Malaysia

Between the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur, the beaches of Langkawi and the dense jungles of Borneo, Malaysia offers a wide variety of landscapes. The country also stands out for its unique cultural blend, where Malay, Chinese and Indian traditions meet every day.

Why visit Malaysia?

Malaysia is made up of a peninsular region and a part of Borneo island, separated by the South China Sea. The country is known for its cultural diversity, some of the oldest rainforests in the world and islands such as Langkawi and Penang.

What to discover in Malaysia?

Peninsular Malaysia includes Kuala Lumpur, a modern and dynamic city dominated by the iconic Petronas Towers, as well as Penang and Malacca, known for their well-preserved colonial architecture and particularly renowned street food. Further north, the islands of Langkawi attract travelers with their coconut-lined beaches and calm waters, ideal for both relaxation and a wide range of water activities, from kayaking to light sailing.
The Malaysian part of Borneo, spread across the states of Sabah and Sarawak, is home to some of the oldest rainforests on the planet, inhabited by orangutans and exceptional, still largely preserved biodiversity. Mount Kinabalu, the country's highest peak, attracts experienced hikers and nature lovers each year in search of spectacular panoramic views over the surrounding jungle. This diversity of landscapes comes with a strong cultural blend shaped by Malay, Chinese and Indian communities, visible every day in the country's architecture, religious festivals and local cuisine.

Cities to visit in Malaysia

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Malaysia in pictures

Malaysia highlights

From Kuala Lumpur to Borneo, a few iconic experiences to discover the country.

Petronas Towers

An unmissable symbol of Kuala Lumpur, these twin towers offer an impressive panoramic view over the lively skyline of the Malaysian capital, especially at nightfall.

Langkawi beaches

This peaceful archipelago on the west coast charms visitors with calm, coconut-lined beaches, preserved mangroves and water activities suited to every level of experience.

Borneo jungle

The dense forests of Sabah and Sarawak are home to orangutans, proboscis monkeys and some of the richest and most varied biodiversity in Southeast Asia.

Malacca's old town

A World Heritage site, Malacca preserves remarkably well-kept colonial architecture, reflecting successive Portuguese, Dutch and British influences across several centuries of local history.

Penang street food

Georgetown is famous for its generous street food, blending Malay, Chinese and Indian influences across lively night markets enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Mount Kinabalu

The country's highest peak, this iconic Borneo mountain attracts experienced hikers every year in search of spectacular panoramic views over the surrounding jungle.

Practical information

Capital
Kuala Lumpur
Area
330,000 km²
Population
around 33 million
Language(s)
Malay (official), English widely spoken
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Time zone
UTC+8
Climate
Equatorial, hot and humid year-round
Best season
December to February on the east coast, varies by region

Frequently asked questions

What's the best time to visit Malaysia?
The climate varies considerably by region: the east coast is generally more pleasant from March to October, while the west coast and Kuala Lumpur can be visited in good conditions throughout most of the year.
Do I need a visa for Malaysia?
Many nationalities are exempt from a visa for short tourist stays in Malaysia. It's still advisable to check the exact requirements and permitted duration before departure, as these rules can vary by country.
How do you get around Malaysia?
Public transport is well developed in Kuala Lumpur, with efficient trains and buses, while domestic flights and long-distance buses easily connect other regions of the country, including the Malaysian part of Borneo.
Can you see orangutans in Malaysia?
Yes, several rehabilitation centers and nature reserves located in Sabah and Sarawak, on Borneo island, allow visitors to observe orangutans living freely in their natural habitat, under the supervision of specialized guides.
Is Malaysia a good first trip to Asia?
The country is often considered particularly accessible for a first trip to Asia, thanks to widely spoken English, developed tourist infrastructure and a wide diversity of landscapes, from modern cities to preserved nature.
What languages are spoken in Malaysia?
Malay is the official language of Malaysia, but English, Mandarin and Tamil are also very widely used depending on the community, region and professional or touristic context encountered on the ground.

Plan your trip to Malaysia

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