Dec 30, 2007

Jolly New Year Eve With Jacky Wu & Friends At Genting Highlands

Genting Highlands – Jacky Wu, one of Taiwan’s most popular artistes and TV variety show host, is going to present an exciting variety show at Arena of Stars, Genting – City of Entertainment themed as Jolly New Year Eve With Jacky Wu & Friends, on 31st December.

Together with Jacky’s gang consisting of NoNo, Makiyo, Xiao Pan Pan, Xiao Zhong, and Ma Guo Bi, they will surely provide tons of fun on the last day of 2007 and greet the first day of 2008 with happiness and a joyful mood.

In conjunction with the show at Genting Highlands, he is coming to meet up with his fans on 24th November, Saturday at First World Plaza’s Times Square, Genting – City of Entertainment at 2.00pm and Cheras Leisure Mall at 8.00pm respectively. For those who would like to catch up with him before the show, just make sure you are free on that day.

Jacky Wu, known as Xian Ge, is a renowned Taiwanese singer, artiste, as well as TV host of variety shows. He has won the Taiwan Golden Melody Awards, with the song “Shi Bu Shi Zhe Yang De Ye Wan Ni Cai Hui Zhe Yang De Xiang Qi Wo”. Jacky became a record holder of the longest Chinese song title with that song. With his funny, humorous and jovial personality Jacky is a skilled host that has earned tremendous acclaim in Taiwan's entertainment arena. In 2003, he was recognised as the highest income earner among Taiwanese TV hosts.

Jolly New Year Eve with Jacky Wu & Friends at Genting Arena Of Stars

This coming concert is notably one of the highest profile events of the year that you should not miss. Hurry, book your tickets fast to avoid disappointment! The tickets are on sale now, priced from RM80, RM130, RM180, RM260 and RM350. The first 1,000 early birds are entitled to enjoy 15% discount. For Genting WorldCard members, they can enjoy 10% discount on all tickets.

Proudly brought to you by Genting – City of Entertainment, the official partner is Osim, official airline is Cathay Pacific, official radio station is MyFM, official TV station is NTV7, concert agency is JS Club, official karaoke is Be A Star Karaoke and official loyalty card is Genting WorldCard.

Genting - City Of Entertainment

Dec 26, 2007

VISIT KEDAH YEAR 2008

VISIT KEDAH YEAR 2008
Malaysia’s One Golden Celebration continues with three states declaring 2008 as their visit state year. The northern state of Kedah, known as the rice bowl of Malaysia, has come up with a much hyped up Visit Kedah Year 2008 campaign.

The Visit Kedah Year 2008 is held in conjunction with the golden jubilee celebrations of the reign of the Sultan of Kedah, Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah.

A total of 70 events, including 29 to be hosted in Langkawi, have been planned to help the state achieve its target of 3.88 million tourists next year.

Among the national and international events that will be held in Kedah in 2008 are:

􀂃 Royal International Langkawi Regatta (5 – 11 January)
􀂃 Kedah Hot Air Balloon (18 – 23 March)
􀂃 The Launch of National Water Festival 2008 (4 – 6 April)
􀂃 International Jet Ski Competition (9 – 10 May)
􀂃 Islanders Music & Dance Festival Langkawi 2008 (30 May – 1 June)
􀂃 Kedah International Media Hunt (29 – 30 June)
􀂃 International Tomoi Competition (13 – 16 August)
􀂃 Jerai International Mountainbike Challenge (7 – 9 November)
􀂃 International Kedah Golf Border Challenge (29 – 30 November)


Apart from that, a total of 18 development projects will be implemented in Kedah under the 9th Malaysia Plan, with an allocation of RM69.8 million.

These projects include the development and maintenance of existing tourist destinations and the upgrading of homestay programmes. The government will focus on two main aspects in these development projects, namely to provide/upgrade tourism facilities and to develop ecotourism.

Some of the tourism products and destinations that will benefit from this are Sungai Merbok Forest Reserve, Medan Budaya in Alor Star, Ulu Legong Hot Spring, Chenang Beach in Langkawi, Gunung Keriang and Sungai Sedim.

