Cuti Malaysia Night Travel Fair 2011

With the school holidays coming up, time to look for a vacation, so how about the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Night Travel Fair at i-City Shah Alam?

Tourism Malaysia has many interesting travel destinations, from the pristine Malaysian beaches, lush rainforests (good for eco-tourism, yes?), refreshing hill resorts (such as Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands, Fraser's Hill), relaxing parks and gardens (I like that Japanese Garden at Bukit Tinggi Resort) to bustling metropolis (well actually, I would like to get away from all the mad traffic jam, but for those who has not seen the big city would like to see the frenetic hustle and bustle city life!) and heritage sites (good if you are an avid old building aficionado, there are indeed many Unesco building sites perhaps follow the Ipoh Heritage Walk?), inspiring art and gastronomic delights (aye, aye as we all know Malaysians just love to eat!).

Here's your chance to discover the magic of Malaysia tourism and travel, marvel at her wonders and cherish some wonderful memories as you go exploring good old Malaysia, ya? Go grab the best deals for your favourite travel destinations at this fun filled event in i-City Shah Alam packed with exciting activities, travel bargains, contests and giveaways!

Event: Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Night Travel Fair
Date: 28th to 30th October 2011
Venue: i-City Shah Alam, Selangor
Time: 5pm to 12am
Infoline: 1300-88-5050
Website: www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my

See you there!

Related other travel fairs:
MITM Travel Fair 2011 Tourism Malaysia
MATTA Fair 2011 Packages for Malaysia and Overseas travel

[update on the travel fair]

Tourism Malaysia Targets Sales Of RM500,000 At Night Travel Fair
October 29, 2011 00:02 AM

SHAH ALAM, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- Tourism Malaysia aims to sell about RM500,000 worth of travel packages at the Cuti-cuti 1Malaysia Night Travel Fair 2011 which starts today until Sunday.

The national tourism promotion agency also expects over 60,000 visitors at the night fair located in i-City, here.

In a statement, Tourism Malaysia said the event involves 66 travel agencies including operators of tourism products, homestays and local hotels which will offer over 2,500 domestic tour packages.

Aside from sales and exhibitions, other activities will take place throughout the programme including tourism quiz, lucky draw and a mini concert featuring artistes Lefthanded, XPDC and others under pay-television service provider Astro.

The Cuti-cuti 1Malaysia Night Travel Fair will also highlight programmes organised by the Tourism Ministry such as the 1Malaysia Bersih & Indah campaign, 1Malaysia Contemporary Arts Tourism Festival and Fabulous Food 1Malaysia.

The three-day event, which begins from 5pm to midnight, was officiated by Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit on behalf of Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, here Friday night.

-- BERNAMA

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MITM Travel Fair

Malaysian International Travel Mart Travel Fair 2011 targets 60,000 visitors

THE MITM Travel Fair is back again this year after a successful fair last year.

The MITM 2011 Travel Fair, the 10th edition to be organised by the Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association (MCTA), will be held from Oct 28 to 30 at the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre (MVEC).

This year’s fair, which has exhibitors ranging from tour operators, travel agents, national tourism organisations, state tourism organisations and airlines, will feature over 60 exhibitors with 300 exhibition booths occupying all three exhibition halls at the MVEC.

MITM 2011 Travel Fair organising chairman Jackson Thian said they were expecting more than 60,000 visitors to the Kuala Lumpur exhibition.

“I believe the fair will provide a great opportunity for travellers to explore the best bargains and value-for-money tour packages and other travel-related products and services.

“The travel and tourism industry is one of the major contributors to Malaysia’s economy.

“MCTA will continue to support the Tourism Ministry and Tourism Malaysia to promote Malaysia to foreign and local travellers,” Thian said during the fair’s soft launch at Overtime Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur recently.

There will also be RM200,000 worth of lucky draw prizes for visitors and buyers during the exhibition.

For the first time this year, MCTA Perak and Negri Sembilan chapters will be holding their fairs on the same dates in Ipoh and Seremban respectively.

The fairs will be held at the Glamour Square in Bercham, Ipoh and Terminal 2, Seremban.

“Last year we held the fair in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh. This year we have included Seremban,” said Thian.

“Next year, we plan to expand and add two more venues in Penang and Ipoh,” he said. -- Jastin Ahmad Tarmizi / Star News

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Tanjung Sepat, Selangor

Fishing village with much to offer - Selangor Tourism
By Sam Cheong
Saturday August 13, 2011

TANJUNG SEPAT is one of the most prosperous districts in Selangor.

Located southwest of Klang, this fishing village is known for two things — fresh seafood and Bak Kut Teh.

It is also a popular destination for wedding shoots and one of the locations here called the 'Lover's bridge' is the village's main draw.

Quaint sight: In-shore fishing boats
moored along the river in Tanjung Sepat.

