Malaysia Honeymoons, Honeymoon Destinations

Every couple has a different idea of paradise. Choosing where to go and booking your honeymoon holiday is one of the most enjoyable aspects of organising your wedding, and the opportunity for a holiday of a lifetime. There are many places in Malaysia that can offer that trip of a lifetime.

At a land that has captivated honeymooner’s for centuries with its beauty, charm and warmth.

Malaysia’s unique appeal lies in its rich cultural heritage can amalgam of three of Asia’s great civilizations – Malay, Chinese and Indian together with the ethnic groups of Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo and the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, British and Thais. A kaleidoscope of colourful and interesting places, peoples, customs, celebrations, festivals, the arts and delightful cuisine – a wonderful treat of exotic sights, sounds, smells and tastes for the senses.

Endowed with an abundance of Mother Nature’s wonders, Malaysia offers an exciting range of holiday experiences all year round for both the active and those seeking pure relaxation. Trek or take a boat ride through ancient rainforests and be fascinated by the variety of exotic flora and fauna, dive into enchanting underwater worlds teeming with colourful marine life and fragile corals, explore awe-inspiring caverns filled with some of nature’s most beautiful sculptures or take a blissful vacation by the beach.

Beyond its natural and cultural allurements, Malaysia enjoys a growing reputation as a shopping paradise offering great, value and variety. Don’t miss the unbelievable bargains during the nationwide Mega Sales carnival held thrice a year. For sporting enthusiasts, there are thrilling spectator events such as the Le Tour de Langkawi, pitting the skills and physical endurance of the world’s top cyclists in this grueling race traversing the entire length of Peninsular Malaysia. Another world-class event is the Petronas Malaysian F-1 Grand Prix, an eagerly awaited annual event of the international Formula One motor-racing circuit held at the state-of-the-art Sepang International Circuit.

Whatever your Honeymoon preference may be, get a taste of Asia at its best in Malaysia.

Top Malaysia Honeymoon Destinations

• Langkawi
• Pangkor Island
• Tioman

History of Malaysia

Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia at one of the world's major crossroads, Malaysia has always been pivotal to trade routes from Europe, the Orient, India and China. Its warm tropical climate and abundant natural blessings made it a congenial destination for immigrants as early as 5,000 years ago when the ancestors of the Orang Asli, the indigenous peoples of Peninsular Malaysia, settle here, probably the pioneers of a general movement from China and Tibet. They were followed by the Malays, who brought with them skills in farming and the use of metals. Around the first century BC, strong trading links were established with China and India, and these had a major impact on the culture, language and social customs of the country. Evidence of a Hindu-Buddhist period in the history of Malaysia can today be found in the temple sites of the Bujang Valley and Merbok Estuary in Kedah in the north west of Peninsular Malaysia, near the Thai border. The spread of Islam, introduced by Arab and Indian traders, brought the Hindu-Buddhist era to an end by the 13th century. With the conversion of the Malay-Hindu rulers of the Melaka Sultanate (the Malay kingdom which ruled both side of the Straits of Malaka for over a hundred years),, Islam was established as the religion of the Malays, and had profound effect on Malay society.

The arrival of Europeans in Malaysia brought a dramatic change to the country. In 1511, the Portuguese captured Malaka and the rulers of the Melaka Sultanate fled south to Johor where they tried to establish a new kingdom. They were resisted not only by the Europeans but by the Acehnese, Minangkabau and the Bugis, resulting in the sovereign units of the present-day states of Peninsular Malaysia. The Portuguese were in turn defeated in 1641 by the Dutch, who colonized Melaka until the advent of the British in the Dutch exerted any profound influence on Malay society. The British acquired Melaka from the Dutch in 1824 in exchange for Bencoolen in Sumatra. From their new bases in Malaka, Penang and Singapore, collectively known as the Straits settlements, the British, through their influence and power, began the process of political intergration of the Malay states of Peninsular Malaysia.

After World War II and the Japanese occupation from 1941-45, the British created the Malayan Union 1946.This was abandoned in 1948 and the Federation of Malaya emerged in its place. The Federation gained its independence from Britain on 31 August 1957.In September 1963, Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah, and initially Singapore united to form Malaysia, a country whose potpourri of society and customs derives from its rich heritage from four of the world's major cultures - Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Western.

