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Tourism Malaysia

STUNNING PUTRAJAYA BRIDGES TO SEE BY NIGHT

Dubbed the futuristic administrative capital of the country, Putrajaya is famous for its strategic town planning, striking architecture, the largest roundabout in the world (at 3.5 km in diameter), as well as scenic man-made lake. It is often regarded as a place for official functions and events.

Lately, though, Putrajaya, located 40 km away from Kuala Lumpur, is gaining popularity among those looking to escape the capital city. Its parks, wetlands, lakes, architecture and peaceful ambience is a magnet for those who love nature, photography enthusiasts, joggers, cyclists and those who indulge in water sport activities.

It is not uncommon to see tourists taking their selfies, or for graduation and wedding pictures to be taken against the beautiful backdrop of Putrajaya.

In addition, more and more events and activities are planned in this administrative capital such as the Royal Floria Putrajaya, which is a flower and garden show much-anticipated by all.

But we’ll let you in on a secret…Putrajaya is even more beautiful by night! The city is, of course, lit up by streetlights and lights from buildings. What’s more enchanting is the lights on several of the iconic bridges of the city.

Yes, the city itself consists of eight signature bridges, i.e. Putra, Seri Perdana, Seri Saujana, Seri Gemilang, Seri Wawasan, Seri Bakti, Seri Bestari and Seri Setia. These bridges are built to link various parts of the city separated by the sprawling network of lakes.

Most of the bridges are lit up in colourful LED lights and high-powered spotlights in the evenings and well into the night. They have become popular sites for wedding photo shoots, and sometimes, are the star of the photographs themselves. When foreign dignitaries are in town, or when it is a national holiday, the night-time ambience of Putrajaya is even more magical with creative and stunning play of lights.

Start your tour of Putrajaya after hours just before sunset. As the sun goes down on the horizon, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view: the brilliant rays from the sun cast shadows across the city and the reflections off the lake make the sight of these bridges even more romantic.

Let’s take a look at our top recommendations for Putrajaya bridges by night!

Putra Bridge

One of the main bridges in Putrajaya, the Putra Bridge is 435m long, connecting Precints 1 and 2. The upper level of the bridge forms part of the Boulevard, or the main street in the capital. Its design is inspired by the Islamic architecture of the famous Khaju Bridge in Isfahan, Iran. Its attractions include the four minaret- like piers complete with observation decks that overlook Lake Putrajaya.

Inspired by the design of the Khaju Bridge in Iran, Putra Bridge is the longest of the bridges in Putrajaya at 435 metres. It also makes up the focal point of Putrajaya together with the Putra Mosque in its dusky pink glory and the Putra Square, the hive of activity in Putrajaya.

The bridge connects Precinct 1 (Government Precinct) and Precinct 2 (Mixed Development) on the Core Island.  The upper level of the bridge forms part of the Persiaran Perdana (Boulevard). We like to take a sunset drive over the bridge to appreciate the arresting scene of the placid lake with the iconic dome of the Putra Mosque and its surrounds completing the picture.

A special feature of the bridge is its four octagonal towers and its wall of Islamic motifs. The towers are equipped with observation decks which overlook Lake Putrajaya.

Seri Wawasan Bridge 

This is one of the main bridges in Putrajaya, connecting Precint 2 to the residential area of Precint 8. The design of this cable-stayed bridge resembles a futuristic ship. Spanning 2.4km, this bridge can accommodate motorised traffic, bicycles and pedestrians. Highly visible even from afar, it has become one of the beautiful icons of Putrajaya.

The Seri Wawasan Bridge, meaning Bridge of Vision, is one of the most beautiful bridges, we feel, in Malaysia. It is the main link between Precincts 2 and 8, featuring a dual three-lane carriageway with a pedestrian walkway and cycling track at the sides.

The bridge spans a length of 240 metres across the Putrajaya Lake. Driving over it, this magnificent cable-styled bridge gives off a sense of strength and purpose. Its elegant lines draw inspiration from the beauty of a sailboat. At night, the whole look of the bridge is transformed with interesting and colorful light play. This much-photographed bridge has become an icon of Putrajaya, it can be easily spotted from various vantage points in the city, even from surrounding areas such as Cyberjaya.

Seri Gemilang Bridge

This ceremonial bridge connects the Heritage Square with the Putrajaya International Convention Centre. Spanning nearly 233m in lenght, the bridge is one of the most popular spots for photography in Putrajaya. The most dominant feature of the bridge is its four distinctive towers which are visible from a distance. Specially designed street lamps light up the bridge at night.

Seri Gemilang Bridge is a rather romantic bridge set in a quieter enclave of Putrajaya. It is a stunning double of Pont Alexandre III that spans the Seine River in Paris, France. As you cross this bridge, you can’t help but notice the intricate mouldings and detailed decorative works inspired by traditional Malay plants and floral motifs. Four main towers with four smaller entrance towers complete this 240-metre long bridge.

