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Malaysia is one of Asia 's safest countries, boasting a vibrant and colourful fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs. Over the recent years, Kuala Lumpur has transformed into a thriving cosmopolitan city and emerged as a major transportation hub for the region. The capital, fondly known as ' KL', it has become a modern, bustling city of 2.3 million people and is one of the region's most prosperous capitals. KL boasts an intriguing mix of architecture throughout the city with elegant colonial buildings set amidst soaring modern edifices such as the Petronas Twin Towers . Combine this with the hustle and bustle of the city's numerous street markets and you will find KL a veritable treasure trove.

The Petronas Twin Towers stand at 451.9 meters is the tallest twin towers in the world and has become an international symbol of Malaysian ingenuity. Malaysia embraces a wealth of exotic islands. Pulau (meaning island) Langkawi and Pulau Pangkor located on the west coast are havens of tranquility offering snorkeling, scuba diving, golf and ample sunshine.

During the late 18th and 19th centuries, Great Britain established colonies and protectorates in the area of current Malaysia ; these were occupied by Japan from 1942 to 1945. In 1948, the British-ruled territories on the Malay Peninsula formed the Federation of Malaya, which became independent in 1957. Malaysia was formed in 1963 when the former British colonies of Singapore and the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak on the northern coast of Borneo joined the Federation. The first several years of the country's history were marred by Indonesian efforts to control Malaysia , Philippine claims to Sabah , and Singapore 's secession from the Federation in 1965.

Kuala Lumpur is a city caught in a metropolitan limbo. It wants to be Singapore , but at times feels more like Bangkok and it is this tension between the clean, clinical efficiency of business-like Singapore , and the raffish rough edges of the Thai capital, that conjures up much of the Malaysian capital's undoubted charm. In Kuala Lumpur , one minute you will be skimming across town on the new monorail with the Petronas Towers , the world's tallest building, soaring confidently into the heavens above, and the next you are dumped at street level amongst the aromatic orgy of hawker stands and the unwelcome reality of nightmare traffic. This is all a far cry from the city's low-key origins. When a huddle of poor tin miners first crowded around the mosquito-ridden banks of the slimy Gombak and Klang rivers in 1857, little could they have imagined that within a century and a half,

Kuala Lumpur would have metamorphosed into one of Asia 's most vibrant and compelling cities. Kuala Lumpur , meaning 'muddy confluence', has grown with bewildering speed since the tin mining days; a growth that took on epic proportions after independence and particularly in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as the 'Asian Tiger' economy propelled an ever-changing skyline. The speed of change has left old Chinese houses and faded colonial mansions idling beside huge gleaming glass and steel towers, while food hawkers and traditional fortune tellers share the streets with bustling businessmen and guidebook toting tourists. The city is not so much a melting pot or clichéd contrast between old and new as it is an ever-evolving jungle of buildings, which seem to have sprouted organically from the sweaty vegetation and murky rivers that still snake through the heart of town.

One of the most admirable aspects of the city is the level of tolerance displayed by its cosmopolitan residents, with ethnic Malays, Chinese, Indians and Europeans all living and working together. To many Malaysians, Kuala Lumpur is quite simply the Ibukota (' Mother City ') and as so it is treated with great reverence and abbreviated fondly to 'KL'. Over the last few years, Kuala Lumpur has been emerging from the economic crisis that gripped the region's economies in the late 1990s. A whole swathe of unfinished construction and infrastructure projects are now being completed and the development of Putrajaya, the new administrative capital, and Cyberjaya, the key section of the new Multimedia Super Corridor, are now steering KL back towards the course set by former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad with the aim of becoming a fully developed nation by 2020. Much of Kuala Lumpur 's future depends on the new Malaysian leader, Abdullah Badawi, who replaced Dr Mahathir on 31 October 2003 after his epic 22 years in power. One constant in Kuala Lumpur is the climate, with consistently warm daytime temperatures, balmy evenings and afternoons that are often punctuated by thunderstorms, usually passing quickly to leave the evenings cool and rain free.

Malaysia is located in the heart of Southeast Asia , slightly north of the Equator. Southeastern Asia , peninsula bordering Thailand and northern one-third of the island of Borneo , bordering Indonesia , Brunei , and the South China Sea , south of Vietnam . Geographic coordinates at 230 N and 112 30E. Malaysia occupies a total area of 329,750 sq km, in which 328,550sq km land and 1,200 sq km water, slightly larger than Mexico . Border countries like Brunei occupies 381 km and Indonesia and Thailand shares border with 1,782 km, 506 km respectively. The major natural resources are Tin, Petroleum, timber, copper, iron ore, natural gas and Bauxite.

There are two connections from Malaysia to Singapore . First from Johor - a man-made causeway known as the Johor-Singapore Causeway to the north, crossing the Tebrau Straits , and Tuas Second Link, a bridge in the western part of Singapore that connects to Johor.

The terrain is certain to remain etched in the memories of all visitors for life. It is extremely diverse and consists of some of the world's finest coral reefs, vast stretches of white sandy beaches, green hills, towering mountains, limestone formations, networks of white-water rivers perfect for rafting, lakes and vast expanses of jungle and tropical rain forest.

The territories that comprise of Malaysia were British protectorates in the 1920s. Malaysian nationalism reached its peak during the 1930s and again in the Post-World War II Era, culminating in the formation of the Federation of Malaya in 1957, which became Malaysia in 1963.

Malaysia has a tropical, humid climate with temperatures averaging 86°F (30°C), though it is cooler in the highland areas. The major change in seasons is marked by the arrival of the monsoons that bring with it heavy downpours on the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia , the northeastern part of Sabah and the western end of Sarawak (from November to February). Boat trips to the islands do not run during the height of the monsoon. The best time to visit Malaysia is between April and October.

Malaysia is divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia, which lies just south of Thailand , and East Malaysia , which can be found north of Indonesia on the island of Borneo . These two regions are divided into thirteen states and federal territories. Although East Malaysia occupies the larger portion of Malaysia 's total area, it is primarily comprised of undeveloped land and jungles. Approximately 80% of the nation's total population occupies the main peninsula.

