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Malaysia Asia

Malaysia Asia

Malaysia travel blog and website on eco-tourism, nature, hotels and resorts, islands and beaches and also around Southeast Asia.
URL: http://blog.malaysia-asia.my/

Malaysia Asia

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malaysia-asia

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Asia

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2012-02-23 16:12:32

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Recent News

  • International Wellness Tourism Expo 2024
    The International Wellness Tourism Expo 2024 will be held from 8-10 May at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan. iWT, as it is called in short, brings together all for "wellness tourism", such as facilities, activities, healthy foods, and regions related to travel for a healthy mind and body.International Wellness Tourism Expo 2024The iWT event aims to bring together all for "wellness tourism", such as facilities, activities, healthy foods, and regions related to travel for a healthy mind and body.The simple mission of promoting the development of the world's wellness tourism industry through this exhibition and a vision of creating a future where people can achieve physical and mental health through "Wellness Travel."The scene from last year's International Wellness Tourism Expo 2023.The three-day trade show is an event experience for the wellness tourism industry, filled with networking and learning. The organisers hope visitors will gain valuable insights into trends shaping the future of wellness tourism and find wellness solutions and innovations.Some examples of wellness tourism.What is Wellness Tourism?iWT attracts visitors from all over the world.Talks and discussions are held for the wellness industry players at iWT.Onsens is one of the popular wellness tourism products that Japan heavily promotes.Visitors at one of the many booths at iWT.International Wellness Tourism Expo 2024Date: M8-10 May, 2024Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, JapanEmail: wellness_tourism-en.jp@rxglobal.comTel: +81-3-6739-4124Website: International Wellness Tourism ExpoConclusionThis International Wellness Tourism Expo 2024 is also the only wellness tourism trade show buzzing with thousands of visitors learning, connecting, and networking to create a future where people can achieve physical and mental health through "Wellness Travel" and develop the world's wellness tourism industry.
    Tuesday 27th of February 2024 12:42:00 PM
  • Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea Opening 6 June 2024
    Oriental Land Co., Ltd. announced new details of attractions, facilities, merchandise, and food and beverage items in Fantasy Springs, the eighth themed port at Tokyo DisneySea® Park, which is set to open on June 6, 2024.Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySeaThemed to magical springs that lead to a world of Disney fantasy, Fantasy Springs consists of three areas inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios films: Frozen Kingdom, Rapunzel's Forest and Peter Pan's Never Land, as well as the latest Disney-themed hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel.Fantasy Springs is nestled between the Lost River Delta and Arabian Coast at Tokyo DisneySea. At the Fantasy Springs entryway, guests will be welcomed by an archway adorned with magical springs representing Disney Animation characters such as Peter Pan, Anna, Elsa and Rapunzel.The themed port also features motifs of various other beloved characters, inviting guests into this world of Disney fantasy.Artist impression of the Frozen Kingdom at Fantasy Springs.An abundance of offerings that evoke the world of the films, including attractions, restaurants, a merchandise shop, and the Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel, will allow guests to enjoy a wide variety of experiences.Guests can feel as if they have stepped into a beloved Disney Animation film, delight in seeing some of their favourite Disney friends, and be enveloped by well-known music, making their time at Tokyo DisneySea all the more immersive and enjoyable.An artist's impression of the Magical Springs area.ConclusionWith the grand opening of Fantasy Springs just around the corner, guests worldwide can look forward to a new adventure at Tokyo DisneySea.For more information, please visit the official Fantasy Springs webpage on DisneySea Tokyo. And if you plan to visit, make sure you book your flight and hotel accommodations early.
    Tuesday 27th of February 2024 09:41:00 AM
  • KLPF 2024
    The Kuala Lumpur Photography Festival 2024, or KLPF 2024, will be held from 9-11 August at KL Gateway Mall in Bangsar South for three days.This is also the 28th year Malaysia's largest photography festival has taken place and catered to tens of thousands of photographers and visitors.KLPF 2024This year, the Kuala Lumpur Photography Festival or KLPF will have a theme called 'Reinventing Photography', and the organisers will invite local and international professionals and amateurs to display and showcase their work at the festival.KL Gateway Mall is an open concourse area where KLPF 2024 is located. It is one of the ways to showcase their unique vision, establish valuable contacts, network with industry peers, and explore potential business opportunities via the exhibition.There are actually many photographers in Malaysia; a majority of the photographers are independent and work on their own. In addition, there are also many photography clubs in Malaysia.At KLPF, you will see the most active photography clubs come out and shine with their members' work. This makes the festival exciting by wondering what the clubs and others showcase.It has been my second year exhibiting my photography, and each year, I will put in a different theme for my photographs. So, if you are visiting KLPF 2024, it will be a surprise for my theme.KLPF at KL Gateway Mall in Bangsaw South.What Goes on at KLPF? Like any other event, there is the official launching on the first day, with invited VIP guests officiating the festival. Performances follow on stage during the launch; a photo op is the last.Surrounding the event is a photography festival bazaar with several booths showcasing photography-related products.For example, Taiwan Tourism and Thailand Tourism are always there to promote their country's scenic destinations for photography. Selangor Tourism is also one of the main sponsors and supporters of the event, with a huge booth showcasing the state.Other vendors include camera brands, smartphone brands, camera gear shops, software processing hardware, NGOs, etc.The main concourse area of KL Gateway Mall where KLPF 2024 will take place.Ground Floor Main Concourse Open AreaThroughout the three days, the main stage area on the ground floor will showcase talks on photography. Hopefully, this year, there will be more budget to put in a large screen backdrop for the talks. If not, it will be the same large TV on a stand, which doesn't do justice to the talks.On the exhibition's top floor, there will also be a special food and drink bazaar where various booths sell local and Western food, drinks and desserts.On the same upper level of the mall, where the main photography exhibition is held, you can find amateurs and professionals showcasing their work in allocated booths. This is where you will find my booth.Because the event is spread over three days, most visitors take their time and allocate one day to come and check out the photos on display, the activities, and the photography talks.The talks are usually related to travel photography, technical photography, portraiture, landscape photography, and even camera reviews.I have been giving talks at KLPF for several years, mostly on smartphone photography (when it was still relatively unknown), travel photography, and bird photography.Some of my photography friends visited my photo exhibition at KLPF last year.Visitors checking out my bird photography exhibition at KLPF.KL Gateway Mall is the main venue for KLPF 2024.Some of the vendor booths at KLPF.Visitors during the KLPF event at the upper level of the KL Gateway Mall.Kim Boon giving a photography talk at KLPF.A section of the photographer's exhibition at KLPF.KLPF 2024 InformationDate: 9-11 AugustDay: Fri, Sat & SunVenue: KL Gateway MallTime: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PMOfficial Website: KLPFHow to go to KLPF 2024?Because of the new venue, transportation here is much easier as you can take the LRT Kelana Line, exit at the LRT University Station KJ19, and walk across to KL Gateway Mall.You can also read about my previous article on the Kuala Lumpur Photography Exhibition 2022 and the previous KLPF 2023, which found a new home at KL Gateway Mall near Bangsar.I only recently participated in 2022, many years after doing photography as a hobby, and my first exhibition was on the UNESCO Caves of Sarawak, where I photographed the insides of the caves using only a smartphone.My first solo photography exhibition at KLPF 2022.ConclusionFor those interested in photography, the KLPF 2024 is one of the photo events you should attend, as it is catered to all walks of life. You may be a beginner, intermediate or professional, but there will be something there for you.Photography is very subjective, as what one sees may differ from another, making it even more interesting to the human eye.
    Monday 26th of February 2024 09:29:00 AM
  • Rainforest World Music Festival 2024
    The Rainforest World Music Festival 2024 will be held at the end of June at the same venue at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong.The dates are set for 28-30 June; therefore, it is confirmed, and if you plan to attend this unique music festival, you can start making your travel arrangements.Rainforest World Music Festival 2024Every year, the RWMF takes place in Sarawak, and always at the home venue of the cultural village, as this provides a unique experience for festival goers.For the 2024 lineup of musicians, there is no information available, and it should be out by February or March. Once I get the information, I will include it here in this article.The RWMF stare area last year.The Rainforest World Music Festival 2024 is also the 27th edition, and hopefully, the artistic director selected will be on an international-level mindset.The last RWMF2023 saw an irregular lineup of musicians, and regular festival goers found it distracting from the usual lineup.However, the general visitors, most did not even bother them as they just wanted to attend the festival, hang out, dance, and party.On a personal note, the festival felt very commercialised, and the focus on world music was not as strong as how previous artistic directors curated the event.The Drum Circle happens in front of the main stage every evening.The pure essence of the world music genre is very important to keep this festival unique; otherwise, it will end up like another commercial music festival, and Sarawak may lose its uniqueness for the RWMF.For example, fine acoustics should be performed indoors where the music is appreciated, instead of having it on the big stage.The scent of the crowd just before the RWMF starts.Again, it is all in the hands of the music director and how he or she will determine what is best for the audience. If you leave it to someone without experience, it will end up with commercial names on stage.In terms of sustainability and environmental consciousness, this was a priority and forefront of the festival as the event organiser, the Sarawak Tourism Board, made Responsible Tourism their goal, utilising RWMF as a key platform for Sarawak to push ecotourism.Rainforest World Music Festival 2024Date: 28, 29, 30 JuneVenue: Sarawak Cultural Village, SantubongWebsite: RWMFThe huge crowds at the RWMF.The Sarawak Tourism Minister and Sarawak Tourism Board CEO at the RWMF event.ConclusionThe full information for the Rainforest World Music Festival 2024 should be out by March next year, and I know it is a little late as normally, but the lineup should be announced in January or February.I hope that the organisers can select the artistic director quickly so that they can start to work immediately in selecting the performing acts. Otherwise, it is going to be like previous years and very last minute.