Apart from that, there is also a fungi farm that offers homestay services for tourists who prefer an overnight stay here.

You can find an array of products from mushrooms to the black fungus that are harvested daily for consumption in the Klang Valley.

The Mushroom farm in Tanjung Sepat
where a homestay option is available for out-of-towners

In Tanjung Sepat village alone, there are several noteworthy places of interest such as the pau factory and seafood steamboat restaurant that caters mainly to visitors.

Highly recommended is a trip to the Hai Yew Hin coffeeshop (non-halal) which serves the best char siew pau and kopi-O peng (iced black coffee) in the village.

The Tanjung Sepat village sees more
traffic on a Saturday morning

This is a popular haunt for day-trippers and is also perpetually packed. You can also take a look at how the pastry is made at a bakery opposite the coffeeshop.

For the adventurous type, the best way to see this fishing village is by cycling from Banting to Tanjung Sepat covering a distance of 29.1km.

Tourists seeing the area on their bicycles.

Along the way, you can see some tourists on bicycles plying this route to access cities in the far South like Malacca and Johor.

The drive from Kuala Lumpur's city centre to this location is 88.3km via the Kesas highway.

Tanjung Sepat waterfront dwelling,
a fisherman's wharf in the village

For the tech savvy person, the GPS coordinates to Tanjung Sepat are: N 02 39 762, E 101 33 460.

On the social media front, this village has a facebook account and on twitter, you can find them at http://twitter.com/tanjung_sepat and a blog in Chinese: http://www.tanjung-sepat.blogspot.com

A popular site, the Tanjung Sepat lover's bridge.

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Sabah Tourism

More to Sabah tourism than Mount Kinabalu
Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, northernmost tip of Borneo, a place like no other
By Joshua Hendry
Friday August 5, 2011

Mention Sabah and most people will immediately think of Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in Malaysia.

Not many are familiar with the name Tanjung Simpang Mengayau.

The name refers to the location of the northernmost tip of Borneo, in the district of Kudat, Sabah.

Located about 215km from Kota Kinabalu, it takes three to four hours to get there by car.

The tip of Borneo: This is the northernmost point of Borneo where the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea meet.

The roads leading up to the point are fully sealed. However, being rural roads mostly used by villagers and plantation vehicles, some stretches are quite uneven with potholes here and there so care must be taken while driving.

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Sandakan, Sabah Borneo

Sandakan, Sabah Borneo is located on the north-eastern coast of Borneo facing the Sulu Sea. This little town is home to the famous Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Kinabatangan River and Sandakan War Memorial Park. Do give this tourism Malaysia a visit if you happen to be in Sabah and find out its many charms!

Sandakan's many charms
By Aida Ahmad
Friday July 29, 2011

THE one question most people asked me when I returned from my familiarisation trip to Sandakan was, "How many orang utans did you see?"

Granted, that was one of the highlights during the tour of Sabah's second largest town. However, Sandakan has more to offer than just primates.

Located on the north-eastern coast of Borneo facing the Sulu Sea, Sandakan is home to the famous Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Kinabatangan River and Sandakan War Memorial Park.

A few media members were taken on this trip organised by Firefly. From the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), it takes two hours and 40 minutes to reach Sandakan.

Popular cruise: The lower Kinabatangan area is a hotspot to bird-watch.

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Putrajaya Flowers and Parks Festival 2011

Putrajaya Flowers and Parks Festival
For those who loves flowers come join the Putrajaya Flowers and Parks Festival. In fact there are two events going on at the same time in Putrajaya Flowers and Parks Festival! They are:

Putrajaya Floria 2011
July 9 to 17. Admission is free.

1Malaysia International Tourism Night Floral Parade 2011
From July 9 to July 17
From 8.30pm to 10.30pm

For nature shutterbug bring along your DSLR camera and of course macro lens for those close up shots! And not to forget tripod for the night time fireworks display.

See you there!
Cheerio!

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Flower power comes to Putrajaya
Thursday July 7, 2011

PUTRAJAYA: The combination of artificial limbs decorated with roses is Eric Wong's symbolism of compassion and love towards the less fortunate.

The Rotary Club of Bandar Sunway member decided to come up with the concept for the indoor flower show competition in conjunction with the fourth Putrajaya Flowers and Parks Festival (Putrajaya Floria 2011) which starts on Saturday.

“The design concept is a birth of new hope, giving hope that we provide for those who were unfortunate,” said Wong.

Wong said the design was to symbolise the club's iconic humanitarian projects, “Leg for Legless”.

In full bloom: Liyana Ferdaus 26, admiring the flowers which will be displayed during the Putrajaya Floria 2011 from this Saturday.

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Kota Kinabalu Guide

Kota Kinabalu can be a pretty cool place to be; it’s also a great base from which to discover more of Sabah.

