Tune Hotel is now open

*This is not a sponsored post*

After a slight delay (approximately 10 days), Tune Hotel is now officially open today. It is a new concept hotel which offers 5-star bed, power showers, 24-hour security and convenience facilities in the center of Kuala Lumpur at the price from MYR10 only. The founder of this hotel is Datuk Tony Fernandes who started AirAsia. I hope the service is not always delay like the airline.

It is called 'no-frills' hotel. They will provide you with the basic as what i mentioned just now and the rest you have to pay if you use it. For example, they provide you with fan for free but if you would like to use the air-cond, they will charge you MYR5 for 5 hours or MYR10 for 12 hours. This also applies to towel ranging from MYR10 to MYR15, toiletries; shampoo & 2 soaps for MYR2, and a set of breakfast (a hot cup of aromatic white coffee with a slice of delicious kaya toast) for MYR3.

The location of this hotel is superb. It is near to public transport like LRT, bus stop and taxi stand. Top tourist attractions like KLCC, Asian Heritage row, KL tower and bintang walk are minutes away.

This hotel truly understand the travelers' need. The facilities is designed to cater for travelers like lonely planet. They have 24-hour convenience store, kopitiam for good Malaysian foods, 24-hour free internet connection (you can even bring your own laptop) and ATM & Bureau De Change for withdrawal or change your cash.

Most of all, you can book your room online 24-7. Truly a new concept with travelers' need in mind. Check this spanking red & white hotel today.

"My opinion: This is brilliant idea, hotel provides the basic at 5-star service and you pay more if you need better comfort. With that price, it is a value for money."

"p/s: Tony is now venturing concurrently into Tune Money "no-frills" financial products such as unit trust and insurance. Looks like Tony is following the footstep of Richard Branson, Virgin owner."

If you need more information about the hotel, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Installation new King

Installation ceremony steeped in tradition

The 13th King & Queen of Malaysia

Tunku Mizan Zainal Abidin was yesterday installed as the Malaysia's 13th King in a glittering ceremony steeped in tradition at Balairong Seri of Istana Negara. He pledge to govern the national with utmost fairness and ensure a just and peaceful administration. After that, a nafiri (trumpet) was sounded, followed by the playing of the nobat raja bertabal by the Royal Terengganu Nobat Group. This was followed by a 21-gun salute and rendition of NegaraKu by the Royal Armoured Corps.

I personally likes his speech:

"I admit it's not easy for a multiracial population to live in peace and harmony. Look around us. Not many are successful; more have failed. We must maintain this precious unity to the best we can. Coexisting requires us to understand, respect and be tolerant of each other."

Simple but deep! I hope he can make a change to our country.

If you need more information on this topic, please leave your query in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Send your items home easier

*This is not a sponsored post*

DHL has just launched their latest services specially cater for tourist who visit Malaysia. Realizing that tourists shied away from purchasing too many items, due to high airline excess baggage charges, DHL has cleverly designed service to overcome the problem. The tourist express offers a service that will make it easier for tourists to send back home the items without hassle. The product offers one-price struture, with no hidden charges and door-to-door delivery service to the customers. They only need to drop off their shipment at any DHL service point outlets which are open daily including public holiday. One of the outlets is in the Central Market, top-tourist attraction in Kuala Lumpur.

"I think this a good service to tourist to use. The outlet is centerly located Kuala Lumpur, near to LRT and bus station. Most of the good craft are found around central market. You do not need to carry yourself and incur high baggage fees. "

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Kelantan Food Festival At United Nation HQ

Anyone who live nearby UN Headquarter in New York and fancy for new food taste, just help yourself to the Kelantan Food Festival held here. It will open for 10-day starting from 25 April 2007. It is an event to mark the 50th anniversary of Malaysia's independence as well as its 50th anniversary of membership in the world body.

The guests were treated to some rare culinary delights, including salad of bean sprout with shrimps (kerabu taugeh dengan udang), tangy seafood soup with a dash of tumeric (sup singgang lautan), grilled chicken Kelantan-style served with herbs in rice and pickles (ayam percik, nasi kerabu dan acar), pearls of sago in Melaka palm syrup (sago gula Melaka), sweet pastries of Kelantan (aneka kuih Kelantan) and frothy Kelantan tea and coffee (teh tarik dan kopi).

Nine chefs have been flown in from Malaysia to prepare food for guests during the food festival, which will be on until May 4. Dancers from Kelantan put on a cultural performance and a fashion show "All in Songket" was staged by Zang Toi, an internationally-acclaimed fashion designer of Kelantanese descent now living in New York.

