Things to do in Malaysia

Summit the highest peak in Southeast Asia, ascending through misty cloud forests at dawn for breathtaking Borneo panoramas.

Venture into the vast Deer Cave and Lang's Cave, watching millions of bats spiral out at dusk in Gunung Mulu National Park.

Plunge into crystal-clear waters off Sipadan, one of the world's top dive sites, encountering swirling barracuda and hawksbill turtles.

Watch rescued orangutans swing through the forest during feeding time, a heartwarming window into Borneo's wildlife conservation.

Stroll across this curved cable-stayed bridge high above Gunung Mat Cincang, with sweeping views of rainforest-clad islands and turquoise sea.

Hike beneath towering dipterocarps in one of the world's oldest rainforests, crossing the world's longest canopy walkway suspended 40m above the ground.

Wander through emerald-green tea bushes at Sungei Palas Boh Estate, breathing cool highland air and tasting fresh-brewed tea overlooking rolling hills.

Unwind on the powdery white sands of Long Beach, snorkelling straight from shore over coral gardens in water as clear as a swimming pool.

Float above vibrant reefs in the marine park, spotting clownfish, reef sharks and, if lucky, the resident green turtles of Pasir Panjang.

Savour smoke-kissed satay, char kway teow and grilled stingray amid the neon-lit bustle of Kuala Lumpur's most famous food street.

Dig into char koay teow, rojak and cendol at the seafront hawker centre, the epicentre of Penang's legendary culinary scene.

Slurp the iconic sweet-sour fish noodle soup at its birthplace, a humble Penang market stall surrounded by the scent of fresh spices and shrimp paste.

Relish the country's unofficial national dish at this Petaling Jaya institution, where fragrant coconut rice comes with a perfectly fried chicken leg.

Join the enthusiastic crowds in Petaling Jaya during durian season, cracking open Musang King and D24 cultivars straight from the back of a lorry.

Ascend the rainbow-coloured 272 steps to this Hindu shrine, where golden statues and ancient limestone chambers create an otherworldly atmosphere.

Wander the UNESCO-listed old town hunting for whimsical wrought-iron caricatures and Ernest Zacharevic's famous murals, with history peeking from every shophouse.

Marvel at Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temple, especially during Chinese New Year when thousands of lanterns transform the hillside into a glowing mosaic.

Step into authentic longhouses and watch blowpipe demonstrations at this living museum that showcases the traditions of Sarawak's diverse indigenous groups.

Immerse yourself in a month-long celebration of arts, music and theatre that transforms Penang's heritage streets into a vibrant stage every July.

Gaze at the terracotta-red Stadthuys and Christ Church, snap selfies by the Queen Victoria Fountain, and feel the layers of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial history.

Touch the weathered stones of Porta de Santiago, the only remnant of a 16th-century Portuguese fortress, standing silent amid Melaka’s lively streets.

Step into a meticulously restored Baba-Nyonya home filled with antique furniture, intricate woodwork and glittering heirlooms that tell the story of Straits Chinese culture.

Roam the abandoned fort-turned-museum on Batu Maung hill, exploring dark tunnels, barracks and pillboxes that recall the island's wartime defence.

Stand beneath the shimmering 452m towers, stroll across the wading pool bridge, and catch the synchronised evening light show reflected in the lake.

Plunge into Kuala Lumpur's premier shopping and entertainment belt, where mega malls, speakeasies and alfresco cafes hum late into the night.