Laid-back and cool
Saturday May 21, 2011
By S.S. Yoga

Kota Kinabalu is a sprawling and quite charming city. Most of the buildings were erected post-WWII as the British burnt KK (then known as Jesselton) down during the war to prevent it from falling into Japanese hands.

There are just a few survivors from the pre-war era, though — four to be precise. They are the Atkinson Clock Tower, the former Post Office building (which now houses Sabah Tourism) and the Old Welfare building, which unfortunately was razed in a fire a few years back. All that is left standing are the columns that the city authorities have wisely allowed street artists to get creative with.

A stretch of beach at Pulau Sapi off Kota Kinabalu.

But hold on, isn’t that only three buildings so far?

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Various Tourism News

THIRD PUTRAJAYA INTERNATIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON FIESTA 2011 (March 17-20)
Precinct 2, Putrajaya. The balloons are back! Themed 1World, 1Malaysia, 1Fiesta, there are plans to fly 23 colourful balloons of different sizes and shapes. There will be other exciting activities and entertainment too. Visit www.myballoonfiesta.com.

PUTRAJAYA WATERSPORTS FESTIVAL (until March 31)
Putrajaya. The Federal Territory will be buzzing with exciting watersport events at various venues. These splashing activities promise fun for everyone. It’s an event not to be missed. Visit www. www.ppj.gov.my.

MALAYSIA GP SALE (until April 15)
Nationwide. Fantastic bargains and discounts await shopaholics as the nation celebrates the hottest race in the region, Petronas Malaysian F1 Grand Prix. Get hot deals for everything from fashion and electronics to accessories.

COSTUMES OF THE ISLAMIC WORLD (until July 13)
Sabah Museum, Sabah. Explore the Islamic world through fashion, ranging from everyday wear to elaborate costumes worn during weddings and other significant social rites. The motives and designs of the displayed outfits depict the function and origins of the attire. Visit www.sabahtourism.com.

Read more: Travel: What's On http://www.nst.com.my

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Kuala Lumpur City Walk

Here's something interesting, hopefully when it is ready I will have a good look at this Kuala Lumpur City Walk. It is to be located along the 416m strip of land from Jalan P.Ramlee to Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. Will just have to wait till it is ready for some Kuala Lumpur tourism!

KL City Walk Map Location

KL City Walk will have 50 kiosks selling a range of products
By Choong Mek Zhin
Photos by Samuel Ong
Thursday, 6 Jan 2011

THE Kuala Lumpur City Walk, a new tourist hub for Malaysian food and products, is expected to open as soon as next month, after 13 years in the making.

The 416m-walk is located along a small strip of land that links Jalan P. Ramlee to the connecting road between Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. It is surrounded by high-rise office and residential buildings.

Deputy Federal Territories and Urban Wellbeing Minister Datuk M. Saravanan, who paid a surprise visit to the site on Tuesday, said he came to check on the project's safety plans.

"I am happy with this Cabinet-approved private project and it is in accordance with the submitted plan," he said after walking the entire length.

Breezy experience: Stroll in the shade at the KL City Walk when it opens.

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He said the developer and management had the responsibility of making sure the place did not turn into a slum while the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) licensing department would be in charge of monitoring the place.

Developer and management company Go Venture Sdn Bhd director Kevin Flynn said there were 50 retail kiosks along the walk and each was between 100 and 300 sq ft in size.

"The businesses here will be run by those who have already made a name for themselves in their own specialised trade. Rent will be charged according to the price range and items that the businesses sell," said Flynn.

He said only 10 of the kiosks would be serving food and beverage while the rest could be selling anything such as silverware, postcards, and antiques.

Knowing the project: Choong (left) briefing Saravanan on the City Walk project during his site visit.

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Flynn said priority would be given to local businesses though visitors can expect to see a mixture of other Asian and Western offerings too.

He added that the walk, which featured three themes — Heritage, Contemporary and Future, and would operate from 6am to 3am daily.

Shady trees would be planted all along it.

Go Venture's parent company Trend Matrix Enterprise Sdn Bhd group managing director Ronnie Choong was also present during the deputy minister's site visit. -- The Star

Truly Asia: Flynn said that they hoped visitors to the Kuala Lumpur City Walk will leave feeling like they have seen and experienced what Asia is all about

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KL City Walk's pedestrian mall to open in July
2011/05/05
By Masriwanie Muhamading


KUALA LUMPUR: The country's first-of-its-kind pedestrian strip mall, KL City Walk, is expected to be officially opened in September.

Trend Matrix Enterprises Sdn Bhd group managing director Ronnie Choong said the soft launch will take place in July.