    Monday 29th of January 2024 02:30:00 PM
  • Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024
    On 10 January 2024, the Japan Meteorological Department released the Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024.This will help make travel plans much more accessible for those wanting to experience seeing these beautiful Sakura cherry blossoms in their natural habitat.Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024The beautiful cherry blossom flowering buds were seen in Tokyo.Below is the update issued by the Japan Meteorological Department on 10 January;18 March - Kochi, Shikoku Island. Full bloom is eight days later.19 March - Kumamoto. Full bloom is 25 March.21 March - Fukuoka and Nagoya. Full bloom in Fukuoka on 30 March and Nagoya on 31 March.23 March - Tokyo. Full bloom a week later.23 March Kyoto. Full bloom six days later.25 March - Osaka. Full bloom is expected on 1 April.26 March - Hiroshima. Full bloom is on 3 April.31 March - Kanazawa. Full bloom is on 6 April.2 April - Matsumoto. Full bloom is on 11 April.2 April - Fuji Five Lakes. Full bloom is on 10 April.8 April - Sendai. Full bloom on 15 April.2 May - Sapporo, Hokkaido. Full bloom is four days later, on 6 March.The next update will be provided on 25 January by the Japan Meteorological Department (JMC) and will likely feature other smaller destinations.Every year, Japan's Sakura Cherry Blossom season starts from around March to April. Therefore, visitors should check which part of Japan they want to visit as the timing is different.One of the early full-bloom cherry trees in Yoyogi Park, Tokyo.When you see a fresh bloom of cherry blossom buds, this means that they will fully bloom in a week. In colder regions, they bloom between 3-4 days.There are also several types of cherry blossoms, and the popular ones that visitors want to see are the Somei Yoshino (Yoshino Cherry Trees), which the forecasts above are based on.This news was obtained from the Japan Meteorological Department, and for more information, you can also bookmark their page.Those who want on-the-go information, please check out the App called Sakura Navi - Forecast in 2024. Get it from the App Store or Google Play.A close-up of the cherry blossom flowers during full bloom.ConclusionFor those who cannot wait, the best thing to do is start making arrangements and head over to Kochi in Shikoku Island as the cherry blossoms bloom there on 18 March. I recommend you arrive on 25 March for the full bloom.Generally, the optimum time to visit popular cities like Osaka and Tokyo would be at the end of March or early February. This Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast 2024 article is a resource for anyone planning to visit Japan specifically for this.
    Saturday 13th of January 2024 01:43:00 AM
  • Facial Recognition System for Tourist Arrivals At Bali Airport in 2024
    The good news for travellers heading to Bali is that the Facial Recognition System for tourist arrivals at Bali Airport is to be launched.This will definitely speed up the tourist arrivals at the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), simply known as the Bali Airport.Facial Recognition System For Tourist Arrivals At Bali Airport in 2024In early January, new auto-gates featuring facial recognition have been installed and will be ready to be used anytime soon. It is unsure when immigration will enforce this.This Facial Recognition System was implemented to monitor and secure immigration and will work in automation with the increasingly digitized immigration and visa process the Indonesian government is moving towards.With the new auto gates in place, the immigration inspection process will be much faster, more accurate, effective, and efficient without compromising monitoring and security.You will see signs and posters like these at the Bali airport when you exit the plane.This system is already in place at Jakarta?s Soekarno-Hatta Airport and is proving to be a massive success for both traveller and immigration teams. Currently, 30 auto-gate units have been installed at Ngurah Rai Airport, with work starting in October 2023.The auto-gates are set to be used by the first passengers this month once final systems checks have been completed.Another 50 auto gate units will be added in the first quarter of 2024, bringing the total to 80 units at the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.Out of the total, 50 facial recognition auto-gates will be placed at the international arrivals terminal and 30 devices in the international departures area.With hundreds of thousands of tourists landing in Bali monthly, staffed immigration counters are still essential, and a wholly automated arrival process is still a long way away.Signages are easy to see as they are everywhere. Just follow them to the immigration.Indonesia Online Immigration ServiceIn 2024, tourists planning to visit Bali are encouraged to use Indonesia?s online immigration services as it will make the entry process much more manageable. Visitors can now apply for various Indonesian visas online and process their visa extensions online.For years, renewing or extending an Indonesian social visa requires at least three visits to an immigration office if done by themselves, without a visa agent. In January 2024, the Director General of Immigration, Silmy Karim, confirmed that a new set of social visas can now be renewed and extended online.This new online service was launched to simplify and speed up the stay permit extension process, which previously required foreigners to present at the immigration office.As a surprise to the long-stay visitors, there is no longer a need to stamp the stay permit on the passport because it is sent directly to the applicant?s email.Types of Visas for Visitors to BaliThe Director General of Immigration confirmed that online extensions can now be processed online for the following visas:Holiday, Family, and Transit Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C1)Medical Treatment Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C3)Foreign Government Official Trips Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C4)Short Courses and Training Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C9)International Exhibition Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C11)Also, the Island of Gods has imposed a Bali Tourist Entry Fee in 2024, which foreign visitors must pay.I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali.ConclusionPlease note that travellers entering Bali on visas that have been applied for and granted online before arrival in the county will be eligible to use the new auto-gates.This included the e-visa on arrival and the newly launched D1 and D2 visas, which allow tourists and business travellers multiple entry to Indonesia for up to 60 days at a time over five years.
    Thursday 11th of January 2024 11:16:00 AM
  • Ngah Ibrahim's Fort
    A visit to Ngah Ibrahim's Fort in Matang, Perak, will take you back over a hundred years of Taiping's historical past.This colonial home holds a piece of exciting historical news about Taiping and Perak and is worth a visit for anyone wanting to learn more.Ngah Ibrahim's FortThis fort was once a simple home that was built back in 1858, according to historical records. Over the last century, this Taiping heritage building was used as a court, college and even a school before it was turned into a Malaysian heritage building.The home is seen from outside the lawn area.The compound looks like a typical old British colonial home with a huge garden and the house standing in the middle. Originally built as the home of Mr Ngah Ibrahim, and due to a political murder of J.W.W Birch, Ngah Ibrahim absconded to the Seychelles.Ngah Ibrahim passed away in Singapore, and his body was initially buried there before his remains were brought back to his home and reburied here.For more information, I recommend you visit this place to see, learn and understand what went down here. If I write everything here, there is no point in visiting this place, right?Photos of Ngah Ibrahim's FortGeneral information is on a Tourism Malaysia plaque.Things inside Ngah Ibrahim's room.The interior o f theNgah Ibrahim'shouse.A replica of the court hearing that happened inside the home of Ngah Ibrahim.This home is officially a national heritage building of Malaysia.Ngah Ibrahim's tomb.A sign outside the house shows visiting hours.Ngah Ibrahim's FortAddress: Kampung Hujung Matang, 34750 Matang, PerakOpen: 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM, 7 Days a weekClosed: 12.15 PM to 2.45 PM on FridaysWebsite: Ngah Ibrahim Museum (Under the Museum Department)ConclusionPlease take a look at some of my other articles on tourism in Perak. For those in the Taiping area, you can easily visit Ngah Ibrahim's Fort, which is only about six kilometres from Taiping town. Please make sure of the visiting hours before you go.
    Thursday 28th of December 2023 06:17:00 AM
  • North Borneo Rainforest Festival
    The North Borneo Rainforest Festival 2023 returns once again, and this time around, it will be held from 16-17 December at the Likas Jogging Complex & Jungle Skate Park in Kota Kinabalu.North Borneo Rainforest FestivalFor the fourth time running, this music festival is organised by Pertubuhan Kolektif Seni and supported by Tourism Malaysia.This year's North Borneo Rainforest Festival's (NBRF) message or theme is about raising awareness for waste management in Sabah.One of the highlights of this grassroots festival is the use of repurposing ghost nets into art installations. In Sabah, these nets continue to float in the ocean current, entangling marine wildlife and damaging reefs.This community-powered event is divided into three elements;NBRF concert, which is the main stage highlightA line-up of exhibitors (made up of NGOs, arts activists, and government bodies)Tamu NBRF (a market featuring local artisans and entrepreneurs in Sabah)Performers for this year's festival.Performers at North Borneo Rainforest FestivalThis year's performers for the NBRF concert include;Pertubuhan Pentas Eukarya SabahRapot SanggongTompuvanSekolah IndonesiaSuara Buluh PerinduDabra SiaTuni SundatangDiandra John IsobahtosDJ Alveen ShowtimeNorth Borneo Rainforest FestivalDate: Dec 16 and 17Venue: Likas Jogging Complex & Jungle Skate Park, Kota KinabaluThe event poster.ConclusionIf you are in Sabah during the dates mentioned, check out the North Borneo Rainforest Festival 2024 at Likas.Sabah is also home to the Sabah Jazz Festival, Sunset Music Festival, Borneo Music Festival and the KK Music and Dance Festival.
