Weekendin Singapore Nov '13 | Issue 08 | Seite 132

acrosstheSTRAITS Malaysia acrosstheSTRAITS 11 states Johor Peninsular Malaysia’s southern gateway state offers tropical island getaways, lush forests, waterfalls, historic sites and golf courses. The islands of Sibu, Rawa, Besar and Pemanggil in the South China Sea provide excellent retreat with water sports and underwater attractions. The pristine Endau-Rompin National Park provides trekking routes and intriguing jungle adventure. Johor Bahru is a popular weekend shopping and recreational retreat for locals and visitors from next door Singapore. 28 million population Kuala Lumpur The vibrant capital city of Malaysia has its origins as a tin-mining outpost in the 80s. KL’s skyline is a striking contrast of ultra-modern structures and charming heritage buildings. The imposing Petronas Twin Towers, the world’s tallest twin structures, is a major draw for visitors. KL’s fascinating sights, irresistible shopping, endless festivals, exciting nightlife and gastronomic delights make it an exciting holiday destination. A survey by CNN ranks Kuala Lumpur as the fourth top shopping destination in the world 3 Federal Territories Perlis This northernmost state in Peninsular Malaysia shares borders with neighbouring Thailand. The town of Padang Besar is an important entry point by rail for visitors from the north. A variety of attractions await visitors, including Gua Kelam (Dark Caves), Gua Wang Burma, Perlis Snake and Reptile Farm and the Perlis State Park. Borneo Pahang The largest state in Peninsular Malaysia is the location of Taman Negara, Malaysia’s premier national park, as well as the peninsula’s highest peak, Gunung Tahan. The popular hill resorts of Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands, Berjaya Hills and Fraser’s Hills are the major tourist attractions here. Cherating is the site of Asia’s first Club Mediterranean and off the state’s coastline is the island gem of Tioman, voted as one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Dining | Shopping | Diving | Sea Sports | Fishing | Trekking | Golfing | Getaway Dining | Entertainment | Shopping KLCC | Sunway Lagoon | Mid-Valley Mall | Paragon Shopping Mall | Bangsar Baru | Sungei Wang | Perlis State Park | Padang Besar | Rimba Herba | Lake Melati, Beseri Perlis is the smallest state in Malaysia. It lies at the northern part of the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Rock climbing | Agriculture | Eco-tourism | Heritage | Shopping Trekking | Rainforest | Fishing | Cave Exploration | Bird Watching | Islands Melaka Putrajaya Kedah Sabah The state’s successive colonial influences have made it a cultural melting pot and a veritable treasure trove of the past. Visitors are drawn to its historical precinct, containing the well-preserved 17th century Dutch Stadthuys and the remains of the Portuguese A’ Famosa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city boasts fascinating museums, historical vestiges and replicas of ancient palaces. Situated 25km south of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya is the futuristic administrative capital of the nation. The Rice Bowl state of Malaysia is characterised by a landscape of vast paddy fields and lush greenery. Alor Setar, the administrative centre, is the site of many well-preserved historical landmarks. Sabah is a paradise for nature lovers. Major attractions here are Mount Kinabalu located in the Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Legoland | Hello Kitty | Islands of Tioman: Rawa, Sibu, Besar and Permanggil | Iskandar Malaysia with an area of 2,217 sq. km 3 times the size of Singapore is destined to be the new metropolis for living and business The Baba and Nyonya Heritage Museum provides an insight into this unique community. Nearby Ayer Keroh and A’ Famosa Water Park provide numerous sightseeing spots and recreational activities. Hailed as in Intelligent Garden City, this model township is a proud symbol of Malaysia’s aspiration to be a developed nation. The focal point here is Putra Square, the stately Prime Minister’s