Issue 2 - Tourism Malaysia Official Corporate Website

VOL 23 ISSUE NO.2 (TRADE CIRCULATION) A BI-MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF TOURISM MALAYSIA ISSN 0128-1348

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF NATIONHOOD 

CONTENTS 

Tourism Malaysia 

17th Floor, Menara Dato’ Onn 

Putra World Trade Centre 

45, Jalan Tun Ismail 

50480 Kuala Lumpur 

MALAYSIA 

Tel : 603-2615 8188 

Fax : 603-2693 5884 

Email : enquiries@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my 

Tourism Infoline : 1-300-88-5050 

The Visit Malaysia Year logo design 

is a stylised illustration of the hibiscus 

or Bunga Raya, Malaysia's national 

flower. The logo carries the slogan 

'Celebrating 50 Years of Nationhood' 

to highlight the golden anniversary of 

the country's independence. It carries 

with it the idea of self-governance 

and freedom. 

PUBLISHER 

TOURISM MALAYSIA 

EDITORIAL 

Editorial Advisor 

YBhg. Dato' Mirza Mohammad Taiyab 

mirza@tourism.gov.my 

SENIOR EDITOR 

MAZITA JOHARI 

mazita@tourism.gov.my 

WRITERS 

RITZERAYNN RASHID, ANIS ROZALINA, 

DARYL YEP, SHARON WONG, 

SITI RAHMAH LEHAN, RASIDAH SALLEH 

PUBLISHING CONSULTANT 

CREATIVE ADVANCES TECHNOLOGY 

SDN. BHD. 

Tel: 603-8996 8996 

Fax: 603-8996 8997 

Email: info@cat.com.my 

Chief Executive Officer 

ROHIZAM MD YUSOFF 

Graphic Designers 

EDWARD WOO, ROZLIYANA HAMDAN, 

ABDUL RAHIM JOHAR 

Colour Separation 

SPECTRUM PRODUCTION HOUSE (M) 

SDN. BHD. 

Printing 

HARIAN (ZULFADZLI) SDN. BHD. 

Distribution 

HARUN PILUS 

Tourism Malaysia Distribution Centre 

Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur 

MALAYSIA TOURISM NEWS is published 

six times a year by the Advertising & 

Publicity Division, Tourism Malaysia. The 

magazine highlights news and product 

updates in the travel trade industry. 

MESSAGE 

Minister of Tourism, Malaysia 

FEATURES 

Malaysia My Second Home 

UPDATES 

Top Five Homestays 

EVENTS 

Colours and Flavours of Malaysia 

Labuan International Sea Challenge Malaysia 

Gawai Dayak 

All Things Musical 

11th International Malay Archipelago 

Drums Festival 

Regatta Lepa Semporna 

SHOPPING 

Kota Baru Mall wins awards 

Malaysia GP Sale 

DESTINATIONS 

Kilim Geoforest Park 

HOTELS 

Lake Kenyir Resort Renovated 

Royale Bintang Takes Over Royal Adelphi 

in Seremban 

JapaMala Resort Tioman Island 

Majestic Hotel, Melaka 

Pangkor Laut Upgraded 

Shangri La Penang wins award 

PRODUCTS 

Islamic Civilisation Park, Terengganu 

Sedim tree top walk, Kedah 

Kelantan’s Cultural Centre 

NEWS 

1 

2-3 

4-5 

6-8 

9 

10-11 

12-13 

14-15 

16-17 

All images and articles are copyright of 

Tourism Malaysia and reproduction in 

part or whole, whether in electronic or 

any other form is strictly prohibited 

without prior written consent from the 

publisher. 

TRANSPORTATION 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

TOURISM OFFICES 

18-19 

20 

21 

Cover Photo : 

Kilim Geoforest Park, 

Langkawi 

Whilst every reasonable care is taken to 

ensure the accuracy of the contents of 

MALAYSIA TOURISM NEWS, they are 

without any warranty, guaranty or other 

guarantee. No one shall be entitled to 

claim detrimental reliance on views and 

statements published or to claim the 

need to update materials and the use of 

care to protect the interest of readers. 

Tourism Malaysia accepts no 

responsibility in the event that any 

reliance is made on the articles. 

MALAYSIA TOURISM NEWS is distributed 

to Tourism Malaysia offices worldwide. 

ISSN 0128-1348 

For enquiries or free subscription, please 

refer to: 

Director 

Advertising & Publicity Division 


25th Floor, Menara Dato’ Onn 

Putra World Trade Centre 

45 Jalan Tun Ismail 

50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 

Tel : 603-2615 8188 

Fax : 603-2692 4563 

Email : enquiries@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.tourism.gov.my 

VOL 

23 

ISSUE 

NO. 

2

MINISTER’S 

MESSAGE 

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF NATIONHOOD 1 

Selamat Datang! 

As the incoming Minister of 

Tourism, I am pleased to have this 

platform to reach out to our readers, 

both local and international, who 

are involved in the tourism industry 

in various ways. 

I am honoured to take over the 

tourism portfolio from my 

predecessor, Datuk Seri Tengku 

Adnan Tengku Mansor, for whom I 

have high regards for his efforts in 

promoting Malaysia as a top tourist 

destination during his tenure in the 

ministry. He has laid the ground for 

the tourism industry in Malaysia to 

flourish, and I am committed to 

continue the work that has to be 

done to take Malaysia to greater 

heights. 

The tourism industry is an exciting 

and challenging arena. Besides the 

allure of Malaysia’s cultural, 

historical, natural, and man-made 

attractions, it is the kind and 

generous Malaysian hospitality that 

really keeps tourists coming back for 

more. As such, it is imperative that 

our tourism services be impeccable. 

Other issues of concern are the 

conservation of ecotourism 

attractions and the distribution of 

tourism benefits to the local 

communities. 

In this spirit, I look forward to 

working closely with key industry 

players in Malaysia such as the 

Malaysian Association of Tour and 

Travel Agents (MATTA), the 

Malaysian Association of Hotels 

(MAH), the Malaysian Association of 

Hotel Owners (MAHO), the Tourist 

Guides' Council (MTGC), taxi 

associations and others. I also wish 

to have closer relations with the 

international tourism industry. 

With the concerted efforts of 

everyone, I am confident that we can 

build a stronger tourism industry for 

Malaysia, and make Malaysia a top 

tourist destination for many years to 

come. 

With that, I hope to have the 

cooperation and support from 

everyone involved in the tourism 

industry. 

Thank you. 

The Time Is Now 

The Place is Malaysia 

Malaysia Welcomes The World 

Malaysia Truly Asia 

Malaysia the Heart of Asia 

Dato’ Sri Azalina Dato’ Othman Said 

Minister of Tourism, Malaysia

2 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF NATIONHOOD 

FEATURES 

LIFE OF AN EXPAT IN MALAYSIA 

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) is fast becoming one of the most well accepted programmes in Malaysia. Raymond Keys and his family agrees and 

shares… 

After repeated visits to Malaysia, Raymond 

Keys, wife and two children finally decided 

to build their lives here. Since then it has 

been a great journey of discovery for them 

as they experienced the diversity of 

Malaysian culture. Though there was plenty 

about Malaysia to like, what really hooked 

them to stay on were the warm climate, the 

vast selection of excellent cuisine, friendly 

and approachable people, and reasonable 

cost of living. 

Raymond Keys, wife and children 

The most common questions potential 

candidates have about the programme 

concern the aspects of living in Malaysia, i.e. 

cost of living, education choices, and 

property investment. Agents such as The 

Expat Group are just one of many who 

provide not only answers to those interested 

in the programme, but support and 

Their love for traveling has taken them to 

various parts of Melaka and Penang, two 

states that have never failed to mesmerize 

them time and again. When she is not 

traveling with her family, Mrs. Keys keeps 

herself busy by attending to her two boys 

and getting involved in the Parent Teacher 

Association (PTA) at the school her boys are 

enrolled in. Additionally she works with 

animal shelters to provide a kind of 

“halfway house” for abandoned pets before 

they are adopted into good homes. 

The children, too, fit in very well, attending 

the Alice Smith School at Equine Park, an 

international school with a good reputation 

in South East Asia. 

The Keys truly immerse themselves in the 

Malaysian way of life. They love attending the 

cultural events held year-round in Malaysia 

and enjoy the variety of food available in 

Malaysia. 

The Keys are just one of more than 10,000 

participants under the Malaysia My Second 

Home programme, a Malaysian government 

initiative to encourage foreigners to stay 

longer in Malaysia via a multiple-entry visa. 