    Sunday 3rd of December 2023 05:51:00 AM
  • Silverlakes Village Outlet
    The all-new Silverlakes Village Outlet at Batu Gajah is one of the latest attractions in Perak for those who plan to shop and travel here.This integrated shopping and lifestyle place opened in September, but the official launch has yet to be done.Silverlakes Village OutletThis is also Perak's first premium outlet mall, which was supposed to be completed before the COVID-19 pandemic and was eventually completed in mid-2023. As of November 2023, the Silverlakes Village Outlet or SVO has a total of 100 retailers who have taken up almost 60% of the retail lots here, which is about 160 stores.The main entrance to the West Village. Photo from Facebook.The overall project sees an estimated 300,000 sq ft of retail lots and F&B outlets, with a vision to make it an international standard outlet mall for Malaysia.With this new Perak premium outlet opening, visitors can spend longer days instead of just heading to Ipoh for food and sightseeing.Now, Ipoh is supported by Gopend and Batu Gajah with this premium outlet opening here and plans to include a Hop-On Hop-Off bus route for the Gopeng-Batu Gajah tourism cluster toute.One of the outdoor theme park rides. Photo from Facebook.What Else Is At Silverlakes Village OutletLike any other multi-integrated theme park and mall concept, Silverlakes promises a mixture of everything that will suit all walks of life. Let's see what is offered.Silverlake Premium Outlet Shops - This is the main pulling factor for shopping, and if they can pull off something like JPO or GPO, then I will surely be impressed. I always wonder if it is hard to attract interesting and good brands; hence, we shall see how this works out.Dinosaur Encounter - This dinosaur exhibition is called Dinosaur Encounter and uses augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and animatronics. It's nothing new, but maybe those around Perak and the north will find it amusing.Karnival Karosel - This looks like the outdoor theme park section, where rides and attractions are located by the main lake. Emporio Food Festival - A massive food court called Emoprio Food Festival is also one of the attractions, and it looks like it is sub-let to another company. I hope they get quality vendors like the food court in KLCC or Pavilion.Weekend Bazaar - On weekends, the management has organised a general bazaar to attract crows. Sometimes, you may find a collectors' bazaar there.Boat Rides - Because the location is next to the massive lake here, there are boat ride services throughout the day, even at night, where they call it an LED Night Cruise.Longest Floating Bridge in Malaysia - Apparently, they created one for the Book of Records, which is 180 metres long.Birdwatching at Silverlakes - Several trees are home to the grey herons that roost here during the migratory period from September to March. So, if you are walking around the lake, look at some of the large trees, and you may see these Grey Herons.Photos of Silverlakes Village OutletBelow are random photos from the SVO in Batu Gajah, Perak.What the shoplots look like.Collectors Market Bazaar held at the venue.The premium outset shopping street area.Inside the Emporio Food Festival, which is a massive food court.How to go to Silverlakes Village Outlet?From Kuala Lumpur or Penang, it takes about two hours to drive here; from Johor, it can take around five hours. But good news is that a KTM station is located just outside the SVO.From Ipoh City, it is about a 20 to 30-minute drive on a normal day, and if it is the weekend, it could take a little longer than usual.Silverlakes Village OutletAddress: Google MapsCall: 053651202Tickets: Hours: 10.00 AM to 11.00 PM, weekends till midnightAn artist's impression of the project.A drone photo of the village outlet in Batu Gajah.An aerial view of the village outlet here in Batu Gajah, Perak.ConclusionThe Silverlakes Village Outlet is Perak's latest tourism attraction and opened just in time for the Visit Perak Year 2024. You can also see my other article on the many other factory outlets in Malaysia.I hope the management does not stinge on funding because it can end up like the failed MAPS Theme Park in Perak, which was a disaster. Malaysia is well-known to be half-heartedly opening and operating attractions, and because of the inexperience in world-class management, things tend to go wrong.I hope that the Silverlakes Village Outlet does not go down that road, and wish the management all the best in a successful operation.
    Tuesday 28th of November 2023 04:15:00 AM
  • Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair
    Most of us have heard about the MATTA Fair, but have you heard about the Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair? This is one of the very unique tourism fairs to take place here in Kota Kinabalu.This community-based tourism fair was held on November 17-19, 2023, at the Suria Sabah Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu City.Sabah Community Based Tourism FairThe unique travel fair is also running for the fifth year. It is organised by the Federation of Rural Tourism Association Sabah (FeRTAS) and Sabah Tourism Board, which was launched by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.The event during the launching day in Kota Kinabalu.For this year, a special B2B session was organised where 12 tour operators under FeRTAS engaged in a Business-to-Business session with key industry players from the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta), Sabah Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Satta), and Sabah Tourist Association (STA).Who are the Rural Tourism Operators in Sabah?Nabalu Tourism AssociationKadamaianKota MaruduLahad DatuKiuluKeningauTambunanTenomPenampangKuala PenyuRanauKota BeludAn elder demonstrates some craftwork at the fair.In total, this year's Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair offered 40 booths, including participation from various tourism associations and ministries.Even the Federal Territory of Labuan and neighbouring Brunei participated for the first time, hoping to create community-based tourism across borders.Nabawan Tourism Association at the fair.Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair 2023 ActivitiesThe three-day event will host various activities, which include talks by multiple organisations and government departments. There were also cultural dance performances, traditional games, musical instrument displays, and cooking demonstrations.Talks were conducted by;FeRTASSabah Homestay AssociationSabah Handicraft CenterMalaysian Handicraft Development CorporationMinistry of AgricultureFisheries and Food IndustrySabah ParksThe Community Based Tourism Fair poster.If you are interested in this unique experience, you can also get more information about community based tourism in Sabah, which I did in 2023 when I visited most of the rural communities around Sabah.For first-time visitors to this part of Malaysia, you can also visit the Sabah Tourism website for further information about tourism around Sabah.ConclusionIf you missed this year's Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair, you can look forward to the next one in 2024, which is scheduled to be bigger and have more participants. It will also be held, most likely in Kota Kinabalu.
    Monday 20th of November 2023 11:30:00 AM
  • Regatta Lepa Festival 2023
    This year's Regatta Lepa Festival 2023 is from 17-19 November, and it is not the regular time for the festival as it is usually held in mid to late April.The Regatta Lepa has also been celebrated yearly since 1994 to commemorate the local Bajau tradition of building these splendid hand-crafted wooden boats known as the Lepa.Regatta Lepa Festival 2023This year, it is probably due to several reasons that the Regatta Lepa is being held in November, and it has something to do with the reopening since COVID-19 or politics.More than 100 'lepa', traditional Bajau community boats, will participate in the decorated boat competition with the Regatta Lepa Festival 2023 in Semporna this year.A typical scene at Semporna during the festival.Regatta Lepa and Sea Sports Committee chairman Abd Manan Indanan said that thus far, there are 10 entries for traditional carved lepa, while 100 entries consist of lepa kumpit (passenger boats) from villages around the district and the number of entries is expected to rise before the closing date on Nov 15, 2023.Prizes are also very attractive this year for both categories. Traditionally carved lepa category - Winner RM7,000Lepa kumpit category - Winner RM3,000A Lepa contestant doing the Bajau Mengiluk dance on the boat.A couple of Lepa boats entered the Semporna Bay area during the contest. A contestant dances as the Lepa boat enters the competition area.Sections of Lepa boat being pulled to the contesting area during the festival.Bajau kids on a Lepa boat doing the 'Mengiluk' dance.Activities at Regatta Lepa Festival 2023As always, several other activities are happening with the Lepa Festival here, which is always the same every year. I have also attended two of these festivals over the last ten years.Lepa Boat ParadeBoat Race (Kelleh-Kelleh Race)Duck Catching ContestSea Tug-of-WarLepa Beauty Pageant ContestIgal-Igal Dance (Traditional Bajau Dance)Lepa Car Contest (Stadium Semporna)Craft & Food Stalls (Around Semporna)Fireworks Display (Stadium Semporna)This year, delegations from Indonesia and the Philippines will also attend the regatta as a cross-culture activity to witness the Regatta Lepa Festival.One of the traditional Lepa boats.This year will also introduce additional events for kids under 12 and 15 years, which the Regatta Lepa organising chairman Adam Shah Mohamad said the involvement of young participants is to expose them to the Bajau cultural heritage.There are three special events;Ratu Cilik Budjang ManisRatu Cilik Lallah DoroganTitik Tagunggu (15 years and below)Regatta Lepa Festival 2023Date: 17-19 NovemberVenue: Seafest Hotel area of Semporna, SabahWebsite: Sabah TourismOne of the photos taken by me during the festival.You can also see photographs of the Regatta Lepa in Semporna I took during my previous visit to the festival here on the east coast of Sabah Borneo.ConclusionAs Semporna will come alive this mid-November, the Regatta Lepa Festival 2023 will undoubtedly be well-received among the locals and tourists there.I visited this event in 2012 and again in Regatta Lepa 2017 as a photographer and journalist to document one of Malaysia's most unique festivals and events.
