Why I Love Malaysia: 20 Great Reasons To Visit Malaysia For Family (Personal Experience!) 🌴

Before I share why I love Malaysia…

Imagine this.

It’s the school holiday season, and your little one has somewhat transformed into a travel bug, buzzing in your ears and asking for the 100th time,

“Where are we going, mum (or dad)?” 

You’ve probably thought of this [ Kids + Travel = $$$ ]💸💸💸

Well, what if I tell you that there is a country place where you can travel with your kid with lesser $$$.

That’s right; it’s Malaysia!  A small tropical country in South East Asia….hold up!

Actually… Malaysia is bigger than England (Don’t believe me? Have a look at this!)

Size Comparison: United Kingdom (243,610 km²) v.s Malaysia (330,083 km²) 

Suppose you’ve never been to Malaysia before. In that case, you have every right to ask yourself, “why visit Malaysia”

Well, keep reading as I share 20 reasons why you should visit Malaysia (also why I love Malaysia) as one of the best family holiday destinations.

DISCLOSURE

Some links in this section are affiliate links, and if you click on one of these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission for my child’s education fund. I only recommend products or services that I genuinely believe may help you and other readers.

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Here’s Why You Should Visit Malaysia: The Ultimate Factors 💎

Malaysia is a hidden gem for most travelers as most people would often visit Thailand and Singapore. 

In some ways, I’m pretty ok with that. Why? Cause a true wanderer will discover Malaysia’s beauty.

1. Wallet-Friendly For Everyone’s Pocket Money 💰

Here’s one of the best reasons to visit Malaysia: Affordable travel!

If your wallet has a face, it’ll probably smile throughout the time you spend in Malaysia 😂

For a start, Malaysia is known to be one of the most cost-friendly holiday destinations in Asia compared to other countries in the Southeast Asia region (as agreed by travelers and other digital nomads)

In addition, Malaysia is home to plenty of affordable fantastic kid-friendly attractions that will keep your little ones entertained for hours, like 

  • Vibrant indoor playground 
  • Thrilling theme parks 
  • Adventurous Water parks 
  • Kid-friendly / dog-friendly parks 

      …. & many more!

Plus, the cost of travel in Malaysia may vary (but still very affordable), so here’s a rough guide on the traveling cost in Malaysia for a week, depending on your travel style:

Travel Style 🧳Transport 🚗Dining 🥘Cost per Day Cost per week 
Budget 💵🙂Public Transport (Bus, MRT, LRT)Mamak, Gerai (roadside stall)RM 70 (USD 16)RM 490 (USD 113)
Comfort 💵 😀 Mix of both (Public transport + Grab Rides)Mix of both
(restaurants + mamak)		RM 200 (USD 46)RM 1400(USD 323)
Luxury 💰🤑Private Car Ride / Car rentalHigh-end restaurants (for every meal course) RM 500 (USD 115)RM 3500(USD 807)

Note: This is roughly the cost per person. On average, spending in Malaysia usually falls in the comfort range (which partly explains why foreigners like to visit Malaysia).

So if you’re looking for an affordable and fun-filled vacation destination, Malaysia should be at the top of your list!

Fun Fact About Malaysia:
It is also home to the world’s largest legal banknote, the RM600 Note (the size is similar to a 14” inch laptop screen size), and still holds its world record since 2017! (Beating the previous record holder, the Philippine 100,000 peso note.)

Despite its legality, this exclusive banknote was limited to 600 pieces at the initial purchase price of  MYR 1,700 (USD 385.92) back in 2017.

However, one of these banknotes was actually auctioned off in 2018 for a whooping price of  MYR 78,000 (USD 17,707.01). Now that’s an investment! 🤯

2. The Food (Heaven for Foodies) 🍛

There’s a youtube where foreigners ask each other, “What is Malaysia famous for?”

Answer: Of course, it’s multicultural food! 