Keys with local children at Dec 2007 Bash 

Enjoying a stay at the 

Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang 

Visiting Fort Cornwallis, Penang 

Mr. and Mrs. Keys

FEATURES 


The Keys on holiday 

by the beach at Awana Kijal 

The Keys at a Malaysian wedding reception 

Mr. and Mrs. Keys 

assistance in the application process which 

includes arranging for medical check ups, 

getting insurance coverage and opening 

fixed deposit accounts at local banks. Most 

agents also offer help with transportation, 

driving license and living arrangements. 

Those interested to know more about this 

programme, can log on to 

http://www.mm2h.gov.my/ where there is 

a list of 166 Government-approved agents 

to handle the application procedures. The 

website also has information about the 

incentives and requirements of the 

programme. It also features the experience 

of current participants of the programme 

who hail from countries such as the UK and 

Japan. 

Happy Family 

Golfing at Ayer Keroh, Melaka 

Little Keys ascending Mt Santubong, Kuching


UPDATES 

TOP FIVE HOMESTAYS 

Experience authentic Malaysian culture and enjoy the warm hospitality of a Malaysian host family in the Homestay Programme. 

Kampung Pelegong, 

Negeri Sembilan 

Located about 15km from Seremban, 

Kampung Pelegong offers an authentic 

experience of living in the village. Wake up 

to the crows of roosters greeting a new day, 

breathe in the crisp fresh air and enjoy 

delicious home-cooked kampong fare. 

The residents of this village operate small 

cottage industries producing fine handicrafts 

and traditional snacks. Visitors can enjoy 

various outdoor activities such as jungle 

trekking, fishing, picnicking by the waterfalls 

and swimming in the rivers. 

Kampung Pelegong 

71900 Labu, Negeri Sembilan 

Tel : +606-791 1044 

H/p : +6012-6077941 

Fax : +606-791 1044 

Located in the district of Bandar Baharu, 

Relau Village is a small traditional Malay 

rural township in the southern-most part of 

Kedah Darul Aman. 

Guests can take part in traditional Malay 

sports and games such as sepak raga, silat, 

congkak, gasing and kite flying. 

Also take the opportunity to explore 

Kampung Relau, 

Kedah 

Sungai Kerian by boat for some sightseeing 

or fishing. Jungle trekking, canoeing and wall 

climbing activities can also be arranged. 

Relau Homestay Association 

Lot 1064 Sri Impian Relau, 

Kedah 

Tel : +604-585 5858 ( Office ) 

+604-582 4122 ( House ) 

Kampung Pantai Suri, 

Kelantan 

Located on an island along the Kelantan 

River near Tumpat, the village exudes a rustic 

charm with wooden homes on stilts, fishing 

boats moored by the riverbank, and palm 

trees swaying in the wind. 

Life in this traditional fishing village is 

peaceful and laidback. There are hardly any 

motorized vehicles on the island. The only 

means of transportation around the island is 

by bicycle or on foot. Boats are used by the 

villagers to reach neighbouring islands and 

the mainland. 

A typical homestay experience here would 

include an elaborate welcome ceremony for 

large groups. Dressed in their best clothes, 

the villagers greet visitors at the pier, bearing 

flowers and gifts, akin to a typical traditional 

Malay wedding procession. 

The Kampung Pantai Suri homestay 

programme is a unique chance for tourists to 

know the Kelantan people and learn about 

their culture and lifestyle in a safe, 

comfortable and friendly environment. 

Kampung Pantai Suri 

Jalan Hilir Pasir, 16800 Tumpat, Kelantan 

Tel : +606-725 7246 

Fax : +606-725 7246

UPDATES 


Kampung Sungai Pasu, 

Pahang 

Sungai Pasu is located in the district of Raub 

and is one of the most beautiful villages in 

Pahang. Situated about 13km from Raub 

town, Kampung Sungai Pasu has a natural 

lake, lush jungles and freshwater fish pond. 

Guests at this homestay can take part in 

traditional games, surf the rapids, try their 

hand at farming, visit rubber plantations and 

savour delicious local cuisines. 

Homestay Kg. Sungai Pasu 

Raub, Pahang 

Tel : +609-3659672 / 355 5900 

H/p : +6013-2595410 

Kampung Mengkuang Titi, Penang 

Located about 25 km from Butterworth and 

32 km from Georgetown via the Penang 

Bridge, Kampung Mengkuang Titi had its 

humble beginnings in early 1800's. The 

landscape here is of green paddy fields, 

swaying coconut trees and neat rows of 

rubber and oil palm trees. 

Mengkuang Titi is an old-fashioned village 

consisting of about 70 homes. There is 

indeed much to see and do in the kampung. 

Visit a rubber tree plantation and try a hand 

at rubber tapping and observe how latex is 

processed into rubber sheets. 

Visitors can also visit the oil palm estates for 

an educational experience on this tropical 

palm species and how oil is extracted from its 

fruit. 

Visitors should also look out for the 

mengkuang plants from which the village got 

its name. It is really interesting to see how 

these long sharp, serrated sword-like leaves 

are harvested, and then slowly processed into 

fine colourful strips ready for weaving into 

baskets and mats. 

Kampung Mengkuang Titi 

Penang 

Tel : +604-521 1916


EVENTS 

All Things Musical 

By the looks of this year’s events calendar, 

Malaysia seems to be gaining popularity as a 

music festival venue. Throughout the year, 

several music events will take place to 

celebrate the universal language of 

music…and fans from all over the world are 

thronging the venues for an earful! 

Among the first music festivals to kick off the 

year is the Genting International Jazz 

Festival. Held on 4 and 5 April, the event is 

for fans who are looking for a thrilling journey 

into jazz. This year’s performance includes a 

wide variation of jazz such as West Indies, 

New Orleans style, Celtic groove, reggae, 

and Jamaican style. 

Among the performers are Malaysia’s 

Junkofunc, Ben’s Belinga Quartet 

(Cameroon), Neander’s Jazz Band 

(Denmark), Diamond Dave and the 

Doodaddies (Australia), Salsa Celtica 

(Scotland) and Key Elements (Singapore). 

For further details, log on to 

www.gentingjazz.com. 

Expect an equally vibrant and talented lineup 

at the Penang World Music Festival from 2 

to 4 May. 

The bands hail from all corners of the world 

-- France, Reunion Islands, Tibet, Mexico, 

Iran, India, Australia and Malaysia. Performers 

were well received at the inaugural event 

last year. This year’s edition promises to be 

bigger and better as enthusiasts and first 

timers throng the event venue, Quarry 

Garden. 

The Penang World Music Festival aims to 

promote and preserve the unique music and 

cultures of the world. 

The jazz festival has become one of the 

major music events organised by the 

Sarawak Tourism Board to look out for in 

East Malaysia, apart from the Sarawak 

Rainforest World Music Festival that has 

reigned for the past decade. 

For those who have been to last year's 

festivities, word on the street is that this 

year's MIJF has raised the bar in terms of 

organisation, line-up, and the fun-factor. 

Nine bands have confirmed their participation 

in the festival,offering audiences a 

musical journey encompassing classic jazz, 

fusion beat, Latino, Caribbean, Afro- 

Cuban oriental and blues tempo. 

Tickets are available online at 

www.ticketcharge.com.my and at the 

Visitors' Information Centre in Miri. For further 

enquiries, contact the Visitors' Information 

Centre at +60 85 434181 or log on to 

www.mirijazzfestival.com. 

Langkawi, the land of 99 islands, is also 

ready to set your musical senses ablaze with 

the Islanders Music and Dance Festival 

Langkawi from 30 May until 1 June. 

To be held at the beautiful Pantai Tanjung 

Rhu, this inaugural event will see some 20 

teams from islands all over the world, 

including Tonga and Fiji, to showcase their 

diverse culture here. For further details on this 

happening event, call Langkawi Tourism 

Action Council at +604 969 8080. 

The Quarry Garden is located at the far end 

of Jalan Kebun Bunga, and is right next to the 

Botanic Garden. 

For more information on the festival, log on 

to www.penangworldmusicfestival.com. 

Another equally exciting musical show is the 

Miri International Jazz Festival (MIJF) from 

9 to 10 May at The Pavilion, ParkCity Everly 

Hotel, Miri, Sarawak.

EVENTS 


Regatta Lepa 

Semporna 

Every year, the town of Semporna, Sabah, 

celebrates the Water Festival with the Regatta 

Lepa Semporna and this year, the exciting 

event takes place on 19 and 20 April. 