Putrajaya is referred to as administrative center not capital infact the Parliament meets in Kuala Lumpur . The administrative states are13, (negeri-negeri, singular - negeri) Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Pulau Pinang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, and Terengganu; and one federal territory (wilayah persekutuan) with three components, city of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya

Malaysia , a middle-income country, transformed itself from 1971 through the late 1990s from a producer of raw materials into an emerging multi-sector economy. Growth was almost exclusively driven by exports - particularly of electronics. As a result, Malaysia was hard hit by the global economic downturn and the slump in the information technology (IT) sector in 2001 and 2002. GDP in 2001 grew only 0.5% because of an estimated 11% contraction in exports, but a substantial fiscal stimulus package equal to US $1.9 billion mitigated the worst of the recession, and the economy rebounded in 2002 with a 4.1% increase. The economy grew 4.9% in 2003, notwithstanding a difficult first half, when external pressures from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and the Iraq War led to caution in the business community. Growth topped 7% in 2004 and 5.3% in 2005. As an oil and gas exporter, Malaysia has profited from higher world energy prices, although the cost of government subsidies for domestic gasoline and diesel fuel has risen and offset some of the benefit. Malaysia "unpegged" the ringgit from the US dollar in 2005, but so far there has been little movement in the exchange rate. Healthy foreign exchange reserves, low inflation, and a small external debt are all strengths that make it unlikely that Malaysia will experience a financial crisis over the near term similar to the one in 1997. The economy remains dependent on continued growth in the US , China , and Japan - top export destinations and key sources of foreign investment.

The GDP (purchasing power Parity) is $290.2 billion (2005) and the data's shows a $12,100 GDP -Per Capita (PPP) in 2005. he major sectors contributed for the economic growth are agriculture sector-7.2%,Industry 33.3% and service sector with 59.5%.(2005)

The Malaysian unit of currency is the Ringgit (M$), which is divided into 100 sen. Currency comes in notes of M$1, M$5, M$10, M$20, M$50, M$100, M$500 and M$1,000. Coins are issued in 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen and M$1 denominations.

Malaysia is in many ways an interesting place to be, not in the least due to its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic population. Malaysia has a combined population of over 18 million people. Because of its central location, between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea , Malaysia has traditionally been a meeting point for traders and travelers from both the East and West. As a result, Malaysia has a multicultural and multiracial population consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and numerous indigenous peoples. Although Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in business, and the English language is a compulsory subject in all schools. With such a varying ethnic composition, it is no surprise that a great diversity of religions is prevalent throughout Malaysia . Although the official religion is Islam, freedom of worship is practiced. As a result, it is a common to see temples, mosques and churches within the same area. The ethnic comprise of 59% Malay and other indigenous, 32% Chinese and 9% Indian.

Major spoken languages are Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Mandarin, Hakka dialects, Cantonese, Tamil and numerous tribal languages. Religion includes Muslim (primarily Malays), Buddhism (Chinese), Hindu (Indian), Christianity, Confucianism, Taoism and tribal religions.

Malaysians are usually called by their given names preceded by Mr., Mrs., or Miss. The Chinese use their family names preceded by Mr., Mrs., or Miss.

A firm handshake and a "hello" are suitable as a greeting. Muslims bring their hand to their chest after shaking hands, and you should follow suit.

Meetings are often held during lunch or dinner. Business cards are always exchanged and should be both given and received with both hands at all times. Study the card for a few moments before placing it in your pocket.

A suit and tie is suitable business attire for men, with the jacket removed on warmer days. Long-sleeved batik shirts are always acceptable. For women, a suit or blouse and skirt are best for daytime appointments.

The many cultures and religions of Malaysia may make giving a suitable gift a complicated issue. Never give liquor to a Muslim (alcoholic beverages are forbidden in the Muslim religion), or clocks, watches, knives or white flowers to a Chinese person (white flowers are associated with death in Chinese culture, and so are clocks, knives and watches - the word for time and death sound similar). A pen or a similar object having a company logo is probably the safest kind of gift.

Malaysia has well-developed air and sea connections. It is also accessible by road and rail through Thailand and Singapore on the Peninsular. More than 25 major airlines service the international airports throughout the nation.

Port Klang and Penang in the Straits of Malacca link the country to the rest of the world by sea.In Sabah and Sarawak , travelling by four-wheel drive is recommended on unpaved roads, and many remote areas can only be reached by air or river boats. Traveling by rail is also highly recommended as you get a panoramic view of the countryside. To get value for money when traveling by rail, plan your journey in advance.

Airlines: Malaysia Airlines flies to 35 towns and cities in Malaysia . Domestic flights are relatively inexpensive and often fully booked. Confirm reservations at least a day in advance. The Discover Malaysia Pass is offered by the airline. This enables international visitors to travel on domestic routes for about half the normal fare.

Airports: the main airports are Subang International Airport , Kota Kinabalu International Airport , Kuching International Airport , Penang International Airport

Trains: The national railway network, Keretapi Tanah Melayu or KTM, has train services running from Singapore to the Thai border and also east coast of the peninsular. Kuala Lumpur City is connected by lines of city trains such as Kuala Lumpur STAR Light Rail Transit, Kuala Lumpur PUTRA Light Rail Transit and Kuala Lumpur Monorail. The train services are run independently but have points where they have interchanges.

KTMB is the first railway operator in Malaysia , with routes running the length of the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia from Johor to Perlis as well as parts of the east coast. KTM also operates the KTM Komuter service, a public transit system running in the states of Selangor and Negeri Sembilan via the capital Kuala Lumpur . Fares are varied depending on destination and class of seating. With its service covering the length and breadth of the country, KTM Berhad runs its train on a meter gauge of 1,000mm, over a track length of 2,262 km.( http://www.ktmb.com.my)

KTM Komuter is owned and operated by KTMB and operates primarily as an urban transit system for commuters in the suburbs of KL, and Selangor with a route to Seremban in the neighbouring state of Negeri Sembilan. KTM Komuter connects suburban districts to Kuala Lumpur . With more than 200 trains daily at a frequency of 15-minute interval. Operating hours are from approximately 5.30am to about midnight . Fares begin at RM 1 and rise to a maximum of RM 7.7. Visit Malaysia Railpass available for periods of 5, 10 or 15 days.