You will be spoiled by plenty of culinary dishes, from the classic Nasi Lemak, Laksa Penang, and Roti Canai to its famous street burger, the Ramly Burger, and many more!

Another fantastic thing about Malaysia is our dining culture; Mamak (a 24-hour diner, where you can enjoy a full plate of Nasi Kandar + Milo Ais (a local fave 🍛 or any other affordable meal) to fulfill your midnight craving.

Malaysia is liberal when it comes to food fusion & exploration. 

You may even stumble on unique Malaysian snacks like banana fritters with pink-colored cheese or coconut vanilla shakes!

Related posts:

  • Best Restaurants In Klang Valley that are family-friendly – 2023 

This article will help prepare you and your wallet for culinary adventures! (Plus, it’s a full list of breakfast, lunch & dinner restaurants worth exploring!)

Here are my top 5 pro travel Malaysia tips (foodie edition) that you should at least try when visiting Malaysia:

  • Try breakfast food from any roadside stall (those are mostly homemade, cooked with love), and go and try their Nasi Lemak, Nasi Kerabu, etc.
  • Have breakfast or supper at Mamak! (Recommendation: Try Roti Canai with Fish Curry & Teh Tarik for a start)
  • Must try Bazaar Ramadhan (check the dates first). The bazaar is available in every town daily from 4 pm to 7 pm. It’s a food festival for everyone and a unique experience!!
  • Try at least a Ramly burger during your trip; these burgers usually cost RM4 (USD $1) and usually pop up as roadside stalls from 6 pm till midnight (may vary depending on different locations)
  • If you’re eating dishes with rice, best to eat using your right hand (wash your hand first) like a local for a new experience. 
  • If you’re unfamiliar, here’s an easy way to eat with your hands like Malaysians. For other dishes, you can freely use cutlery.

Fun Fact About Malaysia: 🇲🇾

This green and luscious Malaysia is also a world record holder for the Largest Food Truck Rally, which was held at the Penang International Food Festival in 2018 with a record-breaking 158 food trucks in Batu Kawan, Penang. 

(In fact, it still holds its record to date!)

3. Melting Pot Of Cultures 🍲

Malaysia is home to people of various ethnic and religious backgrounds with a melting pot of culture from various ethnic backgrounds;

  • Orang Asli (Indigenous People)
  • Malay
  • Chinese
  • Indian
  • Sabahan & Sarawakian

Which is what you can see in Malaysia’s cuisine, music, art, and architecture.

Because of this unique feature, Malaysians are generally respectful of each other’s religions & cultures. So, don’t insult or use any derogatory words against any local.

Pro tip: Be sure to visit Malaysia during these festive dates*

  • Chinese New Year*
  • Hari Raya Puasa (Eid Fitri)*
  • Deepavali (Diwali)*
  • Christmas 

Notes: dates may change annually. So check ahead of your trip!

…..And you may have the chance to experience one of Malaysia’s unique cultures of Open House, where locals will open their homes to family, friends, and neighbors for a day of festive & eating.

If you’re lucky, you may join the Prime Minister’s Open House or the King’s Open House at one of his palaces. 

4. Unique Architecture  🌆

Home to the iconic Petronas Twin Tower, an 88-story twin tower, the world’s tallest twin building at 451.9 meters tall.

These towers are one of Malaysia’s most popular tourist destinations & will always be a symbol of Malaysian pride (Malaysia’s pride since 1996!!)

These are just a few examples of the unique architecture you should explore throughout Malaysia, such as:

No matter where you go, you’re sure to find something that stands out from the rest.

Fun Fact About Malaysia: 🇲🇾

I’m not kidding when I said that Malaysia is home to several world records regarding modern building structures. Here are a few notable mentions:

  • World Biggest Roundabout – Putrajaya

This 2.7km in diameter roundabout, located near the Prime Minister’s office, is Malaysia’s and the world’s biggest roundabout

  • Top 3 of the World’s Tallest  Airport Controller – KLIA 2 Air Traffic Control Tower

Standing at 133.8 meters tall at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport is the KLIA2 Air Traffic Control Tower, or Tower West, which is the world’s tallest airport control tower. 