Enjoy the rhythm of various types of drums and 

traditional musical instruments from around the 

region at the 11th International Malay 

Archipelago Drums Festival from 9 to 16 

April at Dataran Pahlawan, Melaka. 

The Regatta Lepa is a colourful event 

celebrated by the Sabah East Coast Bajau 

community to commemorate their long-held 

tradition of building lepas, or sailboats. 

Unlike other regattas, the Regatta Lepa is a 

competition to choose the most attractive 

lepa. The most beautiful traditional sailboat 

This annual festival is brought to you by 24 

cultural troupes specially invited from countries 

such as China, Indonesia, Portugal and many 

more. 

Other music events to look out for in this year 

are the Sarawak Rainforest Music Festival 

and Penang Island Jazz Festival, which will 

take place from 11 to 13 July and 4 to 7 

December respectively. Don’t miss them and 

book the tickets now when you log on to 

www.rainforestmusic-borneo.com and 

www.penangjazz.com. 

Indeed, there is nothing like music to bring 

people of different backgrounds together, 

bridging our differences to create harmony and 

peace. As poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 

once said, “Music is the universal language of 

mankind.” The power of music is such that it is 

able to touch the lives of many, no matter where 

they come from. 

*photo courtesy of Murphy Ng 

will be judged based on the decoration, 

local ethnic music and dances performed on 

board, sambulayang (sails) and tapis-tapis 

(small flags). 

The festival also includes other exciting 

activities such as tug-of-war, kayak race and 

boat racing. 

For more information, call the District Office 

of Semporna at +6089 781 518 / 

+6088 232 121 or log on to 

www.sabahtourism.com


EVENTS 

Colours and Flavours 

of Malaysia 

Labuan International Sea Challenge Malaysia 

Gawai Dayak

SHOPPING 


Malaysia GP Sale 

The Malaysia GP Sale 2008 (MGP), which 

kicked off on 1st March 2008, ran for the 

entire month. To attract the sale madness 

was the sizzling Malaysian F1 Grand Prix 

race, which took place from 21 to 23 March 

2008. 

the extended shopping hours, they were 

delighted with a host of goodies in the form of 

redemption vouchers, contests, lucky draws, 

colourful busking acts and fun entertainment 

shows. 

Held annually in conjunction with the 

world-famous race, the MGP Sale offered 30 

days of attractive sales and promotions. 

Tourists who came to witness the hottest race 

in the region were also treated to bargains 

and discounts at Malaysian malls, especially 

those in the Klang Valley. 

In conjunction with the MGP Sale, over 200 

foreign media from various Asian countries 

who covered the F1 Grand Prix race, 

participated in a Shopping Run competition 

organised by the Shopping Malaysia 

Secretariat. 

Participants were divided into teams of two 

and given a total of RM500 to spend on 

shopping at five participating malls (RM100 

at each mall). Also shoppers were invited to 

drop in at the Bukit Bintang shopping district 

for an exciting ‘Late Night Sale’ shopping 

rendezvous on the same evening. Apart from 

Kota Baru Mall 

wins award 

Located in Kota Baru, the capital of Kelantan, 

Kota Baru (KB) Mall has become a popular 

shopping haven among locals and tourists 

alike. Last year, it clinched the Malaysia 

Property Award 2007 in the Retail 

Development category. 

Wholly owned and managed by Y.S. Tang 

Holdings Sdn Bhd, KB Mall is a joint venture 

project with Perbadanan Kemajuan Iktisad 

Negeri Kelantan (PKINK). 

KB Mall opened its doors in 2004 and has 

since enjoyed a high occupancy rate of 98% 

with an average growth of 7.5% per annum. 

The Mall is strategically located at the junction 

of four main roads: Jalan Hamzah/Sultan 

Ismail/Sultan Yahya Petra/Kuala Kerai and 

transportation is easily available.


DESTINATIONS 


By Rasidah Salleh 

I nearly jumped out of my skin when told that 

the “rock” I was standing on was actually a 

fossil. The image of a pre-historic reptile lying 

dead underneath my feet came to mind, but it 

quickly disappeared when my guide showed 

me exactly what kind of fossil it was – a 

400-million-year-old gastropod, the outline 

of its shell clearly visible though firmly 

embedded on the limestone karsts. 

The fossil concerned can be found on Pulau 

Anak Tikus (Little Mouse Island) which is part 

of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. 

The Park is one of the three geoforest parks 

under the Langkawi Geopark banner, the 

other two being the Machinchang Cambrian 

Geoforest Park and the Dayang Bunting 

Marble Geoforest Park. Langkawi Geopark 

was officially sanctioned by UNESCO on 1 

June 2007, thus making it the 52nd member 

of the Global Network of National Geoparks 

and the first geopark in Southeast Asia. 

Primarily made of limestone, the Kilim 

Geoforest Park is located at the eastern side 

of the main island of Langkawi. The natural 

course of the weather over millions of years 

has resulted in vertical karstic hills with many 

fascinating pinnacles and rock formations of 

various shapes and sizes. Interesting flora 

including orchids, cycads and cacti can be 

found on the hills. 


A visit to Kilim Geoforest Park normally starts 

from the Kilim Jetty and ends at Tanjung Rhu. 

Along the way, visitors can enjoy a beautiful 

view of the thick mangrove forests with 

limestone hills in the backdrop. The 

mangrove is home to wildlife including the 

silvered-leaf monkeys and monitor lizards. It 

serves as breeding grounds to many species 

of fishes and prawns. 

A total of 45 species of birds including 10 

migratory species have been recorded and 

sighted here, with Brahminy Kites and 

white-bellied sea eagles being the most 

prominent ones. 

The Brahminy Kite is easily identified as it has 

distinguished brick-red feathers on its wings, 

back and legs, while the neck and breast are 

white. Juveniles, however, are dark brown 

and might be mistaken for other species. 

Archer fish 

Brahminy Kites 

Commercialized fish 

In fact, the name Langkawi is said to be 

derived from this bird as it is called Lang 

Merah (kawi) or “red eagle” in the local 

language. The Brahminy Kites are scavengers, 

so it is not unusual to see them scouring 

the river for scraps of fish or chicken skin 

thrown away by fishermen. 

Fish farming is an important economic activity 

for the locals here. Among the fish reared

DESTINATIONS 

Bats at Gua Kelawar 

Along Kilim River 

mangrove leading to the cave. Giant 

stalagmites and stalactites form interesting 

figures that feed the minds of imaginative 

individuals. The Crocodile Cave, though 

has been abandoned by the king of the 

river, still evokes an eerie feeling as one’s 

boat slowly glides underneath its uniquely 

shaped ceiling. This cave forms an arch 

across the Kilim River, and is only accessible 

during low tides. 

For more information about Langkawi 

Geopark, please contact: 

include stingrays and groupers. The floating 

restaurants here serve delicious fresh fish, 

prawns and crabs taken straight from the 

cages. Visitors to the fish farm can catch the 

spitting fish (archer fish) in action. The fish 

can spit a stream of water aimed at its 

unsuspecting prey, normally small insects like 

flies. It is capable of accurately shooting a 

steam of water up to 2m in the air! 

Dayang Bunting Island 

Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) 

7th & 8th Floor, LADA Complex, 

P.O.Box 60, Jalan Persiaran Putra, 

07000 Kuah, Langkawi, 

Kedah Darul Aman 

Tel : +604 966 7186 / 7187 

Fax : +604 966 2879 / 7233 

Web : www.lada.gov.my or 

www.langkawigeopark.com.my 

Cave exploration is a common activity at 

Kilim Geoforest Park, as there are many 

interesting caves here. Among them are the 

Bat Cave (Gua Kelawar) and the Crocodile 

Cave (Gua Buaya). 

The Bat Cave, named so for its residents, is 

located near the Kilim Jetty. There is a 

wooden platform that meanders through the 

Crocodile Cave


HOTELS 

JapaMala Resort 

Tioman Island – 

Top 10 Boutique Hotel in Asia 

Royale Bintang takes 

over Royal Adelphi 

in Seremban 

A small resort with the virgin jungle in the 

back and waves dancing at the beachfront 

sounds like heaven on earth. As a matter of 

fact, this paradise awaits visitors at JapaMala 

Resort, a small boutique resort on Tioman 

Island’s more secluded beaches. Its recent 

listing as one of ten best boutique hotels in 

South East Asia by Agoda Company certainly 

attests to its prestige. 