MALAYSIA FESTIVALS

Chinese New Year.
Chinese New Year Is celebrated over a period of 15 days, beginning from the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is a joyous occasion marked by family reunions, giving of red packets or 'ang pow' by parents to their children or among relatives and well wishers. This practice coupled with the giving away of oranges is intended as a symbol of prosperity and good luck for the recipients. Another feature is the traditional lion dance.

Federal Territory Day.
It was on this day in 1974 that KL was declared a Federal Territory. City dwellers observe the occasion with day-long competitions and performances at the city's main parks such as Lake Gardens and Taman Tasik Titiwangsa.

Thaipusam.
Thaipusam is a day for penance and atonement among the Hindu community. The festival begins with a grand procession in Kuala Lumpur of the silver chariot bearing the statue of Lord Subramaniam. A striking feature of the procession is the sight of thousands of coconuts being thrown on the streets and devotees carrying kavadis or wooden steel yokes with longspikes and metal hooks pierced into their bodies.

Mega Sale Carnival.
Malaysia is famous for its shopping where quality, variety and pricing is hard to beat. Mega Sales Carnival is held three times a year, in March, August and December and discounts galore are offered during these periods.

Wesak Day.
Wesak Day celebrated in May is the most auspicious day in the Buddhist calendar as it marks the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. Celebrations begin before dawn with Buddhist devotees gathering in temples throughout the country. It is a time for prayers, offerings, chanting and alms giving. A significant act at this time is the releasing of doves and tortoises at temples.

Colours of Malaysia.
The rich and intricate potpourri of cultures and traditions reflecting the proud and unique heritage of Malaysia is reflected in this event. This month long event filled with many activities at various venues in Kuala Lumpur is certainly not be missed.

Food & Fruits Fiesta.
Malaysia is endowed with a fabulous range of Asian and International cuisine. Coupled with a plethora of tropical, sub-tropical and even temperate fruits, Malaysia's Food and Fruit Festival offers a divine culinary experience that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Merdeka Eve Celebration 2001 - Kuala Lumpur.
Join in the fun on the eve of the anniversary of Malaysia's national day. A carnival-like atmosphere pervades on this night of mesmerizing dances, dazzling colourful fireworks display and performances by local artistes, culminating in the Merdeka countdown for the raising of the jalur Gemilang at the midnight amidst patriotic Malaysian and tourists cheer the hearty shouts of 'Merdeka'.

National Day.
August 31 marks the nation's national day which is celebrated in Kuala Lumpur at the Dataran Merdeka or Merdeka Square situated in front of the Royal Selangor Club. Thousands of spectators converge on the city to watch the colourful parade along the streets of the city and performances held at the Merdeka Square. However, the celebrations are also rotated among other states.

Deepavali.
Among the Hindus, Deepavali or the Festival of Lights signifies the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated during the 7th month of the Hindu calendar, a traditional oil bath precedes the festivity. The celebration includes visits to temples and prayers at household altars. Hindu homes are adorned with lights or oil lamps to signify the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
A meaningful day of celebration for Muslims to mark the end of Ramadhan or the fasting month. Muslims usher in Hari Raya Aidilfitri with prayers in the mosque and asking forgiveness from family members. It is customary during this occasion for Muslims to open their homes to well-wishers as well as to visit friends and relatives. A special delicacy that is served at this time is Lemang, glutinous rice cooked in bamboo stems.

Christmas.
The festive air of Christmas is prevalent in the city especially in the decorations, caroling and partying during the occasion

Malaysia one of the most favorite tourism place.

Welcome to Malaysia, a tropical paradise endowed with breathtaking natural beauty, exotic cultures and friendly people. Made up of Peninsular Malaysia and the two states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, it's a destination that offers so much to see, do and experience. Malaysia is easily accessible from the major cities in the region and the rest of the world. The new state-of-the-art KL International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang serves over 40 international airlines and several domestic airlines, while Port Klang, situated about 41 km from Kuala Lumpur, the country's capital, is the main port of call for cruise liners. Malaysia is also accessible by road and rail from Thailand in the north and Singapore in the south. As a visitor to Malaysia, you will have the opportunity to experience and appreciate its rich historic and cultural heritage, exotic culinary delights, shopping splendours, nature-based adventures, and fun-filled activities. The warm and hospitable nature of its people will make your stay in Malaysia both pleasant and enjoyable.