    Sunday 12th of November 2023 08:18:00 AM
  • Tell Tourists To Dress Properly, Cops Tell Travel Agents in Kota Kinabalu
    Travel agents in Sabah have been reminded to brief tourists about being properly dressed after photographs were circulated online showing two scantily dressed women in Kota Kinabalu.Sabah police chief Jauteh Dikun said authorities were aware of the tourists? behaviour, the Borneo Post reported.Tell Tourists To Dress Properly, Cops Tell Travel Agents in Kota Kinabalu?Therefore, I advise travel agents and operators to properly brief the tourists on the etiquette practised in our country, including dress codes.This should include cultural compliance and information on the appropriate way of dressing when visiting our country,? he said.He said any foreign tourist found to behave indecently was at risk of a three-month jail term or a fine or both if found guilty of obscene behaviour.Jauteh said the travel agents or operators who brought the tourist would also be detained if such an incident happened. ?This responsibility also rests with the tour operators, and the police will investigate to ensure they comply with the advice given.?Kota Kinabalu police chief Zaidi Abdullah had previously said investigations were being made into two cases of women photographed in revealing clothing.The viral photos of the tourist walking around in a bikini along Gaya Street in KK.One photo taken at night showed a woman with bare breasts and buttocks, while another photo showed a woman strolling down Jalan Gaya in a bikini and carrying her luggage.Datuk Christina Liew, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment for Sabah, said,?You can tell by observation that the city center is still for business dwellers with a mix of tourist accents.??I would like to remind all travelers to be mindful of the dressing culture in any destination. Be mindful of your surroundings,? she added.?Through the Sabah Tourism Board, we often remind travelers of the dress code and customary practices. Nevertheless, travelers should also be mindful of the customs and traditions of the destination they are visiting.??It has also come to our attention that several distasteful photos have been taken by the Sabah Tourism Board building. It is disheartening to know that there is such malicious intention.?We are investigating the authenticity of the account and image. Nevertheless, we seek public consideration to report the image and account if you happen to come across it to minimize any other occurrence.?ConclusionChristina Liew also contacted Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun to further probe the distasteful tourist photos.This is also not the first time it has happened, and previously, two other cases were reported by the mainstream media. They also went viral on social media, namely Twitter or X as it is called now.
    Friday 10th of November 2023 12:30:00 PM
  • Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark Launched
    Sabah unveils the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark in a momentous event at the World Travel Market 2023 held at London's Excel.Representing the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Hon. Datuk Joniston Bangkuai describes the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark as a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and geological wonders, accentuating both its natural beauty and profound geological significance.Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark LaunchedThis achievement is incredibly significant for Sabah, as it became the third location in the world, after China and Korea, to attain the prestigious triple crown status.Sabah's two other UNESCO "crowns" include the Kinabalu Park, designated a World Heritage Site in December 2000, and the UNESCO Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, declared in June 2014.With this announcement, the global network of UNESCO Global Geoparks has grown to 195 sites across 48 countries, further solidifying Kinabalu Park's place among the world's most extraordinary natural and cultural wonders."It is important to note that Sabah Parks plays a crucial role in the protection, management and promotion of the geological heritage within the Kinabalu Geopark."This involves making these unique geological assets accessible to the public and ensuring long-term conservation while actively contributing to the pursuit of UNESCO Global Geopark status.This recognition underscores Sabah's unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices."Sabah is not just a destination but a pledge to preserve the planet's natural wonders for future generations," Bangkuai emphasises.The majestic Mount Kinabalu.The Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, sprawling over 4,750 square kilometres and spanning three districts - Ranau, Kota Marudu, and Kota Belud, is home to numerous rural villages. These communities are paramount in preserving the region's unique culture and heritage.With this recognition, Bangkuai expresses the hope of the Sabah state government to empower these rural communities by involving them in both conservation and the tourism industry."The World Travel Market 2023 is a significant moment for Sabah. It's our chance to showcase our latest UNESCO crown jewel to the world, emphasising its incredible geology, rich ecosystems, local communities, and the conservation work that earned it UNESCO recognition."This recognition as the 195th UNESCO Global Geopark solidifies Sabah's place on the world stage, and we invite the global travel and tourism community to experience the splendour of this remarkable geopark, contributing to its sustainable development and global awareness," he adds.Key Highlights of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark:Geological Marvels: Kinabalu Park boasts unique geological formations, some dating back millions of years. Visitors will be captivated by stunning rock formations, caves, and intriguing landscapes.Biodiversity: The geopark is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.Cultural Richness: Indigenous communities, with their vibrant cultures and traditions, coexist harmoniously within the geopark. Visitors can engage with these communities and learn about their way of life.Sustainable Tourism: The Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark exemplifies sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from this unique site.The 4th edition of the bird book was launched.In addition to introducing the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, Bangkuai is also launching a bird guidebook by Sabah's Wong Tsu Shi, titled "A Naturalist's Guide to Borneo's Birds (4th edition)."This concise yet thorough guide provides insights into 280 bird species, the region's geography, climate, and top birdwatching spots at Kinabalu Park. It also includes an updated checklist for avid birdwatchers.The 4th edition features new species accounts and captivating photos, making it a must-have for bird enthusiasts, both experienced and beginners, eager to explore Borneo's remarkable birdlife.You can also see the star birds of Kinabalu Park in an article done by our affiliate company, Birdwatching Asia.The contents of the A Naturalist's Guide to Borneo's Birds.ConclusionSabah Tourism Board encourages attendees at the World Travel Market 2023 to visit the Sabah stand, S9-420, to learn more about the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark and discover Sabah's natural and cultural wonders.WTM 2023 will be taking place from 6-9 November at ExCeL London, an international exhibition and convention Centre in the Custom House area of Newham, East London.
    Tuesday 7th of November 2023 05:27:00 AM
  • Diving at Mantanani Island Trip Report
    Sabah is very well regarded as a scuba diving destination in Malaysia. Destinations such as Sipadan and Mabul need no introduction. However, many lesser-known islands dot the coast of Sabah, and one of these is Mantanani Island (Malay = Pulau Mantanani).In mid-October 2023, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to go diving at Mantanani Island with JSK Mantanani Island Resorts and here is my scuba diving trip report.Diving at Mantanani Island Trip ReportThe main jetty at JSK Mantanani Resort is picture-postcard perfect!This diving session came about fortuitously, as I was primarily at Mantanani Island for birdwatching. Due to the last-minute nature of the arrangement, it was only possible to visit one dive site.Despite this, all the arrangements were efficiently handled by the recreational manager of JSK Mantanani Resort, Mr Dasuki. Being a divemaster himself, he would also be joining the dive session. The dive team set up all my equipment, and we were ready to go.At about 4 pm, we headed to one of the divemaster's favourite dive sites - 'Tukun'. This dive site was a mere 5 minutes away by speedboat. According to the divemasters, the 'Tukun' dive site is a mix of natural coral formations and artificial reefs.These artificial reefs consisted of concrete blocks placed by the government to attract more sea life. The dive site is no deeper than 20 metres.Going down! (Image credit: DM Azizul JSK Mantanani Resort)As soon as we entered the water, it was immediately apparent that the visibility was excellent (about 20 metres). The clear blue water and the gorgeous afternoon sunlight made for beautiful underwater vistas. Led by divemaster Azizul, we headed straight down to 19 metres. The dive site was a ridge of beautiful coral formations flanked by white sand.The clear water and gorgeous afternoon sunlight make for a breathtaking underwater vista. (Image credit: DM Azizul JSK Mantanani Resorts)Marine life was plentiful along the main coral ridge. We were accompanied by large schools of colourful tropical fish, such as snappers, fusiliers, surgeonfish and butterflyfish.The corals were very healthy, with various colourful hard and soft corals bringing the reef to life. Moreover, I did not notice any significant coral bleaching.The corals at this dive site were healthy and teeming with marine life. (Image credit: DM Azizul JSK Mantanani Resorts)Mantanani Artificial ReefsLocated on the sandy expanse adjacent to the reef, several cubical concrete structures came into view. These are the aforementioned artificial reefs, or 'tukun'. The hollow structures provide ample hiding places for fish and other marine life. The structures are covered in sessile marine creatures, such as anemones, soft corals and sponges.The hollow concrete artificial reefs were teeming with life. (Image credit: DM Azizul JSK Mantanani Resorts)Swimming around the artificial reefs, I saw a kaleidoscope of colourful tropical marine fish. A trumpetfish was spotted hunting amongst one of the hollow structures. Not far away, a gorgeous Zebra Lionfish was sheltering within. Various surgeonfish grazed the surfaces for algae, and numerous butterflyfishes gave the whole area a dash of colour.Look closely, and you can see a Zebra Lionfish sheltering within this artificial reef! (Image