The resort’s exotic Malay and Asian-inspired 

architecture is a wonder – its design takes 

into consideration the existing natural 

elements and structures are built around 

streams, steep cliffs and towering boulders. 

Rooms are equipped with air conditioner, 

fan, hot water shower, mini bar and TV/DVD 

system. The premium villas have added 

luxuries such as an outdoor bath tub and a 

loft with a view of the sea. 

A the resort’s restaurant, Tamarind Terrace, 

guests can enjoy a gastronomic palate of 

comfort food -- fine Thai and Indo-Chinese 

cuisine, as well as a limited variety of 

Western favorites for guests from around the 

world. 

JapaMala Resorts 

Kampung Lanting, 86800 Pulau Tioman, 

Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia 

Tel : +609 419 7777 

Fax : +609 419 7979 

E-mail: reservations@japamalaresorts.com 

Website: www.japamalaresorts.com 

Shangri La Penang wins award 

The award-winning Royale Bintang chain 

of hotels managed by Boustead Hotels and 

Resorts has added a new member to its 

expanding family -- it has taken over the 

operations of the former Royal Adelphi 

Hotel in Seremban. 

Now renamed the Royale Bintang 

Seremban, the 345-room hotel, is located 

in the Lake Gardens of the state capital. 

With its deluxe executive floors, large 

ballroom with a capacity of 2,000 guests 

as well as variety of MICE packages, the 

Royale Bintang Seremban is an ideal 

location for corporate events and staff 

functions. 

Royale Bintang Seremban was officially 

rebranded as a five-star hotel on 22 

February 2008. 

Royale Bintang Hotel Seremban 

Jalan Dato A.S. Dawood, 

70100 Seremban, 

Negeri Sembilan 

Tel : +606 7666 666 

Fax : +606 7666 000 

Room Reservations : +606 7666 999 

The Asean Tourism Council (ATC) presented 

the prestigious Asean Green Hotel Award 

2008 to Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and 

Spa, Penang. 

The resort won based on these criteria – 

environmental policy and actions for hotel 

operation, use of green products, collaboration 

with the community and local organizations, 

human resource development, solid 

waste management, energy and water 

efficiency, indoor and outdoor air quality 

management, noise pollution control, waste 

water treatment management and toxic and 

chemical substance disposal management. 

The award was presented by then Minister of 

Tourism, Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku 

Mansor, at a special awards ceremony in 

Bangkok witnessed by Asean Secretary- 

General Surin Pitsuwan and members of the 

tourism ministries of the 10 Asean countries. 

Organised in conjunction with the Asean 

Tourism Forum in January, the Asean Green 

Hotel Award 2008 also recognized five other 

hotels in Malaysia for their `environmentally 

conscious” policies. 

The Shangri-La group is a founding member 

of the Asia Pacific Environmental Initiative. In 

accordance with the group's environmental 

policy, all Shangri-La and Traders hotels have 

Green Programmes to identify ways of 

reducing wastage, eradicating practices that 

damage the environment and generally 

promoting environmental awareness.

HOTELS 


Majestic Hotel, Melaka 

Pangkor Laut Upgraded 

The Majestic Hotel, Melaka, used to be the 

private residence of a prominent 

businessman. Completed in 1929, it was 

later converted into a hotel in 1953. After a 

major restoration in 2000, the Majestic Hotel 

was opened in 2006 with a new look. 

The hotel underwent a RM30 million 

makeover integrating the old and new. New 

teakwood fittings and leather furniture were 

installed, while the original Portuguese 

porcelain flooring and European roof tiles 

were retained. Authentic artwork and 

antiques can be found throughout the 

building and each room comes with a four 

poster bed and a vintage four-legged 

pedestal bathtub. 

The hotel also houses a Spa Village furnished 

with intricate traditional wood carvings, fine 

porcelain wall tiles and traditional Chinese 

daybeds. Therapies offered here are based 

on the Peranakan traditions which are 

influenced by Chinese and Malay cultures. 

The culinary journey at the Majestic is also 

an adventurous combination of Portuguese, 

Dutch, English and Baba Nyonya cultures 

combined into an exciting menu. 

With influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, 

British and Peranakan and with an 

architectural style that mirrors Melaka’s multi 

faceted colonial past, the 54-room Majestic 

Melaka offers you a truly unique experience. 

Regarded as one of the best resorts in 

Malaysia, Pangkor Laut Resort has been 

upgraded with a new yacht marina and 

reception area. 

There is also an extended beachfront 

stretching from the Sea Villas to the rocky 

outcrop and a nicely designed walkway to 

the reception area where guests are 

greeted with Roselle drinks and a cooling 

face towel. 

Rooms interiors have also been upgraded 

and outdoor furnishings have been 

refreshed, bathroom surfaces refined, and 

living spaces made subtly larger through 

intelligent design. Guests can also surf the 

Internet from five computer stations. Four 

small pavilions furnished with silk cushions 

and bolsters offer a cosy environment for a 

lazy afternoon nap. 

Pangkor Laut has created a variety of 

serenely landscaped pavilions within an 

intimate courtyard setting, offering an ideal 

venue for weddings, ceremonies or an 

intimate diner with friends. There are also 

two smaller self-contained pavilions with its 

own barbeque area surrounded by lush 

greenery and overlooking a large koi pond. 

Private butler service is also made available 

here. 

Another delightful addition since last 

September is the Feast Village. The concept 

is borrowed from the Feast Village at YTL's 

Starhill Gallery in Kuala Lumpur. It offers its 

own unique feast village or culinary 

experiences, replacing the previous Palm 

Grove cafe and Samudra restaurant. This 

integrated dining concept allows guests to 

embark on a culinary tour of the world in one 

multi-faceted environment. 

Not only famous for its white sandy beaches, 

spa village and chalets, the award winning 

resort is set amidst a two million year old 

rainforest. Pangkor Laut is definitely ready to 

host more guests and attract more visitors 

from around the world with its fashionable 

upgrading effort. 

Pangkor Laut Resort 

Pangkor Laut Island, 

32200 Lumut, Perak, Malaysia. 

Tel : +605-699 1100 

Fax : +605-699 1200 

Lake Kenyir Resort Renovated 

Previously known as Kenyir Lake View 

Resort, the lakeside establishment received 

a RM10 million facelift by HICOM 

Properties Sdn Bhd. 

The upgrading and refurbishment exercise 

was carried out in phases from December 

2006 and was completed early this year. 

Some 135 chalets, the main lobby, Tembat 

Restaurant, Jenagor Bar & Lounge, Ulik 

Mayang Spa, Conference Facilities and staff 

hostel were refurbished. 

With the inclusion of Ulik Mayang Spa, the 

resort now has a new outlet offering its guests 

a variety of traditional spa treatments and 

massages. 

Lake Kenyir Resort & Spa 

P.O. Box 32, 21700 Kuala Berang 

Terengganu Darul Iman, Malaysia 

Tel : +609 666 8888 

Fax : +609 666 8343 

E-mail : resort@lakekenyir.com 

Website : www.lakekenyir.com 

The Majestic Malacca 

188 Jalan Bunga Raya, 

75100 Melaka, Malaysia. 

Tel : +606 289 8000 

Fax : +606 289 8080 

Email 

: mmh@ytlhotels.com.my 

Website : www.majesticmalacca.com 

The resort is now being positioned as the 

only international class resort in Lake Kenyir, 

the country’s largest lake spanning 

260,000 hectares. The resort also serves as 

an alternative gateway to Taman Negara 

which straddles Pahang, Terengganu and 

Kelantan.


PRODUCTS 

Sedim Tree Top Walk, Kedah 

TThe 950m-long tree top walk at the Sedim 

River Recreation Park is the longest canopy 

walk in the world. Built within the lowlands 

of Gunung Inas Forest Reserve, the tree top 

walk is an ecotourism attraction for nature 

lovers and provides unique and spectacular 

views of the tropical rainforest. 

If you’re planning to visit Sedim River 

Recreation park by road, from Kuala Lumpur, 

take the North South Highway (PLUS) and exit 

at Seberang Jaya into the Butterworth - Kulim 

Expressway (BKE). Proceed towards Kulim 

Hi-Tech Park and Karangan town. 

The admission cost is RM10.00 for adults 

and RM6.00 for children. Children below 7 

years old enter free of charge. 