The PUTRA Line operates with 35 two-car units traveling at an average of 40 km per hour. All trains are fully air-conditioned and provide a service level of 90 seconds during peak hours and between five (5) to ten (10) minutes during off-peak hours. The service is provided from 6.00 a.m until 12.00 midnight , on Monday - Saturday at the Commercial Business District, and 6.00 a.m. to 11.30 p.m. on Sunday and Public Holidays. Fares begin at RM 0.70 and rise to a maximum of RM 2.50 per single trip. (http://www.putralrt.com.my)

The first urban light rail system to be implemented, STAR's goal was to alleviate the worsening traffic system in KL. Servicing much of the locations in downtown K.L, STAR cuts across the city in a roughly North South orientation, from Sentul in the northern fringe of KL to Sri Petaling in the south and Ampang in the East. Fares for this convenient service is dependent on distance travelled ,from RM 0.70 to RM 2.60 per single trip.( http://www.kliaekspres.com/)

The ERL was developed as a rapid means of transport from the KLIA to KL City Air Terminal (KLCAT) at KL Sentral. Short of a helicopter ride this is the fastest way linking Kuala Lumpur and the airport. Depending on preferences the journey could take as much as 36 minutes on the "KLIA Transit" service or 28 minutes on the "KLIA Express". Service begins at 5am and ends at 1am daily. Standard ticket prices are at RM35 for adults and RM15 for children 2-12 yrs old . .( http://www.kliaekspres.com)

With a total of 11 fully elevated stations, each between 600 - 1,000 metres apart, the KL Monorail is currently capable of handling up to a maximum 5,000 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD), operating at 3 minutes headway with 12 numbers of 2-car trains. Travelling time along the 8.6km route from Titiwangsa station to the KL Sentral station is approximately 19 minutes. Fare ranges from RM1.20 to RM2.50 per single trip. Service is provided from 6.00 a.m until 12.00 midnight daily.( http://www.monorail.com.my)

Buses: KL city Buses offer several types of service in the city and the suburbs between 6.00am to 12 midnight . Frequency of these buses depends on the destinations. Feeder buses run from Lot 10 on Jalan Sultan Ismail to Hentian Dua (the Airport Bus Terminal) on Jalan Duta. The trip takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic and the frequency is every 20 minutes. From Hentian Dua, there's an hourly bus to KLIA. ( duration of the journey is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes); combined fares range from RM 18 to RM 25.

Public buses and interstate air-conditioned buses ply between most cities and towns in Malaysia . They are comfortable and the fares are reasonable.

Cars: It is advisable to obtain an international driver's license in addition to a valid permit from home. Laws regarding seat belts are stringent. They are required for drivers and front seat passengers. Driving is on the left side of the road.

Flag fare is RM2.00 for the first 1 km and 20 sen for each 100 meters. Other additional charges are actual road toll charges, RM2.00 for phone bookings, 50% additional charge for trips between midnight and 6 am and 50 sen for each piece of luggage carried. Pre-paid coupon system is used for taxi stands at KTM KL Station, KL Sentral & KLIA.

Ships and Ferries: Feri Malaysia offers cruises on the ship "Muhibah" from Port Klang and Kuantan to the eastern states. The Muhibah is equipped with air-conditioned cabins and suites, restaurants, a cinema, a disco, a gym and a swimming pool. Feri Malaysia also offers a regular ferry service to various outlying islands.

Education

Local school curricula are taught in Bahasa Malaysia ( national language ), Chinese, English or Tamil. There are international schools that use British, Japanese, Indonesian, American, Australian and French curricula

Education at local schools is cheap but language could be a barrier for many children. International schools come with a cost but the standards and facilities are high. Potential students will have to weigh up the curriculum on offer, fees and traveling distance across town before selecting a school to apply to.

The International schools are Garden International School at Bukit Kiara, International School of Kuala Lumpur in Ampang, Alice Smith International School , Indonesian School , Australian International School , and Mont Kiara International School etc.

There are several options for living in Malaysia-bungalows or freestanding homes, condominiums (apartments with extra facilities) and apartments (usually with limited facilities). Living spaces can be leased with or without furniture although even the latter will usually have standard facilities like ceiling fans, air conditioners, stove, hot water system and fridge.

Recently built condominiums in good areas include most of the following - pool, gym, lifts, 24-hour security service, adequate parking, convenience store and landscape gardens. Security is an issue for many tenants as break-ins occur more frequently than they should.

Kuala Lumpur is no different from any other city in the world; location and facilities are all important. The traffic in the city can often be bad. So access to work, education and recreation facilities become important. There are few natural attractions that make certain areas better for living - being inland, for example, there are no beachside locations near to the city. The dress circle areas therefore tend to be based upon location with proximity to the CBD, all-important. These areas include Kenny Hills , Damansara Heights and the city end of Jalan Ampang where many embassies are located. Other popular areas include Bukit Kiara, Ampang, Bangsar Baru (commonly known as Bangsar) and Taman Tun Dr. Ismail.

These up market suburbs have long been established and are very well equipped with plenty of amenities; with the exception of Kenny Hills as its prestige lies in its landscape - built around and along Mother Nature's own precipices. If you have school aged children, location to one of the international schools will be important and it is a good idea to determine this before looking for accommodation or your childe could have a long commute each day due to the traffic conditions. Most are direct neighbors to the city center, known as the Golden Triangle. Despite being well known for erratic road traffic conditions, Ampang still attracts many expats as not only is it close to town, but offers plenty of fine dining restaurants of European cuisine to help lessen home-sickness.

Damansara Heights and the many apartments in the Bangsar area have relatively easy access to Bangsar Baru, which has many bars, shops and restaurants. Many consider this the "trendy" end of town. In the last few years the Sri Hartarmas area has become popular and there are many apartments there together with shops and restaurants.

Here's some indication of monthly rents in Kuala Lumpur . Modern, three-bedroom condominium, 2,100 sq. feet in Bangsar - RM7, 500 and a two-bedroom condominium, 1,200 sq. feet in Bangsar - RM3, 000. Semi-detached house in central area, RM 4, 000 to RM 6, 000 and detached house, central location and pool - RM 9,000 to RM15,000.

Real estate agents are plenty in Malaysia . Though it's not a must to use them, it helps ease the burden from hunting to shuffling papers to making payments. However, when using an agent, be as specific as possible of the living conditions you require; for example, with built-in cabinets and wardrobes in the kitchen and bedrooms, or a porch or garage that is large enough for 3 cars. You might also want to specify the finishing of the home to suit your taste if you don't intend to bring your own furniture.

Housing in Malaysia as with any other country, differs in price according to location and its furnishing.

Fully furnished : Walk in with your suitcase and you are pretty much set. May need only shop for minor items like bed sheets and curtains unless negotiated otherwise with the landlord.

Semi-furnished : You probably need not buy or bring much of the bulky items like beds, lounge set, wardrobe as it would be included. But check first.

