Malaysia
Malaysia is a beautiful, complex, vibrant, and culturally diverse country with a fascinating history. Having
been occupied and/or uniquely influenced by the Dutch, Portuguese, British, Chinese, and Japanese
throughout it's history, Malaysia continues to demonstrate a vastly diverse culture. Most of these foreign
influences have had generally positive effects upon what is modern Malaysia. The Dutch and Portuguese
brought highly developed systems of trade and shipping, the British introduced modern political and legal
systems, and the Chinese influence on Malaysian food is ancient. Unfortunately, there have also been very
negative outside influences on Malaysia, such as the violence and militarism brought by the Japanese
during it's imperialistic march through the Pacific, and the devastating influence of the Islamic world
(Malaysia if formally an Islamic state).
Malaysia is a country that includes the better known and more modern Peninsular Malaysia and the
strictly Muslim eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak located on Borneo. The Malaysian government is a
somewhat backward, theocratic, oligarchy, which is increasingly anti-Western and oppressive. This is an
unfortunate thing for a country which holds so much potential and has experienced such impressive
economic progress over the past 30 years. One only need contrast and compare Malaysia to it's tiny next
door neighbor and "sister" nation Singapore to see what this nation could potentially become if it was more
willing to accept more modern ways in terms of it's religious, educational, and social controls.
I've been fortunate enough to visit Malaysia a couple of different times and enjoyed myself a great deal. I
love the exotic vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur, the deep history of Melaka, and the relaxed, suburban feel of
Penang. Whether you are interested in the history/culture of the country, seeking the natural beauty of
the coastal and mountain regions, looking for gastronomic adventure, or merely find yourself in the area, I
can highly recommend Malaysia as an enjoyable and interesting travel destination. That having been said,
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that over the past several years the increasing fanaticism and activism
of the hardcore Islamic factions within Malaysia have become a very real danger to foreigners in certain
areas of the country, and I strongly advise anyone visiting Malaysia to always be aware of these situations.
been occupied and/or uniquely influenced by the Dutch, Portuguese, British, Chinese, and Japanese
throughout it's history, Malaysia continues to demonstrate a vastly diverse culture. Most of these foreign
influences have had generally positive effects upon what is modern Malaysia. The Dutch and Portuguese
brought highly developed systems of trade and shipping, the British introduced modern political and legal
systems, and the Chinese influence on Malaysian food is ancient. Unfortunately, there have also been very
negative outside influences on Malaysia, such as the violence and militarism brought by the Japanese
during it's imperialistic march through the Pacific, and the devastating influence of the Islamic world
(Malaysia if formally an Islamic state).
Malaysia is a country that includes the better known and more modern Peninsular Malaysia and the
strictly Muslim eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak located on Borneo. The Malaysian government is a
somewhat backward, theocratic, oligarchy, which is increasingly anti-Western and oppressive. This is an
unfortunate thing for a country which holds so much potential and has experienced such impressive
economic progress over the past 30 years. One only need contrast and compare Malaysia to it's tiny next
door neighbor and "sister" nation Singapore to see what this nation could potentially become if it was more
willing to accept more modern ways in terms of it's religious, educational, and social controls.
I've been fortunate enough to visit Malaysia a couple of different times and enjoyed myself a great deal. I
love the exotic vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur, the deep history of Melaka, and the relaxed, suburban feel of
Penang. Whether you are interested in the history/culture of the country, seeking the natural beauty of
the coastal and mountain regions, looking for gastronomic adventure, or merely find yourself in the area, I
can highly recommend Malaysia as an enjoyable and interesting travel destination. That having been said,
I would be remiss if I didn't mention that over the past several years the increasing fanaticism and activism
of the hardcore Islamic factions within Malaysia have become a very real danger to foreigners in certain
areas of the country, and I strongly advise anyone visiting Malaysia to always be aware of these situations.
Kuala Lumpur:
Kuala Lumpur is the capitol of Malaysia and it's political, cultural, and economic center.
