A Malaysian Way of Life
- Tasnia Mozammel
- Oct 21, 2022
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 3, 2022
Comprising parts of the Malay Peninsula and Borneo island, Malaysia is notable for its beaches, the world's oldest rainforests, and an array of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences! This post features a Malaysian way of life - unique experiences straight from the buzzing capital of Kuala Lumpur, exploration of brilliant sites, and an unparalleled cuisine.
As many borders are now loosening COVID-19 or Coronavirus restrictions and are re-opening for tourism, many people are finding themselves boarding flights after spending nearly two years fearful of travel. My family and I travelled to the modern city of Kuala Lumpur to settle my expat mother for her career advancement, continuing precaution. This post entails our experiences exploring KL, must-visit sites from the capital including Batu Caves, Genting Highlands, and Malacca City, and the country's unmistakably delicious food scene.
BEFORE YOU GO:
1. GRAB. Make sure to download the Grab app! It's Uber of Malaysia and is an incredibly low-cost commuting necessity.
2. Pack an Umbrella. The weather in Malaysia is quite unpredictable and it rains for at least an hour most days without notice.
3. Don't forget your camera! You will be surrounded by picturesque lush green settings, brilliant architecture, and may spot wildlife every now and then.
Exploring Kuala Lumpur City
Kuala Lumpur, the modern pulsating metropolis of Malaysia, encompasses a brilliant skyline dominated by a number of illuminated skyscrapers including the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower, whilst additionally remaining home to must-visit Colonial-era landmarks. The city features diverse layouts from the finest urban living experiences to authentic set-ups geared at different lifestyles worthy of exploring with a local lens.
Chinatown
A colourful and lively street lined with fashion shops, markets, accessories, food stalls, and 19th Century temples...
Chinatown, centred in Petaling Street, is a buzzing market area lined with fashion shops, food stalls, accessories, and souvenirs all waiting to be bagged a bargain. We took a short city tour which included a quick visit to Chinatown. A worthy stroll for a local experience! Chinatown is also home to Maha Mariamman Temple and Guan Di Temple.
Maha Mariamman Temple
Situated on the border of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, Maha Mariamman is the oldest Hindu temple in the city, founded in 1873 - a magnificent facade carved of Hindu deities...
Guan Di Temple
One of the oldest Malaysia-based Taoist temples situated in the heart of Chinatown...
Pasar Seni or Central Market
Possessing over 350 shops and kiosks, Central Market, also known as Pasar Seni, is a must-visit indoor heritage destination offering local handicrafts, batik, souvenirs, antiques, and much more! This was one of my favourite places to visit for both appreciating and shopping unique and authentic Malaysian produce.
Independence Square - Cricket Ground & Colonial Buildings
Formerly known as Selangor Club Pedang and used as a cricket ground, Independence or Merdeka Square is a worthy visit for a quick photo op, to absorb historical architecture, or to take a wholesome stroll.
River Confluence
The confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers in Kuala Lumpur literally translate to "muddy." The confluence is situated near Merdeka Square and can be easily visited via foot.
KL Tower
Menara Kuala Lumpur or KL Tower, also appreciated as the world's seventh tallest, is a telecommunications tower standing 421-meters tall in the heart of the electric city. Not the most impressive tower, but worth a visit.
Petronas Twin Towers
The brilliant Petronas Twin Towers or KLCC Towers illuminate the city's skyline and offer an entertainment district and KLCC mall below.
The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle encompasses KL city centre - the prime entertainment and shopping district, as well as the city's famous skyscrapers and landmark structures. Top destinations for a shopping spree include the Pavilion (over 700 shops including exclusive fashion brands), Suria KLCC, and Mid Valley Megamall. Bukit Bintang area is also a highly recommended to experience the city's unmistakably Malay culinary hotspots and nightlife. The streets are lined with an array of local and fine dining restaurants, pubs, bars, and shops!
Batu Caves en route to Genting Highlands
We booked our day tour to Batu Caves and Genting Highlands via GetYourGuide.
Batu Caves
Located just half an hour northeast of KL city, Batu Caves is a limestone hill comprising a series of caves and ornate Hindu shrines about 42 meters high or 272 steps up a brilliantly-painted rainbow staircase. Next to the flight of stairs stands a colossal gold-painted statue of Murugan.