Picnicking is also a popular family activity 

here as the recreational park has basic 

infrastructure and facilities such as chalets, 

* Photographs courtesy of Forest Ang, 

www.forestexplorers.com 

changing rooms, public toilets and food 

stalls. Those who are more adventurous 

can try white water rafting along Sungai 

Sedim which offers 17km of non-stop 

rapids graded between one and four. 

Kayaking and canoeing activities can 

also be arranged. The less adventurous 

ones can opt to go birdwatching. 



Visitors can choose to stay at Bintang 

Sedim Villa which offers dormitory 

accommodation. They can 

accommodate up to 120 visitors at any 

one time. The town of Kulim, 30km 

away, also offers basic to 2-star 

accommodation. 



Syarikat Perusahaan 

Azam Travel Sdn Bhd 

Tel : +604 490 1588 

Fax : +604 491 9588 

E-mail : info@treetopwalk.com.my 

Website : www.treetopwalk.com.my

PRODUCTS 


Kelantan’s Cultural Centre 

Located on Jalan Mahmud in Kota Bahru is 

a centre that showcases the cultural heritage 

of Kelantan. Locally known as Gelanggang 

Seni, the cultural centre puts up 

performances for locals and tourists alike. 

Witness traditional performances such as 

shadow puppetry (wayang kulit), Malay 

martial arts (silat), top-spinning (gasing), 

giant kite flying (wau) and musical 

performances. 

Kelantan Tourist Information Centre 

Tel : +609-748 5534 / 

+609-748 3543 

E-mail : tic@kelantan.gov.my 

The centre opens three times a week from 

March until October. You can catch 

performances from 3.30 to 5.30 pm every 

Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Night 

performances are scheduled on 

Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9.00 pm 

until midnight. 

Islamic Civilisation Park, Terengganu 

The Islamic Civilisation Park is the latest 

tourist attraction in Terengganu. It was 

officially opened by the Prime Minister, YAB 

Dato’ Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi on 

3 February 2008. 

Located on Pulau Wan Man (Wan Man 

Island) in Kuala Terengganu, the 23-hectare 

park is part of a project under the East 

Coast Economic Region (ECER) 1 to further 

boost Kuala Terengganu as a waterfront 

city. Combining entertainment and 

education, the Park is expected to attract 

one million visitors during the Visit 

Terengganu Year 2008. 

The Islamic Civilisation Park is divided into 

two zones: the Islamic Civilisation Complex 

and the Public Zone. The Islamic Civilisation 

Complex features the first theme park that 

glorifies the achievements of Islamic 

architecture. When fully completed, the Park 

will feature 21 replicas of Islamic 

monuments and architecture from around 

the world. 

The main attractions of this theme park are 

five interactive monuments, namely 

Malaysia’s National Mosque, the Dome of 

the Rock of Palestine, the Sacred Mosque of 

Saudi Arabia (Masjidil Haram), Al-Hambra 

Citadel of Spain and the Taj Mahal of India. 

At press time, a total of eight replicas have 

been fully completed. They are the Kalyan 

Minaret of Uzbekistan, Abu Nasr Shrine of 

Afghanistan, Samarra Winding Minaret of 

Iraq, Mohd Ali Mosque of Cairo, Qairawan 

Great Mosque of Tunisia, Agadez Great 

Mosque of Nigeria, Aleppo Citadel of Syria, 

Kul Syarif Mosque of Russia and Minaret of 

Xian, China. 

However, only six replicas are available for 

distance viewing, which are the National 

Mosque of Malaysia, Kudus Minar Mosque 

of Indonesia, Pattani Central Mosque of 

Thailand, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque 

of Brunei, Taj Mahal of India and Minaret of 

Xian, China. All the other replicas are 

scheduled to be completed and available for 

viewing in April 2008. 

Meanwhile, the Public Zone houses the 

impressive Crystal Mosque – icon for the 

Islamic Civilisation Park and a new landmark 

for Kuala Terengganu. The unique mosque 

made of crystal shine glass and steel was 

officially opened by His Majesty Seri Paduka 

Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan 

Zainal Abidin on 8 February 2008. 

How to get there: 

Apart from the available taxi services 

from the city centre to the park, visitors 

can also take the “Penambang” boat or 

a cruise boat from the Shahbandar Jetty 

to Tok Ku Paloh Jetty located in the park 

itself. 

For more information, please contact 

Ms Khairunnisa Gan, Sales Manager at: 

Islamic Civilization Park 

Pulau Wan Man, Losong Panglima 

Perang 

21000 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu 

Tel : +609 627 8888 

Fax : +609 630 9020 

E-mail : khairunnisa@tti.com.my 

Website : www.tti.com.my


NEWS 

A Bright New 

Beginning 

A total of 1,742,468 tourists visited 

Malaysia in February 2008, an increase of 

5.5% compared to the same month in 

2007. 

Cumulatively, tourist arrivals recorded from 

January to February 2008 were 3,522,602, 

representing an increase of 4.4% 

compared to 3,373,790 for the same 

period in 2007. 

Singapore maintained its position as the 

biggest tourist generating market for 

Malaysia with 877,078 Singaporeans 

visiting the country in February 2008. 

Others in the top ten list are Indonesia 

(145,462), Thailand (126,451), China 

(99,599), Brunei (67,181), India (38,664), 

Japan (37,395), United Kingdom (33,438), 

Australia (28,443) and the Philippines 

(27,759). 

Most major markets also recorded double 

digit growth in the month of February 

2008. They are Australia (40.4%), South 

Korea (33.2%), United Kingdom (32.0%), 

China (31.5%), India (31.2%), Indonesia 

(26.0%) and Japan (23.1%). 

The top ten tourist generating markets from 

January to February 2008 were Singapore 

(1,738,093), Indonesia (325,310), 

Thailand (235,181), China (172,832), 

Brunei (144,729), India (77,058), Japan 

(71,641), Australia (67,311), United 

Kingdom (62,162) and South Korea 

(52,819). 

For more information, please log on to 

Tourism Malaysia’s online Media Centre 

at 

http://www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my/touris 

mbiz/media_centre/ and click on “Facts 

and Figures.” 

Malaysia: Voted Best 

International Tourism 

Destination 

For the second time in a row, Malaysia 

was voted the Best International Tourism 

Destination by Global Traveler magazine 

beating other competitors including Italy, 

Spain, Thailand and United Kingdom. 

Global Traveler magazine conducted the 

fourth annual survey of its readers from 1 

February to 31 August 2007, with 

open-ended questions for the best in 49 

categories of business and luxury travel. A 

total of 15,828 completed questionnaires 

were received. 

The results came as no surprise, as 

Malaysia not only offers excellent nature, 

island and city vacations, but is at the 

same time a value-for-money destination. 

Reisereport 2008, a service website for 

luxury trips at budget prices, made a cost 

comparison between Malaysia and Italy. It 

showed that tourists often paid less than 

100 Euro per night for the best hotel in 

Kuala Lumpur, while in Rome, they would 

have to fork out 500 Euro or more for the 

same. 

Mrs. Ivana Trump from the Leukemia and 

Lymphoma Society (LLS) presented the 

awards in New York on 16 January 2008. 

Tourism Malaysia’s Deputy Director 

General, Datin Dalilah Ahmad, received 

the award on behalf of Tourism 

Malaysia. 

Malaysia Bagged 

ASEANTA Awards 

Tourism Malaysia received the ASEAN 

Tourism Association (ASEANTA) Award for 

Excellence in Tourism 2008 during the 

opening ceremony of the 27th ASEAN 

Tourism. 

Malaysia won for the Best ASEAN 

Marketing and Promotional Campaign for 

its highly acclaimed “The Time Is Now, The 

Place Is Malaysia” campaign. 

The organiser presented five awards at the 

ceremony, which included Best ASEAN 

Travel Article, Best ASEAN Poster, Best 

ASEAN New Tourist Attraction, and Best 

ASEAN Airline Programme. 

The ASEANTA Awards for Excellence in 

Tourism is granted to organisations and 

individuals who have excelled in their 

contribution to the development and 

promotion of tourism in ASEAN.

NEWS 


Malaysia: 2nd Most 

Competitive Country in 

Global Tourism 

Out of a total of 124 countries surveyed by 

Geneva-based World Economic Forum (WEF), 

Malaysia emerged as the second most price 

competitive country in the world in the travel 

and tourism industry. 

Malaysia's participation at travel and tourism 

fairs ranked the country at sixth position, which 

reflected the government's strong commitment 

to promote the industry. 