MALAYSIA INFORMATION

BACKGROUND::
Malaysia was formed in 1963 through a federation of the former British colonies of Malaya and Singapore, including the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak on the northern coast of Borneo. The first several years of the country's history were marred by Indonesian efforts to control Malaysia, Philippine claims to Sabah, and Singapore's secession from the federation in 1965.

COUNTRY::
The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.

GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION::
Located between 2 and 7 degrees north of the Equator, Peninsula Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsula Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei.

AREA::
329,758 sq km. POPULATION 22 million. CAPITAL Kuala Lumpur.

PEOPLE AND CULTURE::
Malaysia has a combined population of over 18 million people. Because of its central location, between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, Malaysia has traditionally been a meeting point for traders and travelers from both the East and West. As a result, Malaysia has a multicultural and multiracial population consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and numerous indigenous peoples. Although Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in business, and the English language is a compulsory subject in all schools. With such a varying ethnic composition, it is no surprise that a great diversity of religions is prevalent throughout Malaysia. Although the official religion is Islam, freedom of worship is practiced. As a result, it is a common to see temples, mosques and churches within the same area.

Ethnic Groups: 59% Malay and other indigenous, 32% Chinese and 9% Indian.

Languages: Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Mandarin, Hakka dialects, Cantonese, Tamil and numerous tribal languages.

Religion: Muslim (primarily Malays), Buddhism (Chinese), Hindu (Indian), Christianity, Confucianism, Taoism and tribal religions.

LANGUAGE::
Such a diversity of ethnic groups inevitably features a large number of spoken languages. The official local language is Bahasa Melayu, but then English is widely spoken as are a number of Chinese dialects. Various other languages are spoken and East Malaysia features several other indigenous languages.

With such obvious diversity it is remarkable that racial tension is not a constant problem but clearly the gentleness and tolerance of the local population contributes to a real spirit of peace and harmony.

RELIGION::
Islam is the official religion but all other religions are practised freely.

GOVERNMENT::
Parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system. The Head of State is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister.

CLIMATE::
Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21 °C to 32°C. Annual rainfall varies from 2000mm to 2500mm.

HISTORY AND CULTURE::
There is a strong interlink between the country's multi-racial and multicultural make-up and its history. Besides the local Malays and the native groups, immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other parts of the world have all contributed to the multiracial composition of its population. Its interesting cultural diversity can be largely attributed to the country's long and on-going interaction with the outside world and colonial rule by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. Consequently the evolution of the country into a cultural melting pot is evident in the unique blend of religions, socio-cultural activities and traditions, dressing, languages and food.

The country achieved independence on August 31, 1957 as the Federation of Malaya and subsequently with the entry of Sabah and Sarawak in 1963, Malaysia was formed.

MAJOR HOLIDAYS::
New Year's Day (lanuary 1)*
• Chinese New Year (January 24 & 25)*
• Federal Territory Day (February 1)**
• Labour Day (May 1)*
• Wesak Day (May)*
• King's Birthday (June 2)
• National Day (August 31)*
• Deepavali (November 14)#
• Hari Raya Aidil Fitri (December 16 & 17)*
• Christmas* (December 25)*.
Note: (*) - National holidays •
(**) KL & Labuan only •
(#) - Except Sarawak & Labuan.

ECONOMIC PROFILE::
Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are major contributors to its economy.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS::
Visitors to Malaysia must be in possession of a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended visiting period. Most nationalities do not require visas for social or business visits.

For further information, please check with the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or Tourism Malaysia office.

CURRENCY::
The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit indicated as RM. Foreign currencies can be converted at banks and money changers.

All travellers, both residents and non-residents, are required to complete the Traveller's Declaration Form (TDF). The revised TDF has two separate sections and columns for residents and non-residents to declare their currencies; the blue section for residents and the white section for non-residents;

Residents are only required to declare in detail the exact amount of ringgit carried when they enter or leave the country only if the amount is in excess of RM1.000. They are also required to declare in detail the exact amount in foreign currency, including traveller's cheques carried, when they leave the country only if the amount exceeds the equivalent of RM10.000. Residents do not have to declare any amount of foreign currency, including traveller's cheques, carried with them when they re-enter the country. Non-residents are required to declare the exact amount of foreign currency carried when they enter or leave the country only if the amount exceeds the equivalent of USD 2,500.00.