5. The “Steady” Weather 🌞

If you enjoy summer with plenty of daylight, pack your sunscreen!

This tropical country is relatively consistent with its sunny, humid weather with a couple of tropical downpours. So you can enjoy plenty of daylight adventures, exploring the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur and its hidden gems.

You can expect Malaysia’s average temperature to be like this all year round:

  • ☀️ Day temperature: 28°C (82°F) – 32°C (89°F)
  • 🌜 Night temperature: 20°C (68°F) to 23°C (73°F)

Source: Weather-atlas

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Malaysia, then it’s good that you’re aware of Malaysia’s seasons, which are:

  • 🌤️ Dry Season: between March up to August
  • 🌧️ Rainy season: between November to February

It’s also helpful that you wear the right gear for your Asian adventure; so consider trying summer techwear!

6. One Of The Best Digital-Friendly Countries In Asia 🧑‍💻

Yoohoo, Digital Nomads! I got good news for yall!

Malaysia is transforming to be one of the best digital-friendly countries! (Gosh…I can imagine all digital nomad’s ears are twitching with excitement). 

Most major cities in Malaysia have good infrastructure, with high-speed internet access meaning it’s a perfect working hub for digital nomads.

Over recent years, the Malaysian government has been developing a digital economy with initiatives such as Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) with their exciting digital nomad program called De Rantau.

This program aims to make Malaysia the go-to digital nomad hub in ASEAN & to increase digital adoption & economic opportunities in the country. So, go ahead and check on your eligibility 😉

If you are already here for the program or as an independent digital nomad, then you should check out these  27 best co-working spaces in Klang Valley for your remote working experience in Malaysia!

Here’s Why You Should Visit Malaysia: Her Natural Beauty🌴

Do you love nature? 

I know, Malaysia does not get a regular shout-out from travelers compared to her popular neighbors (yeah, I’m talking about you: Singapore & Thailand!) 

But the truth is Malaysia & her people are generally a chill nation. We don’t need to scream & brag constantly, but those who discover us will surely fall in love with Malaysia’s natural charm (seriously!) 

So, if you love & appreciate nature, then these are the perfect reasons why Malaysia is the best place to visit.

7. Delicious Organic Fruits (Heaven for vegans) 🥭

Are you vegan? vegetarian? Surely, fruits would be in your diet, yes? 

If you love organic fruits, then be prepared to see hundreds of colorful fruits throughout your trips. 

Malaysia has some of the most unique & exotic fruits in the world, so if you’re an adventurous foodie; be sure to try out these unique fruits:

  • The famous Durian (of course!)
  • Starfruit (it literally shapes like a star)
  • Snakefruit (Buah Salak) -like the dragon egg in Games of Thrones.

8. Unique Animals 🐾

If you share the same love for animals as Steve Irwin (The famous crocodile hunter), then I’m happy to share that Malaysia is one of those countries where you can chill and have some animals hanging out together with you.

It’s also home to some of the most unique animals in the world such as:

  • Orangutan
  • Malayan Tiger
  • Tapir
  • Leatherback turtle
  • Crab-eating monkey

So, if you & your kids like animals, then be sure to find some of these animals here at Malaysia National Zoo (they even have a special online price!)

9. Plenty Of Diving Spots 🤿

Divers and Aquatic People, put Malaysia as your next diving trip because this Asian country has plenty of islands that will make spellbound you!

You can explore the 27 best diving spots in Malaysia, where you get to swim together with beautiful corals & vibrant aquatic animals.

If you’re more of a shipwreck hunter, then dive into Labuan Island or even Tioman Island, where you can explore some of WW2’s remaining shipwrecks at a depth of 65m below.

Fun Fact About Malaysia: 🇲🇾

World Record: Longest Underwater Clean-up 


That’s right! 


