Malaysia is a nation characterised by intriguing contrasts. It is a complex combination of various cultures, diverse landscapes and architectural styles. Chinese joss houses, Hindu temples and gold-domed mosques exist alongside state-of-the-art skyscrapers and contemporary business complexes. The land itself is divided into two parts by the South China Sea. Peninsula Malaysia (West Malaysia) boasts vast bustling cities, stately colonial architecture, misty tea plantations and tranquil islands. Malaysian Borneo (East Malaysia) features lush jungles brimming with exotic animal and plant life, towering granite peaks and even some remote indigenous tribes. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a range of adventurous activities including hiking through some of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, scuba diving in some of the world’s most renowned dive sites, or white water rafting in one of the nation’s numerous exquisite national parks. Alternatively spend your days exploring the supercharged capital, Kuala Lumpur, with its pockets of rainforest interspersed between towering high rise buildings or simply relax under palm tree-lined beached.
Dotting the Sulu Sea in Malaysia, the Turtle Islands National Park, also known as Pulau Penyu National Park, encompasses the islands of Gulisan, Little Bakkungan and Selingan, home to the park's headquarters. It also includes the magical coral reefs scattered in the ocean. As its name would suggest, Tuttle Islands National Park is a haven for turtles, such as the endangered green turtle and hawksbill turtle, to nest on unspoiled beaches. This unique tourist destination provides sightseers who spend the night on Selingan, the chance to view the incredible spectacle of these marine creatures laying their eggs in the sand, which happens almost every night of the year. They are also able to oversee a turtle hatchling release. A true tropical paradise, the island's pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing, while its inviting azure waters offer swimming, diving and snorkelling opportunities.
An impressive landmark on the map of Malaysian Borneo, Kinabatanagan River meanders for 560 kilometres from its source in southwestern Sabah in the soaring Crocker Range to its vast river mouth at the Sulu Sea. It is the longest river in the incredibly scenic state of Sabah and provides a rich ecosystem for a host of wildlife. A boat cruise down the river is the best way to explore the region’s lush rainforests, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife, with both day trips and overnight water-based safaris offered to visitors. Regularly sighted wildlife includes proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, macaques hornbills, Irrawaddy dolphins, owls, civets and if you’re lucky – the endangered Borneo pygmy elephant.
