Whether
it’s for work reasons or a big lifestyle change, expat families in Malaysia
enjoy the diverse mix of both city and island living. This Southeast Asian
country is home to a wide range of exciting family-friendly excursions. We’ve
put together a list of just a few of the many things that expat families can do
in Malaysia to make the most of your stay.
1. Try local cuisine
Spend just a day in any part of Malaysia and you’ll soon discover that Malaysians are passionate about food. The melting pot of cultures in the country has led to an endless array of cuisines. From gourmet restaurants to authentic street food, you and your tastebuds will enjoy these well-known local favorites:
• Nasi lemak
• Beef rendang
• Curry laksa
• Bak kut teh
• Hokkien mee
2. Enjoy the culture
As you travel through Malaysia, the diversity and ethnic mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups are evident in the rich cultural landscape. Indulge in these popular attractions to get a small taste of Malaysia’s abundant culture:
• Georgetown, Penang
• The Cameron Highlands, Pahang
• Malacca City, Malacca
• Kota Bharu
• The Perhentians, Terangganu
3. Take a guided tour
There’s no better way to truly explore the place you live in than through the eyes of a tourist. Enjoy some of the best guided tour packages, including Kuala Lumpur’s Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket, Langkawi Skybridge Tour, and Penang Round Island Tour, just to name a few.
From
the city landscapes of Kuala Lumpur to the rainforests of Borneo, you’ll find a
tour that will take you on an epic journey through Malaysia.
4. Explore the islands
Malaysia
is known for some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Check out some of
our recommend Island experiences here: (Link to Top 5 Most Beautiful Islands In Malaysia post)[1]
5. Visit historical sites
Malaysia’s deep history is rooted in some the country’s most extravagant landmarks and buildings. To really experience Malaysia’s rich heritage and fascinating history, these historical attractions are a must see for families across the world:
• St. Paul’s Church
• Kek Lok Si Temple
• Cameron Bharat Tea Estate
• Malacca Sultanate Palace
• Sri Mahamariamman Temple
6. Enjoy the national parks
Malaysia is home to some of the world’s most expansive and biodiverse hotspots. Enjoy a day trip or a weekend away with your family in Malaysia’s most popular national parks:
• Taman Negra National Park
• Penang National Park
• Runku Abdul Rahman National Park
• Gunung Gading National Park
• Gunung Mulu National Park
7. Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Aside from the endless options of tropical beaches, national parks, and historical sites, Malaysia also provides a fun theme park destination in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.
With
over 80 attractions including water slides, a wave pool, a surf beach, and a revolving
pirate ship, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park is a fun day for the whole family!
8. Fly a Wau in Kelantan.
The
Kelantan International Wau Festival is a 5-day event held on Gating Beach,
Tumpat in late May or early June. ‘Wau Puyuh’ are large traditional kites flown
during this annual festival and it’s surely a sight to see!
9. Explore the Batu caves
One
of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular tourist attractions, the Batu Caves, is a
limestone hill thought to be about 400 million years old. The cave is one of
the most famous Hindu shrines and the temple is considered an important
religious landmark. This beautiful attraction is a must-see for visitors and
residents alike.
10. Get certified
Certified to dive, we mean! With some of the most vibrant and thriving underwater life, it’s no wonder that diving has become one of the most popular activities to do in Malaysia.
The country has such immaculate islands that can only truly be explored on land and below the surface. It would be a great loss to live in Malaysia and not explore the beautiful underwater world that it has to offer.
Big Ocean Dives has PADI certification available for the whole family. Learn to dive in a safe and encouraging environment and be closer to exploring mysterious shipwrecks, witnessing a manta ray swim in front of you, and swimming alongside a school of fish.
