Malaysia is one of those countries that many backpackers don’t make it to. Unlike Thailand with its infamous beach parties or Bali with its relaxing yoga retreats, Malaysia has no claim to fame. Most people only know of the country through its commercial, which proclaims, “Malaysia Truly Asia.” The video leaves you with vague conceptions of a country full of fireworks, chopsticks and Chinese people. Subsequently, not many backpackers put Malaysia on the list.
However, the truth is, Malaysia is one of the coolest countries in South East Asia if not the World. They do have fireworks, chopsticks and a bunch of Chinese people, but they also have beaches and islands just as spectacular as Thailand. They have a notorious nightlife in Kuala Lumpur, and an incredibly delicious diversity of culture, people and food. Not to mention, Malaysia is pretty darn cheap and clean, and as the people go, they couldn’t be friendlier. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or just plain holidaymaker, this is a country I highly recommend.
The People of Malaysia
In some countries the bringing together of different ethnicities and cultures has led to violent conflict. However, in countries like Malaysia, this has produced cooperation and a unique cultural mélange. The mixing of Chinese, Indian, and Malay people has created a society that is remarkably friendly and open-minded. It has also led to a diverse selection of foods and many hybrid dishes.
The Food of Malaysia
Malaysia has some of the best street food in the world. All your favorite Chinese, Indian, and traditional Malay foods are found in abundance at most night markets. If you’re in Penang, head to China town for some of the most delicious grandma made Won Ton soup in the world. If you’re in little India, in Kuala Lumpur, be sure to taste the simple yet delectable Indian pancake called Roti Prati. When it comes to Malay food, the Chili Pan Mee or any bowel of noodles you slurp down won’t disappoint you. Afterwards you can wash it all down with coconut milk or some of the best fresh fruit shakes found anywhere.
Islands of Malaysia
The islands of Thailand are known for their scooter crowded streets and virginity robbing full moon parties. It is no doubt the place to go if you’re looking to lose you sandals and have your drink drugged. Look into booking cheap Phuket hotels if that’s your fancy. However, if you’re in search of relaxing beach bungalows on remote and nearly tourist-less islands, Malaysia is the place. Some of the best islands in Malaysia are on the East coast near the border to Thailand such as Pulau Redang.
Cool Things to See and Do
Check out the night life in Kuala Lumpur’s Bukit Bintang where girls drink for free.(Try Yoko’s Latin bar for some good beats)
Head to the viewing deck at the Petronas Towers (great Views of the city)
Get a “Special Massage” at the Alpha Hotel (guys only :))
Visit the Hindu Temple built into the Batu Caves (Incredible must see temple)
See the largest Budhha in Penang at Kek Lok Si Temple. (It’s massive!)
Malaysia on a Budget
The truth is, Malaysia isn’t as cheap as Thailand but it is not much more expensive either. And in return for the extra cost, you get a country with advanced infrastructure and high quality transport services. For example, business class like bus seats between Melaka and Kuala Lumpur run for only 12 RM or 3.80$. Food, especially at the night market, goes for cheap too. You will generally be able to stuff yourself with goodness for under 3 bucks. Regarding accommodation, most dorms will only run for around 7 dollars, while the cheapest private rooms go for around 11$. Finally, when or if you’ve had enough of Malaysia, you can catch a flight out on their budget airlines, Air Asia, to anywhere in Asia for 100$ or less. Malaysia is not only very advanced and clean but it is also relatively cheap.
From Malaysia’s people and food to it’s magnificent islands and relatively cheap prices, the country of Malaysia is a little known paradise on Earth. It’s a good thing not many people know yet because once they do, it is sure to fill up just like Thailand. In agreement with their tourist bureau commercial, Malaysia truly is a country where the diversity of Asia can be experienced all in one place.
Hey, I’m glad that you like my country. What you mentioned above is true that many backpacker will not put it on the list. However, there’s something else to see especially the culture diversity of this place. Let me know if you’re coming to Malaysia again, would be cool to meet up with you.