For more information, please contact:

Visit Kedah Year Secretariat
Kedah State Economic Planning Unit
Level 3, Block B, Wisma Darul Aman
05503 Alor Star, Kedah
Tel: +604 730 1957
Fax: +604 733 0908
E-mail: upen@kedah.gov.my
Website: http://www.visitkedah.com.my/

Dec 25, 2007

Video - Sarawak Malaysia - A Land Of Natural Wonders

Video - Sarawak Malaysia - A Land Of Natural Wonders

Sarawak Cultural Village

Sarawak Cultural Village

About Sarawak Cultural Village

Tucked away on the foothills of legendary Mount Santubong, 35 km away from Kuching is Sarawak's fascinating cultural showcase, the award winning "Sarawak Cultural Village".

This living museum depicts the heritage of the major racial groups in Sarawak and conveniently portrays the respective lifestyle amidst 14 acres of equatorial vegetation.

Here, it is possible to see Sarawak's ethnic diversity at a glance. The handicraft is both bewildering and tempting, including the Kain Songket (Malay cloth with gold inlay), Pua Kumbu (Iban housewives textiles), Melanau Terendak (sunhat), Bidayuh tambok (basket), Iban parang (swords), Orang Ulu wood carving and Chinese ceramic.

The 45-minute cultural performance of songs, dances and entertainment is something you will not want to miss out during your visit to Sarawak.

Sarawak Cultural Village Attractions :-

Bidayuh Longhouse

Bamboo galore! Bamboo carvings, plumbing, musical instruments, bridges, flooring, walls...welcome to the Bidayuh Longhouse! Let the gongs and war drums welcome you to the Barok - the round head-house. Get caught up in the rhythm of rural activity...sugar cane crushing, paddy pounding, winnowing rice ... Have Fun!!!

Bidayuh Longhouse

The Bidayuh race, accounting for 8.4% of Sarawak's population live mainly within the catchment of the Sarawak and Sadong rivers. Early European travelers gave them the name “Land Dayaks” because they lived in the steep limestone mountains, near the watershed area of West Sarawak, in what was then Dutch Borneo.

Bidayuh Longhouse

Many Borneo natives live in longhouses, in effect, a row of dwellingsand a village street under one roof. The Bidayuhs, a group comprising the Jagoi, Biatah, Bukar-Sadong, Selakau and Lara peoples of West Sarawak, built their houses in mountain fastnesses, tacked to a steep hillside like a gigantic staircase. This was partly for protection against marauding enemies, partly for access to pure, fresh water.

The terrain occupied by the Bidayuhs inspired them to construct ingenious systems of gravity-fed water supply. A little river is dammed at a distance above the longhouse, and the water carried to the dwelling in bamboo conduits.

Iban Longhouse

OooHAH! Nama berita?" What's the news? You're swept into the joyous atmosphere of the Iban Longhouse - drums and gongs, Pua weaving, kuih jala, tuak (their rice wine), hanging skulls carrying tales of days gone by.

Iban Longhouse

The Iban race, once known as “Sea Dayaks”, built their longhouses to last fifteen to twenty years, or, until the farm land in the surrounding area was exhausted. Then they packed up their goods and chattels and moved inland, upriver, along the coast, wherever fresh farm lands looked promising. About one-third of all Sarawakians are Iban; while some of them live in towns or individual houses, a large number still prefer longhouses.

A traditional longhouse is built of axe-hewn timber, tied with creeper fibre, roofed with leaf thatch. It is nearly always built by the bank of a navigable river, and the visitor approaches it from the boat jetty. He climbs up a notched log that serves as a staircase and finds himself on the open verandah face to face with a scene of community and domestic activity.

Iban Longhouse

Several doorways lead from the outer to the inner verandah under the roof. This is the village street of the longhouse; the individual family rooms or “doors” front the common walkway. A casual visitor is invited to sit down on a mat here for a chat with the longhouse elder; family members enter through their relatives' doors and make themselves at home.

Penan Hut

Do not blow from your mouth. Blow from your chest and your stomach." So says the Penan warrior on the art of shooting with the blowpipe at the Penan Huts. Watch blowpipe making or try blowpipe shooting with the Penans, the last of the hunters and gatherers - the forest nomads.

The shy nomadic people of the jungle, the Penans, live in the dense virgin jungles of Central Borneo, among some of the State's most valuable timber resources. Some are 'coming out' and learning to farm the land, others still prefer their roaming life-style.