The WEF's Travel and Tourism 

Competitiveness Report 2007 (TTCR) also 

applauded the government's high priority to the 

industry as well as Malaysia's good road, 

railroad, airport and port infrastructure, and its 

domestic travel network. 

It hailed Malaysia's good ground transport 

infrastructure and excellent price 

competitiveness in very low ticket taxes and 

airport charges, low comparative fuel prices 

and favourable tax regime. 

Malaysia was also perceived as safe for 

tourists (24th overall) and in terms of the 

reliability of police services, the country was 

ranked 19th, on par with the United 

Kingdom. As for the stringency of 

environmental regulations, Malaysia ranked 

25th and was 23rd in terms of clarity and 

stability of environmental regulations. 

On another note, Malaysia was ranked 

relatively high by the WEF in terms of the 

quality of its educational system which met 

the needs of a competitive economy. It was 

placed 10th out of the more than 100 

countries surveyed and was behind 

countries or economies like Finland, 

Singapore, Iceland, Switzerland, Denmark, 

Ireland, Hong Kong, Belgium and Taiwan. 

Malaysia was ranked 22nd in terms of local 

availability of special research and training 

services in a sector dominated by the top five 

countries of Germany, Japan, the United 

Kingdom, Switzerland and the United States. 

Malaysia was ranked eighth in its efforts to 

reduce health risks from pandemic or 

widespread diseases. 

The travel and tourism industry is also the 

fastest growing economic sector in terms of job 

creation worldwide and is estimated to have 

generated 10.3 per cent of the world's Gross 

Domestic Product and provided 234 million 

jobs or 8.2 per cent of total world employment. 

Overall it has been a bountiful growth and 

Malaysia is poised to grow more in the coming 

years. 


Wins 3 Awards 

at Philippines 

Travel Fairs 

Tourism Malaysia bagged three prestigious 

awards at the Philippines Travel Fairs held 

last February in Bacolod, Davao and 

Manila. 

They were for ‘The Most Popular Booth’ at 

the Bacolod Travel Exchange (1-3 February) 

and the Davao Travel Show (22-24 

February), and ‘The Best Booth Design’ 

(Grand prize) and ‘The Best Marketing 

Effort’ (Second prize) at the Philippines 

Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) 15th 

Travel Tour Expo. 

At hand to receive the awards was Regional 

Director of the South East Asia Division, 

Tourism Malaysia, Zakaria Nani 

The Philippines is one of the top ten 

markets for Malaysia. A total of 327,140 

tourists from the Philippines visited Malaysia 

in 2007. This is an increase of 55%, 

compared to 211,123 in 2006. 

22.5 million tourists 

targeted this year 

To achieve the target of 22.5 million tourists 

this year, Tourism Malaysia is continuing with 

the programmes implemented in 2007 but 

with improvements from time to time. 

Last year’s record showed 20.88 million 

tourist arrivals compared to the target of 

20.5 million, said Southeast Asia division 

director Zainuddin Abdul Wahab during a 

business presentation and dinner of Tourism 

Malaysia’s mega familiarization tour 

programme. 

The mega fam programme was held in 

conjunction with the Visit Kelantan Year 2008 

and the Chinese New Year Open House 

2008 which was launched by Prime Minister 

Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.



Air Asia flies Bali-Perth 

and Darwin 

Jetstar Asia flies to 

KL Daily 

Jetstar Asia’s Kuala Lumpur-Singapore 

service will be operated from the main 

terminals of KLIA and Changi Airport. 

Indonesia AirAsia (IAA) has announced its 

intention to open an additional operational 

base in Bali as the next step to establishing 

a regional presence for the carrier. 

As reported in www.balidisovery.com, chief 

officer of IAA, Dharmadi, told Bisnis 

Indonesia that the new Bali home base will 

start operations in late March 2008, serving 

as a turn around point for new flights 

planned to Darwin and Perth. 

The new Australian destinations are 

expected to start operating in 

September-October 2008, six months after 

the new home base becomes operational. 

Indonesia AirAsia's fleet of Airbus A320 and 

Boeing 737-300 aircraft will serve the new 

Australian services. 

The Bali base is also expected to offer direct 

flight connections to Kuala Lumpur, Kuching 

and Kota Kinabalu. 

AisAsia X flies to 

Hangzhou 

The country’s first low cost, long haul 

airline, AirAsia X, launched its service to 

Hangzhou in China on 4 February. 

It flies five direct flights a week from Kuala 

Lumpur to Hangzhou. This latest service is 

the airline’s second long haul destination 

after Gold Coast in Australia. 

Jetstar Asia commenced its maiden 

Singapore-Kuala Lumpur services on 1 Feb 

2008, utilising A320 equipment with a 

180-seat configuration. The low cost carrier 

airline will operate the route with daily 

frequency. 

Dato' Seri Bashir Ahmad, Managing 

Director of Malaysia Airports stated: “This 

route contributed about 10% of the overall 

passengers handled by KLIA in 2007 and 

the figure is set to grow further. Passengers 

will benefit greatly in terms of connectivity 

and flying options as apart from Jetstar Asia, 

Tiger Airways and AirAsia have both 

introduced flights plying the same route 

starting 1 Feb. Currently, the Singapore - 

Kuala Lumpur route is also operated by 

Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines.” 

Ms Chong Phit Lian, Jetstar Asia CEO said, 

"Jetstar Asia is excited about the 

commencement of its flight between 

Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. This is an 

important event as it marks the availability 

of lower fare options to fly between 

Singapore and Malaysia cities. We are 

confident that our product will be 

appreciated by the travelling public between 

the cities. We are also happy to play a part 

in bringing the linkages of the two closely 

knitted cities even closer." 

MAS on Track with PSS 

Implementation 

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is on track with its 

Passenger Services System (PSS) 

implementation, having completed a 

number of its planned initiatives on time, 

since its launch in September 2006. 

The programme, involving reservations, 

ticketing, departure control, revenue integrity 

and fares management, is formulated based 

on industry best practices, MAS 

communication senior general manager 

Indira Nair said. The PSS would simplify 

passenger travel by providing customers with 

the option of completing electronic booking 

(e-booking), e-ticketing and e-check-in from 

the comfort of their homes or offices. 

“By March, we will be e-ticketing friendly,” 

she said, adding that the airline's website 

would play a critical part in rebuilding the 

MAS brand and pushing sales directly to 

customers. 

The system, a key component of its business 

transformation plan, will add more value to 

the MAS brand by providing online services 

that would give passengers a more 

convenient, efficient and hassle-free travel 

experience. 

The national carrier has invested over 

RM200mil in the PSS to implement 

e-ticketing, which would not only reduce 

fraud but also enable the airline to make 

substantial savings of about RM190mil 

annually. Every paper ticket issued costs the 

airline RM19 and MAS sells about 10 

million tickets a year.



In line with the International Air Transport 

Association requirement that all airlines be 

fully e-ticket capable by May 31, MAS will 

phase out traditional paper tickets before 

May. Indira said in addition to supporting 

the industry standard in e-ticketing 

processes, MAS had also introduced web 

check-in and kiosk check-in facilities for 

passengers. 

The introduction of passenger self-service 

options such as website and kiosk check-ins 

would also result in more efficient 

passenger movement at airports and 

reduced congestion. 

New Operating Hours 

for Rapid KL Helpdesk 

& Helpline Services 

Rapid KL’s Helpdesk at Pasar Seni Rail 

Station and Helpline Services commenced 

new operating hours since 1 February 

2008. 

The Rapid KL Helpdesk Counter is now 

open from 1.00 pm until 5.00 pm from 

Monday to Friday. It is closed on Saturdays, 

Sundays and Public Holidays. 

The Rapid KL Helpline Service 

(03-76256999) is now available from 

Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. 

It is not available on Saturdays, Sundays and 

Public Holidays. 

Tiger Airways Lands at 

LCCT-KLIA 

Air connectivity between Singapore and 

Kuala Lumpur was enhanced following 

Singapore's budget airline, Tiger Airways' 

maiden flight to KL on February 1 2008. 

Two other low-cost carriers, Malaysia's 

AirAsia and Australia's JetStar Asia also 

made their maiden flights between the two 

cities. The flights by the low cost carriers 

mark the beginning of the liberation of the 

aviation policy between Malaysia and 

Singapore. 

Tiger Airway's flight TR148 touched down at 

the LCCT-KLIA at 11.40 am carrying 120 

passengers. They were greeted by Malaysia 

Airports Holding Bhd's managing director 

Datuk Seri Bashir Ahmad and its senior 

officials. Tiger Airways will commence daily 

flights between Singapore and KL using an 

A320 aircraft with a 180-seat configuration. 

