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Wonderful Malaysia

What’s on in March

Here comes March! How time flies by! If it’s March, it must be time for the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix and 1Malaysia GP Sale – a great month for lots of action on Malaysia’s racing and shopping circuits! Besides these two signature tourism events, March is also the month for multi-coloured hot air balloons in various shapes and sizes to take to the Putrajaya skies in the annual Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Meanwhile, the Le Tour de Langkawi 2015 race from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur will keep cycling fans on the edge of their seats. Besides sports, culture enthusiasts will have plenty to fill their days with events such as the Mah Meri Ancestors Day Festival, Chap Goh Mei Celebration, and Chingay Parade Festival. To give you some ideas of what to do this month, here’s a line-up of well-balanced events for tourists, both local and foreign, to enjoy in Malaysia. Plan your trip well, or engage the services of a licensed tour operator/travel agent.

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Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (HABF)

Enjoy a spectacular scenery as beautiful helium balloons decorate the Putrajaya’s skyline during the Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Photo enthusiasts and selfie lovers will have the time of their lives snapping away during this colorful spectacle, while other visitors can experience viewing Putrajaya from a bird’s eye view with the ‘Helicopter Joy Ride’ attraction! Don’t forget to bring your picnic mats to the picnic area, where you can pick up a bean bag and choose a spot to laze with a stunning view of the Putrajaya lake, while enjoying your preordered meal from the ‘Balloon and Breakfast’ menu!

Date : 12-15 March
Venue : Monumen Alaf Baru, Precinct 2 Putrajaya
Website : myballoonfiesta.com

Mah Meri Ancestors Day Festival

This annual festival of the aboriginal Mah Meri attracts many international visitors. The Mah Meri tribe of Selangor celebrates Hari Moyang (Ancestor’s Day), a celebration about giving thanks to the spirits for all the good things that had been bestowed upon the villagers. It is celebrated by offering prayers and blessings to their ancestors especially to Muyang Gadeng, a female spirit guardian. Mah Meri people are skilful with craft work, their weaving skills are seen showcased in the neatly woven skirts, headbands and sashes worn during the celebration. This three-day festival features a special dance called Mayin Jo-oh, to invite the ancestral spirits to join the festivity. The men would wear wooden masks and perform with movements to reflect their daily routine which includes fishing and farming, while the women make music from bamboo, viola, drum, and brass gong.

Date : 7 March
Venue : Mah Meri Cultural Village, Pulau Carey, Selangor
Website : mmcv.org.my

Le Tour de Langkawi 2015

Asia’s premier cycling event, Le Tour de Langkawi 2015 is back! Featuring 22 international teams, the race goes through states namely Kedah, Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan in one of the biggest events on the UCI Asia Tour Calendar. Organised by Human Voyage Sdn Bhd, the 20th edition of Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) from 8 to 15 March 2015 is set to cover more than 1,000km over 8 stages. The race will kick off from Malaysia’s legendary island of Langkawi on 8 March for an eight-day journey to Kuala Lumpur via the east coast and Genting Highlands.

Date : 8 to 15 March
Venues : Kedah, Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan
Website : ltdl.com.my

Penang Sports Club International Soccer Tournament

This is the Veterans 7-aside football tournament that attracts footie stars of yesteryears including former international players who are still actively involved in the game. A total of 44 teams around the world will participate in this tournament, including teams from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Australia, Maldives, China, Brunei, Hong Kong and Europe.

Date : 7 to 8 March
Venue : Penang Sport Club (PSC), Georgetown, Penang
Website : pgsportsclub.com.my

Chap Goh Meh Celebration

Chap Goh Meh is celebrated on the 15th night of the Lunar New Year and it is also known as the Chinese Valentine’s Day. On this night, with the full moon shining down, young ladies of marrying age venture out to popular sea promenades to throw oranges into the sea, wishing for a good soul mate. In Penang, the celebration takes place at the Esplanade waterfront. Enjoy delicious Penang Street food as well as games, performances and a grand fireworks display.

Date : 5 March
Venue : Esplanade, George Town, Penang
Website : visitpenang.gov.my

1Malaysia GP Sale

The 1Malaysia GP Sale is held in conjunction with the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix race event. This event is one of the three great sales of the year besides the Malaysia Mega Sale and the Malaysia Year End Sale. Stores around Malaysia offer great bargains and discounts. Visitors who plan to attend the Formula 1 races should set aside some time to enjoy a shopping-spree.

