Malaysia / Singapore

Overview

For most Singaporeans, Malaysia needs no introduction.

Malaysia today is a complex and richly diverse country that spreads across a network of islands with a captivating tropical landscape - dense jungles, soaring peaks and lush tropical rainforests harbouring an abundant flora and fauna.

The country is composed of Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the north coast of the island of Borneo, 650-950km (404-600 miles) across the South China Sea.

Peninsular Malaysia is an area of forested mountain ranges running north-south, on either side of which are low-lying coastal plains. The highest peak on the mainland is Mount (Gunung) Tahan at 2187-m.

The west coast consists of mangrove swamps and mudflats which separate into bays and inlets. In the west, the plains have been cleared and cultivated, while the unsheltered east coast consists of tranquil beaches backed by dense jungle.

The east coast contains many of the finest beaches, including some of the least spoilt in southern Asia. In effect, the whole east coast is one huge beach, backed by jungle. The region, which covers two-thirds of Peninsular Malaysia, comprises the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Johor, as well as the islands of Tioman and Rawa.

Sarawak has alluvial and, in places, swampy coastal plains with rivers penetrating the jungle-covered hills and mountains of the interior. Sabah has a narrow coastal plain which gives way to mountains and jungle. Mount Kinabalu, at 4095-m, is the highest peak in Malaysia

Year-round sunshine, superb scenery and a relaxed atmosphere ensure Malaysia's continued reputation as a first-class beach destination.