The view from this bridge is stunning and we recommend going at sunset to witness the changing colours of the sky reflected on the surface of the lake. You’ll enjoy a stroll on the pedestrian walkway of the bridge, or you can venture down the steps to get to the edge of the lake. From here, take a leisurely walk to explore the peaceful surroundings. 

Seri Saujana Bridge

This is another premier bridge in Putrajaya, connecting Precint 4 to Precint 7. This cable-stayed arch bridge has been designed to reflect a transparent, elegant and futuristic structure. With an overall single span of 3km, it is an awesome sight to behold, both day and night.

The Seri Saujana Bridge is one of the signature bridges of Putrajaya. It is the first bridge in the world to successfully combine two different engineering techniques, arch and cable stay. There is no other bridge structure like it in the world! Some have even compared it to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Located at the southwest corner of the city, this 300-metre bridge connects Precinct 4 (Commercial Precinct) to Precinct 7. It serves as a grand entrance into Putrajaya for those entering the city from the south on the upgraded B15 road and Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Lumpur International Airport highway.

The night view of Seri Saujana Bridge is even more impressive with mood lighting to enhance the beautiful lines and architecture of the bridge. Like other bridges, it provides a pedestrian walkway and cycle track for public usage.

While the above are our top picks for Putrajaya bridges to visit at night, the administrative capital has four other notable bridges worth visiting as well to enjoy their beautiful architecture and admire the stunning engineering effort.

Seri Perdana Bridge

Located at the South-West of Precinct 1, this bridge connects the Government Precinct to Precincts 8, 9, and 10 across the Putrajaya Lake. Along the bridge are eight pavilions with arches and domed roofs, and these act as viewing decks for pedestrians to pause to take in the magnificent views of the lake.

Compared to the other bridges, the Seri Perdana is simple in design, yet remains elegant with its interesting tile-work in patterned hues of yellow. This continuous beam bridge is 372 metres long and was one of the first bridges to be completed in Putrajaya.

Seri Bakti Bridge

This simple beam bridge is located in the northeast of the city that connects Precinct 1 to the residential area of Precinct 16, which also houses the official residence of the Deputy Prime Minister.

The 270-metre long Seri Bakti Bridge offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area. Driving along this bridge towards the Government Precinct imparts a sense of purpose and ceremony because the road ahead leads to the Prime Minister’s office and department.

This bridge has dual two-lane carriageways that provide access for vehicles as well as pedestrians and cyclists. The tile work in Islamic motifs and the stylised streetlamps along the length of the bridge give it a unique identity.

Seri Bestari Bridge

The Seri Bestari Bridge lies at the northeast side of Putrajaya, connecting the Core Island to Taman Warisan Pertanian in Precinct 16. It is part of the direct route from the Deputy Prime Minister’s official residence to the Core Island.

This concrete arch system bridge spans 152.6 metres and has dual two-lane carriageways as well as a cycle track cum pedestrian walkway. The footpath bears a tropical theme with its palm trees and plants. Specially-designed lamp posts light up after dark with mood lighting to complete this stunning piece of architecture. 

Seri Setia Bridge

Located in the southeast part of the city, the Seri Setia Bridge spans 210 metres across the lake, bridging the commercial district of Precinct 4 to Precinct 19, a high-density residential area with full amenities and facilities.

The designers implemented simple design features to enhance the beauty and functionality of the bridge. For example, the tropical landscaping around the bridge not only serves as an aesthetic element but also protects motorists from the glare of headlights of oncoming traffic.

Another thoughtful design element is the dual three-lane road system constructed on the bridge in anticipation of the heavier traffic in the area. Other enhancements include the tapering of the “legs” supporting the bridge, creating the illusion of an arched hallway beneath the bridge, besides the reference to Islamic identity.

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Wonderful Malaysia

Buying glasses in Malaysia

Last summer I decided to buy a new pair of glasses. First I thought of buying sunglasses (prescription glasses), but later I flew back to the Netherlands with not only a new pair of sunglasses but also a pair of new regular glasses.

Buying glasses in Malaysia at Insight Optical

In the end we bought glasses at two different stores within Pavilion KL. Both shops are part of two large and well-known chains: Insight and Better Vision. You can find Better Vision on the third floor at the right side (from the entrance). You can find Insight on the ground floor, diagonally ‘under’ the main entrance. You can ask someone at the information counter when you can’t find it; or check out the floor directory.

Better Vision was the first shop that we entered. A kind employee immediately came to tell us that we would get a large reduction in price, a positive incentive. I decided to buy Ray Ban sunglasses with prescription glasses. I couldn’t choose from all available models, but only from models that would ‘fit’ lenses. Fortunately there were enough models to pick from. Although the glasses would normally be ready in two days, it took a little longer in our case because of Aidil Fitri (the end of the Ramadan – a national holiday) was celebrated on that day. I could pick up my glasses after three days. I finally paid RM620 for the Ray Bans.