Date : 14 March to 5 April
Venue : Throughout Malaysia
Website : tourismmalaysia.gov.my

Raptor Watch Week

Raptor Watch is an exciting event for birdwatchers. Enthusiasts converge at Tanjung Tuan to watch the annual migration of these birds of prey on their journey back to the northern hemisphere.
Organiser: Malaysian Nature Society

Date : 14 March
Venue : Tanjung Tuan Lighthouse, Melaka
Website : msnraptorwatch.wordpress.com

LIMA’15 Tourism Carnival

The biennial event organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia and is held in conjunction with the Langkawi International Maritime Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2015), a dedicated exhibition for defence, civil and commercial applications.

Date : 17 to 21 March
Venue : Langkawi Island
Website : motac.gov.my

International Drum Festival

Drums are one of the signature products in Malaysia’s tourism products. This festival showcases various drum performances and drum-making workshops to share this art of craft-making and playing to the new generation. This programme not only promotes Malaysia’s great culture but is also a platform to hand down drum-making knowledge to the younger generation. Without this effort, Malaysia may lose the art and know-how of this craft that is popular amongst tourists.

Date : 14 to 15March
Venue : Stadium Sultan Muhamad IV Grounds, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Website : tic.kelantan.gov.my

Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix

Catch the blazing action of high speed rubber burning on one of the world’s most challenging tracks as the 2015 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix returns. This season, eleven teams and 22 drivers will be competing at the world’s hottest race in the Grand Prix City of Kuala Lumpur.

Date : 27 to 29 March
Venue : Sepang International Circuit, Selangor
Website : formula1.com

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7 reasons why you should not miss the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

The 7th Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) is set to once again thrill Malaysian and international visitors alike with flight, fun and food. Mark your calendars from Thursday to Sunday, 12-15 March 2015, and prepare to get sky high with all the action. The fiesta returns to its home in Precinct 2, Putrajaya for four consecutive days from 7 AM – 9 PM. ¬From returning favourites to first-time features, be sure to keep a lookout for these 2015 activities and attractions!

7 Reasons Why You Should NOT Miss the 7th PIHABF (#myballoonfiesta)

1. Night Glow with Fireworks

As one of the favourite annual highlights, this year will see Night Glow held over not one, but two nights. Watch the hot air balloons come alive as pilots ignite their burners, transforming their balloons into glowing bulbs set to float across the evening sky. Top it off with music and a spectacular fireworks finale on 14th and 15th March.

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2. Van Gogh Balloon

Headlining the balloons is a first-time feature in Malaysia, the Van Gogh balloon. This special hot air balloon that will be celebrating its 150th anniversary, pays tribute to the famed post-impressionist European painter who played major influence on 20th century art.

3. Picnic Area

By pre-ordering a savory ‘Balloon Breakfast’ set, enjoy a relaxing picnic with a stunning view of Putrajaya lake as you watch the morning flight of hot air balloons float across the blue sky. With food and Doof bean bags provided, all you need to bring is a picnic mat!

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4. Helicopter Joy Rides

Once in a lifetime opportunity to experience Putrajaya from a bird’s eye view, the Helicopter Joy Rides are the fastest selling online tickets! This year will feature a brand new chopper with business class interior including a carpeted floor, large windows, air-conditioner and leather seats brought to you by Amin Faried (M) Sdn Bhd. This stunning aircraft seats up to 6 passengers excluding pilot with rides lasting between 5-7 minutes.

5. Extreme Zone

Fancy a little sport while you visit the Fiesta? Outdoor and extreme sports-enthusiasts can make their way to the Green Zone to participate in the various kid- and adult-friendly activities including Sky Rider, Paintball, Spider Jump, Space Spin, Archery or have a tumble in the hamster roll. Also be sure to check out the opportunity to walk inside a gigantic hot air balloon!

6. Food Bazaar Area

Need a snack or cold drink to freshen up while you scour the Fiesta grounds? Visitors without a breakfast package need not worry about coming to the Fiesta on an empty stomach, as the food bazaar area is sure to hit the spot with the various delicious offerings from stalls by Rock Tulips and food trucks by Fried Chillies. Featuring an all-new look this year, the Bazaar area will feature a market fare with special appearance by local celebrities organised by KL CallingXoosha.

7. FIRST TIME EXCLUSIVE: Premium Tethered Rides with MyBalloonClub

Balloon enthusiasts as well as those in search of a unique breakfast experience can look no further. MyBalloonClub is a premium treat whereby members can break away from the crowds to enjoy a picturesque viewing of the hot air balloons flying against the blue sky while listening to live jazz music and dining on a gourmet buffet breakfast.