Located between the multi-storey office and residential buildings in the heart of the city's Golden Triangle, fronting Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Pinang, the 410m-long strip mall comprises of 50 outlets including food and beverages (F&B), retail and services outlets and 23 kiosks and 19 carts offering various Malaysian products ranging from fashion to food.


The RM15 million mall will also operate longer, from 8am to midnight from Sundays to Thursdays and from 11am to 5am on Fridays, Saturdays and on eve of public holidays.

"What distinguishes KL City Walk from other tourist spots is its main proposition to feature established and emerging local designers and entrepreneurs whose products are infused with our culture and heritage.

"We will hand-pick our tenants through a selection committee.


"In terms of F&B, we will select those who are able to offer the best of local and international cuisine," said Choong, who is also a member of the selection committee.

He added there will also be a box office where customers can purchase tickets for all key entertainment shows within Klang Valley.

"A fully equipped concierge service will be provided to inform visitors not just about KL City Walk but also about Kuala Lumpur."


Choong said the response from tenants have been very encouraging with 30 per cent of the project taken up prior to the official sales launch which will take place today and tomorrow from 11am to 5pm.

"KL City Walk will certainly contribute towards the country's tourism. In terms of employment opportunities, we estimate it will create about 1,000 new jobs," said Choong.

The project is developed by Go Venture Sdn Bhd and managed by City Walk Enterprises Sdn Bhd.

For details, visit www.klcitywalk.com or call 03-2170 6688.

-- NST

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MATTA Fair Sept 2010

Matta fair returns with bigger and better deals
Friday September 3, 2010

THE much-awaited Malaysian Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Fair is back at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) Kuala Lumpur from today to Sunday.

The travel fair is the second to be organised this year after a successful one in March.

Matta Fair organising chairman John Tan said there would be more than 185 exhibitors.

"Although September is always a smaller fair compare with March, we are expecting 80,000 visitors and RM1.9mil turnover from this exhibition," said Tan.

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MATTA Fair Sept 2010 KTM Discount

Rail discounts at Matta Fair
By Tho Xin Yi
Saturday August 28, 2010

VISITORS to the Matta Fair planning a cross-state or cross-border journey take note, KTM Intercity will be distributing discount coupons at its booth during the fair.

The coupon will entitle the holder to a 25% discount on the train fare, with a minimum purchase of four tickets for off-peak period.

The coupons must be used within three months from the date of issuance.

Added draw: (From left) Mohd Khalid, Mohd Noordin and Tan giving details on the offers at the Matta Fair.

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KTM SBU Intercity Services marketing manager Mohd Noordin Kimi said KTM Intercity had prepared 5,000 coupons for the fair, to be held from Sept 3 to 5 from 10am to 9pm at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) in Kuala Lumpur.

“In addition to KTM Intercity goodies for those who visit our booth, we also contribute one premier class ticket and 10 superior class tickets to the organiser as contest prizes, as well as six superior class tickets for the lucky draw,” he said.

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MATTA Fair Perak September 2010

30,000 visitors expected for Matta Perak Travel Fair
Tuesday August 17, 2010

IPOH: About 30,000 visitors are expected for the Matta Perak Travel Fair 2010 from Sept 3 to Sept 5.

Organising secretary Aminur­rashid Abas said more people were expected to travel during the year-end school holidays.

The fair, he said, would be held at the Leong Wan Chin Hall at SMJK Perempuan Perak on Jalan Tuanku Bainun (formerly Jalan Kampar), adding that the previous fair in March had attracted 20,000 people.

Aminurrashid said the 60 exhibition booths at the fair would be opened to public from 10am to 10pm daily.

“Customers who buy tour packages worth more than RM300 will be entitled to enter a contest and win airline tickets,” he said, adding that the organising committee was still negotiating with airline companies on the destinations for contest winners.

The fair is organised in cooperation with the Perak government and Tourism Perak Sdn Bhd.

State Tourism Committee chairman Datuk Hamidah Osman is expected to launch the event on the first day at 6pm. -- The Star


MATTA Fair September 2010 KTM Promotion and Discounts
MATTA Fair September 2010 PWTC
MATTA Fair Perak September 2010
MATTA Fair August 2011

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Hot Malaysian Weather

Hot and bothered
By Joseph Loh
Sunday February 28, 2010

"WAH! It’s really hot this Chinese New Year!" This has to be the most commonly used – and heard – sentence among Malaysians as they visited their Chinese friends and relatives over the lunar new year.

The proof is everywhere: people on the street are walking around with umbrellas and shopping malls are crowded with people trying to escape the stifling heat.

Padi fields and plantations are drying out and air-conditioning units are working overtime: the last is said to be responsible for an all-time record in the usage of electricity. Tenaga Nasional Bhd registered a demand of 14,417MW on Feb 11, when the average over the past two years was 13,501MW – almost a 7% increase!

Truth be told, there is substance to the belief that the hottest part of the year is during Chinese New Year.