The next day we accidentally walked through Pavilion again when we saw another shop: Insight Optical. They had a large range of Tag Heuer glasses; and exactly the glasses I tried on a few years ago. This time I couldn’t resist ordering these glasses. It took two days as well here. This Tag Heuer contained great lenses (from Tag Heuer itself); titanium, UV protection, transition and anti-dazzle. I paid RM2200 for these glasses. This seems like a lot of money, but in Europe you pay at least double for these glasses.

In the end I had two very great deals at Better Vision and at Insight. In both cases we could negotiate well about a revised final price. The eye test were of very good quality (I had the test at both shops with the same results), the service was also perfect. I was called by both shops when I could pick up my glasses. I was not yet experienced in buying glasses in Malaysia, but it worked out perfectly (my girlfriend also bought two beautiful pair of glasses there). The range is much larger than in Europe and the prices are much cheaper compared to Europe. Here are some tips for buying prescription glasses in Malaysia:

  • When buying several glasses, you get a large discount.
  • Take the delivery time into account (min one day, max five days).
  • Make sure you stay in Malaysia for some time, so that you can go back if something is wrong.
  • Go to a trusted optician (and ask for extensive eye tests first).
  • Leave your hotel name and room number (or local phone number), so they can contact you as soon as the glasses are ready.
  • Let the employee call the factory to be confirmed that the glasses can be picked up within x days.
  • Find out in advance if coupons are available with extra discount for the frame (you can often find them in brochures).
  • During the special sale months (usually the megasale around August and around December) prices are often much lower.
  • Lenses are also cheap, so you could chose to only get new glasses in your existing glasses.
  • Many brands of sunglasses can be fitted with prescription lenses, always check up front.

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Wonderful Malaysia

Can I visit Malaysia during Ramadan?

Ramadan is known around the world as the Muslim month of fasting, during which Muslims refrain from eating and drinking (among others) from dawn until sunset.

In 2012 Ramadan started in Malaysia on the 21st of July and lasts until Hari Raya Puasa that marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated by a 2 day National Holiday (19th and 20th of August 2012).

You would probably think that Ramadan is all about not eating, but in Malaysia it actually is still about eating, but contrary to normal days it is not possible 24/7.

During Ramadan travelers may experience the days to be a bit dull and less vibrant, especially in local areas. You have to keep in mind that to some it is quite difficult to go on with their daily lives without any food or drinks. People still work, do business and exercise, but they can only eat before sunrise and after sunset.

We clearly notice that people have to get adjusted to not eating during the day. During the first days of Ramadan we usually encounter people that are grumpy or plain frustrated. This especially goes for traffic, the amount of accidents are always much higher during Ramadan.

In bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur and Georgetown you will hardly notice anything different, mainly because the percentage of Muslims is much lower over there. For example residents of Chinese origin will still eat during the days, so travelers should be on the lookout for Chinese restaurants in order to enjoy a nice local lunch. In almost every popular tourist spot in Malaysia you can easily get a meal during the day. The same goes for the eateries within modern shopping malls, here too business is as usual (albeit rather quiet during the day in some areas).

In other cities and more local areas Ramadan is clearly visible. For example, in states like Kelantan, Kedah and Kuala Terengganu, shops and restaurants often stay closed during the days. Only around noon do they open, in order to be able to sell food to the people. This food is not eaten on the spot, but everything is bought for later that day, as people can only start eating after sundown.

We once visited Kota Bharu and Kuala Terengganu during Ramadan, and experienced a special atmosphere. During the day both cities seemed deserted, but at night it pleasantly came back to live again. Travelers have no reasons to stay away from these areas during Ramadan. Though days might be quiet and perhaps less vibrant, the nights absolutely make up for it.

Another amazing example of Ramadan we experienced was in the city of Kuantan. Here we were strolling down the streets in the city center and suddenly we noticed a food court that was full with people, but everybody was quiet. What struck us odd was that all had a hot dinner plate on the table in front of them, but nobody was eating. Then the prayer started and soon after everybody started eating, and the food court made that typical buzzing sound again.

During Ramadan all major hotels and restaurants have a special Ramadan Buffet. Here you can eat as much as you want for a fixed price. Often the best hotels are competing with each other on which one has the best Ramadan Dinner Buffet. Locals (even non-muslims) bring their whole families to these restaurants to ‘break the fast’ (also known as berbuka puasa or iftar).

ramadan malaysia buffet

It is also customary to invite people over for a intimate dinner at home. It is not uncommon that travelers are invited by locals, as Ramadan is also about doing good things for others. Welcoming foreigners into their houses is a good example of friendliness towards others.

ramadan malaysia open house

An open house is usually done the first few days of Hari Raya Aidilfitri (after the end of Ramadan), but sometimes you even get invited for an open house weeks after Aidilfitri. We’ve been invited to many ‘open houses’ ourselves over the years and it’s safe to say that if you decline an invitation you are missing out on a wonderful cultural experience.

