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Planet In1: Destination Asia - Malaysia
Malaysia in Southeastern Asia is divided into West or Peninsular Malaysia, (bordered by Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south) and East Malaysia comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak, which is across the South China Sea, in the northern one-third of the island of Borneo and bordered by Brunei and Indonesia. The climate is hot and humid with sunshine all year round. The rainy season is November to January.

Many centuries ago, Malaysia was the ideal stopover for traders from China, India and the Middle East to exchange their goods under the then popular barter-trade system. The traders also brought along their home grown spices which have since found their way into every Malaysian home, resulting in the distinctive spicy flavour in Malay cuisine. Chilli, lemon grass, ginger, turmeric, cumin and curry leaf are some of the spices commonly used in Malay dishes. Rice, noodles and satay are served in abundance. Malaysia's multi-cultural society has created a blend of cuisine that is uniquely Malay, with Chinese and Indian influences very much in evidence.

Kuala Lumpur, the capital, situated in eastern Malaysia, is a bustling city with a population of over a million people. Although containing many skyscrapers, including t he world's tallest building, the Petronas Twin Towers, the city still holds onto its own local character. The colourful Chinatown, with its night market is a great place to eat as well as shop.

Melaka is considered Malaysia's most historic city and was once the most important trading port in the area. With Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences, the city is an interesting mix. The oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia is located here, as well as the ruins of the Portuguese St.Paul's Church.

Georgetown, on the island of Penang is the oldest British settlement in Malaysia and one of the country's top resort areas. Small enough to navigate easily, this old-world city is best viewed on foot, where old Chinese houses sit side by side with temples, gardens and markets.

The Cameron Highlands on peninsular Malaysia is the centre of the tea industry and visitors can tour tea plantations, or take advantage of the cooler weather and play golf or tennis.

The island of Tioman in the South China Sea has beautiful beaches and spectacular marine life in the coral-filled water as well as the dramatic peaks of Batu Sirau and Nenek Semukut. Reminiscent of the film ‘South Pacific', this is an idyllic tourist destination.

Sabah, with Mt Kinabalu, has beautiful scenery and fantastic wildlife. The islands off the coast have some of the best beaches in Borneo. Sarawak with its Dayak tribes, have areas of untouched jungle and tropical rainforest and very good national parks.