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What’s on in April

April is an exciting month to travel around the country to experience the Malaysia Year of Festivals. Let the Bajaus of Sabah share their love for the sea with you during the colourful Regatta Lepa race. Or enjoy the traditional food, culture and past times of the Sarawakian Melanaus during the Kaul Mukah Festival. There’s also a silat carnival, featuring Malaysia’s martial arts tradition, going on in Kelantan. For more modern pursuits, Penang’s World Music Festival, Ironman 70.3 Putrajaya and shopping bargains during the Grand Prix sale promises lots of fun. To give you some ideas of what to do this April, here’s a line-up of well-balanced events for tourists, both local and foreign, to enjoy in Malaysia. Plan your trip well, or engage the services of a licensed tour operator/travel agent.

whats-on-in-april

Penang World Music Festival

Penang World Music Festival features a colourful assortment of performances ranging from traditional to fusion. Experience mind-blowing performances by international musicians from Spain, Germany, South Africa, India and more. Marvel at the fusion of historic and contemporary attractions, right in our UNESCO Heritage City. We invite you to experience food that will exhilarate your taste buds while indulging yourself in this all-in-one music and culture trip.

Date : 11 to 12 April
Venue : Esplanade, Penang
Organiser : Penang State Tourism
Website : penangworldmusic.gov.my

Labuan National Water Festival

This water-splashing event invites visitors to come and enjoy, relax, eat, play and compete in numerous water-related activities such as fishing, round-island kayaking, cross-channel swimming, and shore fishing. Take part in a beach tug-of-war competition, test your agility in climbing a slippery pole or take out the competition in a fun pillow fight! Visitors are also welcome to join the Labuan International Sea Challenge which is part of the annual Malaysia Water Festival; it is among the biggest and popular water sports events in the country. If you are a water sports lover, then Labuan is the place for you.

Date : 24 to 26 April 2015
Venue : Federal Territory of Labuan
Organiser : Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia
Website : motour-labuan.com

1Malaysia Grand Prix Sale

The 1Malaysia Grand Prix Sale, held in conjunction with the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix, is a highly-anticipated sale in which shoppers can expect to buy fabulous products at a bargain. Tourists coming to enjoy the F1 race can later experience the Truly Malaysian shopping thrill off-circuit which not only offers the best prices with the best varieties of items but also offers an array of dining choices that will ignite your senses. From seductive culinary temptations and fun and recreation to relaxation and entertainment, experience it all at the 1Malaysia Grand Prix Sale.

Date : 14 March to 5 April
Venue : Participating malls throughout Klang Valley
Organiser : Ministry of Tourism and Culture
Website : tourismmalaysia.gov.my

Ironman 70.3

The Ironman event is not for the faint-hearted. If you have the iron will and determination to swim for 1.9 km, cycle for 90 km, and run for 21.1 km, then you might just cross that finish line with bragging rights. But if you don’t, it’s still great to watch the sheer physical and mental strength of man from the sidelines.

Date : 5 April
Venue : Millennium Monument, Precinct 2, Putrajaya
Organiser : World Triathlon Corporation
Website : ironman.com

Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu- Selangor Bird Race

The fourth Wings of Kuala Kubu Bharu is a great opportunity for birders to come together to enjoy nature and expand their knowledge of the different species of birds and their habitats. Participants will go through 10 different checkpoints starting from the charming town of Kuala Kubu Baru, past the Kalumpung Hot Springs and ending at the Genting Highlands Awana Resort. The area is part of the Important Bird Area and has gems such as the Marbled Wren Babbler, Pygmy Wren Babbler, Large Niltava, Silver-Breasted Broadbills and three hornbills namely Rhinoceros, Great and Bushy Crested. Experience the green side of Malaysia here at the Wings of KKB Selangor Bird Race event.

Date : 24 to 26 April
Venue : Kuala Kubu Bharu and Awana Resort, Genting Highlands
Organiser : Hulu Selangor District Council
Website : wingsofkkb.blogspot.com

Nasi Ambeng Carnival

Nasi ambeng or nasi ambang is a fragrant rice dish consisting of white rice served with chicken curry or chicken cooked in soy sauce, vegetables, fried noodles, some salted fish, fried coconut flesh, and so on. It is cooked during important celebrations and served in a tray to be shared by four to five people. Come and experience the unique, communal dining style and delicious food of the Javanese-Malay people at the Nasi Ambang Carnival.