Non-furnished : As it means - practically empty. On occasion, some may have the kitchen cabinets, but that's all

Rental procedures include the following:

By international standards, Malaysian housing is cheap. Leases are generally drawn up for yearly renewal. Occasionally, the agent may work out for you a half-year lease. But if you intend to be in town for sometime and your employer allows you to purchase property, it could be a good investment to buy and sell when you leave.

Banking

Some banks offer premier banking (a bit like business class vs economy class) for good customers - usually those with a minimum account balance. Such banking is preferable, as mainstream banking can be extremely slow. To avoid all forms of queuing, many banks offer internet and telephone banking. This includes bill payment. Either form of service is highly recommended as it saves sending cheques through the post or standing in long queues to pay bills. In order to open an account you will need to be referred by someone. This can be done by a Malaysian contact or your company can assist with this.

The Malaysian Ringgit is not a freely convertible country and if you take the currency overseas with you it will be difficult to exchange it for foreign currencies. However you can buy foreign currency Travelers Cheques with Ringgit. Sending more than RM10,000 overseas in one transaction or taking a similar amount out of the country in cash requires the national bank's (Bank Negara) approval. This is normally more a requirement than a problem.

Most major banks have auto teller machine systems where deposits, passbook updating can be done besides the usual cash withdrawals. And most ATMs are shut down by midnight for customer safety purposes. Some may extend to 2am, but no more than that.

Cheques are widely accepted although companies will probably need to know you before starting to accept them.

Credit cards and charge cards are widely used in Malaysia, though the former is much preferred due to convenience and wider acceptance. It is possible to apply for a local credit card, billed in Malaysian Ringgit but some issuers are reluctant to give them to expatriates. If you already have a credit card from your home country then it is best to keep it as long as you are in a position to make the payments in the foreign currency. Nearly all major shopping outlets, hotels and high-end restaurants accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

Pos Malaysia Berhad is the exclusive provider of mail services in Malaysia. The history of Pos Malaysia Berhad can be traced back to the early 1800s. Currently, PMB operate more than 650 Post Offices throughout the country. Services provided by Pos Malaysia Berhad (PMB) are,

General Mailing Solutions : From simple letter to parcel delivery, PMB offer a complete range of competitive and customer-responsive mail and specialty services to assist all individual and business customers.

Express Services (EMS Solutions): Malaysia's national courier, locally known as Poslaju or Expedited Mail Service (EMS) internationally, offers the perfect solution to all domestic and international delivery needs, which require speed and proof of delivery. Poslaju or EMS service caters to all segments of the business community and the general public. There are 37 Poslaju Centers nationwide offer all types of courier services. ( www.pos.com.my )

Healthcare

Malaysia's medical services are among the best in the region. To seek medical attention, however, foreign visitors have to visit private hospitals or clinics. Private clinics and hospitals are abundant around the country. They can be found in the shopping malls, or among the rows of shop houses, business complexes, nearby residential areas and others.

Immunization

Visitors from several African and American countries must produce yellow fever vaccination certificates. Yellow fever vaccination is also required for arrivals from infected areas and from Yellow Fever Endemic Zones except for children under one year old.

A common question newly arrived expats tend to ask is about drinking water. Tap water is safe to drink in major towns or cities. In rural villages it is recommended to drink only boiled water. However, most Malaysians in towns and villages make it a habit to boil their water. Mineral or bottled water is available everywhere.

Malaysia today is a complex and richly diverse country that spreads across a network of islands, which encompasses an eclectic collage of ethnic groups, cultures and religions. The economic and spiritual heart is the impressive capital of Kuala Lumpur on Peninsular Malaysia, while other mainland cities worth visiting include the haunting colonial beauty of Georgetown on the island of Penang and the ramshackle sprawl of Malacca in southern Malaysia. On the western and eastern coasts of Peninsular Malaysia a myriad of islands, many blessed with stunning beaches, recline in the tropical sun and to the east the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak boast their own charms, including superb beaches and unspoilt wilderness.

Batu Caves: The Batu Caves lie a few miles to the north of the city. These large natural caves, reached by 272 steps, house the Hindu shrine of Lord Subramaniam. Nearby is the Museum Cave, a fascinating display of brightly colored statues and murals from Hindu mythology. Templar Park, 22km (14 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur, is a well-preserved tract of primary rainforest, which is rich in scenic beauty. Jungle paths, swimming lagoons and waterfalls all lie within the park boundaries. Malaysia's latest agricultural park, located at Cherakah in Shah Alam, Selangor, has a large playing area with facilities for skateboarders and roller skaters. The Forestry Research Institute, 15km northwest of KL, is a genuine example of ecotourism in that it is a stretch of jungle that has been protected and is now being used to study how this unique eco-system works. The center also looks at ways of sustainable development and at ways of protecting this environment.

There are a number of low eco impact trails that visitors can explore

Perak & Pangkor: Perak derives its name from the rich silver tin ore deposits once so fruitful in the region. Perak translates as 'silver' in the Malay language. Major towns within Perak include Ipoh, the administration center and capital, Kuala Kangsar, the royal town and Taiping.

Ipoh: dubbed the 'City of Millionaires' (due to its tin mining wealth) Ipoh , Malaysia's third-largest city, offers the ghosts of its grand colonial days with the mixture of colonial and modern architecture; the best example of the former is the Moorish and Victorian pastiche of the train station. The city center also boasts many colonial-era shops, which retain their original atmosphere today. The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary in Ipoh is of great interest to all nature lovers. In addition to over 160 different species of birds, lucky visitors may get a chance to see smooth otters, long-tailed macque and ridgeback dolphins. The best time to visit is between September and December when many migratory birds arrive at the sanctuary.

Batu Gajah : 30 minutes' drive from Ipoh, near Batu Gajah, stands the impressive Kellie's Castle. Surrounded by rubber plantations, the magnificent ruins of the unfinished castle are all that remains of Scotsman William Kellie Smith's nostalgic ambition to recreate an authentic piece of his Scottish homeland. Work halted with the sudden demise of Smith in 1926 and, since his death, the rumours and mystique surrounding the castle have intensified. Reputed to be haunted, the castle is also believed to possess secret rooms and tunnels, undetected to this day.