"With the inclusion of Tiger Airways, KLIA's 

list of international airlines stands at 56," 

Bashir told reporters after the inaugural 

flight. 

He said the low-cost carrier will operate 

from the LCCT-KLIA as the basic terminal 

facilities and amenities are streamlined with 

its operations model. 

"The arrival of Tiger Airways is a good 

indication particularly for LCCT-KLIA towards 

attracting more airlines. The service will 

further strengthen air connectivity between 

Malaysia and Singapore as it complements 

the current services by Malaysia Airlines and 

Singapore Airlines," he said.


CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Calendar of events 2008 

FESTIVALS 

Genting International Jazz Festival 

Genting Highland Resort 

4 - 5 April 2008 

Calling out to all jazz lovers to come and enjoy 

a memorable moment at the Genting International 

Jazz Festival. It promises an array of 

funk, Chinese, Welsh, American, Cuban, and 

African music among others. 

Genting Highland Resort 

Tel : +603-6101 1118 / 2718 1118 

Website: www.genting.com.my 

Langkawi Water Festival 2008 

Langkawi 

4 – 6 April 2008 

It is an exciting three-day event, which has 50 

thrilling water sports and beach games. 

Langkawi Tourism Action Council 

Tel : +604-969 8080 

Fax : +604-969 8081 

Email : info@tourismlangkawi.gov.my 

Penang World Music Festival 

Quarry Garden, Penang 

2 – 4 May 2008 

The air in the beautiful resort 

island of Penang will be filled 

with enchanting melodies 

originating from various parts 

of the world this May, as the 

world-renowned musicians 

from Malaysia as well as overseas, converge in 

harmonic fusion at this grand festival. 

Penang Tourism Action Council 

Tel : +604-2620 202 

Fax : +604-2631 020 

Website: www.penangworldmusicfestival.com. 

Sabah Fest 2008 

Kota Kinabalu 

3 – 4 May 2008 

The ethnic groups in Sabah will display rich 

cultures and traditions at the most anticipated 

cultural event of the year called the Harvest 

Festival. 

Sabah Tourism Board 

Tel : +608-823 2121/212 121 

Fax : +608-826 5540/212 075 

Email : shahira@sabahtourism.com 

Website: www.sabahtourism.com 

Miri International Jazz Festival 2008 

The Pavilion, Park City Everly Hotel, Miri 

9 – 10 May 2008 

This event will showcase 

great international jazz 

performances, set against 

the backdrop of tropical 

seaside and distant calls of 

the mighty rainforest. 

Secretariat of Miri Jazz Festival 

Tel : +608-543 4181/4179 

Email : info@mirijazzfestival.com 

Website: www.miriazzfestival.com 

Islanders Music Dance Festival Langkawi 

2008 

Pantai Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi 

30 May – 1 June 2008 

Some 20 teams from islands all over the 

world, including Tonga and Fiji, will showcase 

their diverse culture here through dance and 

music. 

Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia 

Tel : +603-2693 7111 

Fax : +603-2694 1146 

Email : info@motour.gov.my 

Website: www.motour.gov.my 

EVENTS 

Labuan International Sea Challenge 

Labuan 

19 – 27 April 2008 

It is one week of splashes at this sea 

challenge that will test the 

participants from around the 

world to create one of the 

best world events of the 

year. 

Labuan Tourism Action Council 

Tel : +608-7422 622 

Fax : +608-7419 622 

Email : mtpl@labuantourism.com.my 

Website: www.labuantourism.com.my 

Colours and Flavours of 

Malaysia 2008 

Putrajaya 

24 May 2008 

Get a glimpse of the 

Malaysian cultures, through colourful parades 

and traditional performances. Savour also 

mouth watering local delicacies and visit the 

happening exhibitions nationwide. 

Ministry of Tourism Malaysia 

Tel : +603-2693 7111 

Fax : +603-2694 1146 

Email : info@motour.gov.my 

Website: www.motour.gov.my 

Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival 

Throughout Malaysia 

5 July – 1 Sep 2008 

Grab this opportunity to 

enjoy outstanding discounts 

and special offers during 

Malaysia’s biggest annual sale carnival. 

Shopping Malaysia Secretariat 

Tel : +603-2698 1033 

Fax : +603-2691 6122 

Email : enquiry@pempena.com.my 

Website: www.mymegasale.com 

Gawai Dayak Festival 

Throughout Sarawak 

1 June 2008 

This festival is celebrated by Sarawak's 

indigenous people, particularly the Ibans and 

Dayaks. During this festival, the wearing of 

traditional costumes and display of the antique 

beads and other accessories is a must. Also 

you will encounter ceremonial offerings of 

various foodstuffs and home made rice wine 

made to gods of rice and prosperity. 

Organiser: Sarawak Tourism Board 

Tel : +608-2423 600 

Fax : +608-2416 700 

Email : stb@sarawaktourism.com 

Website: www.sarawaktourism.com

TOURISM OFFICES 


HEAD OFFICE 

17th Floor, Menara Dato' On 

Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) 

No. 45 Jalan Tun Ismail 

50480 Kuala Lumpur 

MALAYSIA 

Tel : 603-2615 8188 

Fax : 603-2693 5884 / 0207 

Tourism Infoline (within Malaysia) : 

1 300 88 5050 

E-mail : enquiries@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my 

e-Portal : www.virtualmalaysia.com 

OVERSEAS OFFICES 

AUSTRALIA 

Melbourne 

355 Exhibition Street, Melbourne 

Victoria 3000 

AUSTRALIA 

Tel : 00613 9654 3177 

Fax : 00613 9654 3176 

Perth 

Ground Floor, MAS Building 

56, William Street 

Perth WA 6000, AUSTRALIA 

Tel : 00618 9481 0400 

Fax : 00618 9321 1421 

E-mail : tourmal@iinet.net.au 

Sydney 

Level 2, 171 Clarence Street 

Sydney NSW 2000, AUSTRALIA 

Tel : 00612 9299 4441/2/3 

Fax : 00612 9262 2026 

E-mail : mtpb.sydney@tourism.gov.my 

BANGLADESH 

c/o High Commission of Malaysia 

House No.19, Road No.6 

Baridhara, Dhaka 1212, BANGLADESH 

Tel : 008802 882 7759/60 

Fax : 008802 882 7761/3115 

E-mail : mtpb.dhaka@tourism.gov.my 

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM 

c/o High Commission of Malaysia 

No.61, Simpang 336, Jalan Kebangsaan 

Bandar Seri Begawan BA 1211 

P.O. Box 2826 

Bandar Seri Begawan BA 8675 

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM 

Tel : 006732 2381 095/6/7 

Fax : 006732 2381 576 

E-mail : mtpb.brunei@tourism.gov.my 

CAMBODIA 

c/o Embassy of Malaysia 

No. 5, Street 242 

Sangkat Chaktomouk, Khan Daun Penh 

Phnom Penh, CAMBODIA 

Tel : 00855 232 16176/177 

Fax : 00855 232 16004 

CANADA 

1590-1111, West Georgia Street 

Vancouver BC, CANADA V6E 4M3 

Tel : 00604 689 8899 

Fax : 00604 689 8804 

E-mail : mtpb.vancouver@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.malaysiatourism.ca 

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY 

Weissfrauenstrasse 12-16 

D-60311 Frankfurt am Main 

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY 

Tel : 004969 460 92 3420 

Fax : 004969 460 92 3499 

E-mail : info@tourismmalaysia.de 

Website: www.tourismmalaysia.de 

FRANCE 

Office National du Tourisme de Malaisie 

29, Rue des Pyramides 

75001 Paris, FRANCE 

Tel : 00331 4297 4171 

Fax : 00331 4297 4169 

E-mail : mtpb.paris@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.ontmalaisie.com 

HONG KONG 

Ground Floor, Malaysia Building 

No. 47-50, Gloucester Road 

HONG KONG 

Tel : 00852 2528 5810/1 

Fax : 00852 2865 4610 

E-mail : mtpb.hongkong@tourism.gov.my 

ITALY 

Via Privata della Passarella, Nr 4 

1st Floor, 20122 Milan, ITALY 

Tel : 0039 02 796702 / 723 

Fax : 0039 02 796806 

E-mail : mtpb.milan@tourism.gov.my 

JAPAN 

Osaka 

10th Floor, Cotton Nissay Building 

1-8-2, Otsubo-Honmachi, Nishi-ku Osaka 

550-0004 JAPAN 

Tel : 008166 444 1220 

Fax : 008166 444 1380 

E-mail : mtpb.osaka@tourism.gov.my 

Tokyo 

5F Chiyoda Building 

1-6-4, Yurakucho Chiyoda-ku 

Tokyo 100 0006, JAPAN 

Tel : 008 13 3501 8691 / 4 

Fax : 008 13 3501 8692 

E-mail : mtpb.tokyo@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.tourismmalaysia.or.jp 