Date : 17 to 18 April
Venue : Banghuris Homestay, Sg. Pelek,Sepang Selangor
Organiser : National Department for Culture and Arts
Website : jkkn.gov

UNESCO World Heritage Exhibition

The UNESCO World Heritage Exhibition is being held at Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur. This exhibition features the four UNESCO World Heritage sites in Malaysia namely the cities of Melaka and George Town, the Archaeological Heritage of Lembah Lenggong, Gunung Mulu National Park and Kinabalu Park. Though small, the exhibition is packed with many interesting exhibits and information about each UNESCO site, and is a great stop before tourists decide to visit any of the actual destinations. The UNESCO World Heritage Exhibition runs until 31 December 2015. Admission is free.

Date : Until 31 December 2015
Venue : Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Kuala Lumpur
Organiser : Department of National Heritage
Website : facebook.com/jabatanwarisannegara

Regatta Lepa Fiesta

The Regatta Lepa traditional boat race occurs annually in April and it is a vibrant festival that pays homage to the lepa, the traditional single-mast sailing boat of the Bajau people of Semporna, Sabah. Witness a fleet of colourful lepas decorating the coast of Semporna during the annual Regatta Lepa event. Enjoy unique cultural performances, the Lepa Beauty Pageant, the Most Beautiful Lepa competition, fireworks displays and so much more!

Date : 24 to 26 April
Venue : Regatta Lepa Square, Semporna
Organiser : Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd
Website : sabahtourism.com

The Nusantara Silat Carnival

The Nusantara Silat Carnival 2015 is organised by the Kelantan Tourism Information Centre. This event brings silat practitioners all the way from Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei. Kelantan is proud to be the birthplace of the silat jatuh which is a very unique form of martial arts. Visitors are welcome to learn about the unique martial art culture of silat in the beautiful and culture-rich state of Kelantan.

Date : 5 to 7 April
Venue : Kota Bharu City Hall Council, Kelantan
Organiser : TIC Kelantan
Website : tic.kelantan.gov.my

Kaul Mukah Festival

Come and experience the lifestyle of the Melanau community living along the coastal area of Sarawak, and celebrate one of their highly cherished traditional festivals. The Kaul Mukah is celebrated as a religious ceremony to appease spirits of the sea, land, forest and farm, making it the most important festival in the Melanau traditional calendar. The festival site is on the banks of the Mukah river estuary where visitors can relax, soak in the culture and participate in the activities, traditional games (a major highlight is the giant traditional swing called “Tibow”) as well as savour their unique delicacies. The Kaul Mukah festival provides an amazing opportunity for visitors to experience the Truly Malaysia cultural heritage that in its essence is what makes Malaysia a diversified and culturally rich country.

Date : 25 to 26 April
Venue : Mukah Festival Ground
Organiser : Kaul Mukah Festival Committee
Website : kaulmukah.com

For more information, kindly visit the Media Centre of Tourism Malaysia’s website at Tourism Malaysia.

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What’s on in May

It’s the beginning of summer in many parts of the world, but Malaysia is blessed with eternal summer all year long, perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities. We are taking advantage of the great weather to showcase beautiful orchids, lilies, and other flowers at the flower festivals in Putrajaya and Penang. Meanwhile, learn about our traditional cultures during the celebrations of World Harvest Festival, Sabah Fest and Tadau Kaamatan. Theatre, music and kite-flying are also happening in May. Take advantage of the long Labour Day weekend in the first week of May to savour the sights and sounds of Malaysia. Happy Labour Day!

whats-on-in-may

ROYAL Floria 2015, PUTRAJAYA

The 8th Royal FLORIA Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival, 2015 will feature the spring and winter gardens as its new and major attraction with an exhibition of lilies totalling 150 species in specially designed gardens and exhibits. It was formerly known as Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival (Floria) before it received the royal status last year, becoming Royal Floria Putrajaya. Come join us and don’t miss out on one of the biggest flower festivals in Malaysia.

Date : 30 May to 7 June
Venue : Anjung Floria, in Precinct 4, Putrajaya.
Organiser : Putrajaya Corporation
Website : floriaputrajaya.com.my or facebook.com/putrajayafloria

Melaka International River Festival 2015

Melaka’s diverse culture and ethnic heritage comes alive at the Melaka International River Festival 2015. Watch decorated floats, colourful Melaka trishaws, musicians and other exciting performances take to the streets and rivers of Melaka. Amongst the competitions that will be held during the event are Remote Control Power Boat, Dragon Boat Competition, Sungai Melaka International Marathon, Ratu Kebaya Beauty Pageant and Cultural Performances from the various Ethnic Groups.