Residents are required to keep the TDF in their passport when they leave the country and surrender the TDF on their return journey instead of the current practice of filling two separate TDFs when they leave and re-enter the country. Likewise, non-residents will continue with the current practice which requires them to keep the TDF with their passport and surrender the TDF on leaving their country.

BANKING HOURS::
Most states: Mon-Fri: 9.30am-4.00pm • Sat: 9.30am-11.30am • Sun: closed • Kedah, Kelantan &Terengganu: Sat-Wed: 9.30am-4.00pm • Thur: 9.30am 11.30am • Fri: closed.

POST OFFICES::
Open from 8.00am to 5.00pm daily except Sundays and public holidays. In Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu post offices are closed on Fridays and public holidays.
TIME Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.

ELECTRICITY::
Voltage is 220 - 240 volts A C at 50 cycles per second.

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES::
Malaysia follows the metric system in weights and measures.

TELEPHONES::
Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or pre-paid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with card phone facilities or at any Telekom offices.

GETTING THERE::
The main gateway to Malaysia is through the new K.L. International Airport at Sepang located approximately 50km south of Kuala Lumpur. The Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang serves a few domestic and regional airlines. Other major international airports which serve as entry points are Penang, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Langkawi.

The main entry point by sea to KL is Port Klang, about 50km away from KL. Malaysia is also accessible by rail and road from Singapore and Thailand.

GETTING AROUND::
Malaysia has excellent domestic air links and a well developed and effective public transportation system served by buses, taxis and trains.

ACCOMMODATION::
Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. International standard hotels, medium and budget hotels, youth hostels and timeshare apartments are just some of the types of accommodation available. Privately operated motor-homes are also available for rental.

DO'S & DON'TS::
When visiting Malaysia, the visitor should observe local customs and practices. Some common courtesies and customs are as follows:-

• It is polite to call before visiting a home.
• Shoes must always be removed when entering a Malaysian home.
• Drinks are generally offered to guests. It would be polite to accept.
• The right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or when giving and receiving objects.
• The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with the four fingers, folded under is the preferred usage.
• Shoes must be removed when entering places of worship such as mosques and temples. Some mosques provide robes and scarves for female visitors. Taking photographs at places of worship is usually permitted but always ask for permission first.
• Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia. The country's large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.

Growth of foreign tourist

Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB) is targeting a modest growth of 9 per cent in Indian arrivals to Malaysia at 600,000 this year from 550,738 arrivals last year.

The outbound traffic from India to Malaysia is anticipated to be hit severely following the financial meltdown resulting in fewer corporate and leisure movement into the island country from India.

Zulkefi Sharif, director, international marketing division (South and West Asia and Africa) said, "Our original target was much higher than the set 600,000 for 2009. Indians constituted 2.5 per cent of our total foreign arrivals last year, which stood at 22.5 million. We are not sure for how long can this positive growth from India will last."

The country saw a growth of 7 per cent last year in foreign tourist inflow at 22.5 million as compared to 21 million recorded in the previous year to that. According to the board however, this year the inflow will be subdued with only 20 million arrivals expected.

"The inflow from far of countries including the US and from the Europe will be in the negative. India, which is the second largest market after China outside the Asean region will still be positive", said a senior executive from the tourism board.

The Journey to Johor

Visitor wishing to enter Johor may do so via international flights to Senai International Airport in Johor Bahru. Port of Tanjung Pelepas and Johor Port is also a main entry point for seafaring journeymen, and there are also the highway and rail networks in Johor.

Entry Procedures

Visitors wishing to enter Johor or Malaysia must possess a valid passport or travelling documents, with a minimum validity period of 6 months from the last date of being in Malaysia.

VISA Requirement

Commonwealth citizens (limited) do not require visa when entering Johor. ASEAN citizens on social and business visits also do not require visa if their length of stay is less than 1 month.

Business Hour

Government offices opening hour starts at 8am up till 5pm from Mondays to Fridays. Saturdays and Sundays are designated public holidays. Banking hours generally starts at 9.30am and closes at 4.30pm from Mondays to Fridays, and 9.30am to 1pm on Saturdays. Shopping malls and supermarkets usually opens at 10am to 10pm daily, everyday.

