating the Straits of Malacca! Do also visit Fort Altingburg before leaving Kuala Selangor, Malaysia. You’ll be able to see the fort’s ruins, its cannons, an observatory tower built for sighting the new moon, and more!

Fascinated by mesmerising photos of Bolivia’s world famous Uyuni Salt Flats? Take a Malaysia road trip from Singapore and visit Kuala Selangor’s Sky Mirror where you can get a similar experience at a fraction of the cost! The elusive sand bar only reveals itself during low tide, making it a secret tourist attraction that’s only accessible twice a month. Due to Sky Mirror’s endless horizon and shallow waters, the location is often visited by photography enthusiasts keen on taking the perfect Instagram-worthy shot.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 4 hours 4 minutes

Pro tip: You’ll pass Gombak, Malacca and Kuala Lumpur as you drive towards Kuala Selangor. If you don’t want to make too many pit stops, we’d suggest taking a break halfway through your journey, which will be in Malacca. You can visit Malaysia’s famous Jonker Street for some food and souvenirs!

You can’t leave out Ipoh on a list of best places to visit in Malaysia. Known for its mouth-watering array of local cuisine, you can get ready for quality options such as their flavourful Hor Fun ( noodle strips in chicken broth ) and Ipoh white coffee ! Self-professed foodies will also adore creating their own food trail and will be spoilt for choice with options like Pusing Public Seafood Restaurant and Sin Yoon Loong.

Your Malaysia road trip from Singapore isn’t complete without visiting Ipoh’s limestone cave temples. These Ipoh temples are built into the side of limestone hills, so you’ll realise that temperatures are cooler the moment you step in. The Kek Lok Tong Cave Temple & Zen Gardens is one of such temples that are popular places to visit in Malaysia. As you walk to the end of the cave temple, the other end will open out to a beautiful lake and a garden. This is where you can rent paddle boats and bicycles to tour the grounds with your companions! 

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 6 hours

Pro tip: Take a break in Kuala Lumpur as you make your way towards Ipoh. This is a midway point as you drive from Singapore. You can visit Berjaya Times Square where there are over 1,000 retail shops and 60 food outlets. Not only can you fill up on food and stock up on snacks to tide you over the remaining journey to Ipoh, you can get a massage too! 

7. Cameron Highlands

Don’t make Ipoh your final destination on your Malaysia road trip from Singapore! Continue driving and you’ll reach Cameron Highlands in about two hours! Named after British explorer Sir William Cameron, the location is a haven for tea fanatics — with tea terraces stretching as far as the eye can see. Although the view of the vast greenery alone is enough to warrant a visit, there are plenty of things to do once you’re there! These range from indulging in quality tea and plucking fresh strawberries to trekking through Mossy Forest and exploring Orang Asli village.

Driving the entire road trip from Singapore to Malaysia can be exhausting, so it’s time to reward yourself with a picnic at the Cameron Flora Park. This is one of the prettiest places to visit in Malaysia for an Insta-worthy experience as you dig into your picnic with a sea of pink flowers at the back. If you can’t get enough of flowers, head on over to the Cameron Lavender Garden. Immerse yourself in a garden of lavender flowers , hydrangeas, and more while enjoying a nice lavender ice cream!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 7 hours 34 minutes

Pro tip: Go for some Puchong Yong Tau Fu before continuing your journey towards the Cameron Highlands. The food here will be more than enough to fill you up and there’s also AEON BiG Puchong Utama nearby where you can stock up on snacks for the rest of your road trip.

Looking to escape the frenzy of life in the big city? As one of the furthest road trip destinations in Malaysia, Penang Island or  Pulau Pinang  stands as a bastion of old-world charm that contradicts the modern-day hustle and bustle. The combination of old and new makes visiting Penang feel like you’re stepping into a time capsule.

Everything from the preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the striking street art further emphasises this!

Of course, after the hawker delights and cultural immersion within the city, you’ll naturally want to find a place to wind down and relax. What better way to do it than on one of Penang’s beaches? They’re must-visit spots when going on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore, especially the ones that line the coastal area, Batu Ferringhi. Simply park your cars near one of the beaches or beach resorts, and make your way to the sandy shores on foot – then take a seat on the warm sand and enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever set your eyes on. After sundown, you can frequent the night markets likened to our local pasar malams .

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 8 hours 15 minutes

Pro tip: For foodies who travelled all the way down to Penang for the famous Siam Road Char Kuey Teow, he’s open from 3pm till he sells out, and is closed on Mondays – try queuing off peak hours!