Every day during Ramadan you can witness local Ramadan Bazaars. Here you can buy food, groceries, fruits and snacks. Some snacks are typically sold during Ramadan, often very sweet. Food at the Bazaar is usually very cheap. We sometimes get our food there too, and for RM25 (which equals to about €6) you have a dinner table full of dishes and snacks. Ramadan Bazaars usually start around 4.30pm and close at 7.30pm.

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Typical dishes you can buy at the Bazaar are fried chicken wings and legs, char kway teow, roti murtabak, rendang, satay, ketupat and much more. Popular snacks are kuih lapis (in several colors), kuih dadar, ondeh ondeh, cucur, caramel jelly cake and of course dodol. No Bazaar is complete without a sugar cane juice vendor. The great thing is that everything is prepared fresh on the spot.

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ramadan bazaar malaysia snacks 1

So to get back at the main question, can I visit Malaysia during Ramadan, the answer is a wholehearted ‘yes’. The Holy month of Ramadan is a special month with many cultural highlights. Travelers are able to experience this up close when they are in Malaysia during this time, and we are certain that they will love it!

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Wonderful Malaysia

Merdeka Day

What is there to do in Malaysia at Merdeka Day? What is the place to be in Kuala Lumpur?

The 31st of August is a date that bears a great significance to all Malaysians. During the month of August, the Malaysian flag known locally as the ‘Jalur Gemilang’ which, loosely translated, means Stripes of Glory, can be seen literally everywhere be it on a lamppost, on top of a car, waving in the hands of patriotic Malaysian children and so forth. This seasonal rise in the nation’s love for its country is attributed quite obviously to the independence of Malaysia and the 31st of August is fondly referred to by all Malaysians as Hari Merdeka; the day the country’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, commemorated the independence of the Federation of Malaya way back in 1957. More than half a century on, it is only natural for such a significant date to still be remembered and this time of the year is also a delight to locals and tourists alike as Hari Merdeka prompts a festive spirit that decorates the country with wonderful displays of culture and tradition in the form of various public events and celebrations organized all across the country.

malaysian car with flag

Malaysia is known for its many festivities that come with its multicultural society and Malaysians are not the kind to shy away from celebration. Hence, Merdeka, like any other national holiday or festive season, is a colorful and festive time whereby the streets will be strewn with all sorts of patriotically inclined events especially in more central areas such as main townships and of course the capital itself, Kuala Lumpur. The buildup to Merdeka Day is usually very visual, with decorations, mostly involving the Malaysian flag, gracing the exteriors and very likely the interiors of almost every building in the country. The flashiest and most elaborate decorations in conjunction with Merdeka can be found within the country’s many shopping malls and this basically applies to most festivities celebrated in Malaysia. Quite simply, the arrival of Hari Merdeka is one of those times that adds a visual flair to the already interesting everyday backdrop of the colorful country.

merdeka square independance flag malaysia

Like almost anywhere in the world, the children of Malaysia are nurtured to be patriotically inclined from the ground up and when Merdeka comes around, these efforts naturally intensify and this is yet another phenomenon observable from the average Malaysian street. Weeks before the day arrives, plenty of activities will take place for the Malaysian young which range from cross country events to performances such as concerts or competitions organized corresponding to the theme of Malaysia’s independence. These activities are usually organized in public which would allow the local community, passersby and tourists alike to all soak up the patriotic atmosphere channeled through the generation of tomorrow.

merdeka square malaysia

It is only fitting that the highlight of Merdeka takes place on the day of its declaration itself. On the 31st of August, all Malaysian states will organize a local Merdeka Parade. Among those who participate in this parade are government services such as the military, the police force, naval forces and so forth. It is also very common to see school children participating; another sign of how the nation’s younger generation takes pride in the independence of the country. From an audience’s point of view, the spectacles to look out for in these parades would be the beautiful floats that are a must every time Merdeka comes around. The main events of these nationwide parades usually take place at night whereby a series of on-stage performances are organized to end the significant day on a high note. It is commonplace for local celebrities to participate in these events annually. Every year, various states take turns in organizing the national parade which would usually oversee the attendance of the country’s Prime Minister and the Sultan among many other high profile attendees. On a general note however, the flagship parade is obviously the one that takes place in the capital, Kuala Lumpur as the location where this takes place, Merdeka Square, is the very location the word ‘Merdeka’ was chanted seven times by Tunku Abdul Rahman himself in 1957, signifying a new beginning for the Federation of Malaya; a new beginning that led to Malaysia as we know it today.

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