Batu Caves is also home to long-tailed macaques (monkeys!) Although they are quite mangy-looking, they can be aggressive if there are bananas or plastic bags in sight.
A Batu Caves monkey series captured from my Nikon D700 lens!
Batu Caves is definitely a must-see attraction en route to Genting Highlands that offers a unique experience comprising an excellent fusion of history, religion, colourfully-decorated architecture, and a humbling encounter with wildlife and nature!
Genting Highlands
Elevated over 1,800 meters, Genting Highlands, is a must-visit cooler escape from KL's tropical buzz offering novel views. The integrated resort development comprises hotels, shopping and Outlet malls, indoor and outdoor theme parks including the latest Skyworlds, casinos, and much more! Enjoy Asia's fastest cable car on the way to the top of the Highlands, and definitely make a visit to Chin Swee Caves Temple on the way down!
Experience being inside a cloud - a casino-resort overlooking Kuala Lumpur's vibrance and one of the world's oldest rainforests...
Chin Swee Caves Temple
Situated 4,600 feet above sea level in the most scenic part of Genting Highlands, Chin Swee Cave Temples can be accessed via road or cable car, followed by a series of escalators. The religious site is decorated with colourful deities, monuments, and architecture, and overlooks the lush green slopes ascending the highlands. This was my absolute favourite part of the Genting Highlands visit!
A Day Trip to Malacca City
We booked a day tour to the historic coastal city of Malacca via GetYourGuide. Malacca town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular tourism destination known for its famous Jonker Street, Chinatown, and vibrant night market. The town's ornate architecture is heavily influenced by a fusion of early Portuguese, Dutch, and British settlements.
A cute town to visit for those seeking a quieter exploration of Malaysian history and culture.
Putra Mosque
Located in the heart of Putrajaya and surrounded by the Prime Minister's office and administration buildings, Putra Mosque, embellished in pink details, sits on the edge of Putra Lake. The exquisitely decorated masjid combines Middle Eastern and Malay design elements and invites both Muslims and non-Muslims for tourism purposes and prayers.
The Food Scene
Prior to travelling to Malaysia, every single person who previously visited claimed Malay cuisine to be unparalleled. And it truly has been an exceptional experience to taste the variety of pallets Malaysia has to offer!
The food scene offers a combination of sweet, savoury, and an array of local drinks - found between every foot step in the pulsating city of Kuala Lumpur, as well as outskirts...
Savoury and Sweets
The most important staple food in Malaysia centres 'nasi' or rice, followed by noodles. Nasi Lemak, a national fragrant rice dish incorporating coconut milk, is popularly served with special 'ayam' or chicken curries around every corner of the country. My favourite curry was ayam pakapow, highly recommended for those who enjoy a spicy kick! Other popular dishes include 'goreng' which translates to 'fried' - goreng mamak, goreng ayam, ayam goreng!
Pulut Mangga, or mango sticky rice, is a famous dessert dish that offers an exceptional taste in the Asian region. Ais Kacang, translating to 'bean rice,' is also a very popular Malaysian dessert comprising shaved ice layered on top of a bed of beans and paired with syrup. Portuguese egg tarts are also common to find!
Local Drinks
Locals in Malaysia are often spotted with a myriad of drinks such as tropical juices, 'ais tehs' (iced teas), or 'ais Milo.' Ais Teh Tarik and Ais Teh Susu (Iced Milk Tea) were my favourites and frequently ordered! There are also a number of juice stalls around the corners of Malaysia delivering freshly squeezed fruits into little plastic bags with straws.
Local Street Serves
Malay Epicurean Experience
Apart from local street food, fine Malay havens can be discovered around the country, offering unmistakably and delicious menus. In the heart of KL city is an electric area called Bukit Bintang - lined with entertainment, food hubs, and bars. Our favourite restaurant where we came to taste unique and authentic Malay flavours was Bijan Bar & Restaurant! Must-try dishes comprise: Rusuk Panggang, Nasi Lemak, and Udang Sambal Berempah.
GALLERY:
More of Malaysia? Visit: Langkawi, Penang, Cameron Highlands.
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