The Malaysian Meteorological Department director-general Dr Yap Kok Seng confirms this fact.

"The driest and hottest period over the northwestern states of peninsular Malaysia, such as Perlis and the northern region of Perak, are the months of January to March, which happens to coincide with the Chinese New Year period.

"However, during the El Nino years, this hot and dry period can be longer," says Dr Yap.

As 2010 is an El Nino year, be ready for more heat. It might be a good idea to stock up on the sunblock lotion. In the meantime, here are some statistics for extreme heat situations officially recorded in Malaysia.

Lowest temperature ever recorded in Malaysia:
Cameron Highlands (1471.6m above mean sea level) 7.8°C Feb 1, 1978
-- The Star News

Related Post:
Hot Weather Malaysia
Malaysian Weather
Cameron Highlands Weather
Cameron Highlands Current Weather March 2010

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Morib Gold Coast project

Everything for a good holiday
Story and photos by Elan Perumal
7/Jan/2010

THE RM1bil Morib Gold Coast project is expected not only to draw a large number of tourists to the beach but also offer business opportunities for locals in the area.

A total of 300 retail outlets will be housed in a 10-storey building that marks the final phase of the project.

The outlets, which are being sold for RM69,999 each, will be located on the first three floors of the building. The block will also house a five-star hotel from the fifth floor upwards.

Work on the building has started and it is expected to be completed in 18 months' time.

As an incentive, STG Group chairman Datuk Alex Tan Siong Seng said, the first 50 purchasers of the outlets would be offered a seven-day/six-night trip for two to Guangzhou, China.

During the all-expense-paid trip, the buyers would be involved in meetings with businessmen from the city, Tan said.

"They will have the opportunity to get to know new businessmen and perhaps do business with them," he added.

Tan said the retail outlets were also available for rent to small retailers who were unable to purchase them. The monthly rental would be a nominal RM400.

Tan said retailers could be also provided with basic retail stocks for a minimum capital of RM2,000, depending on the type of items they wished to sell. This could go up to a maximum of RM10,000 worth of goods.

For entrepreneurs: The retail outlets are available for sale or rent.

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"The outlets on the first floor of the building will sell various local products, including souvenirs, handicraft, batik and foodstuff.

"The two other floors will offer visitors various other types of goods," he said, adding that each retail outlet could be run by a single person as centralised cashiers would be deployed.

Besides selling their goods to walk-in visitors, especially tourists, Tan expects all the retailers to double as wholesalers.

He said the retailers would be put in contact with the manufacturers from the beginning, and they would be able to supply large volumes of goods whenever there was a demand.

Sun, sand and sea: The beach resort will offer tourists a good holiday.

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This, he said, would be a great business opportunity for the locals as he expected the Gold Coast project to be a big hit among visitors and tourists.

Being situated so near the KL International Airport, the resort was expected to draw thousands of visitors daily once it was fully operational, he said.

Morib is set for a massive change when the project, which has 686 units of serviced apartments to cater for holiday-makers, opens.

Tan envisaged Morib booming with economic and tourism activities once the project was completed, noting that the resort would be the nearest to the country's number one gateway by air and that it would be offering a complete holiday experience for tourists.

"We have everything required, from accommodation and restaurants to theme parks and the beach.

"Holiday-makers will have an exotic experience at our resort," he said confidently. -- The Star

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Sarawak in Astro spotlight

Sarawak in Astro spotlight
Tuesday April 14, 2009

MIRI: Astro’s Travel and Living Network will be featuring tourism documentaries on northern Sarawak soon, a move that is expected to draw more tourists to the region.

The network will be giving prominent coverage to Miri, Unesco World Heritage Site Mulu National Park, the highlands of Bario and Ba’kelalan and other destinations in the area in conjunction with the Miri International Jazz Festival 2009 on May 9-10.

Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Gracie Geikie said Astro had helped to facilitate the arrangements for the coverage.

“Travel and Living will highlight the jazz festival and air documentaries on the various places of interests that northern Sarawak has to offer, even after the festival is over.

“This will be very important for us as it will give worldwide publicity to northern Sarawak and encourage more foreign tourists to visit.

“We will continue to promote Sarawak via as many channels as possible despite the difficult economic situation. With such publicity, we expect tourists to continue visiting us,” she said, adding that the board had arranged various tour packages for tourists when they come to northern Sarawak.

The jazz festival will be held at Miri Parkcity Hotel, which faces the South China Sea on the outskirts of the city.

Geikie said the board was hoping to attract an audience of 8,000 for the two-day jazz event, adding that more than 3,000 tickets had been sold so far. -- The Star News

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Honeymoon bliss

Honeymoon bliss
Sunday July 6, 2008
Compiled by Faridah Begum

Honeymooning domestically is just as good as doing so abroad.