Material from Bernama

"I'm sure Malaysian students would be very glad of having this event. At least, they have the opportunity to eat the kelatanese foods. I'm sure some of them are missing the food so much."

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Golfing paradise for foreign tourist

Nature all over the golf course

Golfing in Sabah

Malaysia is a “paradise” for foreign golfers as it offers world class golf courses at very affordable price. Furthermore, the exchange rates fator makes it more appealing. For example, Awana Kijal Golf, Beach and Spa Resort's Unlimited Beachside Golf Package currently offers from only RM390 nett (or about 85 Euros) for two to enjoy a one-night stay with breakfast and unlimited rounds of golf. At this moment, Singaporeans topped the list of foreign golfers to Malaysia, followed by Japanese, South Korean and Chinese. I guess because of its location nearer to Malaysia.

Although India is among the popular destinations for affordable golf holidays and relaxing spas, the Indian are flying abroad to golf resorts and spas. Most of the destination is still restricted to South East Asia like Malaysia. This is because the green fee in the golf courses in Malaysia is among the lowest in Asia and Malaysia has around 200 world standard golf courses. Check out the golf course directory here or check out latest happening in malaysia's golf here.

So far, I have only went to driving range for few times. I manage to get the basic skills of golf swing. I loves when my golf driver contact with the ball and you see the ball just fly away. For far, my average distance is around 150 metres. I wish I could swing like Tiger Wood. I certainly recommend anyone to give it a try.

If anyone need further information on this topic, please drop it in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Mantanani, Sabah - Divers' paradise

Nice view of the beach

Picture of dugong - the endangered creature

The Mantanani group of islands just off Kudat, Sabah proffers not only stunning vistas of clear aquamarine waters but a once in a lifetime opportunity to dive with the legendary dugong. Home of this endangered creature whose population around the world numbers only 100,000. With 19 relatively shallow dive sites and three wrecks from World War II lying in 42 metres of water, Mantanani is a scuba diving paradise.

"This place is going to be my first place to visit as soon as I get my scuba diving license. Top priority! May be it should be in my 2011's vision."

If you need more information of this topic, please leave in the comment. I will search and revert back to you in the same comment column.

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Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sabah

Nice view from the sky

Corals found at the islands

Sited just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park which comprises 5 islands; Pulau Gayana, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Sulug and Pulau Mamutik, was gazetted in 1974 as Sabah's second national park under the guardianship of Sabah Park. Though diving at the marine park is possible all year round, the best visibility is enjoyed between March and October before the annual plankton boom occurs. But should you find yourself visiting during the annual plankton season, you will not be disappointed, as the krill bloom attracts whale sharks, a most extraordinary sight. Besides snorkeling and diving, visitors may also try out sea walking or opt for a delightful sunset cruise. Windsurfing and para sailing are conducted just outside of the park's boundaries.

Imagine you are in deserted island, all to your self. You are so close to nature as never before. It will surely blow you away as you are there. Definitely a must-visit place!

If you need further information on this topic, please leave on the comment. I will search and revert back in the same comment column.

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Famous Malay weapon open for public view

Picture from Star Metro

The mystical Keris Taming Sari formerly owned by Malay hero Hang Tuah who was given the title Laksamana (Admiral) by the Sultan of Malacca will go on display at Galeri Sultan Azlan Shah in Kuala Kangsar.
The keris' handle is made of gold while the blade is made of 20 types of iron. According to history, when Malacca was captured by the Potuguese in 1511, Sultan Mahmud retreated to Kampar in Sumatra, Indonesia, bringing along all of Malacca's state regalia.
Muzaffar was later proclaimed the first Sultan of Perak, taking on the name of Sultan Muzaffar Shah in 1528.
The keris, which is said to have magical powers such as being able to hover in the air in times of crisis, is kept at the palace and it has been part of the state regalia of Perak ever since.
The keris is on display from today to April 27 in conjunction with the birthday celebration of the Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah.
The gallery, which also showcases the history of the Perak royalty other than the private collections of the Sultan of Perak, is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Entrance ticket is RM4 per adult, RM2 per university and secondary student and RM1 for primary student.

"This is a golden opportunity for us as Taming sari is a very important historical Malaysia heritage. The story of Hang Tuah is very close to all Malaysian. It will on be display for public for limited period of time. Make sure you take this opportunity which does not come often"

If you need further information on Taming Sari, please leave in the comment. I will search and revert back to you in the same comment column.