Weather

In general, Johor is a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25.5 oC to 32 oC. There is high humidity all year round.

TimeZone

Johor is 8 hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 16 hours earlier than United States Pacific Standard time.

Dressing

Simple casualwear is recommended all year round.

Lannguage

Malay language is the official language in Malaysia, but English is spoken extensively through out Malaysia. Other language spoken includes Chinese and Tamil.

Drugs Trafficking

Drugs trafficking are a serious offence and may be punishable by a mandatory death sentence.

Custom

Items such as video equipment, radio cassette players, watches, pens, lighters, perfumes and cosmetics are tax exempted in Johor. Visitors carrying goods that are taxable may be required to pay a refundable deposit when bringing in those items into the country.

Currency Distribution Laws

Effective 1 October 1998, all visitors arriving to or departing from Malaysia is required to fill up a currency declaration form. Permanent and non-permanent residents however, are still allowed to bring with them not more than RM1,000 in cash.

low-risk way to expand airlines industry

Tourism plays an important role.

The Malaysian government’s has a serious commitment to growing the local economy and has helped to increase tourist arrivals to an estimated 21.5 million in 2008 with anticipated gross receipts of MYR 49 billion -which will contribute 7.2% to nominal GDP. By 2010, the number of visitors to Malaysia is predicted to grow to 24.6 million, generating receipts of RM59.4 billion and providing 520,700 jobs.

The Government continues to encourage the Malaysia property market by promoting the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme. From its start in 1996 up to end-2006, this programme has attracted 9,551 foreigners, including 1,049 Britons.

Over 45 international airlines fly into the Malaysia while national carrier Malaysia Airlines has an international network that spans six continents including flights for KL to London twice a day.

Obviously visitors to Malaysia need good accommodation. and it’s no surprise that under supply of hotel and rental property in Malaysia has is a driving factor helping the spurred the growth of investment in hotel, resort and rental accommodations investments in Malaysia.

Investing in rental property in Malaysia also takes advantage of rising income levels of the Malaysian people and improved quality of life demands.

Domestic tourism also plays an important role in the overall tourism industry - so it is actively promoted to encourage a higher number of Malaysians to travel within the country.

INTRODUCTION

Malaysia is experiencing a tremendous pace of tourism development. Tourism sector has been recognized by Malaysian government as a major source of revenue and catalyst to the Malaysian economic renaissance. Tourist arrivals to Malaysia for the last ten years have shown a significant rise (Table 1). In the year 2004, this country attracted 15.7 million foreign tourists generating around RM29.7 billion into the company. Major tourist market for Malaysia has been the neighboring ASEAN nations especially Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Brunei. Other main traditional foreign markets include China, Japan, Taiwan and India.

Table 1: Tourist arrivals and receipts to Malaysia

Source: Tourism Malaysia, 2005

Coupled with the growth in tourism is a booming interest in the ‘new tourism’. Cultural tourism has emerged as a potential form of alternative tourism among both international tourists as well as Malaysian domestic travelers. Cultural tourism in Malaysia attracted great publicities with the increase in the number of incoming tourists annually. Malaysia has marvelous cultural tourism resources that are readily available to be explored such as the existence of multi-cultural, historical buildings, colorful lifestyles and friendly atmosphere. The purpose of this paper is to give an overview of the promotion of culture and heritage in Malaysia as well as the related strategies and policies that support the measure. It also discusses several underlying issues pertaining the cultural management in Malaysia.

Defining Cultural Tourism

Culture in tourism is an important issue. The relationship between tourism and culture can take many forms and the outcome can be viewed as negative and positive when meeting of hosts and visitors occurs and possibly leads to the transformation of the hosts’ culture. The destruction of local culture as a result of tourism is well documented. However, studies by researchers’ consider this as a lopsided view of the impact of tourism. Studies have shown that tourism have lead to the strengthening of local culture (Yamashita, Kadir and Eades : 1997).

Culture is defined broadly as quoted in Meethan (2001:117),

“…..as a set of practices, based on forms of knowledge, which encapsulate common values and act as general guiding principles. It is through these forms of knowledge that distinctions are created and maintained, so that, for example, one culture is marked off as different from another”

World Tourism Organization (1985) defines cultural tourism as the movements of persons for essentially cultural motivations such as study tours, performing arts and cultural tours; travel to festivals and other related events. Essentially, cultural tourism is based on the mosaic of places, traditions, art forms, celebrations and experiences that portray ones nation and its people (National Assembly of State Arts Agencies, 2005).