Bukit Tinggi, Pahang



None can compare to the French influenced Colmar Tropicale, which is only about an hour’s drive from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur and boasts of not just a setting but the ambience is not unlike the real towns of France that it emulates. Perfect for a weekend or just a short honeymoon, it is sure to appeal to the hearts of newly-weds for a repeated honeymoon trip.

Cameron Highlands, Pahang



The highlands offer honeymooning couples a great English setting. Not having to fork out thousands to get to the outskirts of London, you can enjoy afternoon tea, cool weather and many cold evenings together with good steamboats and Continental meals at most restaurants here.

The Andaman, Langkawi, Kedah



Situated in the picturesque Datai Bay, honeymooning couples will find the tranquillity a great help in keeping the romance burning. Lots to do with the natural setting such as bird watching, sunsets and even a round of golf if either one or both are enthusiasts.

Serai di Lanjut, Pahang



If a timeless holiday is on the cards, then this place is just right. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life coupled with the slow and easy pace here, one can just stretch out on the white sandy beaches for hours on end or play a round of golf or even go river fishing.

Pulau Perhentian, Terengganu

Many couples have met on scuba diving trips and this can account for quite a percentage of marriages. It is only right and perhaps understandable if they choose to go on a scuba diving honeymoon, especially where they first met. Pulau Perhentian may be the place or even a good alternative. Known as one of the best diving posts in the country, Pulau Perhentian is actually made up of two islands, namely Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil.

Pangkor Island Resort, Pangkor, Perak

Look forward to sunset cruises, traditional Malay massages and lots of time together in the beautiful resort that was voted the best in the West Coast. With a private beach exclusively for guests of the resort, you can plan many outdoor activities such as jungle trekking, archery, parasailing and cycling.

Permai Rainforest Resort, Kuching, Sarawak



If your wish is to have a taste of everything, then this is the perfect getaway for you. You get a package of the sun, sea, beach, mountains, waterfalls and modern facilities all in one place. Just 30 minutes from Kuching, you will want for nothing except more time to do all the things you want together as a couple, and more.

Tanjong Jara, Terengganu



Noted for its pristine turquoise waters and its hidden location, there are lots that a honeymooning couple can do here. For one, it boasts of a good spa, just right for a couple that has gone through the mill with the preparation of the wedding and the crush of relatives. It also provides the couple a chance to be just by themselves and enjoy their newly entwined lives together.

Pulai Springs Desaru, Johor



Designed like an ancient Malay palace, Pulai Springs is on one of the unspoilt beaches south of the East Coast in the peninsula. Like most resorts, it promises the excitement of a beach resort yet maintains a calm and serene atmosphere that is conducive for honeymooning and gives couples time to acquaint themselves further besides enjoying the array of activities available here such as golf and jungle trekking, and with an untouched forest that casts a romantic glow in the evenings.

Nexus Resort Karambunai, Sabah



Winner of many prestigious awards, this place has been described as heaven on earth with its natural setting and the numerous activities that come with it. A lagoon park fulfils one’s desires of water games and the 30ha nature park within the resort gives honeymooning couples hours of trekking together.

-- The Sunday Metro

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Tanjung Malim Sights and Attractions

Easy in Tanjung Malim
Text by Faridah Begum
Sunday April 6, 2008

Take a leisurely stroll through Tanjung Malim and enjoy its good food and warm hospitality.

Proton City



Here is the boom for Tanjung Malim, which was almost dying at one time. Now, Proton City is beckoning to Malaysians who want to live in bungalows by a beautiful lake and with good facilities, besides the numerous job opportunities that the city offers with the setting up of the Proton plant here that manufactures some 75,000 cars annually.

Railway Station



This is an eclectic mix of old and new, where the old concrete signage stating the town you are passing through is still in place while the tracks are new with the new double-tracking system in place. Again, this is a walk down memory lane.

Sungai Klah Hot Spring Park



Natural and curative, this hot spring has been turned into a resort, where jacuzzis utilising the hot spring water is available for some of the chalets here. It is nestled in lush forest patches, surrounded by hills and clear cold mountain streams and rivers. A haven close to Kuala Lumpur!

Police Station



This is the place where most of Tanjung Malim’s history was recorded, especially during the communist insurgency. The pre-war building is still sturdy and a walk into this building seems to bring back scenes of yesteryear. Worth a visit, even if only to ask for directions.

Sultan Idris Teaching University



The Sultan Idris Teaching University is a tribute to the Sultan Idris Training College for Malay teachers, founded in 1917 by the Malay Federated States and Straits Settlement assistant director of education, R.O. Winstedt. Its establishment was to ensure adequately trained teachers were available for the education of locals in Malaya. The college, now a university, has since become an icon for this town and is a tourist attraction.

