You would be pleasantly surprised at the warmth of Malaysians. For deeply entrenched within each of the different races is the engaging charm and traditional hospitality for which Malaysia is renowned.
It would be difficult to overstate the attraction of Malaysia for anyone who appreciates the natural world. Its primal forests, ranging from shoreline mangrove to mountaintop oak, are of the sort that most of the world now knows only in myth. Although Malaysia's size is similar to that of Norway, natural trees and forests cover almost three quarters of the land, an area equivalent to almost the entire United Kingdom. One can walk for hundreds of miles in Malaysia under a continuous canopy of green, marvelling at an abundance of plant and animal species equalled by no other location in the entire world. A single half-kilometre plot of land in Borneo's lowland dipterocarp forest, for example, may well contain more than eight hundred different species of trees alone, a stunning degree of variety that pales, however, in comparison to the profusion and diversity of flowers, birds, ferns, and insects.
The East Coast Peninsula is geographically cut off by the mountainous Main Range and thus has retained its traditional customs, arts and crafts, coconut plantations and unique traditional houses. The offshore islands (Pulau) offer superb diving, with colourful hard, soft, whip coral and abundant fish life. The coral is in an excellent condition due to the existence of a conservation program overseen by the Fisheries Department and not being exposed to a huge number of divers. The unhurried pace of life makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday far from the madding crowd.
The rainforest at Taman Negara National Park is easily accessible, with a train journey through the mountains, to the central highlands with its old colonial hill stations established by tea planters
After extensively investigating this fascinating coastal region, testing all the dive sites and hotels, we have selected the very best diving resorts on the East Coast Peninsula of Malaysia and Borneo for you to choose from.
Each resort has its own unique attraction depending on whether you are looking for secluded luxury or an action packed adventure - just contact us with your requirements and we will construct the perfect diving holiday itinerary to suit your specific needs both above and below the waves.
Malaysia's climate is hot and humid with relative humidity ranging from 80 - 90 percent, except in the highlands. The temperature averages from 70-90 degrees F (20-30 degrees C) throughout the year. The tropical climate is experienced year-round with the rainy season varying on the coasts of Peninsular Malaysia.
The west coast has its rainy season from September through December with the east coast (where the diver resorts are) experiencing its rainy season from October through February.
The best time to visit this area is March to September; outside the rainy season.
The diving in Peninsular Malaysia is extremely pretty and fairly undemanding. It is therefore best suited to beginners or those looking for some nice diving in tranquil and beautiful surroundings.
The area has much to offer on land and we highly recommend adding some or all of our excursions to your holiday. Malaysia is home to some of the world's most endangered wildlife, including the Oran Utan (Sepilok), proboscis monkey (Sukau) and tiger (Taman Negara).
For the more adventurous there is also the opportunity to climb Mount Kinabalu or white water raft along the renowned Padas and Kiulu Rivers.
Nightlife is very low key except in the main city of Kuala Lumpur where there are excellent bars, restaurants and evening entertainment for all tastes.
A passport is required and must be valid for at least 6 months beyond departure date. Most nationalities (including British Citizens) do not require visas for social or business visits. For further information, please check with your nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or Tourism Malaysia office.
No cholera or smallpox vaccination is required for travellers entering Malaysia. Visitors arriving from Yellow Fever Endemic Zones and affected areas are required to present International Health Certificates showing Yellow Fever vaccination. Water and food are generally safe. Visitors may want to drink bottled water, especially in outlying areas.
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