Meethan (2001:128) rightly observed that there are array of tourist activities that come under the heading of cultural tourism. However, he argues for a distinct demarcation of cultural tourism and hence a distinct profile of cultural tourists quotes,

“….the cultural tourists are those who go about their leisure in a more serious frame of mind. To be a cultural tourist…..is to go beyond idle leisure and to return enriched with knowledge of other places and other people even if this involves `gazing` at or collecting in some way, the commodified essences of otherness”

Studies of western culture by Richard (1994) described the cultural tourists were ‘a high socio-economic status, high level of educational attainment, adequate leisure time, and often having occupations related to the culture industries’. It must be borne in mind that culture is not static but one that is dynamic and evolving. Meethan (2001: 127) draw attention to globalization of culture and also the mobilization of culture for internal and external purposes. Yamashita, Kadir and Eades (1997: 29-30) further illustrates the processes that transform culture.

Heritage tourism can be classified as a subclass of cultural tourism. Both cultural and heritage tourism become a growing segment of the tourism marketplace. Cultural tourists appear to be motivated for different reasons than do traditional tourists. Some tourism destinations see cultural tourism as a promotion for tourism products, and this has been lamented. Millar (1989) and others (Hardy, 1988; Tighe, 1986) suggest that heritage tourism is "about the cultural traditions, places and values that ... groups throughout the world are proud to conserve." Cultural traditions such as family patterns, religious practices, folklore traditions, and social customs attract individuals interested in heritage (Collins, 1983; Weiler & Hall, 1992) as do monuments, museums, battlefields, historic structures, and landmarks (Konrad, 1982; McNulty, 1991).

CULTURAL TOURISM IN MALAYSIA AND ITS MANAGEMENT

In Malaysia, heritage and culture has also been identified as new niche products to be developed extensively in tourism development. Cultural vibrancy is clearly manifested in the ongoing and successful “Malaysia: Truly Asia” promotional drive by the country’s promotion arm, Tourism Malaysia. In this promotion, Malaysia boasts to host a wide variety of Asian ethnic groups that making it into a little Asia. Malaysia also has distinctive multicultural architectural heritage with strong Islamic, Chinese and Western influences; all of which have been portrayed in the heritage buildings.

The major heritage elements; historic building, historical sites and unique local cultures are commonly found in many historic cities throughout Malaysia. An inventory has revealed that 30,000 heritage buildings are located in 162 cities throughout Malaysia (Idid, 1996). From this figure, 69.6% are shop houses and dwellings built before World War II (Table 2). The unique colonial architectural styles of buildings have played major role in the creation of historic cities such as George Town, Ipoh, Malacca, Taiping, Kuala Lumpur and Kuching.

Table 2 Distributions of Pre-War Buildings in Selected States in Malaysia

The management of culture and heritage in Malaysia was put under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, established on the 20^th of May 1987, combining Department of Culture from the Ministry of Culture, Youths and Sports with the Malaysian Tourism Development Corporation from the Ministry of Trade and Industries. On 22^nd October 1992, the ministry was renamed into Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism. This ministry was later divided in Mac 2004, into two ministries, namely the Tourism Ministry and Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage. This separation is seen as recognition of tourism as a potential number one sector of the country and a move to appreciate the value of heritage of the country. Agencies under this ministry are the National Archives, the National Art and Gallery, the Department of Museum and Antiquities, Malaysian Handicrafts (Kraftangan Malaysia), the National Film Development Corporation (Finas), the National Art Academy, the National Library and the Istana Budaya (the Culture Palace). Despite the move to strengthen the ministries, the separation of the cultural elements from the Tourism Ministry can give impacts on the direction of ‘cultural and heritage tourism’, leaving this niche area as an no-man’s land!