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA 

c/o Consulate General of Malaysia 

Lot 241, Al Mualiffin Street 

Al Rehab District, P.O. Box 593 

Jeddah 21421 

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA 

Tel : 009662 672 8019 / 7740 

Fax : 009662 675 2391 

E-mail : mtpb.jeddah@tourism.gov.my 

LAOS PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC 


Route That Luang, Quartier Pholxay 

P.O. Box 789, Vientiane 

LAOS PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC 

Tel : 21 414 205/6 

Fax : 21 414 201 

E-mail : mtpb.laos@tourism.gov.my 

PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA 

Beijing 


2 Liang Ma Qiau Bei Jie 

Chaoyang District, 100600 Beijing 


Tel : 0086 10 6532 2531 / 2 / 3 Ext : 283 

Fax : 0086 10 6532 5376 

E-mail : mtpb.beijing@tourism.gov.my 

Chengdu 

c/o Malaysia Airlines Office 

18th Floor, Western China Business Tower 

19 Ren Min Nan Road, Section 4 

Chengdu Sichuan Province 


Tel: 0086 28 8526 8586 

Fax: 0086 28 8526 8583 

E-mail: mtpb.chengdu@mtpb-hq.net 

Guangzhou 


Room 1915-1918, CITIC Plaza 

No. 233, Tian He Bei Road, Tian He District 

Guangzhou 510610 


Tel : 0086 20 3877 3691 

Fax : 0086 20 3877 3692 

E-mail : mtpb.guangzhou@tourism.gov.my 

Shanghai 

Consulate General of Malaysia 

Tourism Section 

Unit 1109, Level 11 

CITIC Square, 1168 Nanjing Road West 

Jing An District, Shanghai 200041 


Tel : 0086 21 5292 5252 Ext: 201/5/6/7 

Fax : 0086 21 5292 5948 

E-mail : mtpb.shanghai@tourism.gov.my 

PHILIPPINES 


107, Tordesillas Street 

Salcedo Village 

P.O. Box 2948 (MCPO) 

Makati City 

PHILIPPINES 

Tel : 0063 281 74581 

Fax : 0063 281 20770 

E-mail : mtpb.manila@tourism.gov.my 

REPUBLIC OF INDIA 

Chennai 

4th Floor, Vijaya Towers 

No. 4, Kodambakkam High Road 

Chennai 600 034, REPUBLIC OF INDIA 

Tel : 0091 44 4506 8080 

Fax : 0091 44 4506 8383 

E-mail : mtpb.chennai@tourism.gov.my 

Mumbai 

123, Jolly Maker Chamber II 

12th Floor , Nariman Point 

Mumbai 400001 

REPUBLIC OF INDIA 

Tel : 009 122 6635 2085 

Fax : 009 122 6639 0702 

E-mail : mtpb.mumbai@tourism.gov.my 

New Delhi 

c/o Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia 

C 3/13, Vasant Vihar 

New Delhi 110057, INDIA 

Tel : +91-11-46011677 (DL) 

: +91-11-46011674/75 (GL) 

Fax : +91-11-46011676 

Email : mtpb.newdelhi@tourism.gov.my 

roslan@tourism.gov.my 

REPUBLIC OF INDONESIA 

Jakarta 


Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said 

Kav.X/6. No.1-3, Kuningan 

Jakarta Selatan 12950 


Tel : 006221 5220 765 / 5224 947 Ext. 3030 

Fax : 006221 5220 766 

E-mail : mtpb_jakarta@cbn.net.id 

Medan 


43, Jalan Diponegoro 

20152 Medan, Sumatera Utara 


Tel : 006261 4523 192 

Fax : 006261 4523 179 

E-mail : mtpb.medan@tourism.gov.my 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

2nd Floor, Hansung Building 

47-2 Seosomun-dong, Chung-ku 

Seoul 100-110, REPUBLIC OF KOREA 

Tel : 00822 779 4422/ 251 

Fax : 00822 779 4254 

E-mail : mtpb.seoul@tourism.gov.my 

RUSSIAN FEDERATION 

Touris Malayna Moscow 

Mosfilmovskaya Ulitsa 

50, Moscow 117192 

RUSSIAN FEDERATION 

Tel : 007 495 147 1514/12/23 

Fax : 007 495 937 9602 

E-mail : mtpb.moscow@tourism.gov.my 

SINGAPORE 

#01-01B/C/D, No. 80, Robinson Road 

SINGAPORE 068898 

Tel : 02 6532 6321 

Fax : 02 6535 6650 

E-mail : mtpb.singapore@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.tourism.malaysia.org.sg 

SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM 

Hanoi 


43-45 Dien Bien Phu Street, Hanoi 


Tel : 00844 734 3836/7/49 

Fax : 00844 734 3832 

E-mail : mtpb.hanoi@tourism.gov.my 

Ho Chi Minh City 


Suite 1208, Me Linh Point Tower 

No.2 Ngo Duc Ke Street 

District I, Ho Chi Minh City 


Tel : 0084 8 829 9023/3132 

Fax : 0084 8 829 9027 

E-mail : mtpb.hochiminh@tourism.gov.my 

SOUTH AFRICA 

1st. Floor, Building Five, Commerce Square 

39 Rivonia Road, Sandhurst 

Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA 

Tel : 002 711 268 0292/5 

Fax : 002 711 268 0296 

E-mail : mtpb.johannesburg@tourism.gov.my 

SWEDEN 

Klarabergsgatan 35, 2tr 

Box 131, 10122 Stockholm, SWEDEN 

Tel : 004 68 24 99 00 

Fax : 004 68 24 23 24 

E-mail : mtpb.stockholm@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.malaysiaturist.net 

TAIWAN 

Suite C, 8th Floor, Hung Tai Centre 

170, Tun Hwa North Road, Taipei 

TAIWAN 

Tel : 008862 2514 9704/34 

Fax : 008862 2514 9973 

E-mail : mtpb.taipei@tourism.gov.my 

THAILAND 

Bangkok 

Unit 1001, Liberty Square 

287, Silom Road, Bangkok 10500, THAILAND 

Tel : 0662 631 1994/5/6 

Fax : 0662 631 1998 

E-mail : mtpb.bangkok@tourism.gov.my 

Phuket 

183-81, Phang Nga Road 

Amphur Muang, 83000 Phuket, THAILAND 

Tel : 006676 220 192/3 

Fax : 006676 220 196 

E-mail : mtpb.phuket@tourism.gov.my 

TURKEY 

Valikonagi Caddesi 11/1, Oba Apt. 

80220 Nisantasi, Istanbul, TURKEY 

Tel : 0090212 225 2761/7368 

Fax : 0090212 240 3691 

E-mail : mtpb.istanbul@tourism.gov.my 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 

Suite No. 9, Mezzanine Floor 

Al-Shafeena Building, Near Lamcy Plaza 

Al-Zabeel Road, Al Hamriya 

P.O. Box 4598, Dubai 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 

Tel : 009714 3377 578/9 

Fax : 009714 3353 318 

E-mail : mtpb.dubai@tourism.gov.my 

UNITED KINGDOM 

57, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DU 

UNITED KINGDOM 

Tel : 004420 7930 7932 

Fax : 004420 7930 9015 

E-mail : mtpb.london@tourism.gov.my 

Website : www.malaysiatrulyasia.co.uk 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

Los Angeles 

818 West 7th Street, Suite 970 

Los Angeles CA 90017 


Tel : 001213 689 9702 

Toll-free : 800 336 6842 

Fax : 001213 689 1530 

E-mail : mtpb.la@tourism.gov.my 

New York 

120, East 56th Street 

Suite 810, New York NY 10022 


Tel : 001212 754 1113 

Fax : 001212 754 1116 

E-mail : mtpb.ny@tourism.gov.my

VOL 23 ISSUE NO.2 (TRADE CIRCULATION) A BI-MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF TOURISM MALAYSIA ISSN 0128-1348

Issue 2 - Tourism Malaysia Official Corporate Website

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