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About Malaysia

Malaysia is a country of rich diversity; in landscapes, people, and traditions. Divided by the South China Sea, it comprises Peninsular Malaysia in the west and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. Together, they form one nation that blends vibrant cities, ancient rainforests, and warm hospitality into a uniquely Malaysian experience.

Home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, and nearly 100 indigenous groups, Malaysia thrives on harmony. From the rhythms of festive drums to the aromas of sizzling street food, every encounter reveals the colour, generosity, and cultural spirit that define its people.

Orangutan in the wild - Borneo
Local Ethnic Traditional Wear - Sabah, Borneo
Mantanani Island Sabah, Malaysia
Peninsular Malaysia Map
Sabah Map
Sarawak Map

East Malaysia (Borneo) – Nature, Culture & Heritage

The eastern side of Malaysia lies on the island of Borneo, the world’s third-largest island and home to some of the world’s oldest rainforests and richest biodiversity. Comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak, along with the Federal Territory of Labuan, East Malaysia offers the country’s most authentic encounters with the wild and the traditional.

History of East Malaysia

Sabah and Sarawak share a rich and resilient past. Once part of the Brunei Sultanate, both regions came under British administration in the 19th century before joining Malaysia in 1963. Their paths to self-governance were shaped by trade, colonialism, and strong community identity, forming the foundation of the region’s cultural pride.

People and Traditions in East Malaysia

People & Traditions

In Sabah, around 40 ethnic groups call this land home. The Kadazandusun, Murut, and Bajau communities preserve age-old traditions through festivals like Kaamatan, music played on gongs, and longhouse gatherings that celebrate harvest and harmony. The Rungus, known for intricate beadwork and communal living, still inhabit traditional longhouses near Kudat.

Sarawak is equally diverse, with an estimated 27 to 40 ethnic groups, including the Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, and Orang Ulu, each adding to the state’s cultural mosaic. Longhouse stays, village tours, and traditional crafts offer visitors an intimate window into Borneo’s living heritage.

Nature & Exploration

Mount Kinabalu - Sabah, Borneo

Borneo’s landscapes are a call to adventure. Towering above the clouds, Mount Kinabalu – Malaysia’s highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is sacred to the Kadazandusun people and a favourite challenge for climbers. The cool highlands of Kundasang provide misty views of Mount Kinabalu and flower-filled gardens.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre - Sabah, Borneo

In the east, the Kinabatangan River winds through floodplains alive with proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. Nearby, Sepilok and Sandakan introduce travellers to Sabah’s wildlife sanctuaries, including the world-famous orangutan rehabilitation centre. Deep in the rainforest, the Danum Valley Conservation Area protects one of the planet’s most ancient ecosystems.

Sipadan Island - Sabah, Borneo

For marine explorers, Sipadan Island and the turquoise waters around Semporna offer some of the best diving experiences in the world, famous for its vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, and swirling schools of barracuda. Beyond diving, visitors can embark on island-hopping tours to explore nearby gems like Mabul, Kapalai, and Mataking Islands, each offering its own slice of paradise.

Sarawak Mulu National Park - Sarawak, Borneo

In Sarawak, limestone pinnacles and vast cave chambers define Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its natural grandeur. Wildlife enthusiasts can also explore Bako National Park, the oldest national park in Sarawak, or wander the heritage streets of Kuching, the state’s charming riverside capital.

East Malaysia is where Malaysia’s natural and cultural soul thrives: untouched yet welcoming, wild yet full of warmth.

Peninsular Malaysia (West Malaysia) – Cultural Heart & Modern Metropolis

Across the South China Sea lies Peninsular Malaysia (also known as West Malaysia), a dynamic region where modernity meets history. It consists of 11 states and two federal territories (Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya) and serves as the country’s political and economic centre.

History of Peninsular Malaysia

The peninsula’s story stretches from early Malay kingdoms to the rise of the Malacca Sultanate, a major trading empire that shaped regional identity. Centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule followed before independence in 1957 and the formation of Malaysia in 1963.

Kuala Lumpur City Skyline - Peninsular Malaysia
Blue Mansion Penang - Peninsular Malaysia
Cameron Highlands Nature - Peninsular Malaysia

Cities & Culture

In the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Twin Towers rise above bustling markets and gleaming malls, symbolising Malaysia’s rapid growth. To the north, Penang and George Town – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites – blend heritage architecture, vibrant street art, and world-famous hawker cuisine. Down south, Melaka charms visitors with centuries of cultural fusion reflected in its Baba-Nyonya heritage homes.

Many travellers begin their journey in these cities before flying east to Sabah or Sarawak, where Malaysia’s wilderness and traditions await.

Islands & Highlands

Beyond the cities, Peninsular Malaysia reveals a gentler side. The Cameron Highlands offer rolling tea plantations and cool mountain air, while island getaways like Langkawi and the Perhentian Islands draw beach lovers with turquoise seas and soft sands. For nature seekers, Taman Negara – over 130 million years old – stands as one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests.

Why Visit Malaysia

From mist-covered peaks to coral-ringed islands, from longhouse communities to gleaming city skylines, Malaysia is a country of endless discovery. Whether you come to climb, dive, feast, or simply explore, you’ll find warmth, authenticity, and adventure at every turn.

Begin your journey with Amazing Borneo’s curated tours, your gateway to the natural and cultural treasures of Borneo.

Free & Easy Transport - Amazing Borneo