Although KL (as it is commonly called) is a sprawling, bustling urban center, it's noise,
traffic, and pollution are bearable, and is not nearly as overwhelming as one might find
in Bangkok or Jakarta. KL is a wonderful blend of the new, modern economy mixed with
traditional and colonial buildings and neighborhoods. There is a large Chinatown as well
as a significant Indian area. KL's most recognized entity is the worlds tallest building(s)
the Petronas Towers (pictured above), and one can enjoy all the luxury and convenience
of several well known high-end hotels on Jalan Sultan Ismail. Tee, having spent a great
deal of time in KL, has a favorite hotel, The Legend Hotel, which is conveniently located
in the Jalan Putra district (a favorite for shoppers and business travelers). Sleep with the
windows open and allow the (5:30 am ?) call to prayer to wake you each morning (it's
going to wake you anyway). It may be early, but it's fun to be reminded each morning
that you are in an exotic, far-flung place.
Speaking of the call to prayer, I'll never forget missing an easy putt while playing golf at
the KL Country Club with Tee and her business associate because the call to prayer
began during my back swing. I remember thinking "I'll never have that excuse to use
again!" And speaking of playing golf in KL, I must also mention the wonderful time Tee
and I had playing at the Saujana Resort just 20 minutes out of town. In fact, I enjoyed
Saujana so much that I went back out there to play it again the following day. I have a
wonderful memory of meeting a great bunch of local Chinese guys while under a large
pavilion as we all sought shelter from a downpour that occurred about halfway through
the round that day. Those guys were a riot; full of "blue" humour, and advice on how to
have a "good time" in Malaysia. I also remember the sweet, sophisticated, older couple
we were paired with the day I played with Tee. And I can't forget the incredibly friendly
and generous (free lunch) staff at the clubhouse restaurant. Great memories all!
There's a lot of good food in Malaysia, and it represents a cultural spectrum that is
wonderfully vast. It's also generally very cheap. The most available cuisine includes
Chinese (it's a must that one visit the hawkers and open-air tables in the evening on
Jalan Alor), Indian (in, surprise, surprise...Little India), and Malay/Nonya, especially
Laksa (check out the street vendors along and just off Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman).
Drinking/Night Life is "different," as might be expected in a fairly strict religious place
such as Malaysia. The center of the club/bar scene in the "Golden Triangle" area of
town, with the most popular spots (circa 2000) being the Hard Rock Café, Brannigan's,
The Malibu Café, and the live music venues of The Jump and The Venue. Alcohol is
expensive in Malaysia, but beer is plentiful, with the most common beers being Tiger,
Carlsberg, Anchor, and Guinness.
Although KL (as it is commonly called) is a sprawling, bustling urban center, it's noise,
traffic, and pollution are bearable, and is not nearly as overwhelming as one might find
in Bangkok or Jakarta. KL is a wonderful blend of the new, modern economy mixed with
traditional and colonial buildings and neighborhoods. There is a large Chinatown as well
as a significant Indian area. KL's most recognized entity is the worlds tallest building(s)
the Petronas Towers (pictured above), and one can enjoy all the luxury and convenience
of several well known high-end hotels on Jalan Sultan Ismail. Tee, having spent a great
deal of time in KL, has a favorite hotel, The Legend Hotel, which is conveniently located
in the Jalan Putra district (a favorite for shoppers and business travelers). Sleep with the
windows open and allow the (5:30 am ?) call to prayer to wake you each morning (it's
going to wake you anyway). It may be early, but it's fun to be reminded each morning
that you are in an exotic, far-flung place.
Speaking of the call to prayer, I'll never forget missing an easy putt while playing golf at
the KL Country Club with Tee and her business associate because the call to prayer
began during my back swing. I remember thinking "I'll never have that excuse to use
again!" And speaking of playing golf in KL, I must also mention the wonderful time Tee
and I had playing at the Saujana Resort just 20 minutes out of town. In fact, I enjoyed
Saujana so much that I went back out there to play it again the following day. I have a
wonderful memory of meeting a great bunch of local Chinese guys while under a large
pavilion as we all sought shelter from a downpour that occurred about halfway through
the round that day. Those guys were a riot; full of "blue" humour, and advice on how to
have a "good time" in Malaysia. I also remember the sweet, sophisticated, older couple
we were paired with the day I played with Tee. And I can't forget the incredibly friendly
and generous (free lunch) staff at the clubhouse restaurant. Great memories all!