Ever spotted a double rainbow? As one of the most popular things to do in Malaysia, you have to check out the one at Sungai Lembing’s Rainbow Waterfall in Kuantan! While the journey for this road trip destination in Malaysia can seem tedious with the rough drive across rocky terrain and trekking past slippery rocks, the view is definitely worth it. Reach the premises before 10am and you’ll spot a fascinating sight of a rainbow reflecting off the base of the waterfall to create a fainter bow above!

Looking to challenge yourself physically? Avid mountain hikers will find a huge payout when they reach Bukit Panorama’s peak! Even though it stands at just 271m tall, the summit provides a stunning vista of Sungai Lembing that comes complete with picturesque sunrise and rolling hills. Beginner climbers should use the 1000 cement steps with handrails that shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to conquer!

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 5 hours

Pro tip: Take a quick stop at Kota Tinggi where you can have some McDonald’s and visit the nearby supermarket to stock up on more road trip snacks. You can also refuel your vehicle at the nearby petrol station and buy more titbits at the convenience store.

10. Kuala Terengganu

As one of the furthest destinations for any Malaysia road trip from Singapore, Kuala Terengganu is a location you’ll have a blast at if you’re a museum buff! Kuala Trengganu’s State Museum holds the title of largest museum in South East Asia and occupies 27 hectares of land including galleries and open air exhibitions. You’ll learn plenty, especially with their extensive collection of Keris (ancient Javanese daggers) and royal emblems.

Besides being rich in history and culture, Kuala Terengganu is also fondly referred to as the Land of Turtles! Over at sites like Perhentian Turtle Sanctuary Beach and Rantau Abang, thousands of Leatherbacks and Olive Ridleys will gather to nest. While this number has dwindled considerably over the years, it’s still worth a visit during June and July on the off-chance that you spot one of these gentle giants! Soaking in the wonders of nature doesn’t end there. Stroll down the boardwalk along the harbour at Pulau Duyong and enjoy the starry night sky while watching the subtle lights from passing yachts. It’s truly a sight to behold.

Estimated road trip time from Singapore: 7 hours 10 minutes

Pro tip: Stop at Chaah where you can visit Village Noodle & Cafe for a quick meal. You can also head to the nearby convenience store at the Shell petrol station to refuel your vehicle and get more snacks!

Road trip essentials to pack for your drive from Singapore to Malaysia

With some of these road trips destinations in Malaysia taking up to eight hour long drives, you’ll need to ensure you’re sufficiently equipped so you won’t be travelling in discomfort. Here are some road trip travel essentials to pack for those long and drawn out rides.

1. Portable speakers

Every road trip needs a fun playlist to keep the gang hyped and in good spirits for the long ride! To keep you grooving, you’ll need a powerful portable speaker to amplify your songs. From ones with outstanding sound quality to battery-powered speakers that last for more than 20 hours, here’s our in-depth guide to shopping for the best wireless speakers .

2. Travel pillow

Just like long flights, lengthy drives can be strenuous on the neck and overall posture as you’re forced to sit in an almost upright position for hours. To help remedy this, make sure to equip yourself with travel pillows . Need recommendations to meet your budget? Read our guide to the best travel pillows !

3. Portable power banks and charging cords

Instead of planning to ration out your power usage for electronic devices, why not buy a portable battery? Power banks keep your devices charged and ready for use at a moment’s notice. For a buyer’s guide, check out these best power banks you can buy today! Also, be sure to stock up on phone cables so you won’t need to worry about misplacing or accidentally damaging them.

No Malaysia road trip from Singapore can be completed on an empty stomach! If you’re looking to get to your destinations early, you’ll want to keep pit stops to a minimum. To keep those hunger pangs at bay, we recommend bringing along your favourite snacks and sweets . Not sure what to pack? Check out our must-try Korean snacks and Japanese snacks !

5. Personal entertainment devices

Nothing wiles away the hours like a good narrative! Whether you’re clearing your movie backlog on your tablet or playing the latest Nintendo Switch games, these devices will definitely keep you entertained while on your Malaysia road trip from Singapore. In need of titles to keep you busy? Read our guide to the best Chinese dramas and Korean dramas or check out our list of best Nintendo Switch games .

Don’t forget to bring along your camera so you can document memorable moments from your road trip! There are also instant portable cameras and film cameras that have filters that give a retro feel to your pictures. These film cameras are perfect for giving your shots of rural Malaysia a subtle vintage vibe. When you’re done with your Malaysia road trip from Singapore, go and develop your film so you can collate all these pictures into a photo album and memorialise your trip! 