Hindu Temple



From afar, it is awash with colourful statues. Inching your way closer to it, you will see statues in their most resplendent hues and forms. It is truly a work of art and a beautiful example of what a peaceful and beautiful place of worship ought to look like.

Yik Mun Pau



No visit to Tanjung Malim would be complete without a stop at the Yik Mun Restaurant. One of the first food outlets to produce halal pau, most travellers would make a beeline for this restaurant where they get not only good and tasty pau, especially the savoury ones with curried meat, but also good toasted bread with thick kaya and aromatic Hainanese coffee. There are also frozen pau for sale if one wants to bring Tanjung Malim’s No.1 fast food home.

Tanjung Malim Rest House

This building has old-world charm, being constructed and completed in 1880. The prestigious Rest House is famous for its Mee Hailam and Chicken Chop. The rest house is also a popular stop for VIPs when they come to Tanjung Malim and despite age, the rest house stands proud and tall as a heritage building.

Slim River – Water Rafting



Not too far from town is Slim River where Four-Wheel Drives go on a trail through the river and more often than not, it is water rafting time down this body of water, which promises a great time with the rapids. If you are feeling adventurous, then this is a must-try Sport.

Masjid Jamek Tanjung Malim

Built in 1926, this mosque is very popular with visitors to Tanjung Malim as it has beautiful architecture and many Muslims from abroad actually make their way here besides many wanting to pray in this old and mesmerising place of worship. The mosque was designed by an English architect.

It is really easy getting to Tanjung Malim. Once you get on the North South Highway, head on towards Ipoh and you would pass the little towns of Rawang and Behrang. Once you reach an arch near Proton City, look out for the exit for Tanjung Malim, which is about 40 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur. -- The Star Leisure.

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Ever peaceful Taiping

Ever peaceful Taiping
Sunday February 10, 2008

A visit to this lovely town brings much bliss and serenity.

Kuala Sepetang Wildlife Sanctuary

The Matang Mangrove Forest is the recipient of numerous international awards. This mangrove swamp is one of the best managed in the world and noted as an outstanding example of conservation and management of its rich biodiversity and mudflat ecosystems. It is a place no one should exclude from the itinerary when in Taiping



Taiping Prison

Taiping Prison is the first prison to be opened in 1879 and was the first purpose-built prison in Malaya. It remains in operation today.

Taiping Lake Garden

This 64ha garden has been the focal point of Taiping since 1880. Besides a lake created from a former tin mine, it also hosts a recreational park and a Japanese garden and is a stone throw from a golf course and zoo.



Natural Water Bodies

Taiping is home to many pools, rivers and streams that have kept Taiping cool and nice, even in hot weather. Among them are the Burmese Pool, which has a natural water slide; the Austin Pool that has a very deep square granite pool with a waterfall flowing into it; the Taman Suria streams which flow from Bukit Larut; the Coronation Swimming Pool located at the foothill of Bukit Larut and has very cold mountain stream water even on hot days; and the Hot Water Well in Batu 9, off Jalan Trong.

Perak State Museum

Built in 1883, it is the oldest museum in the country and is home to an impressive collection of ancient weapons, aboriginal implements and archaeological treasures, including artefacts from Perak’s rich historical culture and heritage. Admission is free.



Bukit Larut(Maxwell Hill)

It was previously the rest and recreation centre for British high-ranking officials from 1884. At 1,250m above sea level, it reminded most of them of their cool homeland. Up until 1948, the only way up was by sedan chairs. Tarred roads were later constructed. It is still one of the most natural hill resorts in the country and was renamed Bukit Larut in 1979.



Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

One of the premier theme parks in Malaysia, it also includes the Orang Utan Island, where preservation of the orang utan is carried out. The theme park is a favourite with Perak folk as well as those from other states, especially during the school holidays. It is also a popular venue for corporate companies’ team-building programmes. There is an eco-park for those who want to bask in the natural surroundings.



Taiping Zoo

Also known as Taman Mergastua Idris Shah, the zoo is on a 16ha land where in the day it is a typical zoo but transforms into a night safari after dusk. It is home to some 1,300 animals from more than 180 species,all flourishing due to its successful breeding programmes. It is the only zoo in the north of the peninsula.



Food

Taiping is famous for its cheap and delicious food and visitors must have some of these famous delicacies such as: Cendol in Jalan Barrack; Chinese fried kway teow in Taman Sri Hijau, Taman Sungai Mas; Malay fried kway teow at Restoran Doli in Jalan Tupai; Roti Canai at Bismillah Restaurant on Jalan Taming Sari; Popiah at the Prima Restaurant and the Popiah stall in the Larut Matang food court; Nasi Lemak Special/ Mahal/ Orang Kaya on Jalan Tupai; Mee Rebus at the Larut Matang Market, Prima Food Court and the Pokok Assam night market; Steamed Chicken Rice in Jalan Barrack.



