Overview: 'Selamat Datang' is the traditional Malaysian greeting that
welcomes visitors to this vibrant and exotic country. Ethnically
diverse cultures share the same lush landscape and create a fusion
of cultural styles, cooking and religions that is distinctly
Malaysian. Festivals throughout the year mark the Malay, Chinese
and Indian holidays, as well as those of the indigenous Orang Asli
and the tribes of Sabah and Sarawak. Malaysia is a country with two distinct parts. Peninsula
Malaysia constitutes the long fringe of land, extending down from
Asia, which borders Thailand and Singapore. The South China Sea
separates the mainland from the less populated East Malaysian
provinces of Sabah and Sarawak. The dense jungles of Sabah and
Sarawak support abundant plant and wildlife and Mt Kinabalu in
Sabah stakes its claim as the highest peak in South East Asia. It is the Peninsula that seems to attract the most visitors,
probably because of the diversity it offers in the way of people,
activities and climates. The highland regions offer cool relief
from the clinging humidity of the mainland, while Langkawi is the
popular choice for sand and surf enthusiasts. The east coast,
particularly the northern Kelantan province, offers the chance for
an interesting cultural exploration of traditional Malay life. The
city of Kota Bharu and its surrounds is possibly the most
fascinating part of the peninsula, and the least visited, with a
remote beauty and rich culture. The west coast is favoured for
historical interest, and is where Malaysia's capital city, Kuala
Lumpur is to be found, the icon of Asian prosperity and the meeting
point for expats and city slickers who enjoy the energy of urban
life. The city is a powerful mesh of tradition and technology,
vying for equal status.
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