Date : 30 May to 14 June
Venue : Dataran Sungai Melaka Taman Rempah, along the Malacca River
Organiser : Rivers and Coastal Development Corporation Melaka
Website : ppspm.gov.my

Penang Anime Matsuri Summer Party 2015

For the first time ever in sunny Penang Island, from the producer of Anime Festival Asia, comes the first ever outdoor Anisong party, the summer party of Anime Matsuri! Happening in the heart of Penang’s heritage area, George Town, expect an exciting 2-day event with power-packed activities such as Akihabara X town, Creators Market, Cosplay Celebrities, Japan Food, Outdoor Anisong concert party and a good chance to showcase your best yukata (kimono)!

Date : 23 to 24 May
Venue : Esplanade, George Town Penang
Organiser : SOZO
Website : pamsummer.asia / penangglobaltourism.com

LEGO Friends Musical Performance in Asia

Celebrate the magic of friendship at LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort with the power of music and catch the LEGO Friends LIVE at the newly refurbished and fully air-conditioned LEGO City Stage. Join Olivia, Emma, Stephanie, Mia and Andrea in their first musical performance in Asia! Bring your kids to dance and sing along as the girls showcase their famed musical talents and perform original LEGO Friends songs.

Date : 14 March to 12 June
Venue : LEGO City Stage, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
Organiser : Malaysia Resort, Merlin Entertainments Group
Website : legoland.com.my

Sabah Fest 2015

Come and join one of Sabah’s biggest and most vividly decorated cultural parades that incorporate dance, music, fashion, food and more. The Sabah Fest 2015 presents a wonderful blend of cultural and natural heritage that is richly embedded in folklore prelude to the state-wide Harvest Festival celebration. This superbly entertaining cultural extravaganza is where visitors can expect a slice of the most decadently stuffed cultural activities, shows and delicacies. Whether you are an explorer with a taste for culture or just a tourist looking for new experiences, this 2015 Sabah Fest is the perfect destination for you!

Date : 1 to 3 May
Venue : National Department of Culture and Art, Auditorium
Organiser : Sabah Tourism Board (Sri Pelancongan Sabah)
Website : sabahtourism.com

Tadau Ka’amatan, Harvest Festival

The Ka’amatan is an age-old ceremony celebrated in order to appease the rice spirits in the northern district of Kota Marudu and it marks the launching of Sabah’s month-long Kaamatan or Harvest Festival celebrations. It acts as a Thanksgiving Day for a bountiful harvest by the locals there with various cultural and traditional sports events such as slingshot competition, arm wrestling, and stilt-walking games. The crowning of the Harvest Queen would mark the close of this prosperous celebration. Visitors are welcome for a taste of this traditional festival as well as to enjoy and participate in the various competitions and activities. It’s a great opportunity for visitors to experience the hospitality and celebrations of the Sabahans.

Date : 30 to 31 May
Venue : Penampang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Organiser : Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA)
Website : sabah.com

MUD: Our Story of Kuala Lumpur

This vibrant cultural musical show centres around three Malaysian friends hoping to make their niches in the frontier town of Kuala Lumpur during the 1880’s mining boom. This charming little play was put together by a string of talented actors, with the hopes of celebrating the people of Kuala Lumpur and all of its charms. Whether you are a historian interested in the story of how Kuala Lumpur gained its name and how it came to be; or just here to support a Malaysian production, these enthusiastic ensembles of actors will always be ready on stage for your viewership twice a day, 7 days a week!

Running Time : Daily shows at 3pm and 8:30pm
Venue : Panggung Bandaraya, Jalan Raja at Dataran Merdeka
Organiser : MUDKL
Website : mudkl.com

World Harvest Festival 2015

The World Harvest Festival is an ethnic festival that is one of the highlights of the Gawai Dayak celebration and provides an opportunity for visitors with an appetite for culture to learn the cultures, traditions and aspirations of the Dayak community. The main highlight of the World Harvest Festival is the theme play which had received rave reviews from the media in the past. Visitors can also sample traditional food that will surely tickle your taste buds as well as participate in a series of workshops by local cultural troupes. The popular ethnic beauty pageant lends colour and vibrancy to the event as it is one of the most highly-anticipated portion of the festival. Join us at this culturally-packed event at the 2015 World Harvest Festival.

