Malaysia Supplement

SAFARI PLUS MALAYSIA

a country truly multifarious and virtuous

When I boarded the Malaysia Airlines flight to Kuala Lumpur, I was humming a jingle 'Malaysia truly Asia', the most appropriate slogan, and campaign devised by the tourism board of Malaysia has definitely done wonders in attracting tourists from the world over. The eccentric charms of the country leave one spell bounded, and there is a lot more one can discover in this country.

As we go back in time, we learn Malaysia was an important center of trade. The capital city Kuala Lumpur translates as 'a muddy confluence'. It is a city which is formed on the confluence of two rivers namely Klang, and Gombak. Chinese, Japanese, and Indians have played a significant role in weaving the history of Malaysia. Even today one can experience very Asian leaning owing to the dominating presence of these races. And today Kuala Lumpur emerges as one fastest emerging modern cities in Asia.

Islam is the official religion practiced in Malaysia. Buddhism and Hinduism too are not left far behind. Inspite of having a very cosmopolitan influence, the culture of Malaysia is emphatic, and one can yet experience unity in diversity. Some of the most stunning 'Masjid's are found in Kuala Lumpur.

Sprawling over 14 hectares of land is the stunning, Blue Masjid. This place of worship is decorated with the tallest minarets in the world. One can witness Islamic Calligraphy at its best in this particular place of worship. The beautiful gardens around the Masjid are inspired by the 'Quaranic Gardens of Paradise. If lucky one can enjoy traditional Islamic programmes once a while. The Jamek Masjid is one of the oldest Masjid's in the city. It is situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, built in 1909. The Masjid sits well on the confluence of the two rivers the Klang, and Gombak. The architecture is very Moghul in origin.

This one was declared a national Masjid in 1965, owing to its strategic location.

Some of the relics in the Batu caves show a dominating Hindu influence in the country.

Towards 13km northwards from the capital city, Batu Caves is dedicated to a Hindu deity, Lord Murugun. The limestone caves give great insight on the Hindu culture, one can feel Indian 'ness' pulsating in many parts of Malaysia. Hence, it is very easy to find Indian and vegetarian food, and don’t forget to sip the masala tea here.

Ways of the new world

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Petronas Twin Towers - The iconic Petronas twin tower is built by Petronas, the oil and petrol company in Malaysia, is considered as one of the tallest commercial spaces in the world. This flattering construction of 88 storeys embodies not only modern amenities but also embodies Islamic culture. The twin tower The construction of this tower concluded in 1998. The feet of the twin towers houses Suria KLCC, which is one of the largest malls in Asia. Nestled in the Golden triangle and just a walking distance from the twin towers is the KLC Aquaria. This state of the art aquarium is home to 5000 different aquatic creatures. The aquarium is spread over multi-levels, and is a great learning centre for kids.

I city - It is one of the latest tourist attractions in Malaysia. Located in Shah Alam, this city is the first ever man made city of Lights. The location comes alive illuminating the night skies with a hoard of digital lights. The visitors have access to witness a number of installations decorated with lights. Also the theme in the city changes from time to time.

This is one of the hottest selling points for tourism today. It is an ideal place for shutterbugs.

Kuala Lumpur Tower - The KL tower is another structure that

dominates the Kuala Lumpur skyline. It is the 7th tallest telecommunicati ons tower in the world. The tower stands 94 meters above sea level, and is 412 meters in height. One can spot 'Bukit Nansa forest from the tower. The forest is considered as the 'Green Lung of Malaysia.'

National Monument - This mesmerising monument was built in honour of those who gave up their lives to free Malaysia from the colonial clutches. This is also dedicated to those who fought against communism. The memorial is decorated with the largest free standing bronze monument in the world. Lush gardens on either side of the monument are dedicated to other national heroes.

Independence square - There is a wealth of information one can find on the various historic events that have shaped Malaysia today. A walk down Independence Square (Dataran Merdeka) can give one insight on the same. This area also houses the important buildings like Sultan Abdul

Samad Building and Memorial Library, from where the political proceedings and literary activities of the country used to take place. It was only in 1998 that Putrajaya was announced as the political capital of the country. It is an important site for the annual Independence Day March.

Putrajaya - As we head south from the capital city of Kula Lumpur, we reach Putrajaya. Putrajaya is indeed a prestigious government project which was started somewhere in the early nineties. By 1998, the country's operations moved to Putrajaya. Sprawling over the lush greens of Malaysia, Putrajaya is considered as a test-bed for electronic administration (i.e. paperless administration). The city is equipped with some of the latest telecommunication technologies. While seventy percent of the city is natural, some of the most important buildings are inspired by designs of famous landmarks around the world. The most famous attraction is the man-made lake. Cruising round the lake gives visitors a bird's eye view of all the important buildings in the city.

As we wind up, I realize that from the heritage Central Market to the cultural theater and food, there is a juicy slice of Malaysian culture to in every activity which makes you feel at home.

Little India and Chinatown give Indian and Chinese locales a whiff of home. Walking down the streets of this locality can be truly delightful especially for shoppers. Inspite of being so culturally sound it isn't difficult to find your way around the country.

Communicating with the locales is easy, as practically everyone understands English.

Accommodation - From 5 star hotels to home-stay, one can find it all. However, personally I feel homestay a better option, one can feel and experience the Malaysian culture and cuisine, and this feeling is exhilarating.

