Discover Malaysia!

CEBU, Philippines - When Cebu Pacific Air started operations on March 8, 1996, it entered the market with the purpose and promise to give low fares, great value, to “every Juan” who wanted to fly. And it has not turned its back on this promise.

The airline undoubtedly is not just the leader in low fares, but also in creativity and innovation. The carrier is said to feature more destinations and carries on its wings more passengers than any other domestically based airline.

Whenever it hosts familiarization trips to both members of the travel trade industry and tri media practitioners to promote their exciting destinations or newly acquired aircraft, each guest can really  look forward to a unique flying experience with their own brand  of warm hospitality and ever  fun games in the sky.

Recently, Tourism Malaysia ably represented by the efficient, ever smiling  Zuhairah Adullah Abas  and Siti Hadijah Arifin, together with JG Summit’s competent, always-on-the-go  Corporate Manager Viveca Singson, the well-organized Corporate Communications Specialist  Michelle de Guzman and the airline affairs consultant Charles Lim, invited members of the press from the Visayas and Mindanao to visit   Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city. The group was to join the MEGA FAM Program that was held  in conjunction with the popular Mega Sale Carnival 2010. Malaysia is known for many things to different people. It has scenic sights and  endearing landmarks,    rich historical and cultural interests, fantastic beaches and national  parks and mountains to be discovered. Its signature dishes, bargain shopping, its varied tribes of Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia, to the fascinating blend of sophisticates  from Peninsular Malays and the commercially minded Chinese, I  sincerely believe that Malaysia, compared to its neighbors, is truly understated as a holiday destination. And trust me it isn’t. Here’s a list of my reasons why so:  

Petronas Twin Towers

In the heart of KL stands the 88-story Petronas Twin Towers, currently one of the world’s tallest buildings. Inspired by the Five Pillars of Islamic principles of unity within unity, harmony, stability and rationality, the building is where the  Petronas, the national oil company of Malaysia, is located. It also houses both the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and the Petronas Performing Arts Group. Without a doubt the Twin Towers are a national landmark and a symbol of Malaysia’s socio-economic progress and achievements.

Aquaria

Adjacent to the Petronas Twin Towers is the underwater park called Aquaria KLCC. It is located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center featuring a 90-meter long underwater tunnel. It showcases land-bound animals and various types of colorful marine life species from Malaysia and around the globe. It is highly interactive with a focus on conservation and education, as well as eco-tourism supported by the latest technology. It has a mesmerizing ambience.

Central Market

The history of the Central Market goes back to 1888 when the wet  market area was  exclusively selling fish, meat and vegetables. With the growing population, it continued to expand  and a permanent structure was built to house all the vendors. The edifice  was further improved to have the current Art Deco façade that is in existence today. A definite stopover.  

Chinatown

We often ask where do locals shop when they are not at the malls? Like most countries, street shopping holds a fascinating charm and experience. Chinatown on Jalan Petaling road all the way to Jalan Sultan and Jalan Bandar is filled with stalls and little shops selling all kinds of stuff on both sides of the street. Weave through the human traffic for perfect bargains from textiles to clothes, funky accessories, useful  household goods, fresh produce and food.

Galeria Sri Perdana

Dato’ Seri Abdullah Haji Afmad Badawi, the Prime Minister of Malaysia officially opened the gallery on December 20, 2003.It was the official residence of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia from 1983 to 1999.

The Sri Perdana Gallery showcases the many gifts and awards that belong to the Prime            Minister and his wife Datin Seri Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali. Much of the original structure and   interior decorations have been maintained and renovations were confined to making it into a public gallery. A picturesque landscape is artistically drawn around its surroundings. It was handed over to the National Archives and converted into a gallery in appreciation of Mahathir’s valuable contributions to the nation during his 22-year tenure as Prime Minister.  

The Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation

This government agency is a one stop shop for tourists and locals looking for traditional   handicrafts and souvenirs. The center specializes in ceramic products, terracotta and glazed   potteries that are converted into flowerpots, potpourri, vases, lamp bases, and wood carving, brass and silverware and wall decorations. While preserving traditional crafts, it encourages the younger generation to pursue age-old skills handed down by their forefathers and help   craftsmen become self-

reliant entrepreneurs.   

Beryl’s Chocolate Kingdom

There is no doubt that chocolate is one of the most popular desserts, snacks and flavors for kids and adults alike. Its main attraction is that it offers a form of decadence. Chocolate also serves practical purposes as it is a rich source of energy and some say it is even an aphrodisiac. Beryl’s offers more than 100 varieties to suit every mood and taste.     

KLIA Express

If during transit the traveler intends to visit the city, it is highly recommended that one take  the KLIA Express, a nonstop airport rail link connecting KLIA and KL Sentral, the city’s transport hub. Departing at l5 minute intervals, the Express is by far the fastest and most effective way to get from the airport to the city and vice versa, charting a journey time of 28 minutes.

Through the years, Kuala Lumpur has grown into a highly regarded urban city full of color and excitement. We are certain that for many travelers it will not be the last trip they make as the leisure, entertainment and business opportunities compel them to come back for more. ?