Date : 1 to 3 May
Venue : Sarawak Cultural Village, Damai
Organiser : Sarawak Cultural Village Association
Website : scv.com.my

Penang International Dragon Boat Festival

The dragon boat was traditionally made in the Pearl River Delta region of China’s southern Guangdong Province. It is one of a family of traditional paddled long boats found throughout Asia. Races were then held as part of the annual Duanwu Festival or Duen Ng observance in China. This ancient game is then brought to Penang in the late 90’s and there is now an annual Dragon Boat Race along the coast of the Telok Bahang Beach, in summery Penang. Witness the colourful and culturally designed dragon boats cruising along the Penang coasts. Whether you are an avid water sports lover or just looking to catch a glimpse of the colourful designs of the dragon boats, we invite you to be a part of this legendary festival and don’t miss out on the opportunity to take captivating pictures of the event.

Date : 30 to 31 May
Venue : Teluk Bahang Dam, Penang
Organiser : Penang International Dragon Boat Festival Committee
Website : penangdragonboat.gov.my

Penang Floral Festival

Flower enthusiasts should make a beeline for the Penang Floral Festival where 800 different types of orchids of various species and hybrids will be on display at Penang Botanic Gardens. Workshops, contests, exhibitions and classes on floral related topics will be held at this event along with the sale of plants and gardening equipment. A competition for Bonsai, Orchid plants and potted plants will also be held prior to the festival and the winning entries will be placed at the venue as part of the exhibition. What a great excuse to put on your summer dress and sun hat and to come have a walk through our beautiful botanical garden for a date with nature!

Date : 30 May to 7 June
Venue : Penang Botanical Garden Grounds
Organiser : The Friends of the Penang Botanic Gardens Society (FRIENDS)
Website : botanicalgardens.penang.gov.my

Kuala Lumpur Big Kitchen Festival 2015

The sights and smells of the Kuala Lumpur culinary scene will fill the atmosphere of Merdeka Square on the 29th of May to satiate the hunger of food lovers everywhere. The three-day festival is filled with music performances, a culinary workshop section and fun activities designed especially for food-loving individuals! A wide variety of food trucks and stalls will line Merdeka Square, serving up all kinds of local, fusion and even gourmet selections. Enjoy all kinds of street food, fine dining, food trucks, desserts and even a special Big Kitchen pantry filled with local products and herbs spices. Visitors will have plenty to sample from as they walk the lanes of the festival. The KL Big Kitchen Festival is truly a foodie’s must-go-to event.

Date : 29 to 31 May
Venue : Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur
Organiser : Kuala Lumpur City Hall Tourism Unit
Website : visitkl.gov.my

Borneo Jazz Festival

With the on-going effort to promote jazz music, the inaugural Borneo Jazz Festival is back for its 10th anniversary in Sarawak. The two-day exciting festival of Jazz music will be celebrated by the best performers’ line-up promising the festival to be a hit celebratory note by bringing back favourite performers from the past years from different countries to celebrate a decade of Jazz by the sea. The performing bands will cover a wide range of jazz genre from all over the world. From the local scene, “All The Best”, a five-piece ensemble with Miri-born Syafiee Obe Hairunie, who is also the conductor of the Kuching SONS Jazz Orchestra to lead the local challenge. It parades contemporary jazz with a twist of Malaysian flavour with added Latin rhythms. Jazz lovers are guaranteed a night of soul filling, ear licking, head swaying, music. Come party with us old-school style at the 2015 Borneo Jazz Festival.

Date : 8 to 9 May
Venue : Park City Everly Hotel, Miri
Organiser : Sarawak Tourism Board
Website : jazzborneo.com

The National Wau Festival of Kelantan 2015

Join us at one of the biggest kite-flying events in Peninsular Malaysia that celebrates the beauty of Malaysian kites, one of which is wau bulan. Literally translated as “moon-kite”, it is an intricately designed Malaysian kite (normally with floral motifs) traditionally flown by men in the Malaysian state of Kelantan. This year’s Kite Festival brings all the brave, chest banging kite-flying champions out there to compete in The Best Wau Take-Off, Best Wau Flying Competition, Rokkaku Competition, and The National Kite-Flying Performance which is known as one of the best kite flying shows in Asia. Get a taste of Kelantan culture as you participate in the many kite-making workshops, competitions, expos and many more!

Date : 27 to 30 May
Venue : Pantai Genting Tumpat, Kelantan
Organiser : Kelantan Tourist Information Centre
Website : tic.kelantan.gov.my

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What’s on in August

Looking for something different to do this August? The Eid-ul-Fitri celebration is not over yet. The unique Malaysia Aidilfitri Open House will give visitors a taste of the Malaysians’ way of celebrating the Eid. Enjoy arts in its various forms either at the George Town Festival, or at the Rainforest World Music Festival deep in the jungle of Borneo, or at the Borneo Cultural Festival in Sibu, or at the Malaysia International Mask Festival in the middle of Kuala Lumpur.

