6 reasons why everyone should visit Malaysia once in their life

Borneo’s states of Sarawak and Sabah may be part of Malaysia, but these regions can feel worlds apart. That’s why Malaysia is such a great holiday destination for those in Borneo and elsewhere.

The accommodation and activities are affordable, the locals are welcoming, visas are easy to come by for most, and the natural scenery is unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Below are six reasons why everyone should make the trip to the Malaysian peninsula.

1. Amazing Unspoilt Nature

When you look up Malaysia online, you will be rewarded with images of sandy beaches, blue water, rainforests, and colourful wildlife. The tropical beauty is one of the biggest draws of the country.

There are archipelagos that rival the Bahamas, rainforests greener than the Amazon, and crystal clear oceans calling to you to put on your diving mask and grab your snorkel. 

Around two-thirds of the nation is covered by rainforests, creating a habitat for around 20% of all the animal species in the world. There are birds and primates found only in these trees, and the sea life found around the coral reefs is spectacular too.

2. World-Class Activities And Entertainment

Malaysia may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of extreme activities and entertainment, but it is a true hidden gem for those who don’t want to lounge in the sun the whole day.

Adventurers can go SCUBA diving, snorkelling, cliff jumping, abseiling, hiking, rafting, bungee jumping, and paragliding.

For those who are risk-averse, Kuala Lumpur has world-class entertainment venues where international acts frequently grace the stages. 

If you have a gambler’s heart, you may be disappointed to learn that there is only one casino, Resorts World Genting, near the capital city.

Although this land-based casino is massive, and hundreds of slot machines and table games, it does not always meet the expectations of international travellers. Fortunately, there are many reputable online casinos available in Malaysia, meeting the needs of even the highest rollers.

3. A Melting Pot Of Cultures

When you explore the streets of Malaysia, whether in Penang or Kukup, you will find that it is not just Malays who are greeting you as you pass.

The country is home to many different cultures, including Chinese, Sri Lankans, Indians, and an increasing number of expats from the West. It’s the acceptance of different ethnicities, cultures, and religions that makes the country so unique. 

The six UNESCO World Heritage sites in Malaysia tell the story of many of these cultures and the country’s history. 

4. A Foodie’s Heaven

Because of the mix of cultures and nationalities, Malaysia offers an exceptional culinary experience, bursting with flavours and local ingredients. Of note is the street food, which is unlike anywhere else in the world.

Although Thailand and Indonesia are strong competitors, the spices and flavour combinations in Malay food stand out. 

Noodle dishes like mee goreng and teow are popular in Penang, while curry noodles, beef rendang, nasi lemak and laksa (sour and spicy noodle soup) are favourites of locals and visitors.

The many seafood dishes will have even the fussiest eater digging in for seconds. 

5. Welcoming Locals

If the food, nature, and activities have not convinced you to visit Malaysia, maybe the locals will. The residents treat travellers like they’re friends or family, with everyone happy to help, say hello, or crack a smile. 

Starting a random conversation with someone in the street is completely normal here. They may ask about your reason for visiting, what you’re planning to do, offer advice on where to eat, or simply wish you a nice day. 

Of course, people in Borneo are friendly too, but there is just something special about Malaysian locals that makes you feel valued and welcomed. 

6. A Modernising Country

Kuala Lumpur is leading the modernisation charge, quickly developing with some of the tallest buildings in the world.

Malaysia had over 43 million mobile connections early in 2025, which amounts to 121% of the population, meaning some people have multiple mobile connections. 

This has made the country ideal for digital nomads looking to work abroad. It has fast internet, affordable cost of living, good public transport to get around the country, and many cafes and public working spaces.