Redang Island is indeed one of Malaysia’s most idyllic islands. This tropical paradise offers pearly-white sandy beaches, sparkling clear seawater, lovely sunrises and spectacular marine life. Its marvellous marine fish varieties, turtles and huge range of coral reefs make it a wonderful diving spot and its diverse coral species are said to be among the best in the world.



The islands offer an amazing snorkeling experience in crystal clear waters. Spectacular marine lives and diverse species of hard and soft corals in the clear, aquamarine waters will definitely thrill snorkelers and divers. Here, manta rays, reef sharks, barracudas and turtles roam freely in their natural habitat, un-amazed to the flashing lights of the diver’s underwater camera.



Pulau Kapas is indeed an ideal family retreat. Resorts and budget chalets dotted the beachfront providing facilities for visitors. Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal clear waters are recommended or indulge in fishing, squid fishing, jungle trekking and canoeing.



Pulau Gemia is a self contained island of superb natural beauty, perfect for your private holiday, whether you are looking for fun and adventure, or rest and relaxation. It is a privately-owned island 800 metres next to Pulau Kapas.


This island boast one of the deepest waters in the east coast and it is a haven for divers looking for thrilling night dives. Hard and soft corals of different types add a dash of color to the monochromatic escape while the underwater creature-eels, crabs, turtles and baby sharks will definitely amaze divers and are found abundance in their undisturbed habitat

Source: Tourism Terengganu

It is not only a wonderful spot for a peaceful vacation, but also one of the most wanted places in the world for a great diving experience. Even more, the fabulous Sipadan hosts a stunning variety of animals and plants, including rare species of turtles and the outstanding coral reefs. Overall, this is virtually a natural paradise, where you will definitely have the time of your life.



Tioman is the biggest island on Malaysia’s east coast. Said to be the home of Malaysian diving, Tioman’s diving opportunities do not fail to impress as most of the time the waters are clear resulting in diverse diving choices.



Langkawi isn’t just one big island, but a collection of around 100 islands that form an archipelago. While most are uninhabited, a few have been designated for tourism so that visitors from all over the world can admire and appreciate the magical beauty of Langkawi.



Redang island is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, jungle trekking, boating and canoeing. This paradise-like island offers crystal clear water, pearly white shores, a colorful array of spectacular marine life, a breathtaking sunset and what could be the world's most mature coral gardens.



Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil are surrounded by beautiful palm-fringed sandy beaches andcrystal-clear turquoise-blue sea. A trip to this lush and exotic tropical island is a must for all nature lovers and those who enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, swimming, wind surfing, sailing, boating and canoeing.

Geographic Location 
Situated between 2º and 7º to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. In the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand, and in the south, neighbouring Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares borders with Brunei.

Area
329,758 square km

Population
28.3 million

Capital City
Kuala Lumpur

People
Malays comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and other races make up the rest of the country's population.

Language
(Bahasa Melayu) Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also converse in the various languages and dialects.

Religion
Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions are widely practised.

Government
Malaysia follows the bicameral legislative system, adopting a democratic parliamentary. The head of the country is the King or the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position which is changed every five years among the Malay Sultanates. The head of government is the Prime Minister.

Weather
The country experiences tropical weather year-round. Temperatures are from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Higher elevations are much colder with temperatures between 15°C (59° F) to 25°C (77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.

Economic Profile
Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are major contributors to the economy.
  
Currency
The monetary unit of the country is Ringgit Malaysia and is written as RM. The exchange rate is valued at  USD1 = RM3.15. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and money changers.

Banking Hours
Most states: Monday- Friday: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Saturday & Sunday: Closed (Some banks and its branches are opened Saturdays). Kelantan & Terengganu: Sunday - Wednesday :9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Thursday :9.30 am to 4.00 pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public holiday: Closed

Post Office
Opening hours from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm daily, except for the first Saturdays of the month, Sundays, and public holidays when it is closed. In Kelantan and Terengganu the post office operates at the same time, but is closed on Fridays and public holidays.

Time
Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S Standard Time.

Electricity
Voltage is 220 - 240 Volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3- pin square plugs and socket.

Measurement and Weight  
Malaysia follows the metric system for weight and measurement.

Telephone
Local calls can be made from public phones using shillings or prepaid cards. International calls can also be made using card phones or at any Telekom office.

Accommodation
Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. International standard hotels, medium and budget hotels, youth hostels are just some of the types of accommodation available.

Source: Tourism Malaysia