Excitement and anticipation is in the air for the first exhibition ever of the Holy Relics of Rasulullah in this region, which is something that shouldn’t be missed by Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

What better way to end the month than celebrating the Independence Day of Malaysia. Come and enjoy the patriotic performances during the Merdeka Day Parade, and appreciate the importance of racial tolerance, unity and cooperation.

whats-on-in-malaysia

Malaysia Aidilfitri Open House Celebration

Hari Raya Aidilfitri is celebrated by all Muslims throughout the world to mark the end of the month of Ramadan. Also known as Hari Raya Puasa, it inculcates the spirit of sharing, caring and forgiving. During this month-long celebration, Muslims invite their relatives and friends over to their homes to join the merriment. It is known as Hari Raya Open House. The “open house” concept is unique to Malaysian culture and is held during major festivities celebrated by Malaysians. It enhances the spirit of national unity in the country. Experience a colourful festival of culture and performances at this year’s Malaysia Aidilfitri Open House Celebration, which is open to domestic and international tourists alike.

Organiser : Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia
Date : 2 August 2015
Venue : Rembau, Negeri Sembilan
Contact : +603-8000 8000
Website : motac.gov.my

George Town Festival

Heralded in the International New York Times as one of Asia’s hottest up-and-coming arts events, Penang’s George Town Festival (GTF) returns this August with an unbeatable lineup of local and international performances, exhibitions and events. Three of this year’s highlights will be making their Asian debut, including the Spanish hip hop/flamenco fusion dance theatre Titanium, the Australian-made, highly choreographed musical and dance feature AM I, and the Iranian experimental theatre Slow Sound of Snow. Berlin’s Rimini Protokoll will make their Southeast Asian premiere with one of the festival’s most anticipated shows, 100% Penang. In keeping with its mission to prioritize community initiatives, GTF will introduce two street festivals to this year’s line-up. ATM @ Beach Street, or All Things Malaysian, will celebrate the country’s rich cultural tapestry with a full day of pop-up shops, installations, dancers, live music and more. Butterworth Fringe Festival, or BFF, will ferry the festival over to the mainland, giving festival-goers a chance to see and experience a wide range of performances while enjoying a different view of Penang.

Organiser : George Town Festival Secretariat
Date : 1 – 31 August 2015
Venue : George Town, Penang
Contact : +604-261 6308
Website : georgetownfestival.com

Rainforest World Music Festival 2015

Entering its 18th year, the Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival is a unique festival that brings together on the same stage renowned world musicians from all continents and indigenous musicians from the interiors of Borneo. With 22 groups of local and foreign musicians performing this year, visitors can expect various genres of world beats ranging from authentic Georgian folk music, traditional Mongolian music, and Basque traditional music to fusion and traditional.

Organiser : Sarawak Tourism Board
Date : 7 – 9 August 2015
Venue : Sarawak Cultural Village, Damai, Sarawak
Contact : +6 082 423600
Email : [email protected]
Website : rwmf.net/

Start in Tioman 2015 (S.i.T)

S.i.T is a scuba diving programme with a difference. It offers skilled and semi-skilled divers not only an opportunity to enjoy Tioman’s glorious underwater world but also help conserve the island’s majestic reefs, adopt a coral, and clean the beach. For a minimal fee of RM50, participants can take part in the “Adopt-a-Coral” programme which allows them to tag their company or even their own name on the corals. On their next visit to Tioman Island, they can check on the growth progress of their corals.

Organiser : Pahang Tourism Culture Office
Date : 20 – 23 August 2015
Venue : Kampung Genting, Tioman Island
Contact : +609-517 1111
Website : motac.gov.my

Malaysia International Mask Festival

For the first time ever, Malaysia is hosting a mask festival, which will highlight unique performance arts that use masks as a prop. Visitors to the festival will be exposed to traditional masks from all over the world during the mask parade. Among the participating countries are Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Brazil, Thailand, China, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia.

Organiser : National Department for Culture and Arts
Date : 14 – 16 August
Venue : Esplanade KLCC Park, Kuala Lumpur
Contact : +603- 2614 8200 / 8283 / 8316
Website : jkkn.gov.my

Borneo Cultural Festival

This festival showcases the cultural diversity and heritage of the community in Sibu, which is located in the heart of Sarawak. Immerse yourself in the culture of the Malay, Melanau, Dayak, and Chinese. Enjoy their traditional dances, arts, games, as well as music. This annual festival also welcomes the participation of cultural groups from other countries in Asia. This year, there will be performances by Indonesia Bamboo Community, SWARA-NATYA from India, a traditional percussion quartet and Nanta Performance Team from South Korea, and No Noise Percussion from Peninsular Malaysia.