7. Backpacks and travel document holders

You’ll need to get a proper backpack to fit all your travel essentials for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore. Not only does it need to be large enough for all your important travel items, you should also get one that is fitted with RFID. The RFID blocking layer will protect your bank cards and passports from skimmers who can easily steal information with a wireless scanner. This means that you should also get a travel document holder with RFID. Moreover, having a travel document holder means you won’t have to go digging in your backpack for your passport!

8. Swimwear

The best way to end off your Malaysia road trip from Singapore is by taking a dip in a pool or going for a swim at a beach. Stretch out your limbs and get swimming in your favourite swimwear and bikini ! Don’t forget to pack more than one bikini so you don’t have to wait for the other to dry before going for another swim. Need help picking the perfect swimwear? Check out the best bikini types for each body shape !

9. Medical supplies

Another essential you need to prepare for your Malaysia road trip from Singapore is a first aid kit . It’s important to have medical supplies on hand in case you get minor injuries as you explore the rural outdoors of Malaysia. 

Is it possible to drive from Singapore to Malaysia?

The answer is yes, of course! From August 2022, you are able to travel between Singapore and Malaysia’s land borders regardless of your vaccination status, and without testing or quarantine.

Without a daily limit on travellers, you can expect there to be crowds and traffic jams at certain places. You can help make the immigration process faster and smoother by making sure you keep these in mind:

For those using passports

Taking a road trip to Malaysia in a Singapore-registered vehicle means that you’ll need a VEP. You can apply for a VEP through the VEP-JPJ portal and upon successful registration, you’ll get a VEP RFID tag. You may use the confirmation slip of your VEP application if you’re travelling to Malaysia before the RFID tag is ready. You’ll also have to check whether your passport has expired. Make sure that you still have six months left on your passport before it’s due for renewal. 

Also, after passing through a manned immigration booth, check that your passports are stamped before leaving the immigration booth.

For those using the MACS System

If you’re using the Malaysia Automated Clearance System (MACS 2.0), you’re probably someone who frequently travels to and from Malaysia. With the MACS pass, travellers can expedite their customs screening, as there’s no need for immigration stamps when entering and exiting the country. A great way to make up for the long jams you might encounter!

Vehicle insurance for your car or motorcycle is compulsory if you’re entering Malaysia. Make sure that your insurance policy is still valid while you’re on your road trip to Malaysia.

While travel insurance isn’t compulsory, it’s always best to be prepared when going on a Malaysia road trip from Singapore. As foreign visitors are charged for all medical treatments, it’s advisable to get travel insurance to help cover any potential accidents or injuries that might crop up on your visit to Malaysia.

Touch ‘n Go card

Just like how we have a NETS cashcard to pay for parking fees and ERP charges, the Touch N’ Go card is needed to pay for highway and checkpoint tolls when you’re taking a road trip to Malaysia. You can download the Touch N’ Go app before applying for the VEP. The e-wallet can be linked to your VEP-RFID tag for payments on the road. How convenient is that!

Start organising a Malaysia road trip from Singapore this June holidays (2024)

After going through our list of where to go in Malaysia from Singapore, we hope you’re all set to have a fantastic Malaysia road trip! If you need a breather from all the driving, we recommend making a pit stop at a hotel along the way. Interested in a short getaway to paradise? Book a stay at one of the best Batam resorts or best Bintan resorts for an Insta-worthy vacation! Need help organising those travel essentials you’re bringing abroad? Read up on our guide to choosing a luggage and check out our recommendations on the best luggage options in Singapore !

This article was updated on 30 May 2024. Additional research done by Liew Shu Wen.

By Bryant Tay

When he's not telling others why Tom Holland is the best Spider-man, Bryant can be found indulging in football banter and exploring the vast world of gym fitness. He'll also buy you a cup of coffee if you can name a video game he's never heard of!

