Top 25 Must-Do Activities in Malaysia

Malaysia is situated in the Malay Peninsula and extends to segments of Borneo, sharing borders with neighboring Indonesia. Visitors should note the distinction between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, which comprises Sarawak and Sabah, often referred to as Malaysian Borneo.

Covering a total area exceeding 300,000 square kilometers, Malaysia is celebrated for its capital city of Kuala Lumpur, a leading financial and business center in Southeast Asia, alongside picturesque beaches, secluded islands, elevated hill stations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This nation is deeply committed to cultural diversity, home to not only Malays and indigenous groups but also significant Chinese and Indian populations, as reflected in the architecture and cultural artifacts present. Visitors can select from an extensive array of activities, ranging from hiking and diving to shopping and savoring local cuisine. Below is our enumeration of the top attractions in Malaysia.

1. Visit the PETRONAS Towers in Kuala Lumpur

Among the most iconic landmarks globally, the PETRONAS Towers, also referred to as the PETRONAS Twin Towers due to their paired structure, are situated in Kuala Lumpur and represent the tallest twin towers worldwide. The postmodern architectural design incorporates motifs found in Islamic art, symbolizing the Muslim majority of Malaysia. A noteworthy attraction is the skywalk over the connecting bridge, affording visitors stunning views of Kuala Lumpur and KLCC Park at the base of the towers.

2. Sunbathe on Langkawi

For those looking to escape the urban environment, Langkawi Island—a collection of over a hundred islands in the Andaman Sea, with two inhabited—is the largest, home to a population exceeding 60,000. Langkawi is popular among both backpackers and honeymooners offering options that cater to all budgets. Additionally, the island benefits from duty-free status, allowing visitors to purchase souvenirs at reduced prices.

3. Sample some local flavor with Nasi Kandar

Nasi Kandar, a traditional Malaysian dish meaning ‘mixed rice’, consists of a plate of rice accompanied by a variety of toppings and sauces. This cuisine draws inspiration from Tamil dishes due to the considerable South Indian immigrant population, featuring distinctive use of curry powder and chili. Typical Nasi Kandar offerings include chicken, fish, or seafood like prawns or squid in curry sauce, complemented by vegetables cooked with mustard seeds.

4. Get out of town at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park comprises five islands located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. Visitors can access the park via ferry, with some islands, like Sulug, remaining almost pristine, while others, like Gaya Island, are more populated. Popular activities in the park consist of hiking, trekking, swimming, and scuba diving opportunities.

5. Enjoy the culture in Malacca

Malacca, also known as ‘The Historic State’, is situated along the Malacca Strait, which contributes to its name. Renowned for its exceptional architecture, the state reflects its colonial history with Portuguese influences showcased in numerous red lacquer buildings, such as Christ Church. The area also hosts a high concentration of museums, galleries, and significant historic sites for visitors to explore.

6. Meander around Penang

Located off the west coast of Malaysia, Penang, with Georgetown as its capital named after King George, stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site emphasizing conservation and preservation. Visitors can experience this heritage at renowned accommodations, such as the E&O Hotel, which was founded by Stamford Raffles, also the founder of the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Penang is famed for its Tropical Spice Garden showcasing the region’s indigenous flora, including the Torch Ginger, prominent in many traditional Malay dishes.

7. Go trekking in Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park, located in the state of Pahang, has several distinguishing features that draw a constant stream of visitors. As the largest national park in Peninsular Malaysia, it boasts the longest rope walkway in the world. Adventurers can embark on challenging treks spanning up to 100 kilometers, as well as more leisurely hikes suitable for beginners. The park is rich in biodiversity, hosting various wildlife and plant species, along with an indigenous group known as the Orang Asli, believed to be the earliest inhabitants of Malaysia.

8. Explore the culture in Kota Bharu

Kota Bharu, situated on the west coast of Malaysia in the state of Kelantan, presents a contrasting pace and atmosphere compared to the east coast, often overlooked by visitors due to its perceived conservatism relative to other Malaysian regions. Standards of dress and conduct are more stringent; however, the city offers a plethora of mosques and religious sites to discover, including ancient royal palaces still in use by the current Sultan of Kelantan.

9. Get away to the Genting Highlands

The Genting Highlands, also recognized as Resorts World Genting, is a resort nestled in the Titiwangsa Mountains, reaching an elevation exceeding 5,000 feet. This destination is favored by local visitors, presenting a diverse range of attractions, including several theme parks, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Additionally, the Genting Skyway—once the world’s fastest cable car and Southeast Asia’s longest gondola lift—offers a thrilling aerial experience. Surrounding the resort are numerous fruit and vegetable farms where visitors can engage in fresh produce exploration.

10. Observe the orang utans in Sepilok

The Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, established in Sabah, East Malaysia, near Sandakan, was the first of its kind globally. Founded in the 1960s, the center’s mission is to rescue orphaned orangutans who have been abandoned due to illegal poaching or logging, as well as those kept as pets (a practice illegal in Malaysia). The center provides medical care and training to these mammals, allowing them to reintegrate and survive in their natural habitat. Once rehabilitated, they are released back into the wild. Observations can be made during feeding times when the orangutans typically gather at the feeding platforms.

11. Relax in Kuching

The city of Kuching in Sarawak, East Malaysia, acquired its name due to a misunderstanding between its discoverer, James Brooke, and the local indigenous community, who believed he was inquiring about a stray cat. Located on Borneo Island, which borders Indonesia, Kuching is adjacent to the Sarawak River and is recognized for its serene ambiance. River tours are a common activity, and visitors can marvel at colonial architecture like Fort Magherita and numerous cat statues honoring the city’s namesake.