Malaysia is home to one of the Guinness World Records for the longest underwater clean-up, which lasted 168 hours (7 days) and 39 minutes, at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

This event was organized by Astro in April 2013, with over 139 volunteers from different countries (Malaysia, France, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA, Lithuania, Switzerland, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands).

These amazing divers had successfully collected 3,098.76kg (6831.5lb) of waste from 224 dive sites across the marine park (woohoo!)

10. Beautiful Beaches 🏖️

Life can be a beach, so let the waves hit your feet, and the sand is your seat. 😜

Malaysia has plenty of beaches that are worth exploring, where you can soak the beautiful sand and enjoy crispy, fresh tempura-battered seafood with tasty sauce!

You should definitely check out these 27 best beaches in Malaysia (which will surely knock your sands off!) – I even compiled a list of beaches that are popular and hidden beaches (perfect for introverted beach lovers)

11. Historical Forest & Mountains To Explore! ⛰️ 

One of the most beautiful things about Malaysia is that it has the best of both worlds; A stunning coastline and wide arrays of mountains for people to explore. 

In fact, Malaysia is also home to one of the tallest mountains in Southeast Asia, which is the mighty Mount Kinabalu (4095m) – If you are an avid hiker; this should be on your bucket list.

(yes, this is the summit view of Mount Kinabalu)

Alternatively, if you & your family are a bunch of adventurous human beings, then be sure to try these 21 beautiful hiking spots in Klang Valley (that are family-friendly)!

Once you’re done hiking for the day, have a quick dip in the natural hot spring pool to relax your muscles. 

Related posts:

  • 15 Natural Hot Springs In Selangor, Malaysia 

(YES! Did you know Malaysia has lots of natural hot springs since it’s located within the Ring of Fire) 

Here’s Why You Should Visit Malaysia: Her People 🧕 👳🏻👲

If you want to truly explore Malaysia, you have to meet her people; the locals & their cultures. Only then will you truly begin to fall in love with Malaysia, as most travelers do!

12. Very Friendly Local 👭

Malaysian are known to be shy yet friendly people to foreigners. Locals won’t usually greet every traveler that they see, but they’d smile and do their best to assist whenever you approach them.

Plus, if you explore Kuala Lumpur, it’s easy to navigate as most urban Malaysians are able to converse in English (plus you can always opt for Google Translate!)

Here are some helpful tips for blending well with locals:

  • Avoid shaking hands or engaging in physical contact with opposite genders for Malay/Muslims in general. (Same gender = all good!)
  • Remove your shoes before entering anyone’s home (be it a Malays, Chinese, or even Indian home), because it is considered dirty by most Malaysians since it is covered with dirt and other unseen germs.
  • Calling people using local slang;
    • Adik: someone who is younger than you, can be used for both genders 
    • Tuan (man) / Puan (woman): a formal respectful way to call someone 

( age range 30s – 50s)

  • Pakcik (man) / Makcik (woman): an informal & endearing way to address older people (Age Range 50+)
  • Boss – usually the term we use for server at Mamak (because in Mamak, everyone is a “boss”) 😉

        Example:

            “Uncle, can I have 1 Char Kuey Teow, please?

            “Pakcik, how do I go to this place?”

            “Boss, Teh tarik satu! (One Pulled tea)

13. Easy To Communicate 👄

Malaysia’s national language is Bahasa Melayu.

Bahasa Melayu is written in a standard alphabetic word, in comparison to Thai Scriptures (which can be challenging for new travelers)

Plus, there are quite a number of words in Bahasa Melayu (BM) that are fairly similar to English (ENG) such as:

ENGLISH WORDSMALAY WORDS
TicketTiket
SyrupSirap
OfficeOfis
BillBil
BagBeg

Here are a few phrases that can help you during your stay in Malaysia (especially if you are new here 😉

English PhrasesMalay Phrases
How are you?Apa Khabar?
Thank youTerima Kasih
You’re WelcomeSama-sama
Yes/NoYa/Tak
I don’t understandSaya tak paham
I’m lostSaya sesat!
Help!Tolong!
Where is the toilet?Mana tandas?
Let’s eat!Jom Makan!
Ask for discountBoleh discount?
CheapMurah
ExpensiveMahal 
WaterAir
TastySedap
SpicyPedas
SaltyMasin
SweetManis
SourMasam
TambahAdd
KurangReduce
How much?Berapa?