Kuala Kangsar : Just north of Ipoh at Jalan Kuala Kangsar, Perak Tong, a limestone cave temple, houses over 40 statues of Buddha. 385 steps in a cave behind the main altar lead up to a magnificent viewpoint, from where one can survey the surrounding countryside. Sam Poh Tong and Kek Lok Tong, near Gunung Rapat, are impressive cave temples where statues of Buddha stand alongside magical stalactites and rock formations. Both temples have Buddhist vegetarian restaurants in the temple grounds. Kuala Kangsar is the birthplace of the rubber industry. In 1877, nine rubber trees were first planted here and the industry was born. Three of the town's most beautiful buildings include Istana Iskandariah, the royal palace, Istana Kenangan, the former royal palace now home to the Perek State Museum, and the Ubudiah Mosque.

Taiping: Although it may be known as the 'Town of Everlasting Peace', Taiping grew to fame as a raffish tin mining center, though the importance of the industry has declined since a major slump in the 1980s. Some of the wealth from the tin mining was pumped into Taiping's main attraction, the disused mining pools that were transformed in the late 19th century to become the stunning, carefully landscaped Lake Gardens. Taiping is also home to some impressive colonial architecture and the charming Ling Nam Temple, which is reputed to be the oldest Chinese temple in Perak. The more sinister history of Taiping emerges in the old prison, which was used by the Japanese in World War II, and the Allied War Cemetery, the last resting place of hundreds of victims of the Japanese invaders.

Pangkor Island: No longer is Pangkor Island, about 100km (60 miles) south of Penang Island, unspoilt and seldom visited. Over recent years it has gained in popularity, which has brought better facilities at the expense of increasing crowds and development of the pristine environment. Since 1996, an internal air link to the island has facilitated access for tourists. Innumerable bays boast excellent sandy beaches and all kinds of water sports.

Penang & Langkawi

Penang: The island of Penang, eulogized as the 'Pearl of the Orient', lies just off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Recently a network of expanded tourist facilities has been created, which have ruined many of the island's main beach charms. Some of the beaches that are popular with resort developers, in particular those around Batu Feringgi on the north coast, have become blighted by jet skis, private hotel stretches of sand and various touts and hawkers. Despite this uncontrolled development to the north, much of the rest of the island is still a beautiful tropical oasis of palm trees and sandy beaches, and it is also the main international gateway to northern Malaysia. It was the natural harbor that first attracted the British to Penang in the late 18th century, and the port is still one of the most important in the country today. There is a regular ferry service between the island and the town of Butterworth on the mainland and a spectacular road bridge.

Georgetown: Charming Georgetown is Penang's main settlement, a thriving hub where Malay, Chinese, Thai, Indian and European cultures merge, as does the architecture which, in the space of a few miles, takes in a British colonial-style cricket pitch and a rumble of Chinese stilt houses. The main shopping is on Campbell Street and Canarvon Street. Worth visiting are Khoo Kongsi, an old Chinese clan house, Fort Cornwallis, a British 18th-century fortress, Penang Museum and Art Gallery and the many churches, temples and mosques found throughout the town. The first-class laksas and unique Penang dishes are reason for visiting alone, with many meals enjoyed outside at the ubiquitous food stalls.

Rest of Penang : Penang has more than just beaches. One of the most unusual attractions is the Snake Temple, which swarms with poisonous snakes, but their venomous threat is countered by heavily drugging them with incense. Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple contains an enormous gold-plated reclining Buddha, which, at 33 meters long, is believed to be the third largest in the world. Penang Bird Park is a must for bird lovers' and horticultural enthusiasts alike. The landscaped park in Seberang Jaya is home to over 400 species of birds. Specially designed aviaries are placed among manmade islands with beautiful waterfalls and gardens ablaze with ornamental flowers and tropical greenery. A wide variety of orchid and hibiscus can also be seen. Over 100 species of butterflies and insects can be seen in the gardens of Penang Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang. The farm is open daily to visitors. In the center of the island is Penang Hill, with a 700m (2300ft) summit, where tourists who can bear the massive queues to ascend the cable car are rewarded with splendid views and jungle walks.

Langkawi : More than 100km (60 miles) north of Penang lie the 104 islands, many of which are just outcrops of coral that make up Langkawi. The largest, Langkawi Island, is the only one with sophisticated tourist facilities (it has been declared a free port and duty free shopping is available). Several international hotels and resorts have opened as the government and international developers flood into what is set to become Malaysia's premier island beach resort. The island's many coves, lagoons and inlets make it ideal for all kinds of water sports such as swimming, sailing, fishing and scuba diving. Horse riding facilities and golf courses are also available. The Crocodile farm at Kubank Badah has more than 3000 crocodiles. Travel to Langkawi is by air from Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Alor Setar or by road and sea.

Kelantan: Bordering Thailand in the north is the state of Kelantan, whose capital Kota Bharu is a colorful, vibrant city, very much the archetypal South-East Asian border town. The beaches here are clean and unspoilt and the sea is ideal for swimming, diving and fishing. The state is renowned for its many cultural festivals, some of which are unique to the region. Puja Umur (the birthday of the Sultan) is celebrated with a weeklong festival, beginning with a parade in Kota Bharu. A form of art unique to Kelantan is the Ma'yong , a combination of ballet, opera, romantic drama and comedy, originally a form of court entertainment.

Central Highlands Hills Resorts: Dotted about the mountain range that runs down the spine of Malaysia are several hill resorts. All are situated more than 1400m (4500ft) above sea level and offer cool, pleasant weather after the humidity of the plain and the cities.

Genting Highlands: Less than one hour by road from Kuala Lumpur is Genting Highlands, which boasts Malaysia's only casino (passports required). Genting Highlands can also be reached by regular helicopter service from Kuala Lumpur. Facilities include four hotels, a theme park, restaurants, a theater, golf courses with a magnificent clubhouse, an artificial lake, a health and sports center, and an indoor swimming pool.

Fraser Hill: Set in lush jungle 100km (60 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur, Fraser Hill is popular with both holidaymakers and golf enthusiasts. Wide ranges of other sports are available. There is also a self-contained township, self-catering bungalows and an international-standard hotel.

Cameron Highlands: Still further north, about four hours from Kuala Lumpur, are the Cameron Highlands. These are among the best-known mountain resorts in Asia, and consist of three separate townships: Brinchang, Tanah Rata and Ringlet. An international-standard hotel and many bungalows are set around a golf course in lush green surroundings. Tennis, squash, badminton, jungle walks and swimming are available. From here you can visit Gunung Brinchang: at 2064m (6773ft) above sea level, it is the highest inhabited point in Peninsular Malaysia and therefore a magnificent viewpoint.