credit: DM Azizul JSK Mantanani Resorts)Ending the diveBefore ending the dive, divemaster Azizul led me around the other side of the main coral ridge. Again, I was impressed at the beauty and the pristine nature of the reef. We ended the dive just before 5 pm and returned on the short boat ride to JSK Resort.Marine creatures encountered while diving at Mantanani IslandDuring my dive session, I managed to spot the following marine creatures:Several types of angelfishes, including the Six-banded Angelfish, Semicircle Angelfish and the breathtakingly beautiful Regal AngelfishButterflyfish include the Long-nosed Butterflyfish, Pennant Bannerfish, Humphead Bannerfish and Spot-tail Butterflyfish.Large school of Big-eyed SnappersPorcupinefishGroupers such as Slender Grouper, Coral Hind, and Leopard Coral-grouperA Bent-stick Pipefish was well camouflaged on the seafloor.Trumpetfish are quite common hereThe aforementioned Zebra LionfishDash-and-Dot and Two-barred Goatfish.Many colourful nudibranchs can be seen amongst the reef. According to the divemaster Azizul, this dive site is quite suitable for macro life.Many more that I can't remember!A large school of Bigeye Snappers accompanied us during the dive. (Image credit: DM Azizul JSK Mantanani Resorts)General Information on diving at Mantanani IslandWhere is Mantanani Island?Mantanani Island is located roughly 90 km northeast of Kota Kinabalu, as the crow flies. Access to the island is via boat from jetties at Kuala Abai or Rampayan Laut.Both jetties are around 1.5 to 2 hours drive time (depending on traffic) from Kota Kinabalu city centre. This relatively close proximity to a major city makes the Mantanani Islands convenient to access.Mantanani Island is located roughly 90 km north-east of Kota Kinabalu.Map showing the Mantanani Islands.Where is JSK Mantanani Island Resorts?The resort is located on the north side of Pulau Mantanani Besar. Access to the resort is from their jetty at Rampayan Laut. Simply search for 'JSK Rampayan Jetty' using Google or a navigation app. The boat ride to the island takes around 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions.Map of Pulau Mantanani Besar, showing where JSK Mantanani Resorts is located.When to go diving at Mantanani Island?You can go to Mantanani Island year-round; however, the monsoon season usually increases winds and rainfall and decreases visibility.The monsoon season is usually from November to February. Nevertheless, Sabah as a whole isn't as severely affected by the monsoon as some other states in Malaysia.The dive operator - JSK Mantanani Island ResortsThis well-appointed resort only recently began offering SCUBA dives to its guests. According to Mr Dasuki, they started their diving operations on the 1st of October, 2023 (barely three weeks before I arrived).Nevertheless, they have scouted the islands and have around 15 dive sites available. This number will likely get higher in the future.The JSK Mantanani Resort banner advertising their diving packages.The diving packages start at RM 250 and include the following options:Discover SCUBA dives (DSD) for non-divers looking to get their feet wet.Fun dives (day and/or night) for certified divers.If you would like to go diving at Mantanani Island with JSK Mantanani Island Resorts, head over to the links below:Official website of JSK Mantanani Island Resorts.The Mantanani Island Dive section of their website.Additional Information on the Mantanani IslandsThe Mantanani Islands are surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful azure waters. The small island on the left is Pulau Lungisan.The Mantanani Islands are made up of three islands. These are Pulau Mantanani Besar (where all the resorts are), Pulau Mantanani Kecil and Pulau Lungisan. In addition to the resorts, several villages are located around Pulau Mantanani Besar. Conversely, Pulau Mantanani Kecil is uninhabited, with only a maritime radar station.Pulau Lungisan is a small island in between the two Mantanani Islands. This steep-sided islet is uninhabitable and is a major seabird roosting site.Mantanani Island is famous for its white sand beaches and azure blue waters. The sunsets and sunrises are stunning and among the best in Sabah. Consequently, the island is popular with tourists looking for fun in the sea and sun.The sunrise seen from the JSK Mantanani jetty is absolutely stunning!Another thing that Mantanani was famous for in the past was the dugong. These shy and endangered marine mammals frequently visited the surrounding waters to look for food.There was even a documentary about the relationship between a boy and a dugong filmed here a while back. Unfortunately, these gentle sea creatures can no longer be regularly found here.Additionally, about 11 years ago, my colleague David also did some scuba diving at Mantanani Island, and you can also read his article from a decade ago.Conclusion:Scuba diving at Mantanani Island is a great way to explore a less well-known scuba diving destination. The clear, blue waters and vibrant marine life will likely excite divers and nature lovers.Its location within 2 - 3 hours of Kota Kinabalu makes it quite convenient to access. If you're looking to dive in Sabah, the Mantanani Islands are well worth considering.Even though it was just one dive, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was particularly impressed by the pristine corals and the multitude of marine life that I encountered during the dive.The picture-perfect island just makes the overall experience even more memorable! I look forward to returning to Mantanani Island and JSK Mantanani Island Resorts to explore the other dive sites.
    Thursday 26th of October 2023 01:04:00 PM
  • Takuapa Old Town
    One of the places to visit in Khao Lak is Takuapa Old Town, a charming nostalgic place that totally blew my mind when I set food here in mid-February 2023.This place is even more unique because it shares similarities with Malaysia, namely the Baba-Peranakan ethnicity spread here. It is also recommended to visit the Takua Pa Sunday Market, which is the highlight of this article. Fascinated? Read on.Takuapa Old TownApart from the general beach lifestyle that Khao Lak offers, there are many other things to do in Khao Lak, and visiting the Cultural Street in Takuapa old town was one of them.Since it was my first time visiting Khao Lak, 90 minutes north of Phuket, I researched to see what I could do around here. The old pre-war shophouses in Takuapa remind me of Penang and Melaka.One of the Thai Peranakan shops that sells traditional fabrics.Little did I know that the Baba and Peranakan culture had spread north and settled in Takuapa, namely in the old town part.The Cultural Street in Takuapa Old Town is open throughout, but Sunday is the best time to visit this place due to the Takua Pa Sunday Market that takes place here from 3.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.Inside one of the pre-war shops of Takuapa, it looks like it's in Melaka or Penang.On other days, the place is just another old town where you can walk and admire the beautiful pre-war architecture and old businesses still operating.Some of them are so old that they have not conformed to today's modern concepts, and this was one of my highlights here.The Thakuapa Sunday Market occupies the entire street, which stretches about a kilometre long, and vendors operate all kinds of stalls along the street. There must be around 50 or more vendors here.In the middle of the street is a junction where massive street art dominates both ends of the buildings, which is a great photo opportunity.What to See at Takuapa Sunday Market?The entrance to the Takuapa Sunday Market at night.As mentioned, Sunday will be the best time to visit Takuapa Old Town because the Sunday Market will be the highlight here.While you may have been to Bang Niang Market in Kaho Lak, let me assure you that this Sunday Market is much more interesting and not as touristy as Bang Niang.Below are some random photos of the Takuapa Sunday Market with random food stalls.Satay Takuapa is a local favourite that spells the food word like in Malaysia.A local selling some Toddy Cakes, among other Peranakan cakes and food.A vendor sells Siu Mai and Pau along the cultural street of Takuapa.A Takua Pa vendor sells some interesting drinks.Chinese-style puddings and jackfruit custard cakes.The general scene at the Sunday market in Takuapa.You will see a lot of art and craft vendors promoting handmade products on Takuapa, which I found very interesting compared to the general Thai tourist products you see everywhere.Other than that, there are a lot of local Thai food stalls and some fabulous local coffee cafes. The list of stalls found here is random;Thai local foodThai dessertsHandmade bagsLocal Takuapa t-shirtsDrink vendorsCoffee vendorsThai souvenirsBaba fabricsBaba sarongs, dresses, scarves and parioBaba traditional cakesKopi Kuapa Cafe in Takuapa is one of the exciting coffee cafes.A billboard in Thai about the Takuapa Culture Street.A typical scene on Sunday along the food street here.There are also several stalls selling interesting souvenirs.Inside one of the Thai Peranakan shops that sell the Kebaya dress.A map of Takua Pa, painted on the side of a building.How to go to Takuapa Old Town?You can hire private transport from Khao Lak's main town centre or get your hotel to arrange a special tour there. No buses travel here, and for foreigners, I recommend you take a tour service from the hotel or any tour counters around the town area.Where is Takuapa Old Town? It is north of Khao Lak town centre and will take 30-40 minutes to drive there. This also depends on the traffic, as when I went on a Sunday, it took me around 40 minutes.If you are going to the Sunday Market, it only opens around 4.00 p.m., so leaving at 3.00 p.m. would be sufficient.If you plan to visit the old town, you can go anytime as they will be open, but try to go before 4.00 p.m., as most of the shops will be closed.Sunday Market at Takuapa Old TownOpen: Sunday onlyTime: 3.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.What the Sunday Cultural Street looks like before it gets dark.ConclusionMy experience in Khao Lak was immensely fascinating as it has been a long time since I visited a place to only see Westerners dominating the tourist scene.There were no other Asians, especially Malaysians or Singaporeans, seen around here, and this was indeed a surprise to me.While I have heard some Malaysians have been here, those are mainly the serious tourists seeking quality travel, unlike Phuket or Samu, where mass tourism is abundant.I stayed at La Vela Khao Lak, a 5-star resort by the beach that is the most modern and impressive in terms of accommodation, facilities, food and beverage.And for those planning to visit this part of Southern Thailand, you can also see my Khao Lak at night photography series, where I used a smartphone to take all the pictures.For anyone planning to visit Khao Lak, include Sunday as part of your trip, and you can then visit the Sunday Market at Takuapa Old Town.