Here are a couple of phrases that you can sprinkle over in your conversation so that you sound like you have stayed in Malaysia for a couple of years (even if you’re only here for 2-3 days 😉):

Lah Emphasis of expression. Can be used in any sentence

Example:
“I’m hungry lah”
“Lah…you’re not ready yet?”
JomMeaning: Let’s go

Example:
“Jom makan”“Jom hiking!”
AlamakSame expression as OMG/ Oh No

Example:
“Alamak, I’m late for my flight”
“Alamak, why did you do that?”
FuyohSame expression as Wow/Cool

Example:
“Fuyoh, you’re so good at surfing”“Fuyoh, nice crib!”
Best gilaExpression for something that is really good!

Example:
“Our trip to Terengganu, best gila!”

Pretty easy, right? 

14. Lots Of Festivals To Celebrate! 🎉

Again, thanks to Malaysia’s diverse culture, those who work in Malaysia get to enjoy a lot of public holidays on top of their annual & sick leaves. Seriously!

Did you know Malaysia is the 5th country in the world with the highest number of public holidays 😃

No. Of public holidays: 23- 25 days (depending on which state) 

Some of the holidays consist of 

  • Thaipusam
  • Chinese New Year
  • Wesak Day
  • Hari Raya Aidil Fitri 
  • Malaysia National Day
  • Hari Raya Haji
  • Diwali/ Deepavali 
  • Christmas
  • Ruler’s state birthday*

So, come to Malaysia during these amazing festive holidays, and you’ll be able to enjoy a colorful & cultural experience!

Here’s Why You Should Visit Malaysia: Family-friendly Destination 👪

Malaysians are generally family-oriented, so there are a lot of places to visit in Malaysia that are family-friendly!

In fact, there are plenty of adrenaline-rush activities that you can do with your bigger kids too!

15. Adventurous Activities For All Age-Group: 🚵

Pretty similar to New Zealand, Malaysia has plenty of adventurous activities that you can try with your family.

These are some of the activities I have personally done with my friends and family!

Fun & Wet Activities 

Dry Adventurous Activities 

But don’t worry, if the weather is a little moody in Malaysia, you can always opt for these 27 best family-friendly indoor places in Malaysia.

16. Lots of Shopping Malls with Fun, Indoor Activities 🛍️

For a tropical Asian country, it’s not rocket science as to why there are so many Malls in Malaysia. It’s big, it has A/C and plenty of activities to do inside!

Seriously! 

One of the best malls in Malaysia that is worth visiting is the famous One Utama (1U) Mall. There are so many activities you can do in this mall such as; 

….. and even dine in their food court and be surrounded by indoor waterfall rainforest. 

So, if you like to do any of these activities, I highly recommend that you use 1 Utama play pass, and you can get special rates for these activities.

This is just one of the best 21 Malls in Malaysia that are family-friendly! (They even have malls for kids that are autistic)!

17. Amazing Place For En-TEA-enthusiasts 🫖

Team tea, this one is for you! Come to Malaysia, if you truly want to enjoy the cultural hub of tea culture.

If you go to any restaurant or coffee shop in Malaysia, you’ll have a choice between different kinds of tea. Here’s my helpful tip to order

  • Teh Tarik: Tea + sweetened condensed milk + foam (Hot)
  • Teh Ais: Tea + ice + sweetened condensed milk (Cold)
  • Teh O: A black tea+ sugar 
  • Teh O Halia Serai: Tea + Sugar + Ginger + Lemongrass (very refreshing!)
  • Teh C Peng (3 Layer Tea): Coffee + Tea + Evaporated Milk + Palm Sugar Syrup

Say, if you have an extra day to spend, grab a ride to Cameron Highland (a must-visit spot when you’re in Malaysia) and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea with fresh scones at BOH tea plantations.