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Museum tour in French & English

A team who called themselves as Museum Volunteers Malaysia has taken a huge intiative by providing one-hour guided tour of the national museum in French and English. The tour will start at 9am every Tuesday and at 11am every Thursday, beginning next week.

The idea behind this intiative is to offer better services to the tourists since the museum is shortage of staff at this moment. Each of the volunteers proudly expressed their willingness to volunteer as they can contribute in introducing Malaysia to the world. Besides that, it will help to preserve Malaysia culture heritage. 25 volunteers received their graduation certificates from Museum Department yesterday.

The schedule for the guided tour might vary with the next batch of volunteers, depending on the languages they speak and number of volunteers. The volunteers have graduated after a series of lectures, tests and training. They will share their knowledge on variety of subjects from Peranakan and Orang Asli culture to traditional art forms.

If you need specific information on this topic, please request in the comment. I will search and revert back the answer in the same comment column.

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Western quality cosmetic surgery at Asian price

For the past few years, Malaysia has become one of the top choices for cosmetic surgery. A report by Mintel in which.co.uk website, medical tourism is on the increase as more Britons go abroad for treatments. Overseas trips for cosmetic surgery, operations and post-op relaxation are worth around £60 million per year.

Why Malaysia?

Most private hospitals in Malaysia have internationally recognised quality standards. These include the MS ISO9002 or accreditation by the Malaysian Medical Society for Quality of Health (MSQH). All private medical centres must be approved and licensed by the Ministry of Health.
Medical charges and hospitalisation costs are very competitive compared to those in many developed countries. This and the favourable exchange rates make it very affordable. For example, a normal cardiac bypass surgery (CABG) would cost in the region of USD6,000 - USD7,000. Medical specialists are highly qualified professional, many with qualifications from the UK, Australia and the USA and are supported by well-trained para-medical staff and state-of-the-art, well-equipped and well-staffed private medical centres with extensive diagnostic and therapeutic resources. Most medical staff speak English.

"It is a total makeover holiday trip. You will come back in a brand new YOU. I like that idea"

Here are some related links:

gorgeousgetaways

cosmeticsurgeryholidays

beautiful-holidays

If you need to know more about this topic, please leave in the comment. I will search and revert back to you in the same comment column.

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Selangor Culture Cove - New Tourist Spot

A newly tourist attraction, Selangor Culture Cove was opened to public last 12 Apr 2007. It is situated next to Batu Caves. It showcase the diverse culture of Malaysia featuring food, traditional dances, arts and crafts. There are lively traditional culture dances, and demostration of unique arts and crafts like Gasing, Wau, Batik painting and beautiful henna body art. The visitor can also get to make their own chocolates with locally grown cocoa, and there is also Tongkat Ali herbal hot foot theraphy to soothe the feet.

I have been there yet, but I guess that it will be something
like Sarawak Culture Village!

If you need additional information, please leave in the comment. I will search and reply back in the same comment column.

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Simple Life (of a Malaysian) on YouTube

I found this clip on YouTube, Simple Life (of a Malaysian). I thought it is good introduction of what to expect in Malaysia. This scene taken is from areas in Kuala Lumpur starting from Petaling street, Central Market, KLCC and Dataran Merdeka. The pasar malam and mamak restaurants can be found all over Malaysia. Enjoy this clip!

Thanks to Flamori

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Tabin Wildlife Reserve - Lahad Datu, Sandakan

Tabin is an enormous dipterocarp rainforest landscape in the eastern part of Sabah, dubbed Malaysian Borneo. It has been declared a wildlife reserve as it is home to a large number of animals, some of which are highly endangered and endemic.

With a protected forest area of 120,500 hectares, Tabin plays an important role as a dedicated ground for the breeding of endangered wildlife and protected mammals in Sabah. The three largest mammals of Sabah: Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Sumatran Rhino and Tembadau are found in Tabin. It is also a bird-watcher's paradise with a record of 42 indigenous families representing 220 species of birds.Among them are eight Sabahan hornbill species, blue-headed pitta, wren-babbler, Borneon blue flycatcher and some rarely seen species like the speckled piculet, chestnut-capped thrush and thick-bellied flowerpecker.

Other interesting activities are night safari, visit a muddy volcano and Lipad waterfall.