Kota Ngah Ibrahim Historical Complex

It used to be the residence of Ngah Ibrahim, who was found guilty of murdering British Resident J.W.W. Birch. It served as the country’s first teachers’ training college called the Matang College and was also the headquarters of the Japanese army during the Second World War. Today, it serves as the Matang Historical Complex.
-- Sunday Metro.

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Capitalising on agrotourism

Capitalising on agrotourism
By Errol Oh
Saturday February 9, 2008

The agriculture sector and the tourism industry may be miles apart in some ways, but both are vital components of the Malaysian economy. The fact that the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) devotes an entire chapter to each area underscores their potential and the Government's aim of increasing their contribution to the nation's growth.

Ngiam: Tourist from Japan and Europe are most likely to visit agrotourism attractions

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As such, where agriculture and tourism intersect, there are surely many opportunities for entrepreneurs to capitalise on the drive for development.

Agrotourism – also known as agritourism, particularly in the United States – straddles these two fields. It essentially involves visits to farms and other agricultural sites to experience the various aspects of farming and the rustic lifestyle at close hand. Often, the farms provide boarding as well.

The definition can be broadened to incorporate elements of entertainment, shopping, education and food.

Agrotourism ties in with the current global emphasis on ecotourism and responsible tourism because when done right, it encourages the appreciation of nature and helps develop rural communities in a sustainable manner. It is a vast arena, and there are many well-established examples all around the world. Tuscany in Italy has been a famous tourist draw for ages, and vineyards, olive groves and farms are part of its scenic beauty. Several other places in Europe also have a similar allure.

Many of the states and provinces in the US and Canada have vibrant agrotourism markets. Among the more prominent attractions are dude ranches (resorts featuring camping, horseback riding and other outdoor activities), u-pick farms (where visitors can pick fruits and vegetables), vineyards and farmers' markets.

Given the importance of agriculture in their economies, it is only natural that Australia and New Zealand are known for their farmstay holidays. In Taiwan, agrotourism – over there, it is known as leisure farming – has taken off in a big way and there is even an association to serve the interests of the operators.

In comparison, agrotourism in Malaysia is not as large and organised. Says Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) president Ngiam Foon, “It's a niche market and at the moment, it doesn't have a high profile here. But it definitely has a lot of potential.”

He adds that tourists from Japan and Europe, particularly the younger ones, are most likely to visit agrotourism attractions.

The good news is there is plenty of room for growth and the Government sees the wisdom in encouraging the development of agrotourism.

The 9MP points out that the key to enhancing the distinct appeal of our tourism products and services is to promote the country’s traditional advantages, namely, its cultural and natural heritage. This is especially relevant to agrotourism.



Furthermore, our climate welcomes tourists the whole year round and a large portion of the population speaks English.

In addition, the Malaysian tourism industry as a whole is robust and healthy. After a bad year in 2003 due to the SARS (Sever Acute Respiratory Syndrome) scare, tourist arrivals and receipts have rebounded strongly to achieve new records.

A main component of agrotourism in Malaysia is the homestay programme, which increases participation of the rural population in tourism-related activities and provides rural households opportunities to supplement their incomes.

During the Eight Malaysia Plan, covering 2001 to 2005, an additional 463 homestay operators were trained and licensed, bringing the total to 1,089 from 79 villages.

The efforts on this front continue under the 9MP. These include farmstays and visits to agricultural parks and research stations, says the 9MP report. Guests will be encouraged to visit handicraft sites and participate in activities such as pottery-making, batik-canting, songket- and basket-weaving.

There is also comfort in the fact that there are some agrotourism success stories in Malaysia to learn from and to emulate.

A shining example is Cameron Highlands, which has been one of the country's top destinations among domestic and foreign tourists. Much of this has to do with its tea plantations and strawberry and vegetable farms. Also, there are a number of farms (ranging from those cultivating tropical fruits to ostrich farms) that cater largely for visitors.

The website of the Agriculture and Agro-Based Industries Ministry (agrolink.moa.my) has a directory of dozens of agrotourism sites, including pasar tani locations. Among the notable places are the Malaysian Agricultural Park in Shah Alam, a honey processing centre in Kedah and a veterinary station in Perak.



Entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector are, of course, prime candidates to operate agrotourism projects. However, Ngiam of Matta says it is important to first understand what is needed to create a sustainable tourist attraction.

Ultimately, that means ensuring that the visitor has a positive experience and goes home with fond memories. After all, tourism is a service industry. “It's not just about providing the hardware. The software is just as important,” Ngiam reminds.

In addition, it may be a good idea to adopt the cluster approach in developing agrotourism attractions so as to give tourists more reasons to make the trip. -- Bizweek.

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