    Thursday 5th of October 2023 01:14:00 PM
  • Super 4 of Kuala Lumpur
    Did you know there is a Super 4 of Kuala Lumpur? Yes, with the recent addition of the Merdeka 118, this mega skyscraper has made it 4 of the tallest buildings in the world, right here in Malaysia.In the last two decades, Kuala Lumpur has been included as one of the skyscraper cities in the world, with several unique world-class skyscrapers and towers.Super 4 of Kuala LumpurKL city, as it is commonly called, is home to four amazing skyscrapers and towers, and I will share with you some of the basic information about these four mega structures that dominate the skyline now.Before I continue, you should also know that Malaysia was put on the world map many years ago because of the Petronas Twin Towers, once the tallest twin towers in the world.A stunning sunrise shot of the Super 4 in Kuala Lumpur by photographer Danny Wong CC.The Super 4 of Kuala Lumpur are Merdeka 118, Exchange 106 @ TRX, Petronas Twin Towers and the Kuala Lumpur Tower, which you can see all four in the main photo above.Merdeka 118 (#4) - Formerly, this megastructure went through three different names, Menara Warisan Merdeka, KL 118 and PNB 118; it is now finally called Merdeka 118 and is a 118-story mega-tall skyscraper in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. At 678.9 m tall, it is the second-tallest building and structure in the world. (as of Oct 2023)Exchange 106 (#3) - This skyscraper was formerly known as the Signature Tower and is a 453.6-meter-tall supertall skyscraper in the TRX area of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is Malaysia's second-tallest building and Southeast Asia's third-tallest building.The Petronas Twin Towers (#2) - This interlinked pair of 88-storey supertall skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, stands at 451.9 metres (1,483 feet). From 1998 to 2004, they were officially designated as the tallest buildings in the world until they were surpassed by the completion of the Taipei 101 in 2004.Kuala Lumpur Tower (#1) - Often referred to as KL Tower, this is a 6-storey, 421-metre-tall (1,381 ft) telecommunication tower in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is the world's seventh-tallest tower and Malaysia and Southeast Asia's second-tallest tower, and was completed in 1994.The four skyscrapers that make up the Super 4 in KL. Photo by Tat Wee.Where is the best place to see the Super 4 of Kuala Lumpur?There are several places around Kuala Lumpur where you can try to spot all four skyscrapers on a good day. So, you can try your luck, especially on a clear day or for a sunset shot.Ampang Lookout Point - This is the most famous KL skyline lookout point where you can get a good view of the city day or night. Many locals come here for sunset or night photography of KL, and even I stopped here many times over 30 years ago. Easily accessible by ride-hailing for visitors to KL.Changkat Tunku Lookout Point - The above is one of the best skyline views of Kuala Lumpur, day or night. And it's easily accessible. And if you are a visitor to KL, you can also take a ride-hailing car to get here.Bukit Tunku Viewpoint (Closed) - This used to be the closest lookout point for the KL Skyline, but due to the place going viral on social media, many people came here to take photos and litter the area daily. The city council eventually boarded up this place and closed it down, so do not come here for the skyline view.The Ampang Lookout Point in the day.As I also do some smartphone photography occasionally, you can check out my Merdeka 118 photos taken with my smartphone in December 2021 when they were still building it.ConclusionFor anyone who wants to see or photograph the Super 4 of Kuala Lumpur, the places listed above will provide you with some stunning views and photos.Other than that, thanks for viewing this article and please do share this with your network via Facebook or even through your Whatsapp and Telegram channels.
    Monday 2nd of October 2023 12:21:00 PM
  • Kiulu Community Based Tourism
    In Sabah Borneo, the Kiulu Community Based Tourism or CoBT, is one of the highly sought-after experiences by many travellers due to several factors that are very ecotourism-based.Over the years, Kuilu is one of the well-known destinations, about an hour's drive from Kota Kinabalu and can be visited as a day trip.Kiulu Community Based TourismOver the last decade, Kiuli has become known for its water rafting along the main Kiulu River, the main tourist attraction. I even tried the water rafting here in 2005, almost 20 years ago.Over the years, the Kiulu community has slowly developed several other tourism products here, mainly focusing on the homestay elements in the Kiulu Valley.The new Tourist Information Centre in Kiulu.With proper guidance from selected parties, the integrated community-based tourism initiative in Kiulu was committed to using local resources ranging from accommodation, activities and people.There were courses educating the people here on maintaining unique cultural practices, developing rural tourism through training hosts, and linking homestays with surrounding products or activities.For those who are reading this for the first time, community-based tourism is a special genre of tourism that is conducted by the local village community, where the earnings all go back to the community.This way, it helps to sustain the local villages through various programs organised by the tourism boards, associations, tour companies and even NGOs.What Does Kiulu Community Based Tourism Offer?Over in Kiulu Valley, there is quite a bit of activity available, not forgetting the all-new Community-Based Tourism Centre, which opened in August 2023.This centre is open to everyone, and when you visit here, you can speak to the association members who manage this facility. They will then guide you to the correct facility and accommodation.Water rafting is one of the popular things to do in Kiulu.Kiulu Valley offers;Local Sabahan Homestay ExperiencsKiulu Farmstay ExperienceKiulu Water RaftingQuad Biking in BorneoKiulu Obstacle CoursesKiulu Countryside VisitsTrekking and Hiking around KiuluCamping in KiuluKiulu Abseiling and Flying FoxKiulu Riverside PicnicI will leave it to you to fully explore this beautiful tourist destination in Sabah because if I write everything here, there will not be any element of surprise.Inside the Kiulu Tourism Association office.Where is Kiulu Valley in Sabah? Kiulu Valley is located about 80 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu through some beautiful village roads. It is accessible only via car or bike as there are no buses or trains here.In most cases, visitors who come here either take a tour package from Kota Kinabalu or rent a car and self-drive themselves here to experience the homestay and activities around Kiulu.The welcoming sign when you enter Kiulu town.ConclusionPlease also read my other articles about community based tourism in Sabah, as I have documented quite a few of these places all over the state.And for those who want to experience the Kiulu community based tourism, you can easily book a package through one of the leading tour companies in Kota Kinabalu.You can also book directly through the Kiulu Tourism Association from their Facebook page, as they are pretty active there.
    Tuesday 26th of September 2023 01:42:00 PM
  • HSS Pocket Park in Kuala Lumpur
    The historic heart of downtown Kuala Lumpur has seen significant changes in recent years, with exciting new restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels and event spaces being regenerated and opened by a wave of entrepreneurs redefining the urban experience for locals and visitors alike.Nestled within a cluster of renovated pre-war shophouses known as High Street Studios (HSS) along Jalan Tun HS Lee is HSS Pocket Park - a lush, green oasis where people exploring the area can take a break and escape the heat, noise and traffic congestion.It was intentionally created to balance the burgeoning development of commercial spaces with equally vital public spaces.HSS Pocket Park in Kuala Lumpur?Downtown KL needs more than just hipster cafes - it needs more public spaces,? says Ng Ping Ho, Director of the Kindness of Strangers Hospitality Group, who manages the park for private owners.?We decided to create a park modelled after pocket parks in major cosmopolitan cities worldwide, where urban spaces are reclaimed and transformed into green community spaces. Even though Pocket Park is a privately owned space, it?s open to people from all walks of life.?Recalling the inspiration behind HSS Pocket Park, Ng muses, ?In 2011, on a trip to New York City, I chanced upon the tiny Paley Park tucked between all the skyscrapers. There was a gushing waterfall, tall leafy trees, and people having lunch, reading or taking a break.With the sound of flowing water and sunlight filtering through the trees, it had a stillness that felt like a world away from the bustle of the city. We thought that the time was right for a space like that in KL.?HSS Pocket Park occupies a compact 935 square feet courtyard space within a pre-war shophouse complex called High Street Studios. The row of shophouses was originally a backpackers hostel that closed during the pandemic, converted to a mixture of retail and offices for small independent businesses in 2022. Derived from the original name of Jalan Tun HS Lee, High Street now houses the Kuala Lumpur offices of Think City, independent bookstore Riwayat, popular LOKL Coffee Co, creative Gahara Batik, and Gambus, a music store featuring traditional instruments. Cyclists frequent the park on weekends because there is ample space to park their bikes. HSS Pocket Park was made possible with the support of Think City?s Downtown Kuala Lumpur Grants Programme in 2021, an initiative designed to crowdsource urban solutions that will accelerate the transformation of Downtown Kuala Lumpur as envisioned in the Kuala Lumpur Creative and Cultural District Strategic Masterplan, while strengthening the social and environmental resilience within Downtown Kuala Lumpur.HSS Pocket Park Open Day: 16 Sep, 11am - 3pm.To raise awareness of the park, Kindness of Strangers will be organizing an open day on 16th September 2023.The event takes place during Malaysia Day, incorporating a sense of nostalgia with Malaysian snacks, food stalls and creative activities.Grab a coffee at LOKL Coffee Co, learn more about Downtown KL from Think City, and participate in activities like Face Painting, Batik Painting and book readings.Think City will also be present to share the aspiration of Downtown KL and the Kuala Lumpur Creative and Cultural District Strategic Masterplan.HSS Pocket Park Event Schedule 11am - 3pmRamly Burger and Milo Food StallsKomei Playground BoothWishing Tree with Think CityFace Painting (until 2pm)Traditional Music Demo at GambusBatik Painting Workshop with Gahara BatikLive Painting at HSSTimed Sessions12pm - 12:30pm: Dialogue Session with Think City at HSS Pocket Park1:30pm - 3pm: Book Reading and Sharing by Marina Mahathir, Fatimah Abu Bakar, ChangYoong Chia and Nik M. Fahmee at RiwayatConclusionIf you want to know more about the HSS Pocket Park in Kuala Lumpur this Malaysia Day, just visit 34 Jalan Tun H S Lee and check out this place.For your added information, pocket parks are mini forest parks located within a city and are smaller than 0.5 hectares (1 acre) in size. Read more about pocket parks on Wikipedia.This will give you a much better understanding of what pocket parks are all about and are considered relatively new to our ever-evolving society.