Negeri Sembilan : The state of Negeri Sembilan is located in the southwest corner of Peninsular Malaysia. It is famed throughout the region for its Minangkabau-style architecture, which reflects the influence of its first inhabitants from Sumatra.

S eremban: Negeri Sembilan's capital is 64km (39 miles) south of Kuala Lumpur. Journey time from Kuala Lumpur by car is about 30 minutes. Seremban Lake Gardens is one of the town's most attractive features - it has two beautiful lakes, one of which has a floating stage where cultural shows are performed. The State Mosque, which has nine pillars to represent the nine districts of the state, overlooks the tranquil gardens. The Cultural Handicraft Complex at Labu Spur houses the Negeri Sembilan State Museum. Historical artifacts representative of the state and its inhabitants are on display in this museum, built entirely from wood.

Port Dickson : Port Dickson is on the coast, about one-and-a-half hour's traveling time from Kuala Lumpur and 32km (19 miles) from Seremban. Malaysians flock here from the city at weekends, but with 18km (11 miles) of beach, there is always plenty of room. The bays are fine for all kinds of water sports and fishing and there are facilities for water-skiing, motor cruising and deep-sea fishing. The water quality is not always good though, and the sea around the beaches is often too shallow for decent swimming. The only real tourist attraction apart from the beaches is the Tanjung Tuan Lighthouse, where the coastline of Indonesia across the Straits of Malacca can be made out on a clear day.

Raja Jumaat: The Fort of Raja Jumaat (a 19th-century Bugis Warrior) is 7km (4 miles) from Port Dickson, in Kota Lukut. Remains of an old royal palace and a royal burial ground can be viewed, along with the remains of the fort, built in 1847 to control the tin trade in the vicinity. Pedas Hot Springs are 30km (18 miles) south of Seremban. Visitors wanting to take to the restorative waters will find bathing enclosures, dining and recreational facilities.

Malacca : The city of Malacca may only be two hours by road south of Kuala Lumpur, but it is centuries away in ambience. Old men in fishing boats still cruise up through the center of the modern city with the catch of the day, which can be enjoyed in the city's excellent restaurants. River cruises that open up the city's history are increasingly popular. Founded in the early 15th century, Malacca remains predominantly a Chinese community, although there are many reminders of periods under Portuguese, Dutch and British rule; some of these can be seen in the Malacca Museum. Architectural remains include the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple in the center of the city, the gateway of the A Formosa Portuguese fortress, St Paul's Church with the grave of St Xavier, the Stadthuys, the Dutch Christ Church and the Tranquerah Mosque, one of the oldest in the country. There are several international hotels in Malacca, augmented by a fully equipped resort complex 12km (7 miles) outside the city.

Johor: In the southern state of Johor, Johor Bahru is Malaysia's southernmost gateway, and also the road and rail gateway from Singapore via a 1.5km- (1 mile-) causeway that connects the island to Peninsular Malaysia. Places of interest in the State include Johor Lama, the seat of the Johor Sultanate after eviction from Malacca; the Kota Tinggi Waterfalls; the Ayer Hitam ceramic works; Muar, famous throughout the country for its ghazal music and trance-inducing Kuda Kepang dances; the rubber and palm-oil plantations; and Desaru, one of Johor's newest resorts. Desaru boasts unspoilt beaches and jungle. All kinds of sports are played here, from swimming, canoeing and snorkeling to pony riding and jungle trekking.

The East Coast: This part of the country contains many of the finest beaches, including some of the least spoilt in southern Asia. In effect, the whole east coast is one huge beach, backed by jungle. The region, which covers two thirds of Peninsular Malaysia, comprises the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Johor, as well as the islands of Tioman and Rawa.

Pahang: Kuantan, the state capital of Pahang, is fast gaining popularity as a beach resort. The region around Kuantan is also well known for village festivals and for the craft of weaving pandanus leaves into mats, hats and baskets. Woodcarving and batik are also traditional crafts in this part of the country. Telek Chempadek, just 5km (3 miles) north of Kuantan is another popular beach resort with a wide range of water sports available, including windsurfing, water-skiing and sailing. It has a good selection of restaurants along the seafront. 7km (4 miles) north of Kuantan, Besarah, an attractive fishing village, is famed for its shellcraft, batik and crafts modeled from coconuts. Asia's first Club Mediterranée holiday village is in Cherating, about 45km (30 miles) north of Kuantan. The beaches at Cherating are some of the finest on the east coast and conditions are particularly favorable for windsurfing.

Pahang: Malaysia's answer to Loch Ness is Lake Chini, in whose waters mythological monsters are said to lurk, guarding the entrance to a legendary sunken city. Kenong Rimba Park, located in the valley of the Sungai Kenong, is a must for adventure seekers. Activities available include cave explorations, jungle trekking, fishing and rock climbing.
In the north of the state is Malaysia's largest national park, Taman Negara. Surrounded by the world's oldest tropical forest (supposedly 130 million years old), the park has remained virtually untouched and is a favorite haunt for outdoor enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers. The journey to the park headquarters involves travel by train, road and a three-hour boat ride. Accommodation is mostly modest and the more comfortable lodgings are limited.

Tioman : The island of Tioman, in the South China Sea off the coast of Pahang, will be familiar to fans of the film South Pacific , as it was here that the filmmakers found their mythical Bali Hai. The sweeping palm trees and luxuriously white beaches are still there, but fame has come at a price with a rush of development, which on one side has brought the ease of direct flights and express boats from the mainland, but also a raft of accommodations, not all of them of the same quality and aesthetic standards. Tioman is the largest of a group of 64 volcanic islands, and also the largest island on Malaysia's east coast. The three most popular resorts are ABC, Salang and Juara. Tioman is also one of the best destinations in Malaysia for scuba diving and snorkeling. The jungle-clad interior is also popular for trekking, with many swathes of jungle still unspoilt.

Terengganu: The state of Terengganu has 225km (140 miles) of white sandy beaches. Swimming and all forms of water sports are favorite pastimes. There are several turtle-breeding beaches; at Rantau Abang, the Visitor Center can arrange for guests to watch giant turtles laying their eggs.

Perhentian Islands: Many Malays consider the twin islands of Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil to be the two most beautiful islands in the country. They both boast pristine white beaches, crystal clear waters and are still relatively unexploited. The strict local beliefs mean that alcohol is not common and this has helped deter major companies from setting up here, leaving the islands in their natural state for those who do choose to visit. The islands are popular for scuba diving and snorkeling with easy access to reefs and good visibility.