THE FORMULATION OF NATIONAL CULTURAL POLICY

At a national conference organized by Malaysia’s Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in 1971, the Malaysian government formulated what was to become a national cultural policy based on the following principles:

i). The national culture of Malaysia must henceforth be based on the cultures of the people indigenous to the region

ii). Elements from other cultures which are judged suitable and reasonable may be incorporated into Malaysia’s national culture

iii). Islam will be an important element in the national culture

In the period since its implementation, Malaysia’s national culture policy has become one important point of vigorous debate and political conflict. In the years since the formulation of a National Cultural Policy, and particularly in the late 1980’s, the Malaysian government has been concerned to implement its basic principles by intervening directly and across the board in the cultural field. Not surprisingly, and perhaps because it has not been altogether clear and efficient about its task, government intervention in the cultural field has produced a response on the part of a variety of non-Malay groups who feel that their cultural freedom has been curtailed. For example, at a meeting of the Chinese guild and associations of Malaysia held in March, 1983, delegates passed a series of resolutions that were compiled in a joint memorandum to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. In April 1984, a group of the best-known Indian cultural, social and religious organizations submitted a similar memorandum. Both memoranda accused the government of having formulated a cultural policy which was Malay-centric and undemocratic, and requested that a new policy on national culture be established which was more clearly multi-ethnic and democratic (Kahn & Loh, 1992).

LAW AND LEGISLATIONS ON CULTURAL AND HERITAGE PROPERTIES

The legal foundations of the Malaysian cultural policy are derived from the following acts and regulations:

i). Antiquities Act 1976 (Act 168)

ii). National Art Gallery Act, 1958

iii). Legal Deposit of Library Material Act, 1986 (Act A667)

iv). National Library Act, 1972; The National Library (Amendment) Act, 1987

v). National Archive Act, 1966 (Act 44), (Revised 1971), (Act A85), (Revised 1993), (Act 511)

vi). Tourist Development Corporation of Malaysia Act 1972 (Act 1972)

vii). Broadcasting Act 1988 (Act 338), Broadcasting (Amendment) Act, 1997 (Act A977)

viii). Cinematography Film - Hire Duty Act 1965 (Revised 1990), (Act 434)

ix). (Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia Act 1981 (Act 244), Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia (Amendment) Act, 1984 (Act 589)

x). Perbadanan Kemajuan Kraftangan Malaysia Act 1979 (Act 222)

xi). Theatres & Places of Public Amusement (Federal Territory) Act 1988 (Act 182)

xii). Bernama Act, 1967 (Revised 1990), (Act 449)

xiii). Entertainment Duty Act 1953 (Revised 1973) (Act 103)

Efforts to preserve the heritage buildings in Malaysia are supported by various acts and legislations. The prominent acts have been the Town and Country Planning Act of 1976 or the 172 Act, The National Land Code (Kanun Tanah Negara), the Street, Drainage and Building Act 133, the Antiquities Act 1976 , as well as local legislations such as the Malacca Enactment No. 6 (1988). Act 133 for instance stipulates that “No person shall erect any building without a prior written permission of the local authority” (Section 70[1]). This provision is supported by Section 18(1) of Act 172 which states “All land/building use shall comply with the local plans (structure and local plans). Any development shall obtain planning permission (Section 21). And if there is no development plan prepared for the area, the owner/developer of the land shall inform their plan to the adjoining landowners (Act 172, Section 21 (6)).

To date, a guidelines on the Guidelines on the Conservation of George Town Inner City details out specific recommendations pertaining extensions, renovations, revitalizations of heritage buildings within the prescribed zones. At present, any erection of buildings is loosely bonded by both Acts (133 and 172). Section 16 of 133 defines erections of building includes ‘renews or repairs of any existing buildings in such a manner as to involve a renewal, reconstruction or erection of any portion of an outer or party wall to the extent of one storey height”. Further, all building that fall within the definition of development, stipulated in Act 172 also requires planning permission.

The Guidelines is in concordant with Part Vll of Act 133 that gives the State Authority to make by-laws or in respect of every purpose which is deemed by him necessary. In regards to the preservation of buildings, the State Authority, among other things, has the right to make by laws in:-

i). the construction, paving, width and level of arcades and footways;

ii). the construction, alteration and demolition of buildings and the methods and materials to be used in connection therewith;

iii). the minimum timber or other building material content in any building.

ISSUES

The promotion of culture and heritage in Malaysia faces several underlying issues that both are related to the complexity of the society living in Malaysia. Among the issues are:-

i. Whose culture?