    Thursday 14th of September 2023 03:59:00 AM
  • New Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
    Having been with the TAT in 1999 after earning a master?s degree in science from the University of Surrey in the UK, Ms Thapanee Kiatphaiboon has held various positions within the organisation, including Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business and, most recently, Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing.New Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)In her recent role as TAT Deputy Governor for Domestic Marketing, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon initiated various tourism initiatives to help drive Thailand?s economy.Among them included the workation in Thailand, faith and religious tourism routes, and solo travels ? which helped stimulate 151.45 million domestic trips in 2022 ? about 88% of the record year in 2019 ? and generated 641.5 billion Baht.As Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, Ms Thapanee was recognised for her leadership in initiating the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification programme that enabled hotels and services to meet specific health and safety standards.The programme became a mandatory requirement for hotels seeking to register as quarantine facilities during strict COVID-19 control measures and also received global recognition in alignment with the WTTC SafeTravels protocols.She also initiated the Special Tourist Visa (STV) scheme to promote the reopening of Thailand, which led to subsequent entry schemes, including Villa Quarantine, Yacht Quarantine and Golf Quarantine, as well as the Phuket Sandbox, which has been recognised internationally as the model for the country?s reopening.Ms Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, the new TAT governor. Photo: ThePhuketNews.comRecognised as a social media and technology-savvy individual, Ms Thapanee has played a vital role in utilising technology and social media in the promotion and development of Thailand?s tourism.Her outstanding achievements in this area include the Google Street View project in cooperation with Google Thailand and the ?Amazing Thailand? social media platforms.As an advocate of Thailand?s tourism, Ms Thapanee has been instrumental in the development of various unique interest tourism products, including health and wellness tourism, yacht and cruise tourism, and community tourism, as well as the ?King?s Wisdom for Sustainable Tourism? project, which won the PATA Grand Awards 2018 in the category of Education and Training.ConclusionIn her earlier years with the TAT, Ms Thapanee Kiatphaiboon was widely recognised for her contribution towards promoting and developing intra-regional travel within the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
    Monday 4th of September 2023 07:46:00 AM
  • Kopel Kinabatangan Community Based Tourism
    One of the recommended localised nature experiences is the unique Kopel Kinabatangan Community Based Tourism in Sabah.As you know, the Kinabatangan River in Sabah is one of northern Borneo's world-class nature and bird watching destinations.Kopel Kinabatangan Community Based TourismIn June of 2023, I took a trip to Kinabatangan. On my way, I stopped at Kopel to understand more about what they offer and how they conduct their special community based ecotourism activities here.To me, community-based tourism is already a class of its own, but discovering that Kopel is more of a Community Based Ecotourism experience was quite interesting. And for added knowledge, Kopel is actually an acronym for Koperasi Pelancongan or Tourism Corporation.The location of the main arrival is under a bridge.The location of the main office is under a bridge and by the Kinabatangan River, which makes it easy to move up and down the river.Kopel Kinabatangan is actually in the Batu Putih district of Kinabatangan, and they operate under one unity cooperative.The place is also surrounded by the Pin-Supu Forest Reserve, classified under a Class VI - Virgin Jungle Reserve (VJR).'The cooperative and group also have a long history of community-based tourism that dates back to 1996/7, when they formed MESCOT (Model Ecologically Sustainable Community Conservation and Tourism).The main office.The new Mandaa homestay project for groups.MESCOT is involved in coordinating the entire project, while the local community started their own organisation called Kopel Bhd in 2003, which implements the projects.Kopel Bhd is also a Community-Based Organisation involving 200 people from the surrounding villages of Batu Puteh.Where to stay at Kopel? There are several original and local homestays around Kopel where you can stay, giving you an actual Sabahan homestay experience. For larger groups, there is a unique and modern accommodation called Mandaa Stay, a village hostel with a medium-sized community and function area. This is wholly owned by Kopel, too.For the adventurous, there is a jungle camp called Tungog Rainforest Eco Camp and the Supu Adventure Camp, catering to pure nature but providing excellent and basic facilities for non-locals.Night walks are one of the activities to spot all sorts of insects here.What can you do at Kopel Kinabatangan?For those interested in community-based experiences while travelling to this part of the world, there are actually several things that can be done here, which include;Replanting degraded forestsRestoring critical wildlife habitat in Pin-Supu forest reserveSite preparation and silviculture, seed collecting and cultivationLake restoration by removing the invasive water weed species Salvinia MolestaApart from the above, visitors can also participate in various community-based ecotourism through the Tungog Rainforest Eco Camp (TREC) and Miso Walai homestay programmes.The many activities being offered at Kopel.How can you contribute to this? Visitors who want to help and contribute can do so in the simplest way possible. All you need to do is book a stay with Kopel and experience their ecotourism products.Then, you can help them even more by purchasing their products, like t-shirts, and volunteering in some of their programs. Just these few simple means will help the community here.A map showing where Kopel Kinabatangan is located at Batu Puteh.Where is Kopel Kinabatangan?Kopel is located in the upper part of Kinabatangan, near Bilit, an area of the river where wildlife tourism activities are conducted.There is hardly any public transport to this place, but a car or van journey will take you approximately two hours from the Sandakan Airport in Sabah.Kopel offers some pickup services in their packages, and you need to double check this with them. Alternatively, public buses stop at Kota Kinabatangan main town, and you must make arrangements to be picked up for a minimal fee.KOPEL AddressJalan Feri Lama, Kg Mengaris,Mukim Batu Puteh, 90200,Kinabatangan, Sabah, MalaysiaOffice Tel: +6 089 551070Website: Kopel KinabatanganThe leading information for Koperasi Pelancongan Mukim Batu Puteh Kinabatangan.If you are interested in this type of unique experience, please check out my other community based tourism places in Sabah, which I have written about.ConclusionFor adventurous tourists, the Kopel Kinabatangan Community Based Tourism experience is truly out of the ordinary and should be experienced if you dislike commercial tourism.Over the last two decades, many ecotourism lovers have taken the challenge to do this kind of tourism here in Sabah Borneo. Now, it's your turn.
    Monday 4th of September 2023 04:46:00 AM
  • Asian Bird Fair 2023
    This year, the Asian Bird Fair 2023 takes place in the city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, from 14-15 October.The event also happens at the Sabah International Convention Centre, a few minute's drive from Kota Kinabalu or KK.Asian Bird Fair 2023As this is the third time that the Asian Bird Fair is taking place in Malaysia, many are looking forward to this fair due to the sudden interest in birding since the COVID-19 pandemic.For your additional knowledge, the first time that the Asian Bird Fair (ABF) was held was back in 2014 at Langkawi Island. The second event was the Asian Bird Fair 2019 in Kuching, Sarawak.Now, in 2023, we are seeing the third time the bird fair is taking place in Malaysia, which is excellent because it shows Malaysia is upping their game in avian tourism and the interest in this unique genre.Poster from the organisers.Since the pandemic, birders and photographers have grown by the thousands due to boredom and seeking a new hobby and interest.Most of the new post-pandemic birders are mainly bird photographers, which, in a good way, helped fuel the economy in camera and equipment purchases.Most birders and photographers are past the age of 40, and many retirees and this group of birders are the ones that can help the birding industry locally.Of course, there are also the new breed of younger birders out there, but a lot of birding ethics and education needs to be shared with all post-pandemic birders. At the Asian Bird Fair, there will be several talks and showcases throughout the two days, and registered participants will get to experience first-hand knowledge and even a field trip.For non-registered visitors, you can only visit the birding bazaar area, where several local and international vendors will showcase their products and tours.For more information, you can also read my other article on the ABF2023 Program, which highlights what happens for the two days. Otherwise, visit the official ABF website below.Asian Bird Fair 2023 InformationDate: 14-15 OctoberVenue: Saban International Convention Centre (SICC), Kota KinabaluTime: 10.00 AM to 6.00 PMWebsite & Registration: ABF2023The ABF2023 is from 14-15 October in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.ConclusionFor those planning to visit the Asian Bird Fair 2023, I recommend you start making travel and hotel arrangements early.I will be at the fair under Birdwatching Asia with my team to do media coverage and experience this birding event here in Sabah, Malaysia, Borneo. If you see me there, do say hello.
    Sunday 27th of August 2023 09:40:00 AM
  • Borneo Bird Festival 2023
    The Borneo Bird Festival 2023 is back and held from 21-22 October at the Rainforest Discovery Centre or RDC in Sepilok, Sandakan.The two-day bird festival is now its 13th year, attracting bird watchers, photographers and nature lovers to the RDC.Borneo Bird Festival 2023Every October, the bird festival sees more visitors interested in the avian world, and several are picking up the hobby of birdwatching and bird photography.While the festival focuses on several elements of birding and nature, many other non-birding activities are available, like nature walks, conservation talks and a local bazaar.The team members, vendors and participants from last year.Of course, the birding industry players are seen at the main festival grounds, where you will see popular camera and optics brands showcasing their latest products.Apart from them, you will also see several birding-related resorts, NGOs and even wildlife departments taking part in the largest birding festival in Borneo.Often, state tourism boards also showcase their individual products related to birdwatching and other nature products.As for me, I have been participating in and visiting the bird festival here since 2008, and this is the event that turned me into a birdwatcher and photographer.The main activities take place at the bird festival.Activities at the Bird FestivalThe main activities include the Sabah Bird Race and Bird Photography Contest, where you can register at the event or visit the official Facebook page below.Borneo Bird Festival 2023Date: 21-22 OctoberDay: Sat & SunVenue: Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), Sepilok, Sandakan, SabahTime: 7.00 AM to 6.00 PMMore Info: Borneo Bird Festival Facebook PageThe program for this year's festival in Sabah.ConclusionFor those planning to attend the Borneo Bird Festival 2023, please make your flight and accommodation arrangements as soon as possible; otherwise, limited rooms will be available.Those lodges and hotels around the festival area in Sepilok tend to sell out fast; therefore, if there are no available rooms, you may need to stay in the Sandakan city area or around Mile 4,5 or 6. I will be there as always, and if you see me, say hello. I look forward to meeting old and new friends there.