Hey Weile, the cultural diversity is actually what I really love about Malaysia. Would love to meet up! I’ll let you know the next time I’m back!
I’m from Malaysia and its amazing reading about all your wonderful thoughts for Malaysia.
Hey Abas, yea, I really really enjoy Malaysia :) I’m going back in a few weeks!
i just living nearby kuala lumpur. If you need hangout maybe cofee around just let me know looking forward to meeting you
do contact me via my email
Hey, cool Hisham, thanks for the offer. I’ll let you know when I’m around.
Our prayers and thoughts are with the loved ones of MH370 passengers. #PrayforMH370
Terrible situation. I hope they figure out what happened. My prayers are with them too.
Our prayers and thoughts are with the loved ones of mh17 passengers.
#Pray for MH17
Yes, it’s very very sad.
hi, if u need tour guide or somebody to ask about here in malaysia u can email me… hairis07@gmail.com
Thanks Haidir!
I think the writer is quite ignorant between what is the definition of MALAYSIA and what is PENINSULAR MALAYSIA. Just so you know, there’s this region called Borneo Malaysia which is also (gasp!) part of Malaysia. (you know? the place where all the oil and money comes from to develop Malaya)
Kinbalu, you’re totally right. I unfortunately haven’t made it over to Borneo yet but when I do I will definitely write about it. I’m looking forward to it.
I went to Malaysia last year too. The N. parts nearer to Thailand Kelantan, Kedah, and Langkawi were as cheap as Thailand and the food was absolutely fabulous!!!
Niceee!!! I’m excited to go back and maybe head to Borneo next time.
Heyyyy! I’m headed to Malaysia April 1–they’re kicking me out of Thailand. Thanks for this, I was stoked before and now even more so!
I think you just met my brother, Zane, in Nicaragua… He linked me to your site! This is great. Happy travels.
Hey, yea I just met Zane, cool guy. Yea, Malaysia is a sweet place. Enjoy it dude.
Slurping down a ‘bowel’ of noodles? …. Does that cost more than a bowl? :-)
hahah, my head must have been in the toilet when I wrote that. I’m going to edit that, cheers.
Love your post! Malaysia is the most amazing country and generally doesn’t have the backpacking circuit that other parts of Asia have! My highlight of the trip was getting the wonderful fish foot spa! Crazy, fun & incredibly good to sooth those poor tired heels!
Thanks, I saw those fish but they freaked me out :)
Redang is more like a tourist island though. For better, almost empty beaches and islands, you should head to east malaysia (sabah!) for its amazing marine life and plethora of islets to choose from. :D
And that massage… Hahaha you got me tickled! Was it the sort of ‘special massage’ that dudes can get in thailand? Hah!
Sweet, thanks Kyh, I will be sure to check it out.
Yo thanks for the incredible review of my country :D
I share the exact same view, though I might be a little bias since thats where I come from and all ……
Wow it sucks I wasnt able to catch up with you more when you were here in Japan …. u must have lots of stories to tell!
Hey Vincent, yea, I really digged it. Chances are I will be back to Japan soon, so we will catch up then. Until then, all the best.
I was glad to read this! I’m starting my trip through Southeast Asia in Kuala Lumpur, and a lot of people seemed to be not so crazy about it. Glad you have good things to say – I’m excited!
Niceee. Hope you have an awesome trip and enjoy the food. :)
I’ve been to Malaysia thrice (Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and Cameron Highlands). Been wanting to visit Penang and Langkawi, but I guess I have to visit that soon. If I remember it right, I went there a week before you left T_T
Yea, I know, I just missed you. I will definitely be back to asia though and then we gotta hang out.
I have yet to go. Skipped it on my trip to SE Asia, but you got me sold now!
TMI with the special massage, haha!
yea, go for it. Really such good food! And actually, that special message goes for girls too ;) I won’t judge.