18. Amazing & Unique Accommodations 🏡

I don’t know where to start, but Malaysia has so many amazing & unique accommodations that you wouldn’t want to miss out:

  • 7 best luxury hotels in Malaysia (For Your Fancy Luxury Getaway Trip)
  • Best Family-Friendly accommodation in Malaysia

Heck, we even have a homestay with a private man-made beach for guests & their families to enjoy (perfect for a family stay!!!)

Speaking of unique homestays, DID YOU KNOW that Malaysia has several world records for its hotel too? 

Fun Fact About Malaysia 

Yes, this tropical country is also home to the world’s largest hotel by First World Hotel in Genting Highlands, which boasts a staggering 7,351 rooms, beating out Las Vegas’s The Palazzo (7,117 rooms) and MGM Las Vegas (6,852 rooms) to earn the top spot. 

The iconic Lexis Hibiscus resort in Port Dickson has private pools in each of its 643 villas, making it the most swimming pool in a resort. The stats were verified by research published on 14th October 2016.

19. Safe & Easy Transport 🚆

Malaysia is primarily a safe country with highly-accessible public transportation, especially in the city center such as MRT, LRT, and Rapid Bus. Making it one of the best countries for solo travel in Malaysia!

Plus, most of its public transportation is very affordable and easy to navigate. Additionally, there are plenty of e-hailing rides available like

  • Grab
  • Socar

If you do have extra time, another family travel Malaysia tip that I highly recommend is to rent a car and explore the country by road trip and discover unique places to visit in Malaysia such as:

And so many more!

20.  A Very Peaceful Country 🕊️

Generally, Malaysia is a beautiful & peaceful country. Even if things do not go well, most Malaysians will opt to act civilized and not act like hooligans.

In fact, Malaysia is the only country in the world with a unique monarchy system, where all 9 kings from the states of Malaysia take a turn to be appointed as the Yang-di-pertuan-Agong (a.k.a the supreme king), once every 5 years. 

So if there’s tension on political issues or national issues (i.e global pandemic), the Yang-di-pertuan-Agong (a.k.a the supreme king) will step in to advise the government with the support of the ruling council. (by the remaining 8 rulers!) to ensure stability and peace in Malaysia.

Pretty cool, right?

Travel Essentials During Your Stay In Malaysia

So, ask yourself –  is Malaysia worth visiting? 

After seeing all the 20 reasons above, If you’re still here (wooo, you’re a champ!), then here are my final tips to share as a local with experience.

1. It’s always good to have comprehensive travel insurance during your trip! 

Rather than looking for the cheapest travel insurance in Malaysia, it’s better to find travel insurance that covers accidents, sports injury, loss, or damaged luggage. 

One of my highly recommended insurance for a digital nomad traveler is safety wings.

They cover: 

  • Medical & Hospital costs
  • Adventure activities
  • Personal liability
  • Travel delay & loss of luggage

2. It’s important that you bring Travel Adaptor to Malaysia (especially if you’re from Europe, Africa, or any other part of the world). As a digital nomad, you’d definitely want these as part of your go-to gadgets

3. Pack sunscreen and bug-repellent bracelets because Malaysia can be very hot & humid weather since it’s a tropical country.

FAQs

Conclusion

So there you have it, the 20 answers as to why you should visit Malaysia!

As much as I want to keep my home a secret, I can’t deny that Malaysia is truly a great travel destination for a family.

A safe, peaceful, multicultural country with plenty of culinary, beautiful nature gems to explore, which is why I love Malaysia (hopefully, YOU too will love Malaysia when you get to experience our culture too)🙂

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