Where to stay

Tabin Wildlife Reserve is a one-resort park. A small site of the vast park has been allocated as the nerve centre with lodging and other facilities for visitors. Expect nothing but abundant nature. The resort offers authentic Borneo-style timber chalets built within thick forested hill and basic floor-and-roof-only Eco Tented Platforms (ETP).

Getting there

It is located some 50km to the north-east of Lahad Datu, located on the Dent peninsular. It takes about an hour to get there by foor-wheel drive, with the second half of the journey a shaky ride on gravel roads. Ground transportation is usually pre-arranged with the resort since it is included in the package. Trying to get a taxi or transport to go in will be quite impossible, especially for walk-in guest.

Lahad Datu is in the eastern part of Sabah. You may drive there - six hours from Kota Kinabalu and 2 1/2 hours from Sandakan.

For more info, visit http://www.tabinwildlife.com.my/ or email to enquiry@tabinwildlife.com.my

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Interesting links from Malaysian Blogger

I happened to know this interesting links from Malaysian Blogger by accident. I subscribed to google alert on Malaysia and today I received info of this project My List i.e. My stands for Malaysia. I though it is good idea to join this programme as it will give my readers the extensive network of interesting links from Malaysian Blogger from politic, money, sex, culture, food, places and many more. My blog will eventually becomes the malaysian hub to malaysian blogger networks. I say

"Hey! this is win-win situation here. To my readers, they gain more and better information on Malaysia from many perspectives. To me, my blog ranking will increase. To Malaysian Blogger, more traffics to their blogs or website."

Check out some interesting links below:

My List Participants
Nurjenna
Etcetera~Etcetera
Giddy Tigers
Make Money Online: Exploring The Dark Side of Blogging
Xilly's Blog
Malaika Xiao Yü
My Home Recipe
SQKIKI’s Simple Tech
Nukilan Jejari Azhad
ITCHY HANDseng
Just My Lil' Organic Life
Oooh La La...
Weird World of MerapuMan
Fibre Art
The World at My Fingertips
Organic Income
Organic Parade
Shopping Flavor
Daily postings of a chung ling student
Something about LAI
KennyP’s Technology Blog
Women Mumbles
KuKuJian.com
Lyon & Wien
Under The SUN
Crumbs In Life…
SotongZai's Flow In the Ocean
allthingspurple
Christene's Kitchen
toxicle.org
[ Wood ] [ Earth ] [ Cheap ] [ Flight ]
COMtech
Ah Ling's blog
http://judychow.blogspot.com/
~WoOLaLA~
vivivava Design
My Mothering Corner
Shoppingmum’s Home Office
My Filling Station
Shopping Mum
All about Beauty
Shoppingmum and Kids
datotalrandommessy.grey
Notes from my heart
Joy Montessori
wahlau's online hut
Cedric’s Asylum
mott’s mutterings
Just My Thoughts
delephant
Incoherent Ramblings
HOT STUFF
Make Money Online with Malaysia Love AGLOCO
MONTESSORIMUM.COM
Funky Cookies
Earn Money Blogging
PabloPabla's Whatever
Make Money with Blogging
Paris Beaverbanks
Free Links Giveaway
Free Blogger Templates
Blogsreview.Net
Making a Living
5xmom
How to be a Better Blogger
My Women Stuff
Hochiak! Delicious Asian Food
Best Recipes
Champagne Tastes on a Beer Budget
Daryl's Discovery Journey
The fluff must go somewhere

To any of blogger who blog anythings about Malaysia and still has not join this programme yet: Should check this out! Really something you should take part.

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Malaysia To Host World Taekwondo Festival

To all Taekwondo fans & fanatics, World Taekwondo is coming to town. The Festival has been scheduled to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Badminton Stadium in Cheras from June 28 to July 2.

South Korea, the birth place of taekwondo, has chosen Malaysia as the venue for the 9th World Taekwondo Festival due to its rich heritage, culture, and wide variety of eastern and western cuisines.Last year 1,328 exponents from 44 countries took part in the festival held in South Korea and this year more countries are expecting to come, maybe 50 countries to coincide with Malaysia's 50 years of independence, The main objective of the festival is not about winning medals or competition, it is about bringing people together and educating them about the various cultures and traditions. The participants would comprise those aged from 7 to 77. Malaysia will become only the second country to host the festival after Taiwan played host in 2005.