You might also like:

Hold It Together With These 11 Best Passport Holders For Your Vacation

Oishi! 9 Affordable Omakase Spots In Tokyo For The Best Sushi

19 Genting Dream Cruise Activities To Do Aboard & Ashore

©J. Lekavicius/Shutterstock

Dynamic cities, fabulous food, beautiful beaches, idyllic islands and national parks with wildlife-packed rainforests – all of this can be found in Malaysia.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Around 25km north of Sandakan, and covering 40 sq km of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, this inspiring, world-famous centre welcomes orphaned and…

Blue Mansion

George Town

The most photographed building in George Town, this magnificent 38-room, 220-window mansion was built in the 1880s and rescued from ruin in the 1990s…

Penang National Park

At 23 sq km, this is Malaysia's smallest national park, but it's beach-fringed forests are home to silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, leopard cats and…

Tawau Hills Park

This small reserve has forested hills rising dramatically from the surrounding plain. If getting into the Maliau Basin or Danum Valley feels like too much…

Agop Batu Tulug

This hill, 2km north of the Batuh Putih bridge, features three caves housing the ancestors of local Orang Sungai (People of the River). Because the…

Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas

Although the Petronas Towers are taller, the 421m Menara KL, rising from the crest of Bukit Nanas, offers the best city views. The bulb at the top…

Melaka City

This former town hall and governor's residence dates to the 1650s and is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. It functioned as State…

Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad

This graceful, onion-domed mosque, designed by British architect AB Hubback, borrows Mogul and Moorish styles with its brick-and-plaster banded minarets…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 of the best things to do in malaysia.

Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate

Cameron Highlands

If there's time for only one tea-themed experience in the highlands, make it this spectacularly situated plantation, with its own tea interpretation…

Boh Tea Garden

Velvety green views are glorious from this out-of-the-way tea plantation, though it's a long drive to get here (allow 40 minutes from Tanah Rata and use…

Panorama Langkawi

Pulau Langkawi

The highlight of this family-friendly amusement park is SkyCab, a cable car that whisks visitors to the top of Gunung Machinchang (713m). For an extra RM6…

Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls

Ask locals where their favourite hawker stalls are and most will pick this night-time street extravaganza. It's a great spot for ikan bakar (grilled…

Ramayana Cave

No cave at Batu is more spectacularly embellished than Ramayana Cave, which boasts psychedelic dioramas of the Indian epic 'Ramayana'. Pass the green, 15m…

China House

You can't really say you've been out in George Town until you've stepped inside China House. This block-wide amalgamation of shophouses is packed with hip…

Bako National Park

Bako National Park is one of the best places in Sarawak to see rainforest animals in their native habitats. It's notable for its incredible biodiversity,…

Anjung Gurney Night Market

Penang's most famous hawker complex sits just past the Gurney Plaza mall, cooled by breezes wafting in off the sea. It buzzes with stalls serving Muslim…

Christ Church

Built in 1753 from laterite bricks brought from Zeeland in Holland, this eye-catching cherry-pink church is one of the most photographed and imposing…

Deer Cave & Lang Cave

Gunung Mulu National Park

A 3km walk through the rainforest takes you to these adjacent caverns. Deer Cave – over 2km long and 174m high – is the world’s largest cave passage open…

Royal Belum State Park

This 1175-sq-km park within Belum-Temenggor Rainforest was gazetted in 2007 to protect a rich menagerie of tigers, tapirs, panthers and the Sumatran rhino…

Sultanate Palace

This wooden replica of the palace of Sultan Mansur Shah, who ruled Melaka from 1456 to 1477, houses an open-air cultural museum and lovely gardens. The…

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

The wonderful BSBCC provides care to rescued sun bears (44 at the time of writing), the world's second-most endangered bear. It's possible to see the…

Kafe Heng Huat

Outside Kafe Heng Huat you'll find Soon Chuan Choo who, in her trademark red chef's hat, has been turning out some of Penang's best char kway teow (rice…

Cameron Valley Tea House 1

Views over the plantation are breathtaking from this easy roadside pullover on the road between Ringlet and Tanah Rata. There are no guided tours, but you…

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

A local palm-plantation owner has created a private proboscis monkey sanctuary, attracting the floppy-conked locals with sugar-free pancakes at 9.30am and…

Dutch Square

The focal point of the Unesco Heritage zone, this attractive and elegant square is surrounded by Dutch-era buildings that have been painted crimson, shady…

Masjid Ubudiah

With bands of Italian marble and enormous gold domes, Masjid Ubudiah is a contender for the title of Malaysia's prettiest mosque. Commissioned by Perak’s…

Temple Cave

Centrepiece of the Batu Caves complex and one of Malaysia's most photographed sights, Temple Cave sits atop 272 colourful steps populated by scampering…

Hameediyah dates back to 1907 and is supposedly the oldest place serving nasi kandar (curries served over rice) in Penang, though the current restaurant…

Maritime Museum & Naval Museum

Embark on a voyage through Melaka's maritime history at these linked museums, all covered by the one ticket. The most enjoyable of the Maritime Museum's…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Experience the very best of Malaysia's astonishing landscapes, cultures and cuisines with these top things to do.

