Just a stone’s throw from Singapore, these southern regions of Malaysia hold many exciting treasures to uncover
Do you know where to go for the best sambal prawns in Malaysia? Or which states hold exciting festivals around the year? You may be surprised to find out how close to Singapore these Malaysian gems are!
Just a short trip beyond the Causeway can take you to Johor, Melaka and Negeri Sembilan. These states are located on the southern tip of Malaysia, and each of them boasts unique specialties that can be enjoyed by all.
Johor’s modern luxuries
Lying closest to the Causeway is the state of Johor, which receives many visitors from Singapore and the rest of Asia. However, not many know everything about the best that Johor has to offer.
The state’s newest addition, Legoland Malaysia, is the first of its kind in the whole of Asia. Its main attraction is Miniland, which features miniature Lego replicas of Asia’s popular landmarks – made out of 30 million Lego bricks!
Johor is also home to the first Hello Kitty theme park outside Japan. A big draw with kids and adults, Sanrio Hello Kitty Town includes the bright and cheery Kitty House, an iconic mansion stocked top to bottom with all things Hello Kitty.
But Johor’s offerings encompass more than just fun theme parks. Shoppers find their calling at the Johor Premium Outlet, Asia’s very first luxury brand outlet. Danga Bay is another place to be – this belt of high-end retail and fine dining comes packaged with all the glitz and glamour of modern indulgence.
Meanwhile, nature lovers can head to the Endau-Rompin National Park, where lush greenery and diverse species of animals stretch throughout a whopping 80,000 hectares.
Food-hunters can turn to a favourite local dish, “Laksa Johor”. It’s a sumptuous mix of spaghetti and curried fish paste gravy, guaranteed to keep you coming back for another bowl, and another, and another!
The magic of Melaka
Named after an Indian gooseberry tree, Melaka is a cultural hub known for its eclectic blend of Eastern and Western traditions. When the Portuguese took over in 1511, many Western food, festivals, and practices were infused into Melaka’s existing Asian culture, creating an exciting and flamboyant mix.
Look out for the iconic red Stadthuys in the Dutch Square and the A Famosa Fort buildings, which are remnants of the city’s colonial heyday.
Visitors absolutely must give Melaka’s food a try as well. Most notable are the Peranakan dishes “Sambal Petai Prawn” – a spicy chilli dish – and “Tempoyak Omelette”, a savoury mix of eggs and durian.
Travel here in June to enjoy the extravagant San Juang and San Pedro’s Fiesta, when fishing boats are beautifully decorated and spicy “Curry Devil” is served. Or attend the Intrudo Festival, held before Lent, to witness the ritual cleansing conducted by the settlers.
Beach retreats in Negeri Sembilan
You don’t have to travel across the globe for a beautiful resort getaway. Negeri Sembilan, meaning “Land of Nine States”, boasts 18km of glorious white-sand beaches and sparkling shores.
This stretch is located in the town of Port Dickson. The names of its beaches are highly indicative of just how gorgeous they are; “Blue Lagoon” and “Light Beach State” are just some examples to be seduced by.
As with all Malaysian states, you don’t want to pass up the fabulous bites in Negeri Sembilan! The locals love their food hot and spicy, with the most famous dish being “Masak Lemak”. It’s a thick, creamy gravy made with turmeric, coconut milk, and chilli, and poured generously over rice.
Malaysia is a giant peninsular with many attractions tucked away in every nook and cranny – and these are just three states in the southern region! Plan your vacation across the Causeway, and discover the best of what Malaysia has to offer.
For more information or enquiries, please contact Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Secretariat at +6010388917000, or log on to www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my
ADVERTISEMENTS