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Kandu Cave in Gopeng Perak

Located in Gopeng, some 20km from Ipoh, Perak, the cave and rocks are for those who have a passion or interest in natural history.
During the Palaeozoic era 570 million years ago - long before dinosaours roamed Earth - Bukit Kandu is nothing but a warm sea of corals and single-celled organisms. These complex life forms took lime from the sea to make their shells. When these creatures died, their shells made up thick masses of limestone rocks.
History first took notice of Bukit Kandu during the 1942 -1947 Japanese Occupation. Villagers at nearby Kampung Jahang still spin tales about their forefathers digging tunnels for the Japanese in return for a daily cup of rice.
When Japanese surrendered, communist guarrillas occupied the cavern in the tumultuous pre-Mederka years. Graffiti and poems glorifying Mao Zedong can still be seen on some walls.
Budget
Nomad Adventure charges RM60 per head (for a minimum of 10 people) for a guided trip into Kandu Cave. The fee includes helmets and safety gear. Prepare to fork out another RM150 if you decide to spend the night at Adeline's Place. The rate includes three meals.
Contact Detail
For a guided expedition to the cave, call Nomad Adventure at +6038024 5152 or long on to http://www.nomadadventure.com/

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Squid Jigging in Kuala Terengganu

It is the traditional way of catching squids. The method of catching squids uses a tool called the Candat or Jigger. It is designed to resemble a bait and is made from either tin or plastic, which when dipped in sea water, appears luminous, attracting the squids. The Candat is usually fastened with 8 to 10 hooks. The squids are normally plentiful from April to July. Squids come to the waters off Terengganu to lay eggs during this period. There is even a competition organised for squid jigging that offers USD13,000 prize money.

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Malaysia in summary by The Independent

I have seen quite a number of posting in Thorn Tree Forum - Lonely Planet; They are coming to Malaysia but have not idea where to go, what to do and etc.. Since today, The Independent UK wrote an article about Malaysia, I decided to publish it in my blog. It is a summary of where & what to do in Malaysia. I find it is sufficient for a starter to know about Malaysia.

