Malaysia consists of two parts, Peninsula Malaysia and Borneo. Peninsula Malaysia is the long strip of land, which extends down from Asia, it accounts for about 40% of the area. Borneo is made up of the states of Sabah and Sarawak, which occupy the northern most segment of the island of Borneo.
While visiting Malaysia you should try to get to following:
Taman Negara National Park, which is one of the world's oldest rainforests. It is home to several endangered species and an abundance of exotic plants. Taman Negara National Park is also an excellent place for jungle trekking and mountain climbing.
Kinabalu National Park features a high granite peak that you should climb if you would like a beautiful view of the spectacular surrounding rainforest.
The Perhentian Islands are probably the most beautiful islands in Malaysia, they all have sparkling white-sand beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine water.
Danum Valley is the ultimate rainforest experience. Here you can hear the incredible sounds of hooting gibbons and the deafening insect chonis.
Penang is the west coast's most interesting stopover. It is a historic British settlement that has strong Chinese influences, many colourful temples, good food and a great nightlife
Melaka's Dutch and Portuguese heritage is revealed in the port's interesting blend of architecture.
Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre is one of only four such refuges in the world. These Orang-utans can be hilarious, it is definitely a must see.
Culture
The main indigenous tribe is the Iban of Sarawak, who number 395,000. They are largely longhouse dwellers and live along the Rejang and Baram rivers. The Bidayuh (107,000) are concentrated on Sarawak's Skrang River. The Orang Asli (80,000) live in small scattered groups in Peninsular Malaysia. Traditionally nomadic agriculturalists, many have been absorbed into modern Malaysia.
Malaysian music is heavily influenced by Chinese and Islamic forms. The music is based largely around the endang (drum), but includes percussion instruments (some made of shells), flutes, trumpets and gongs. The country has a strong tradition of dance and dance dramas, some of Thai, Indian and Portuguese origin. Other artistic forms include ayang kulit (shadow-puppets), ilat (a stylised martial art) and crafts such as batik, weaving and silver and brasswork.
Local_Currency
Malaysian ringgit (dollar)
Malaysian banks are efficient and typically charge around US$2-3 for foreign exchange transactions. Money changers do not charge a commission but their rates vary, so make sure you know the current rate before approaching one. For cash, you'll generally get a better rate at a money changer than a bank. Money changers are also generally quicker to deal with. All major credit cards are accepted at upmarket hotels, shops and restaurants. If you have a credit card with a personal identification number (PIN) attached, you can obtain cash advances from ATMs.
Transport
Cameron Highlands is a four-hour ride from Kuala Lumpur via Tapah. The roads going uphill are in good condition and the ascent gradual, with many fascinating views along the way. The roaring waterfall Lata Iskandar is a bonus. Tapah, the town at the foot of Cameron Highlands, can also be reached by rail.
The road up to the highlands is via tapah, from where buses to Tanah Rata (two hours) run every one to one & a half hours between 8.15am and 6pm; most continue to Brinchang.
The long distance buses leave from Tapah, and Tanah Rata also has four direct daily buses to KL( five hours) and two to Penang (six hours).
From Tanah Rata you can share-taxis to Tapah, to Ipoh and to KL.