Sabah: Separated from Peninsular Malaysia by 950km (600 miles) of the South China Sea, Sabah, on the northern tip of Borneo, can be reached by direct flights from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Known as 'The Land Below The Wind', Sabah is an adventure playground, home of the world's oldest jungles and one of South-East Asia's highest peaks, Mount Kinabalu. Sabah also offers the unique opportunity to see orang-utans in their natural environment.

Kota Kinabalu: The capital and main gateway to Sabah, Kota Kinabalu does little justice to its spectacular natural surroundings. It is a new city built upon the ruins of Jesselton, which was badly damaged during the Second World War, and designed around the gold-domed State Mosque. From Signal Hill there is a good view of the city and the surrounding mountains and sea.

Tanjung Aru : Just south of Kota Kinabalu is the resort of Tanjung Aru, where the recently opened beach complex has been designed with both business traveller and holidaymaker in mind. As well as conference and meeting facilities, there is also a ferry-shuttle service into the town. Tuaran is 30 minutes' drive northeast of Kota Kinabalu. The road runs through lush valleys, forested hills and rubber plantations. The town has a good ' Tamu' (market).

Sandakan : Nearly 400km (250 miles) from Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan is the old capital of Borneo. The Sandakan Orchid House displays a rare collection of wonderful orchids and is a must for green-fingered enthusiasts. Also of interest is the Crocodile Farm, located outside Sandakan along the seventh mile Labuk Road. Over 1000 crocodiles, of varying sizes inhabit the farm at any one time. 24km (15 miles) from the town is the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Center, home of the 'wild men of Borneo', the world's largest orangutan population. The sanctuary is a rehabilitation center where orangutans reap the benefits of inhabiting virgin rainforest in a protected environment. Now one of Sabah's top tourist attractions, the centers is no flippant tourist site as it actively manages to take in injured or orphaned orangutans and return them to the wild once they are rehabilitated. There is no guarantee of seeing an orangutan, but they usually turn up for their twice-daily feedings.

Turtle Islands: 40km (24 miles) north of Sandakan, Pulau Selingan, Pulau Bakungan Kecil and Pulau Gulisan collectively form the Turtle Islands. Visitors get the opportunity to witness the amazing sight of Hawksbill and Green turtles coming ashore in the evening to lay their eggs. The islands can be visited all year round but, from July to October, the number of turtles visiting the island increases. Accommodation is available but highly sought after.

Tenom: The Tenom region can be reached from Kota Kinabalu by Sabah's only railway line. A spectacular and thrilling experience, it follows the Padas River up through narrow jungle gorges in the Crocker Range. Tenom town is renowned for its style of longhouse building, unchanged in centuries, and for the traditional songs and dances performed there.

Labuan : The island of Labuan is 10km (6 miles) off the coast of Sabah and covers an area of 98 sq km (38 sq miles). It is a duty free port and operates as Malaysia's offshore financial center. Excellent duty free shopping and wide expanses of white sandy beaches throughout the island make Labuan a popular tourist destination. It is also a popular destination for divers and have four established wreck diving sites. The Cement Wreck is suitable for beginners, but the Blue Water Wreck requires more advanced diving experience. It is possible to penetrate the hull of the Australian and American wrecks, but these dive sights are only accessible to qualified wreck divers with relevant experience. Religious buildings of interest on the island are the An'nur Jamek Mosque, Kwong Fook Kung Temple and Lauan Gurdwara Sahib. The mosque, a place of worship for Labuan's Muslim community, has a progressive futuristic design. The temple, constructed in 1952, is the oldest Chinese temple on the island. The Hokkien community stages a deity procession with trance-like dances and food offerings each year in March. Lauan Gurdwara Sahib, a place of worship for Labuan's Sikh community was built in 1957. The Sikh 'Golden Temple' in Amritsar inspired the design. The Peace Park at Layang-Layangan, commemorating World War II, is a tranquil retreat. Japanese-inspired pavilions and ponds with stone bridges are dotted throughout beautifully landscaped gardens.

Pulau Papan : An island only five minutes by boat from Labuan, Pulau Papan is a popular retreat for weekenders from Brunei. Attractive landscaping throughout the island and a colonial lighthouse enhance Pulau Papan's natural charm. Chalet accommodation is available; the only alternative for anyone wanting to stay overnight on the island is camping.

Sarawak: The state of Sarawak shares East Malaysia with Sabah but is a vastly different destination to its neighbor with a greater degree of ethnic and tribal diversity leading to a more interesting culture and more varied cuisine. Most people who live in Sarawak use the intricate network of waterways to get about. Visitors are encouraged to do so too, although taxis and hire cars are available in the larger towns for those who prefer more conventional means of transport. Separated from Peninsular Malaysia by 650km (404 miles) by the South China Sea, Sarawak can be reached by direct flights from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Kuching : Situated on the banks of the River Sarawak, Kuching is a charming historic town, as well as being a gateway to a huge hinterland of dense tropical rainforest and mountain ranges. Villages on stilts still cling precariously to the riverbanks. Kuching has many places of interest worth visiting. A visit to the Sarawak Museum affords valuable insights into the history, wildlife and anthropology of Borneo. The Court House, built in 1847, is adorned with local art forms and is regarded as one of the finest buildings in Sarawak. The Hong San Temple, built in honor of the God Kuek Seng, dates back to 1895. The Chinese community reveres Kuek Seng, who became a god 1000 years ago. It is supposed that he grants all requests from his devotees. At the heart of Kuching, the splendor of Sarawak State Mosque, with its magnificent gilt domes is a majestic sight. Situated at the Junction of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman and the Main Bazaar, Tua Pek Kong Temple is Kuching's oldest Chinese temple, which dates back to 1876.

Overnight excursions can be made up the Skrang River, with accommodation provided in longhouses. There are also downriver trips to Santubong, an ancient trading post on the coast. The Bako National Park, covering an area of approximately 26 sq km (10 sq miles), has interesting wildlife and vegetation, including carnivorous plants, long-nosed monkeys and Sambar deer. Excursions are organized from Kuching.

Gunung Mulu National Park : Gunung Mulu National Park, a World Heritage Site, has thousands of different plant species and is home to an abundance of wildlife including exotic birds and butterflies, fish and mammals. Small Borneo gibbons swinging through the trees are a common sight. The magnificent limestone caves in the park are the main tourist attraction, the cave system being the most extensive in the world and including Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave and The Cave of the Winds. The park is home to Sarawak's last nomadic tribe.