Despite the fact that Malaysia is proud of its multiculturalism, promoted worldwide as the ‘Truly Asia’, the question remains on whose culture should be promoted at the forefront. As discussed above, Chinese and Indians have continuously felt that their cultures are not well represented in the tourism brochures produced by the government. Similar sentiment was raised up during the nomination process for the listing of Penang and Melaka into the world heritage city. Malays in Penang especially feel that the listing do not benefit them and the island’s Malay history is not taken into consideration. Some also feel that the listing of the 12000 heritage buildings where many of them are colonial buildings—is just another post colonialization of the country, lamented on why we have to glorify the colonial past!

ii. Authentic versus Staged Culture

Tourism has evolved to become a significant factor in the development of culture in two ways: as a support and as a threat. The converse is also possible – culture can support or inhibit the growth of tourism. In the Malaysian context, there has so far been no specific attempt to study the value of cultural attractions from the point of view of the tourists. Tourism authorities and promotional consultants simply assume that the cultural elements of a plural society are attractive. Further questions can be raised as to whether it is the ‘staged culture’ or the ‘street culture’ that is more appealing to outsiders. According to Kadir Din (1997), ‘street culture’ depicts the scenes of everyday life that can be readily observed by tourists in their natural setting, as opposed to ‘staged culture’ which refers to contrived staged presentations, which are specifically prepared for the tourist. He concludes that in terms of government allocations of funds for tourism, and of coverage by the promotional media, there seems to be a belief that staged culture contributes more to tourism than street culture. To complicate things, as mentioned above, the nomination of Penang and Melaka includes the conservation of cultural elements of the society. However, with so much pressure and development that have taken place, one may wonder how this society can conserve its cultural elements to remain authentic. Or perhaps, one may also wonder whether what is left is still authentic? A similar comment can be made on the staging of the massive festival of ‘Citrawarna’—a cultural parade of various ethnic groups in Malaysia. Perhaps copying the success of the Samba Festival in Brazil or the New Orleans Parade or perhaps the Gion Matsuri (festival) in Kyoto Japan, the Citrawarna Malaysia has a lot of colors but lack authenticity and also history!

Concluding Remarks

Malaysia starts to realize the value and the importance of culture and heritage tourism when more and more tourists coming to this country to visit the cultural heritage. Having a long associations with the past colonisers like the Britain, Japan, and Portugal, Malaysia does have attractive and diversified cultural products that can be attractive. The promotion of culture and heritage, however is rather new. To date, Malaysia only has two natural world heritage sites in Gunung Mulu National Park and the Kinabalu Park. It yet to have a site that is listed under the world’s cultural sites. To movement to appreciate and to manage culture and heritage in Malaysia gaining momentum however with establishment of the culture ministry. It is interesting though, to see how heritage tourism and cultural tourism being managed by both ministries.

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tourism malaysia - news.

Mr. Iskandar Mirza Mohd. Yusof has been named as the new Director of Tourism Malaysia in Bangkok with effect from January 2009.

Bringing with him nearly two decades of tourism experience, Mr. Iskandar Mirza will oversee the entire marketing and promotional activities in Thailand. Together with the teams in Bangkok and Phuket, Mr. Iskandar Mirza hopes to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a top of the mind tourist destination for Thai travelers.

“Despite the gloomy economic environment we hope to attract more Thai visitors to Malaysia with new trade initiatives and an intensive public relations and special events campaign.”, said Mr. Iskandar Mirza.

Mr. Iskandar Mirza most recently served as Senior Deputy Director in Research Division. Other work experience includes serving in Corporate Division and serving as Tourism Malaysia Director for Sweden (1997 – 2001) and Director for Sabah, Malaysia (2003 – 2007).

Mr. Sani Sham Ahmad, Mr. Iskandar Mirza’s predecessor, will be returning to Kuala Lumpur to take up a new role at the end of January.

Malaysia to assist in Pakistan tourism promotion

The Malaysian envoy extended all out support to Pakistan for improving its tourism infrastructure, training and other areas that could boost tourism in Pakistan.

He also conveyed the minister his government’s desire to co‑operate with Pakistan in undertaking joint ventures to promote tourism between the two countries.

The minister appreciated the offers made by Malaysian High Commissioner and said Pakistan looked forward to mutual co‑operation with Malaysia for betterment of tourism industry.