7 Most Beautiful Regions in Malaysia, it is a nation divided into two distinct regions. On the western side lies Peninsular Malaysia, while on the eastern side is East Malaysia, encompassing Northern Borneo. Nestled near the equator, Malaysia experiences a hot and humid climate, with an average year-round temperature of 27°C. This tropical weather creates an ideal habitat for lush rainforests, which cover a significant portion of the country, accounting for 60% of its land area.
Malaysia’s landscape is a unique blend of peninsula and island, with its natural beauty shaped by the surrounding coastlines and beaches. From the low-lying coastal areas, the terrain gradually ascends into verdant highlands and then into rugged mountains, creating an ideal harmony between the tropical ocean and the thrilling jungle expeditions.
Peninsular Malaysia
Covering approximately 40% of Malaysia’s total land area, this region borders Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south. It boasts a plethora of tropical islands, ancient cities, and renowned natural wonders that are sure to captivate any traveler.
Johor is one of the 7 Most Beautiful Regions in Malaysia
Johor, the southernmost state of Peninsular Malaysia, may not be a popular tourist destination, but it certainly has a lot to offer beyond its capital city, Johor Bahru. The region boasts of the stunning highland rainforest of Gunung Pulai, which is perfect for hiking and exploring beautiful waterfalls. Another rainforest area worth visiting is Gunung Panti, which is just an hour away from Johor Bahru and offers panoramic views, dramatic scenery, and the chance to spot exotic wildlife.
While Johor Bahru is known for its shopping, it also has some Victorian-era architecture, such as the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, amidst the towering skyscrapers. For nature lovers, a cruise along the Johor River after sunset is a must-do activity as it reveals the magical glitter of fireflies along the banks.
Moving on to East Malaysia, the northern part of Borneo is a treasure trove of adventure and life with its dense rainforests and diverse indigenous ethnic groups. Visitors can expect to see high-rise hills, Chinese-influenced cities, and coastal plains.
Sabah
Located on the northernmost tip of Borneo, Sabah is home to Southeast Asia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu, which is surrounded by lush jungle and lends its name to the region’s capital, Kota Kinabalu. With over 6,000 species of plants, Sabah is a nature lover’s paradise. Despite its towering height of 4,095 meters above sea level, scaling Mount Kinabalu does not require any mountaineering experience.
Sabah is also renowned for its orangutans, and visitors can catch a glimpse of these endangered creatures at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre or by trekking through the jungles. Meanwhile, the Sipadan Islands in the Celebes Sea offer world-class dive spots with excellent visibility and a plethora of marine life. One of the most famous beaches here features a 600-meter drop-off, providing an unforgettable diving experience.
Sarawak[SEE MAP]
Rewritten: Sarawak, located south of Sabah, is a hidden gem of Malaysia’s rainforests. The state boasts numerous national parks, some of which are easily accessible from its capital and travel hub, Kucing. This city is renowned for its blend of indigenous cultures, a sizable Chinatown, and historic structures.
Bako National Park offers plenty of trekking opportunities in a well-marked jungle, the possibility of spotting rare proboscis monkeys, and even night walks with local guides to observe oversized creepy-crawlies. Kubah National Park is also a convenient day trip from Kucing, where you can catch a glimpse of exotic birdlife such as yellow-rumped flowerpeckers and black hornbills. Gunung Mulu National Park is another must-visit destination, complete with an extensive limestone cave system.
As Borneo is home to orangutans, there are several ways to encounter them in Sarawak. One such place is the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, where you can witness semi-wild orangutans swinging through trees to reach their lunch during feeding time and listen to an interesting talk.
Kuala Lumpur & Around
Kuala Lumpur, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic Petronas Towers and modern shopping centers, offers a captivating blend of diverse cultures and architectural styles. However, amidst the urban sprawl, there are also breathtaking natural landscapes waiting to be explored.
Just north of the city lies Batu Caves, a remarkable Hindu temple and shrine nestled within a network of caves and tunnels in a limestone hill. A visit to this site promises an intriguing experience, but be cautious of mischievous monkeys! For a closer-to-home escape, the Perdana Botanical Garden is a vast public park established in the 1880s. It provides an ideal setting to mingle with locals while leisurely strolling along its numerous paths adorned with lakes and tropical flora.
Venturing further from the city center, you will discover the awe-inspiring Bukit Lagong on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. This nature reserve boasts elevated walkways that traverse through the treetops, offering glimpses of magnificent birdlife. Along the river, you will find ample picnic spots, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
West Coast
The region of West Coast Malaysia is a must-visit for those who are interested in culture and food. From Langkawi in the north to Malacca in the south and beyond, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the Peranakan culture. While the East Coast may be more well-known for its beaches, the West Coast still boasts beautiful stretches of sand, such as the stunning beaches of Langkawi Island and the twin islands of Pulau Pangkor Laut. Additionally, the Cameron Highlands offer a lush and picturesque escape with tea terraces, colonial bungalows, forests, and waterfalls. The West Coast of Malaysia truly has something for everyone, whether you’re a nature lover or a culture enthusiast.
East Coast
If you have a fondness for beach getaways, then the Malaysian East Coast is the perfect region for you. This area, which faces the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea, is filled with fishing villages, Muslim communities, bustling night markets, and captivating offshore islands.
One of the highlights of this region is the Perhentian Islands. While Perhentian Besar offers more development, Perhentian Kecil is home to affordable dive schools and budget-friendly beach huts. Just a short distance southeast of the Perhentians lies Pulau Redang, a paradise with crystal-clear waters and powdery beaches. For diving enthusiasts, Pulau Tenggol is the ultimate destination. The Terengganu Marine Park surrounding the island is teeming with schools of fish, turtles, and even whale sharks. And let’s not forget about Tioman Island, a hidden gem known for its lush jungle surroundings, vibrant coral reefs, and excellent hiking trails.
Beyond its stunning tropical islands, the East Coast also offers remarkable attractions such as the expansive Taman Negara. This ancient forest, which has been around for hundreds of millions of years, features canopy walkways that allow you to immerse yourself in its beauty. In the northern part of the region lies Kelantan, with its unique architecture, well-preserved royal buildings, and the oldest surviving mosque in Malaysia, the 18th-century Kampung Laut Mosque.