12. Dive in at the Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands, situated in Terengganu state near the Thai coast, consist of a cluster of islands accessible by ferry, with water taxis facilitating island-hopping. The islands are celebrated for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making scuba diving a favored pursuit. At night, visitors can savor freshly caught fish grilled over coconut husks along the beach.

13. Climb Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in Malaysia, is located in the Crocker Mountain Range and within Kinabalu Park, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its biodiversity, it boasts a variety of flora, fauna, and fungi. The ascent to Mount Kinabalu is demanding and not advisable for inexperienced hikers, as altitude sickness can occur at elevated heights. All climbers must be accompanied by a licensed guide, with two distinct routes available that converge near the summit. While experienced climbers might complete the hike in one day, many opt to stay overnight at accommodations available along the path.

14. Take to the skies at the Langkawi Cable Car

Departing from the ‘Oriental Village’ at Teluk Burau, the Langkawi Cable Car ascends to the stunning heights of Mount Machingchang, where the Langkawi Sky Bridge is also located. Spanning approximately fifteen minutes, the cable car ride provides visitors with sweeping panoramic views of the island, with clear views extending as far as Sumatra in Indonesia.

15. Ascend Maxwell Hill in Taiping

Taiping, lesser known yet notable for being Malaysia’s wettest city and having the only Chinese name in the country, is situated outside of Penang in Perak state. This distinction ensures a lush and fertile environment, with some trees in Taiping Lake Gardens over a century old. Additionally, Maxwell Hill, a hill station positioned at approximately 1,000 feet, offers visitors opportunities for trekking, camping, and popular jeep rides that attract both locals and tourists alike.

16. Venture to the Lost World of Tambun

‘Lost World of Tambun’ in Ipoh is not an archaeological site but a theme park and resort considered one of the main attractions in the city. The park features numerous rides and discovery adventures in addition to a array of accommodations and a large spa offering various treatments for weary visitors. Additionally, it houses a water park, zoo, and aquarium.

17. Wander through China Town in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia, home to a substantial Chinese population alongside Malay and Indian nationals, features a vibrant China Town area that has emerged predominantly as an ethnically Chinese enclave within the city. Centered around Petaling Street, this district offers a market, diverse Chinese dining options, and cultural attractions, including temples.

18. Shop and eat at Gurney Drive

Gurney Drive in Penang is a lively seafront promenade overlooking several beaches, particularly North Beach. The area is thriving at night when numerous local food vendors establish stalls, allowing visitors to sample local delicacies and snacks. For shopping enthusiasts, Gurney Plaza, a large shopping mall, features upscale boutiques, restaurants, and various Malaysian outlets perfect for acquiring souvenirs.

19. Marvel at the Islamic architecture of the National Mosque

The National Mosque of Malaysia, found in Kuala Lumpur, is an impressive structure capable of accommodating up to 15,000 worshippers. Established in 1965, the mosque exemplifies Islamic architectural principles, featuring a roof shaped like a sixteen-point star. A significant focus is placed on water features, including fountains and reflective pools throughout the mosque complex. Visitors can tour the mosque, provided they wear the appropriate attire, which is made available.

20. Seek out cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands refers to a hill station located in Pahang state, discovered in the 19th century by Sir William Cameron, after whom the area is named. This destination attracts many local visitors due to its elevated location offering cooler weather ideal for outdoor activities, including tours of tea and coffee plantations and fruit-picking at various farms. The highlands are also famed for traditional English cream teas featuring locally picked strawberries.

21. Go climbing in the Batu Caves

To discover the Batu Caves, venture outside Kuala Lumpur to Selangor, where remarkable limestone cliffs adorned with caves and carved temples await exploration. These caves serve as Hindu shrines and are significant pilgrimage sites for the Tamil community in Malaysia. In addition to worship, visitors can appreciate local flora and fauna, including wild monkeys and bats inhabiting the caves. For the adventurous, climbing opportunities abound with more than 160 climbing routes available.

22. Get back to nature at Gunung Mulu National Park

Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located near Miri, Sarawak, East Malaysia, and is celebrated for its vast network of caves and karst formations. The park derives its name from Mount Mulu, the second largest mountain in Sarawak, allowing visitors to explore its caves, lush rainforests, and enjoy hiking and trekking opportunities.

23. Visit Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple

Situated in Johor Bahru, adjacent to the Malaysia-Singapore border, the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple resides in an area undergoing rapid development, nestled amid several skyscrapers. Though the temple’s precise history remains unclear, its age is estimated at around 130 years. The temple houses key historical artifacts, including plaques and a significant bronze bell. Notably, it is home to five important Chinese deities, allowing visitors to explore this culturally significant site.

24. Head to Tioman Island

For those seeking to escape the city, Tioman Island, located in Pahang state, features eight villages amidst lush rainforest and allows for day-long trekking across the island. The region is renowned for its pristine coral reefs, appealing to diving enthusiasts, and offers a range of resorts and hotels. Like Langkawi, Tioman Island also enjoys duty-free status.

25. Go for a night out at the Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle represents a prominent area in Kuala Lumpur, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, comprising bars, clubs, restaurants, and hotels. This lively sector spans multiple streets, with Jalan P. Ramlee identified as the central hub, offering visitors a diverse selection of venues to enjoy drinks and entertainment throughout the night. Additionally, the area features a substantial shopping center for those seeking retail experiences before enjoying a night out.