There's a lot of good food in Malaysia, and it represents a cultural spectrum that is
wonderfully vast. It's also generally very cheap. The most available cuisine includes
Chinese (it's a must that one visit the hawkers and open-air tables in the evening on
Jalan Alor), Indian (in, surprise, surprise...Little India), and Malay/Nonya, especially
Laksa (check out the street vendors along and just off Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman).
Drinking/Night Life is "different," as might be expected in a fairly strict religious place
such as Malaysia. The center of the club/bar scene in the "Golden Triangle" area of
town, with the most popular spots (circa 2000) being the Hard Rock Café, Brannigan's,
The Malibu Café, and the live music venues of The Jump and The Venue. Alcohol is
expensive in Malaysia, but beer is plentiful, with the most common beers being Tiger,
Carlsberg, Anchor, and Guinness.
Penang:
Penang is the oldest British settlement in Malaysia, and predates the settlements of Melaka and
Singapore. Tourists are attracted not only to the fascinating history of Georgetown, the main city
on the island, but also to the many beautiful beach areas and quality food. Georgetown is a
compact city in the north-east section of the island. The best way to get around in Georgetown is
by rickshaw. Even if you do nothing else, it's worthwhile to spend a couple of hours riding around
the various neighborhoods of Georgetown in a rickshaw. You'll find good shopping along Lebuh
Campbell and most of the most historic churches, temples, and mosques on or near Lebuh Pitt.
When I first traveled to Penang I went directly to the popular beach area of Batu Ferringhi
(Foreigner's Rock), and while it was beautiful, I soon tired of the fairly typical tourist feel of the
place and made my way into town. I think my positive view of Georgetown is in part due to the
fact that I was very fortunate in finding a great hotel upon my arrival. The Cathay Hotel was a real
treat. This hotel is a clean, roomy hotel with a grand colonial style. I can't think of a better place
to operate from while in Georgetown than the Cathay Hotel. A couple of my favorite spots in
Georgetown include the Padang/Fort Cornwallis area, the very interesting Penang Museum, the
large "farmer's market," and the cool retreat of Penang Hill. My favorite place for food is the
seafront Esplanade Food Centre behind the Penang Library, and my destination of choice for a
cold beer is the reggae themed Hard Life Café.
Singapore. Tourists are attracted not only to the fascinating history of Georgetown, the main city
on the island, but also to the many beautiful beach areas and quality food. Georgetown is a
compact city in the north-east section of the island. The best way to get around in Georgetown is
by rickshaw. Even if you do nothing else, it's worthwhile to spend a couple of hours riding around
the various neighborhoods of Georgetown in a rickshaw. You'll find good shopping along Lebuh
Campbell and most of the most historic churches, temples, and mosques on or near Lebuh Pitt.
When I first traveled to Penang I went directly to the popular beach area of Batu Ferringhi
(Foreigner's Rock), and while it was beautiful, I soon tired of the fairly typical tourist feel of the
place and made my way into town. I think my positive view of Georgetown is in part due to the
fact that I was very fortunate in finding a great hotel upon my arrival. The Cathay Hotel was a real
treat. This hotel is a clean, roomy hotel with a grand colonial style. I can't think of a better place
to operate from while in Georgetown than the Cathay Hotel. A couple of my favorite spots in
Georgetown include the Padang/Fort Cornwallis area, the very interesting Penang Museum, the
large "farmer's market," and the cool retreat of Penang Hill. My favorite place for food is the
seafront Esplanade Food Centre behind the Penang Library, and my destination of choice for a
cold beer is the reggae themed Hard Life Café.
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