Transport - The best way to explore the city is by monorail with the wide ranges of the services provided by KLIA Express Rail Link, KLIA Transit, RAPID KL (Putra), KTM Komuter, KTM Intercity and KL Monorail Services.

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LANGKAWI beauty adds to the budding romance. Apart from the usual sights around the island of Langkawi, one can indulge in deep see diving at Palau Payar Marine Park, which is home to thousands of marine species and plants. Some of these are even endangered. Bright hues of the coral reefs emphasize the beauty of life under water. Feeding baby sharks is also what is enjoyed a lot at the marine park.

Langkawi was my next point of destination to explore. I was fascinated by the scenic beauty of Langkawi from the aircraft itself. It’s land of 99 legendary islands tucked away in the turquoise Andaman seas.

Originally recognized as the 'Jewel of Kedah', the islands lie adjacent to the Thai border. The administrative island of Langkawi is separated from mainland of Malaysia by the straits of Malacca. Legends tell us that the isles were cursed by a princess who had been falsely accused of adultery. One can witness proof of this fable at Kota Mahsuri. She had cursed the island for seven generations. Surprisingly after the seventh generation, the isles began to yield for its people in the form of tourism. The Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed, had put in commendable effort to give the isles a facelift. Langkawi is completely dutyfree, hence it automatically becomes a melting pot for tourists and shopaholic.

It was on the Golden Jubilee of Sultan Abdul Hamil, (the head of the Monarch) that the island was renamed as Langkawi, which in Malay translates as the Reddish Brown eagle. A huge reddish brown eagle is erected in Dataran Lang.

The square housing the iconic installation is

beautifully landscaped. Scenic terraces, ponds, and garden lace the square. The cool wind drifting from the sea encourages tourists to admire the horizons of this picturesque island. The illustrious eagle is strategically located, and can be viewed from anywhere in the island.

Honeymooners Delight - The islands are a perfect getaway for honeymooners or young couples. The

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naturally formed limestone caves. The eagle feeding spot is truly worth a visit. It is indeed very rare to get an opportunity to feed eagles in the wild. There is also an island where you can feed fish which is nestled within the park.

The Langkawi Cable Car gives you an ariel view of all the island and the forests, and waterfalls that complete the island. On a clear day you can spot parts of Thailand towards the North, and Indonesia towards the south western part of the islands.

There are other ways of enjoying the island too.

And to name few Underwater World, Gua Cherita (Cave of Legends), Laman Padi and Galeria Perdana, Mahsuri Mausoleum, Kuah Town and not to be missed Langkawi Duty Free Shopping.

Being a tourist spot, Langkawi has a lot to offer to its tourists in terms of accommodation. The options include high end resorts to little inns, and everything in between. Some resorts are placed on the beach front offering breathtaking views as the

Chartering your very own yacht is just another way of making your trip to Langkawi very memorable. Some of the Yacht's have sea salt Jaccuzi's, which are safe for kids too. One can avail of boats and tour packs of their own choice. The charter companies plan wonderful getaway around the island. These trips

rooms are facing the sea shore.

Vegetarian food is never a problem, and there are plenty of restaurants serving Indian cuisine too. People on the island are very friendly and truly help in getting your way around.

As we sign off we hope that Langkawi though our eyes leave you a memorable imprint of the wonderful times you can spend with your beloved ones. are ideal for young couples as well as families. They also plan theme parties, and organize sea food barbeques. For more information, l o g o n t o www.tropicalcharters.com.my.

Nature lovers delight - If you are in a quest of nature they can visit the Telaga Tujuh a stunning geological marvel. If you are headed for some adventures in the wild then Klim Geoforest Park is the place to be.

Check out the natural limestone formations. Animal lovers will enjoy watching the activities of nocturnal creatures, like the bats in these

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MALAYSIA AIRLINES

Experience Malaysian Hospitality Malaysia Airlines is the national carrier of Malaysia and one of Asia's largest fleet. Flying to Malaysia with Malaysia Airlines is the best option as it has good connectivity from India and has best domestic frequencies. The Airlines fly to some 80 destinations worldwide across 4 continents. The distinctive Malaysia Airlines brand is an extension of the special culture of warmth and friendliness unique to Malaysians.

This inimitable Malaysian sense of graciousness is branded as “Malaysian Hospitality” and symbolized by the acronym MH which is also the airline's flight code.

Malaysia Airlines has recently enhanced its inflight meal service, in this we are stressing more on providing our passengers the wider variety of authentic Indian cuisines in the flights departing from Indian destinations to Kuala Lumpur. The

Pic & Text by Parul Kesari

In association with

enhanced menu o f fe r i n g s h a v e a refreshed array of authentic Indian vegetarian and nonvegetarian meals served in-flight.

Talking to Safari Plus, Mr. Mohamed Sathik Ali, General Manager, Northern India said, “India is prominent market for Malaysia Airlines global expansion plans and the airline has witnessed a consistent growth in its business operations from India. We offer 45 weekly flights from India, flying from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai.

We are also hoping a good penetration in the Indian

(www.malaysiaairlines.com) Market after joining the One World Alliance.”

“We have carried approx 700,000 pax in 2011 which is an increase of 20% over 2010 and we are expecting the same in 2012. India is a key market for Malaysia Airlines, we intend to grow and come up with new plans for this market in the near future” he added.