Suspended between past and future
Malaysia has something to offer every MSC World Cruise cruiser – from heady bar- and club-hopping in the capital, historical buildings in towns rich in colonial history and countless regional delicacies, to trekking and wildlife-watching in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and diving at some of the world’s best sites off the white-sand beaches of its many islands.
On a cruise to Malaysia you’ll encounter much charm and beauty; its rich cultural heritage is apparent in both traditional village areas and in its commitment to religious plurality.
The dominant cultural force is undoubtedly Islam, but the country’s diverse population of Malays, Chinese, Indians and Borneo’s indigenous tribes has created a fabulous juxtaposition of mosques, temples and churches, a panoply of festivals, and a wonderful mixture of cuisines. The Malays insist that their food combines the best flavours and dishes of the surrounding countries – and after a few meals from a sizzling street stall, you’re likely to agree.
A First impressions of Malaysia’s high-tech, fast-growing capital, Kuala Lumpur (KL), are likely to be of a vibrant and colourful modern metropolis with gleaming skyscrapers. Pulau Langkawi is a popular, palm-fringed, duty-free island north of Penang, while routes down the Peninsula’s east coast include stops at the truly stunning islands of Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Tioman.