The Complete Guide To: Malaysia in style
Leave the backpack behind, and live the high life in this fascinating, diverse and stunning part of South-east Asia, from chic Kuala Lumpur to exotic Langkawi. By Rowena Forbes
Published: 07 April 2007
MALAYSIA: TRULY ASIA?
That's what the tourist-office slogan says, and while this relatively small South-east Asian nation cannot encompass everything that the continent has to offer, it makes an impressive attempt: from Kuala Lumpur's towering skyscrapers, to rustic rainforest kampongs (villages); and from plush colonial retreats to backpacker beach huts.
With a history of Western colonialism and immigration that stretches back centuries, the country has absorbed many global influences within a multicultural diversity that reveals itself in every aspect of life: architecture, traditions, festivals and cuisine. This year, Malaysia celebrates 50 years of independence. Official celebrations take place on 31 August, "Merdeka" (Independence) Day, when every state hosts its own events, including parades, exhibitions, dances, concerts and firework displays, culminating in a grand parade attended by the King and Queen in Putrajaya.
To mark the half-century in style, the country is promoting 50 major events and festivals taking place throughout the year. These include the Kuala Lumpur City Festival, which reaches a climax this weekend - intended to coincide with the Malaysian Grand Prix - and the World Lion Dance Display in Genting Highlands from 3 to 5 August.
WHERE SHOULD I START?
Penang, the so-called "Pearl of the Orient" on the north-west coast. Established as the first Far Eastern British trading post in 1786, Penang is suffused with history. The capital city of George Town has a distinct Chinese flavour, with its ancient trades, winding narrow streets and traditional hawker stalls. Colonial traces remain, however, most notably in the grand architecture on and around Lebuh Pantai, the main street.
The Eastern & Oriental Hotel on Lebuh Farquhar is a well- restored 19th-century establishment. Opulent furnishings add to the grandeur of this colonial building, and a swimming pool with a sea view provides a tranquil focal point. Five-star facilities include a 24-hour butler service. De-luxe suites are available from RM950 per night (£140), including breakfast. The E&O Suite is the jewel in the crown - at RM12,050 (£1,772), it includes three bedrooms, a study, lounge, "his and hers" bathrooms and a dining room (00 604 222 2000; http://www.e-o-hotel.com/).
Penang's beaches are, sadly, not as pristine as they once were, and the main stretch is crowded with locals touting water sports. However, some resorts still provide scenic spots for sun-worshippers, such as the Parkroyal Penang, home to the St Gregory Spa and three good restaurants (00 604 881 1133; http://www.penang.parkroyalhotels.com/). Rooms with sea views start at RM360 (£53), including breakfast, while the Francis Suite, with sundeck and private garden, is RM1,560 (£230). Key island attractions include superb views and cool breezes on Penang Hill; ornate temples; strolls around Penang Bird Park; and the bustling night market, which is great for souvenirs.
A BETTER BEACH?
Take a short trip to Langkawi, Malaysia's northernmost island, from which the Thai coastline is visible. Besides more appealing sand and sea, Langkawi has a beautiful tropical environment. A great way to explore the rainforest is in the company of professional conservationist and naturalist such as Irshad Mobarak, who leads informative and entertaining nature walks that reveal some of the secrets of the jungle, as well as boat tours along the Kilim river, spotting wildlife within lush mangrove swamps and amid spectacular limestone outcrops.
Irshad is based at the Datai Resort (00 604 959 2500; http://www.ghmhotels.com/), where Jodie Foster stayed while filming Anna and the King. Edged by secluded beaches, the resort offers rooms, suites and villas set within the rainforest. Rooms from RM1,445 (£213), excluding breakfast, with the exclusive Datai Suite at RM8,000 (£1,178).
After enjoying the beauty of nature, you can enhance your own natural beauty with some serious pampering at the Alun-Alun Spa (00 604 966 9366; http://www.langkawi-spa.com/). A one-hour traditional Malaysian massage starts at RM120 (£18).
At the Four Seasons Resort, a mixture of indigenous and contemporary architecture, superb service and a postcard-perfect location on the beach of Tanjung Rhu make for a memorable stay (00 604 950 8888; www.fourseasons.com/langkawi). Rates start at RM1,730 (£255) for a double room, running to RM17,500 (£2,579) for the two-bedroom Royal Villa, with its private pool and spa room at a secluded end of the beach.
For attentive service and tranquillity, try the Bon Ton Restaurant and Resort at Pantai Cenang (00 604 955 1688; http://www.bontonresort.com.my/). Traditional houses on stilts have been turned into air-conditioned villas around a central pool. Villas from RM490 (£72) per night, including breakfast; the largest, for up to six people, is RM850 (£125). Fusion cuisine is served in the open-air restaurant.
CAPITAL STYLE?
Much more so than a decade or two ago. Kuala Lumpur's skyscraper skyline is dominated by the Petronas Twin Towers (once, but no longer, the tallest building in the world), but there are plenty of chic hotels at street level. Why not follow in royal footsteps at the Carcosa Seri Negara Hotel above the Lake Gardens, where the Queen and Prince Philip were the first guests in 1989 (00 603 2282 1888; http://www.carcosa.com.my/). Thirteen suites are decorated in colonial style, with traditional artefacts. All guests have a personal butler, who will collect them from the airport in a limo. Prices start at RM1,100 (£162) per night room only, running to RM3,500 (£516) for the deluxe option that, presumably, Her Majesty enjoyed. If you're feeling homesick, afternoon tea is served on the veranda to non-residents from 3-6pm, for RM60 (£9).
Contemporary hotel options include the Mandarin Oriental, adjacent to the Petronas Towers (00 603 2380 8888; www.mandarinoriental.com/kualalumpur); and the nearby Traders Hotel (00 603 2332 9888; www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur/traders/en). Traders offers sharp, modern design and a rooftop spa and pool, while the Mandarin Oriental epitomises elegant opulence. Rooms at the Mandarin start at RM845 (£125); or, if you've got cash to flash, the Presidential Suite is RM21,000 (£3,000). A three-day, two-night stay in a deluxe park-view room at Traders is currently available from RM720 (£106), until next weekend at least.
CHIC SHOPPING?
Yes, with prices to please Western wallets in more than 30 malls. Head to Bukit Bintang, where the Sungei Wang Plaza, Starhill Gallery, Lot 10 and Berjaya Times Square are all in close proximity; or browse the six floors of luxury retail outlets in Suria KLCC, in the Petronas Towers. The trendy suburb of Bangsar also has two malls, and individual boutiques dotted among the cafés and restaurants.
I NEED A DRINK