Things to Know

From what to pack to social etiquette, here is everything you need to know before visiting Malaysia.

Transportation

Malaysia is divided between the Malay peninsula and tropical Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo, but getting around is easy with these simple tips.

Visa Requirements

A great place for impulsive travelers, many nationals can enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 90 days.

Money and Costs

Malaysia should really be better known as a budget travel destination. It's easy to travel around, stay and eat cheaply with these top budget tips.

Best Road Trips

You can explore Malaysia without stepping inside a car but exploring with your own wheels opens up a tropical world. Here are Malaysia's best road trips.

Latest stories from Malaysia

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Destination Practicalities

Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 29, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 22, 2024 • 11 min read

Sep 1, 2023 • 8 min read

Mar 29, 2022 • 8 min read

Mar 8, 2022 • 2 min read

Feb 25, 2022 • 12 min read

Feb 21, 2022 • 11 min read

Feb 19, 2022 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Malaysia

Malaysia and beyond.

• LIVE DISCOURSE
• BLOG / OPINION
• SUBMIT PRESS RELEASE
• Advertisement
• Knowledge Partnership
• Media Partnership
• Economy & Business

China-Malaysia Forge Strengthened Economic Ties: Durian Deal & Rail Project

China and malaysia renewed a five-year economic cooperation pact, reviewing visa-free travel and signing bilateral deals, including exports of fresh durians. chinese premier li qiang's visit to kuala lumpur also marked progress on the east coast rail link, part of china's belt and road initiative..

China and Malaysia renewed a five-year economic and trade cooperation pact on Wednesday and pledged to review visa-free travel arrangements between the countries, during a visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties.

Li, who arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday evening, met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the administrative capital Putrajaya on Wednesday. After the meeting, Li and Anwar witnessed the signing of several bilateral deals, including for exports of fresh durians from Malaysia to China. The agreement would see Malaysia, one of the world's biggest producers of the pungent fruit, join Southeast Asian neighbours Thailand and Vietnam in shipping fresh durian to the multi-billion dollar Chinese market. Malaysia was previously allowed to ship only durian products and frozen whole durian to China.

Li is on the third leg in a trip where he has also visited New Zealand

and Australia

, as China looks to expand its influence and investments in the Asia Pacific amid geopolitical tensions and competition with the United States. Li is also expected to meet Malaysia's King, Sultan Ibrahim, and attend a groundbreaking ceremony at a construction site for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), part of China's Belt and Road Initiative on Wednesday.

The 665 kilometre (413 mile), 50.27 billion ringgit ($10.7 billion) railway will connect the east and west coasts of peninsular Malaysia by the end of 2026. First proposed in 2017, the rail link is being constructed by the Malaysian unit of China Communications Construction Co Ltd. In March, Malaysia said it would consider extending the China-backed project to its border with Thailand.

Health Updates: AstraZeneca's New Approval, Obesity Challenges, and More

Immersive Brand Experiences: The Role of the Metaverse in Shaping Consumer P...

Infosys Unveils Aster: AI-Powered Marketing for Business Growth

India, US to initiate new cooperation in quantum tech, biomanufacturing; ann...

Latest news, poland's new government fines hospital for denying lifesaving abortion, tragic motorcycle accident claims three lives in mant, matthew hayden backs virat kohli for success in caribbean t20 world cup, haryana congress seeks disqualification of kiran choudhry post-bjp switch.

OPINION / BLOG / INTERVIEW

Smart marine technology: self-recovering nanogenerators for wave energy harvesting, covid-19's impact on young women's job aspirations: a wake-up call for rural india, driving change: western balkans pave the way for green transport revolution, empowering public health with dashboards: key design and implementation strategies, connect us on.

• ADVERTISEMENT
• KNOWLEDGE PARTNERSHIP
• MEDIA PARTNERSHIP
• Agro-Forestry
• Art & Culture
• Economy & Business
• Energy & Extractives
• Law & Governance
• Science & Environment
• Social & Gender
• Urban Development
• East and South East Asia
• Europe and Central Asia
• Central Africa
• East Africa
• Southern Africa
• West Africa
• Middle East and North Africa
• North America
• Latin America and Caribbean

OTHER LINKS

• Write for us
• Submit Press Release
• Opinion / Blog / Analysis
• Business News
• Entertainment News
• Technology News
• Law-order News
• Lifestyle News
• National News
• International News

OTHER PRODUCTS

Email: [email protected] Phone: +91-720-6444012, +91-7027739813, 14, 15

© Copyright 2024