Niah Caves: Other excursions, often via Miri, can be made to the Niah Caves, which show evidence of human existence dating back to 5000 BC. The caves are also valued for their guano and bird's nests, the latter being used to make soup. Many of the caves - and some are more easily accessible than others - may be visited with a guide.

Because vast tropical rain forests cover Malaysia, camping is available in numerous areas throughout the country. From the seemingly endless shorelines, to the mostly unexplored islands off the coast, to the highlands and countryside, campers from all places are certain to find suitable and enjoyable sites. It is advisable for campers to inform the nearest police station of their whereabouts, and in certain areas, permission must be obtained from the Forestry Department before campers are allowed to set up camp. As the Malaysian rain forests are usually wet, due to substantial rainfall, it is recommended to bring waterproof equipment to protect your belongings. Guides are available for the adventurous campers who wish to explore beyond the trails of civilization.

Malaysian Overland Adventures Sdn Bhd
Lot 1.23, Bangunan Angkasaraya, Jalan Ampang
50450 Kuala Lumpur

AYTB (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd
G5 International Youth Centre
Jalan Tenteram, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras
56000 Kuala Lumpur

Perpel Travel & Tours
Tingkat Bawah, Wisma Maju
Jalan Sultan Ismail
20200 Kuala Terengganu
Terengganu

Clubs and Associations

Business Associations: There are many national and professional organizations in Malaysia. Some are connected are focused on general business such as MICCI ( Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry ), others on bilateral trade.

There are also professional groups for doctors, engineers and journalists. If you are interested in the latter, your work colleagues are your best source of information. Many Malaysians have studied overseas and universities have alumni groups here so if you have the urge for tertiary fellowship, this is a good avenue.

Some associations include The American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, Malaysia New Zealand Business Council, the Institute of Graduate Studies, Malaysia Australia Business Council.

Expat Associations : Most large national groups of expats have associations. The best contact is usually through the embassies/consulates as phone numbers of executive members frequently change as expats come and go. The Canadian Association, Malaysian Australian New Zealand Association, The Selangor St. Andrew's Society and the International Woman's Association are useful contacts.

Entertainment

At dusk, a new facet of Malaysia reveals itself. Hotel lounges and clubs, frequently found within the larger hotels, are active at night. Although somewhat expensive, these clubs usually have entertainment on a nightly basis, excluding Sunday. Performances and styles range from jazz, to piano/singer acts, to popular music and singers.

Pubs and bars can also be found. Locating these may require some effort, even for taxi drivers, as the pubs and bars are usually situated in the suburbs. Major hotels also have pubs, but these are more expensive than their suburban counterparts. Music, often live, is played on a nightly basis. Pubs close around 11pm, however, so late-night action seekers must look elsewhere. Discos begin to warm up just as the pubs start closing their doors. Discos often stay open until 2am. Some have live bands and light shows but often require cover charges or drink minimums. Consult with the locals for the current hot spots. Nightclubs and cabarets, or "kelab malam" as the locals call them, offer Fifties-style atmosphere, often with variety acts, floor shows and bands.

Dining and Drinking

Because Malaysia is a country of diverse cultures and traditions, it is not surprising that its cuisine is just as varied. As one might expect, each state has its own specialized dishes as well as different means of preparation and variations in taste. Generally, the Indians and Malays use spices liberally in their food. The Chinese, on the other hand, are more subtle, while the Peranakan have developed their own style of cooking. Even the Eurasions, although small in number, have perfected their own blend of Eastern- and Western-style cooking.

"Authentic" Malay food is not as widely available in Malaysian restaurants as Chinese style or American fast food. Restaurants in large hotels offer international cuisine from such countries as Japan, Korea, France and Italy. Street food is widely available throughout Malaysia.

Alcohol is fairly expensive in Malaysia. Muslims are forbidden to drink alcohol, so it may be necessary to head to the hotels or Chinese liquor stores for beverages. Wine, although expensive, even by the glass, may not have a good flavor, due to the tropical heat. Beer is fairly common, yet is often served unchilled. Prices and varieties range from state to state, but Anchor Draught is most likely the cheapest, at M$3.90 for a small bottle (M$5.50 for a large bottle). Tiger and Guinness Stout are also among the most popular and least expensive beers. Carlsburg, Heineken and Tsing Tao (Chinese lager) are also available at a higher cost.

Things To Know

Flag: Fourteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and star are traditional symbols of Islam; the design was based on the U.S. flag.

Shop Hours: Department stores and supermarkets are usually open from 10am to 10pm and shops from 9:30am to 7pm. In Kuala Lumpur, as well as in most major towns, there are several 24-hour stores.

Bank Hours: Monday through Friday from 10am to 3pm, and Saturday 9:30am to 11:30am.

Holidays: Weekly holidays vary from region to region. In Selangor, Melaka, Penang, Perak, Pahang and Negri Sembilan, there is a half-day holiday on Saturday and a full-day holiday on Sunday. In the states of Johor, Kedah, Perlis, Terengganu and Kelantan a traditional half-day holiday is observed on Thursday and full-day holiday on Friday; Saturday and Sunday are treated as weekdays.

In addition , many moveable feasts are observed, depending on the Christian, Muslim, Buddhist or Hindu calendar.

Note: If a holiday falls on a weekend or Friday, the following day becomes a holiday.

Time: 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and16 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time, 7 hours of GMT.

Tipping: Tipping is usually not necessary, unless service is excellent. Most hotels and large restaurants automatically add a 10% service charge in addition to the 5% government tax to the bill (indicated by a ++ sign on menus and rate cards).

Restaurants: 10% service charge added automatically. Additional tipping is unnecessary, unless service is excellent.

Porters: Tip porters about M$1 per bag. Any tip less than 50 sen would be considered insulting.

Hotel maids: Service charge added automatically. Additional tipping is unnecessary, unless to acknowledge excellent service.

Taxis: Most taxis are fitted with meters, but these are used only in major towns such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Ipoh. Taxi rates are currently M$1 for the first kilometer (.62mi) and 30 sen for each subsequent half-kilometer (.31mi). A 20-30% air-conditioning charge is added to the fare and is not optional. Malaysians usually tip drivers with their coin change. To acknowledge excellent service, 10% is greatly appreciated but not expected. When traveling early in the morning or late at night, drivers prefer to fix a price for the destination. Negotiating is advisable .