For a vibrant bar scene, head to Bukit Bintang, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Asian Heritage Row and Jalan Ampang in town, where the best-known club is Zouk (00 603 2171 1997; http://www.zoukclub.com.my/). For a real taste of the high life, visit the sophisticated Luna bar on top of the Menara Pan Global building on Jalan Punchak. You can sip cocktails in the stunning open-air bar (00 603 2332 7777), which boasts a swimming pool and great views of the city skyline.
SOME ISLAND LIFE?
Sail off the east coast of the peninsula to the rugged volcanic island of Tioman, as featured in the movie South Pacific. There you'll find the Berjaya Tioman Beach Golf and Spa Resort, and a diving centre where you can explore the beauties of the marine park in - and at - greater depth (00 609 419 1000; http://www.berjayahotels-resorts.com/). Resort rooms start at RM272 (£40), including breakfast.
There's also a resort on Redang Island, which is popular with Malaysian tourists. The timber-framed Berjaya Redang Beach Resort (00 609 630 8866; http://www.berjayahotels-resorts.com/) includes a diving centre and the Ayura Spa, where you can try the Tropical Fruits Wrap for RM160 (£24). Rooms from RM300 (£44), including breakfast.
A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE?
Vast areas of the island of Borneo are occupied by the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah, and the latter is the perfect place to explore the mysteries of a primeval jungle ecosystem. In the port town of Sandakan, tour operators organise trips heading out from the waters of the Sulu Sea into the Kinabatangan river. Here, lush green mangrove trees tiptoe out from muddy banks into what looks like Willy Wonka's swirling chocolate river; leafy creepers dangle down into the water; and lofty palm fronds reach up to the sky. The rainforest is home to a multitude of wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, unique to Sabah, with their distinctive nose and bulging stomach; grey long-tailed macaques; black-and-white hornbills; darting kingfishers; monitor lizards; estuarine crocodiles; and - if you're very lucky - Borneo's native pygmy elephant.
And you don't need to live primitively to enjoy this menagerie. Against the backdrop of the rainforest, the Sabah Hotel Sandakan offers comfortable facilities, including a swimming pool fed by a landscaped waterfall (00 608 921 3299; http://www.sabahhotel.com.my/). Rooms satart at RM312 (£46), including breakfast, with the Presidential Suite available for RM1,916 (£282).
Special Interest (SI) Tours runs three-day, two-night guided boat trips into the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary, including overnight stays in comfortable wooden lodges within the rainforest. This package, priced at RM1,085 (£160) per person, includes transport, accommodation, all meals, a trip to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre (see below), and a visit to the Puh Jih Syh Chinese Buddhist Temple above Sandakan (00 608 967 3502; http://www.sitoursborneo.com/).
TRIBAL TENDENCIES?
Malaysia's largest state, Sarawak, is populated with over 20 different ethnic groups. These include the Melanaus, considered to be the original settlers of this part of Borneo. They inhabit traditional longhouses along the rivers, where virtually entire villages live under one roof. Gawai Dayak is a good time to visit, between 25 May and 2 June, when Dayak communities celebrate Hari Gawai to mark the end of the harvest. In Sarawak's capital, Kuching, the Hilton Kuching offers style and good value, with spacious waterfront rooms from RM165 (£24) (00 608 224 8200; http://www.hilton.com/).
DINING OUT IN STYLE?
Characterised by spicy, flavourful dishes and creamy, coconut-infused curries, Malaysian specialities include satay (grilled chicken in a spicy, peanut-packed sauce); roti canai (thick, pancake-style bread with curry sauce); and nasi lemak (coconut rice served with chilli sauce and fried anchovies). Some of the finest Indian, Chinese, Thai and other Asian cuisines are also widely available.
Penang is Malaysia's food heaven, with the tastiest offerings to be found at the food stalls. Sample local specialities such as char kway teow (fried flat noodles with prawns and bean sprouts) and assam laksa (a sour fish-based soup) on Gurney Drive. Alternatively, enjoy beautiful sea views and tasty cuisine at the upmarket Ocean Green Seafood Restaurant on Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, where fresh seafood, including lobster thermidor, is served (00 604 226 2681).
Back in KL, don't miss a sunset dinner in the revolving Seri Angkasa restaurant at the top of the KL Menara Tower (00 603 2020 5444; http://www.menarakl.com.my/). Survey the magnificent city skyline as it drifts past the large windows, while enjoying a multicultural buffet for RM100 (£15) per head (excluding the rather pricey drinks).
HOW DO I GET THERE?
The only carrier with flights from the UK is Malaysia Airlines (0870 607 9090; http://www.malaysiaairlines.com/), which has two flights a day from Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur, with connections across the country. Often, domestic flights are available for a nominal cost on top of the UK to Malaysia fare, which ranges from around £550 return to £900 return; at some times of the year - between now and June, for example - you can get a flight from the UK to Australia plus a free side-trip within Malaysia for under £700.
WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE?
Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia House, 57 Trafalgar Square, London WC2 (020-7930 7932; http://www.malaysiatrulyasia.co.uk/).
BREAKFAST WITH THE ORANG-UTANS
The so-called "wild men of Borneo" are one of four groups of primates classified as great apes. Strong and agile, these quiet creatures' lifestyle is predominantly solitary, except for the first six to seven years of their lives, which they spend learning the skills for jungle survival from their mothers.
It is a rare treat to see these gentle (and endangered) giants in the wild. However, at the Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary in Sabah, you can get up close and personal with orang-utans that have been rescued from captivity, or are being relocated from deforested areas, and are undergoing an intensive rehabilitation process to help to reintroduce them to the wild. These intelligent creatures will respond to the names given to them by their keepers, and can understand more Malay than the average tourist.
A daily feeding ritual takes place at 10am, when a number of the primates emerge to feast on bananas and milk supplied by the centre's keepers to a platform in the middle of the rainforest. A nearby viewing platform allows camera-laden tourists to snap away, capturing the lazily elegant movements of the russet-haired apes as they swing along the ropes to have their breakfast.
SI Tours organises a half-day tour to Sepilok from nearby Sandakan for RM118 (£17) per person, including the RM30 (£4.50) entrance fee to the sanctuary (00 608 967 3502; http://www.sitoursborneo.com/). A further RM10 (£1.50) is charged per camera.