    Saturday 26th of August 2023 06:30:00 AM
  • Kedamaian Community Based Tourism
    Located around the Kota Belud and Kinabalu National Park area is the secluded and almost-hidden Kedamaian Community Based Tourism project at Kampung Tambatuon.In early May 2023, I was fortunate to visit this stunning rural tourism destination in Sabah as part of my explorations. While here, I managed to speak to one of the homestay operators.Kedamaian Community Based TourismThis incredibly beautiful community-based sanctuary is well hidden away from the main roads of the Ranau and Kinabalu areas.The beautiful Kampung Tambatuon.You must use an application like Waze or Google Maps to get to this beautiful place, but I recommend using the latter as it was recommended to me by a local friend.Once you enter the area, you feel transported to another dimension or go through a time portal. The local windy village road leads you into an unknown place and suddenly opens up to this little valley.You can see the tiny Kedamaian village nestled just next to a river. As you head closer to the village, you start seeing a different side of Sabah.The marking shows where Kedamaian is located.Arriving on a weekday, the place was quiet, but I managed to see one of the owners of the riverside lodges who was clearing up his accommodation. I asked him if I could have a few minutes of his time to ask him some questions.Sabahans are known to be friendly, and over here, in the rural areas, the locals are even more hospitable. The owner invited me to visit his homestay and explained the community-driven program here.Most of his guests are a mix of locals and foreigners, usually in groups that want to experience the local Sabahan lifestyle.Upon asking him in detail, he did mention that most of his guests are second or third-time visitors to Sabah; this time, they want to experience something different apart from the usual city tourism.The age gap is also not a factor as he has received retirees as guests, but most are usually younger travellers aged 25 to 45.Some of the activities are being offered here.Activities at KedamaianSeveral activities are available at Kedamaian, and once you choose your host accommodation, you can arrange the activities with them.The popular activities in Kedamain are river tubing and trekking up to Mount Nungkok (1652m). There is also camping available here.The other activities include general local homestay experiences, including eating local, river fish massage, and even learning some cultural dances or playing the local gongs.Photos of Kedamaian Community-Based TourismBelow are random photos taken around the area for your viewing. Again, I could have managed to spend a night here as I was on a tight schedule. But hopefully, in future, I will get the opportunity.The beautiful Kedamaian River.A simple life in a simple place.The hiking trail up to Mount Nungkok.Local homestay food at Kedamaian.The welcome sign as you enter Kampung  Tambatuon.One of the must-do things here is River Tubing along the Kedamain River.A signboard shows what is around the village.Map to Kedamaian Community-based Tourism in Sabah How to go to Kedamaian Community Based Tourism?For anyone self-driving, you can just put Kedamaian into Google Apps and let it guide you here. It will be a relatively easy drive from Kota Kinabalu City. Waze will take you through the mountain roads, which I only recommend if you have a 4x4 vehicle.Otherwise, if you do not drive, I suggest you arrange with a homestay operator or contact a tour agency to inquire about transportation. You also need to ensure you book your stay before coming here, as walk-ins are not recommended.Kedamaian Homestay LodgingSeveral homestays are found in the Kedamaian program, and you can choose which one you prefer to stay at. The best option is to contact them directly by visiting the Sabah Tourism Rural Tourism page. Or you can also call Sabah Tourism at 088 212 121 during office hours.Kedamaian Homestay in Sabah.This is the common area of the riverside lodge.What the rooms look like inside the lodge.The main entrance to the Kedamaian Riverside Lodge.More InformationFor more, you can also read about my Sabah community-based tourism article, where I highlight this genre in general for people to understand.ConclusionIf you want to experience something different around the Kinabalu National Park area, then the Kedamaian Community Based Tourism area is recommended.Remember, this is not your regular tourism place but more of a cultural experience with the local people of Sabah.
    Friday 18th of August 2023 01:35:00 PM
  • Malaysia International Dive Expo 2024
    Scuba divers take note as the Malaysia International Dive Expo 2024, or MIDE 2024, has been officially launched with the dates and venue.This is the second time that the MIDE 2024 event will be held at MITEC Kula Lumpur catering to scuba divers from all over.Malaysia International Dive Expo 2024If you did not know, MIDE 2024 will be the largest scuba diving expo in the region, catering to thousands of divers from Malaysia and worldwide.The organisers are thrilled to announce the 18th Malaysia International Dive Expo (MIDE) 2024 will take place from 7 to 9 June 2024 at MITEC KL.If you missed what happened at the last scuba diving expo, you can check out my article on the Malaysia International Dive Expo 2023 at MITEC Kuala Lumpur.And for anyone who is planning to explore my beautiful country, here is a list of the best places for scuba diving in Malaysia which is compiled by me as a scuba diver.MIDE 2024 Details Date: 7-9 June 2024Time: 10am-7pmVenue: Level 1, Hall 2, Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala LumpurThe poster for Malaysia International Dive Expo 2024.ConclusionFor those planning to visit the Malaysia International Dive Expo 2024, please make your booking arrangements early.This goes to those attending the trade show as a vendor or as a visitor. There are hotels around the area or within the vicinity, so book early and get good rates.
    Tuesday 8th of August 2023 06:25:00 AM
  • Malaysia Travel Requirement to Europe from 2024
    For those planning to visit the EU, there are some new Malaysia travel requirement to Europe from 2024. The European Union has unveiled these new requirements for Malaysians who plan on travelling to any of the 30 countries.Malaysia is among 60 countries currently visa-exempting to enter most European nations. However, from 2024, visitors must obtain travel authorisation from the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which will be linked to their passports.Malaysia Travel Requirement to Europe from 2024According to the EU?s official ETIAS website, the authorisation will be valid for three years or until the passport?s expiry. Upon the passport?s expiry, travellers must obtain a new ETIAS travel authorisation.?With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays, generally for up to 90 days, in any 180 days.Malaysian love to travel to Europe during the year-end.?However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions,? it said.Applications may be filled through the EU?s ETIAS website or the system?s mobile app, with each application costing ?7. The EU said most applications will be processed within minutes, but some may take up to four days for a decision.?Please note that this could be extended by up to 14 days if you are requested to provide additional information or documentation or up to 30 days if you are invited to an interview. This is why you should apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation well before your planned journey,? it said.ETIAS travel authorisation will be required from 2024 to enter Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.Europe is one of the trendy destinations for Malaysian travellers.ConclusionFurther details may be found on the EU?s official ETIAS website, or you can inquire with your local travel agent.For those buying via online websites, you should also inquire with the operator about the Malaysia travel requirement to Europe from 2024.
    Friday 4th of August 2023 03:00:00 AM


Malaysia Asia Stats

Daily Unique PVs Total PVs Unique In Total In Unique Out Total Out
Average 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 6.4 6.4
Today 0 0 0 0 1 1
Yesterday 1 1 0 0 6 6
March 17 0 0 0 0 5 5
March 16 0 0 0 0 0 0
March 15 0 0 0 0 4 4
March 14 0 0 0 0 7 7
March 13 0 0 0 0 9 9
March 12 0 0 0 0 11 11
March 11 0 0 0 0 7 7
March 10 0 0 0 0 14 14
Highest 5 5 0 0 87 93
Weekly Unique PVs Total PVs Unique In Total In Unique Out Total Out
Average 1.1 1.1 0.0 0.0 61.4 62.3
This Week 1 1 0 0 7 7
Last Week 0 0 0 0 43 43
Week 10 3 3 0 0 81 84
Week 09 1 1 0 0 49 50
Week 08 0 0 0 0 56 56
Week 07 2 2 0 0 65 66
Week 06 1 1 0 0 86 88
Week 05 1 1 0 0 83 85
Week 04 1 1 0 0 82 82
Week 03 1 1 0 0 62 62
Highest 10 10 0 0 339 353
Monthly Unique PVs Total PVs Unique In Total In Unique Out Total Out
Average 6.0 6.4 0.0 0.0 442.7 453.4
This Month 4 4 0 0 149 152
Last Month 5 5 0 0 292 298
January 24 4 4 0 0 309 310
December 23 8 10 0 0 160 161
November 23 6 6 0 0 322 363
October 23 13 14 0 0 705 719
September 23 8 9 0 0 807 828
August 23 2 2 0 0 684 697
July 23 8 8 0 0 472 475
June 23 2 2 0 0 527 531
Highest 21 22 0 0 807 828
Unique PVs Total PVs Unique In Total In Unique Out Total Out
Overall 905 942 0 0 11,160 11,487

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