Organiser : National Department for Culture and Arts
Date : 14 – 16 August
Venue : Esplanade KLCC Park, Kuala Lumpur
Contact : +603- 2614 8200 / 8283 / 8316
Website : jkkn.gov.my

#beautifulMalaysia

Tourism Malaysia is organising an online contest called #beautifulMalaysia, with weekly prizes to be won over 12 weeks from 15 June to 20 September. One grand prize and three consolations prizes are up for grabs every week. Grand prizes include a GoPro Hero 4, iPad Air 2, Canon EOS 100D and OPPO Find 5. The contest, which is open to participants from all over the world, requires them to submit photos that best encapsulate the beauty of Malaysia in four categories, namely places, festivals, food and shopping. Photos can be uploaded on Instagram using the hashtag #beautifulMalaysia or directly on to the contest campaign website (www.tourism.gov.my/beautifulMalaysia).

The winning photos will also be featured on postcards at the end of the campaign. These postcards together with other specially designed postcards bearing the theme Beautiful Malaysia will be placed at selected airports in the country. The postcards will also be used to further promote 2015 as Malaysia Year of Festivals, or MyFest 2015. Various festivals and events happening in the country will be highlighted on the postcards, which can easily be picked up by tourists visiting Malaysia.

Dekat Je

Tourism Malaysia has launched a new domestic travel campaign called ‘Dekat Je’ to encourage more Malaysians to travel to nearby places in the country for their next weekend getaway. The unmistakably-Malaysian use of colloquial phrase ‘dekat je’, which loosely translates as ‘so close’, aims to remind Malaysians that the next exciting holiday destination is actually just right on their doorstep, and that travelling helps foster closer relationships with families and friends. Choices for the next local holiday are endless and meet all types of budgets. It can be a simple staycation in the city, a quick getaway to the next town, a gastronomic journey across several states, or living it up in lush rainforest resorts. The campaign was recently launched by the Chairman of Tourism Malaysia Wee Choo Keong at Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The ‘Dekat Je’ campaign encourages Malaysians to take wefies, and post them on social media platforms with a hashtag of the location to promote their trip, be it against a stunning scenery, iconic monument, or while enjoying scrumptious local delights.

Embracing Rasulullah S.A.W. Exhibition

For the first time in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, the Holy Relics of Rasulullah Muhammad (S.A.W.) will be put on display in an exhibition at the Royal Museum Kuala Lumpur from 27 July to 9 August. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to personally witness the Sacred Hair of Rasulullah Muhammad (S.A.W.) and other Holy Relics. H.E. Dr. Sheikh Ahmad Al Khazraji, the Prince of Al- Ansar and son of H.E. Sheikh Muhammed Al Khazraji, former Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, United Arab Emirates, has inherited many articles belonging to Rasulullah (S.A.W.). He is a descendant from the Khazraj tribe, one of the prominent tribes in Yathrib (Madinah) during the era of the prophet. Without his generous consent, Muslims from this part of the world will never have the opportunity to see the Sacred Hair of Rasulullah Muhamad (S.A.W.). Admission is free. In conjunction with the exhibition, a Global Islamic Conference (GIC), which will bring together world renowned speakers, scholars, academicians and thinkers to discuss the sublime characteristics and noble personality of Rasulullah Muhammad (S.A.W.), will be held at the Putrajaya Convention Centre Plenary Hall from 1 to 2 August. Meanwhile, an International Islamic Fair (IIF), which promotes progressive Islamic lifestyle in Malaysia will be held at the Royal Museum from 6 to 9 August.

Organiser : Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia
Date : 27 July – 9 August
Venue : Royal Museum, Kuala Lumpur
Contact : +603-8000 8000
Website : motac.gov.my / whoismuhammad.com.my

Malaysia’s Independence Day Celebration

On 31 August, come witness the Merdeka Day Parade at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, in celebration of Malaysia’s Independence Day. Known locally as Hari Kemerdekaan, it is the time when Malaysians show their appreciation for yet another year of harmony among the people, and are reminded of their country’s struggle for independence. This year’s Merdeka celebration is themed ‘#sehatisejiwa’, reflecting the spirit of solidarity, understanding, togetherness and humanity of all people in the country. Among the events leading up to the day of the parade include a marathon, carnival and concert.

Organiser : Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia
Date : 31 August
Venue : Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur
Contact : +603-8911 5206
Website : kkmm.gov.my

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