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Mile-stones in the last 50 Years photography exhibition

PICTURES can tell a thousand words especially when through the camera lens of photojournalists.
Recently, the Photojournalism and the Imaging of Modern Malaysia: Mile-stones in the last 50 Years photography exhibition was launched at Galeri Petronas on Level Three in Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur.
Among the most famous photo in media archives is that of our first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman raising his clenched fist in the air as a sign of victory in front of a massive crowd at Stadium Merdeka and shouting “merdeka.”
In fact, this exhibition is instructive of how the reading and forging of Malaysia’s history, is in the making, not just of professional historians gathering years after an event.
A total of 100 images from the archives of a local newspaper company are on display at the exhibition.
In conjunction with this premier exhibition, Galeri Petronas also lined up some interesting public programmes for the visitors such as special talks, a panel discussion and photography workshop conducted by renowned photojournalist, Eric Peris until April 28.
The exhibition is open to the public until May 20 at Galeri Petronas on Level Three Suria KLCC.
The exhibition is open from 10am to 8pm daily expect Mondays. Admission is free.

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Kampung Pelegong Homestay

Get away from it all and return to the serenity of life in a traditional Malay village under the Pelegong Homestay programme in Negeri Sembilan. Here, you will be able to enjoy the warm hospitality of your host family and be a part of the household by joining them in their daily activities.
Wake up to the authenticity of 'kampung' life. Listen to the sounds of cockerels greeting a new day, breathe in the crisp fresh air and look forward to the simple pleasures of life -- collect your own eggs from the coop, learn to tap a rubber tree, enjoy an icy cold dip in the nearby river before trying your hand at fishing or baking delicious Malay cakes.
The adventure in store also allows you to discover the origins of the village and the rich history it holds. Appreciate the many cottage industries and the fine products manufactured here. Marvel at the nimble fingers of Pak Adol the rattan weaver, and be awed by the creative men and women whose skilled hands make the finest handicrafts.
If you are the outdoor type, you'll enjoy a good trek into the lush rainforest and discover cascading waterfalls and crystal clear streams. Then, come back to the gentle hands of a traditional masseur or masseuse to soothe all aches away.

How to get there
By Road

Kampong Pelegong is connected by an excellent network of highways. Easily accessible, the village is located a mere 15km from Seremban, 30km from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and 55km from Kuala Lumpur, the country's capital city.

By Train

If you prefer an alternative travel mode, take the Komuter train which services the Kuala Lumpur-Seremban route and get off at Tiroi. Kampung Pelegong is located 2km from here. You can arrange for your hosts to pick you up from here.

Who to contact
For more information and enquiries, please contact: Encik Badrul Hisham. Tel: +606 791 1044. Handphone No: +6012 611 6476

Key Tips
The best way to get the most out of your homestay is to learn some basic Malay words. It's the perfect way to bond with the villagers...

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