By Diyar Guldogan
ANKARA (AA) – Malaysia’s cultural diversity and breathtaking natural beauty make it one of the top tourist destinations in the world, offering visitors an experience to cherish, according to Sazali Mustafa Kamal, the country’s ambassador to Türkiye.
“Malaysia’s cultural diversity of different ethnic groups is a source of strength to the nation and enigma to travelers as they will encounter a variety of languages, food and traditions that form this federation,” the envoy told Anadolu in an interview.
“Whether a traveler likes white sandy beaches, camping in a tropical rainforest to experience nature or climbing the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, Malaysia can offer them an experience they would cherish and remember.”
Malaysia welcomed more than 26 million international travelers in 2019 and is ready for more as global tourism picks up after the pandemic, said the diplomat.
He pointed out that the country has one of the most open visa regimes for tourists “to accommodate international travelers … eager to experience and explore Malaysia.”
“A Turkish national would only need a flight to Malaysia to attain a 90-day entry permit,” said Kamal.
The government has also recently introduced the digital nomad visa, or DE Rantau Nomad Pass, for freelancers and highly skilled professionals working in the field of information technology, he said.
The facility will enable people to travel and work remotely from anywhere within the country, he said, adding that the visa is given for up to a year before arrival and can be renewed for another year.
- Business and leisure
Speaking about the capital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s largest city and commercial heart, Kamal said it offers visitors a unique mix of modern architecture and greenery.
The city is home to more than 1.8 million people and houses the Petronas Twin Towers, Merdeka 118 and the Exchange 106 tower.
“These skyscrapers are the pinnacle of the country’s aspiration and desire to become the business and trade hub for Southeast Asia and a gateway to East Asian economies,” said the ambassador.
Turning to the northern Langkawi region, he said it is a spot young travelers would seek out for its outstanding hotels, pristine beaches and blue water shores.
However, if you are one those who enjoys the oceanic view and fishing, a journey to the east coast of Sabah is a must. Mabul Island and its surrounding islets have some of the world best chalets that sit on crystal blue waterline and white sandy coastline.
"Fishing in the vicinity of the island would satisfy even the most ardent of anglers," he added.
- Culture and cuisines
Malaysia is home to thousands of cuisines and dishes that bring to life the country’s history and legacy, said Kamal.
“Malaysians have over the years adopted cuisines and cooking of different ethnicities … and made the country a destination for those looking for exotic cuisines of Asia,” he added.
One of the most famous dishes in Malaysia is satay, the ambassador said.
“The meat skewers marinated in a special sweet and spicy mixture and grilled over fire, served with peanut sauce, have mesmerized thousands of visitors,” he said.
Mee kari, or curry noodles, is another dish famous throughout Malaysia, he said.
“Roti canai, named the world’s second-best street food by TasteAtlas in 2023, is a Malaysian street food that has its origins from the South Asian continent,” Kamal said.
With its history and diversity, Malaysia is a place that brings people from the East and West together, he added, emphasizing that it should be the place of choice for travelers looking for the “Truly Asia” experience.