Penan Hut

Penan shelters are quickly constructed to last for a few weeks or months. They are sited near a good stand of wild sago trees, the Penan's staple food; after this has been used up, the family moves on.

Penan Hut

Another Penan specialty is the manufacturing and accurate use of blowpipes. A wood beam of adequate length is fixed in a drilling platform, and then bored through patient manual labour. The pipe is trimmed by axe and knife, and finally polished. The bore is smoothed and ground by pulling lengths of rattan through it.

Blowpipe ammunition is a softwood plug tipped with a hardwood dart. Blowpipe poison, carefully dosed to suit the prey, is made from the sap of the upas tree (Antiaris toxicaria).

Orang Ulu Long House

The Kayan, the Kenyah, the Kelabit, the Lun Bawang and the other minor tribes...these are the Orang Ulu, gentle and graceful people - as reflected in their songs, music and dances.

Orang Ulu Long House

Sit on the verandah of the Orang Ulu Longhouse nest with the friendly craft-ladies as they do their intricate beadwork whilst in the background, floats the melodiously haunting tune of the sape, their stringed musical instrument. Other sights of interest are the art of body tattooing, parang ilang, their fighting sword, klirieng, their burial pole (totem pole).

Orang Ulu Long House

Orang Ulu, “up-river dwellers”, is a useful if vague term to describe the central Borneo people living in Sarawak. Accounting for 5.5% of the total population, the orang Ulu comprises the Penan, the Kayan and Kenyah, living in the middle and upper reaches of Sarawak's longest rivers, the Kelabit and Lun Bawang groups in the highlands proper.

Orang Ulu Long House

In the past, the orang Ulu were famous throughout the region as sword-smiths. They extracted iron from the ore found in their area, they forged it into excellent blades which they tempered in the cold mountain streams.

Traditionally, an orang Ulu longhouse was built to last. Many of these people practise settled agriculture, and have developed rice field irrigation to a fine art. This makes the search for new farmlands unnecessary. The solid ironwood houses are designed to last for many generations.

Melanau Tall House

Be entertained by tall tales of spirits and demons at the Melanau Tall House. Try our tall swing, too; the tibau swing is used as a fertility rite during the Pesta Kaul. Watch the step-by-step processing of sago and taste the finished products: sago pearls and biscuits.

Melanau Tall House

The Melanau people making up 5.8% of Sarawak's population, now mostly living in the central coastal region, were once more widely scattered. They traditionally lived near the sea within reach of pirates. As a means of protecting themselves, the Melanaus built massive houses forty feet above the ground.

Melanau Tall House

The Melanaus differ from most other Borneo people in one important aspect: they eat sago in preference to rice. Sago palms originally grew wild in the coastal swamps, and the Melanaus took it upon themselves to cultivate these plants. The ten-metre high palm trunk accumulates starch. It swells just before flowering indicating the right time for harvesting by felling.

Melanau Tall House

The pith is grated to a fine mash. This is soaked in a long wooden trough, then trodden through a mat to leach out the sago starch. The off-white sediment settles at the bottom of the trough it is spread on mats to dry into lumps. These are broken up and finally ground into flour.

Hotlink: Lamin Dana Online

Melanau Tall House

Malay House

"Selamat Datang!" Welcome! And so many more Malay words to learn in the Malay House. Take a breather in its hospitable surroundings to join in the many traditional games on demonstration here, such as gasing (top spinning) and congkak (a traditional Malay board-like game).

Malay House

The house of an urban Malay family is a gracious structure, well adapted to the tropical climate. Like all local houses, it is built of wood. The Brooke era introduced lofty ideas on columns, stucco, and indoor plumbing. From as early on as the 1860's, a few leading Malay families commissioned professional builders, often Chinese, to construct their stately homes; a few which may still be seen today in Jln. Ajibah Abol in Kuching.

Malay House

From the humblest to the highest, Malay houses share certain characteristics. They are built on stilts and a visitor approaching from the front comes up a staircase. He announces his presence before he reaches the verandah. This may be quite small, leading along from the front of house. It permits a stranger to wait until somebody welcomes him in.

Malay House

The area designated for the men, official occasions and the entertainment of guests, is a front room taking up the width of the house. Windows cut down to floor level admits breeze for the seated people. Much artistic skill is lavished on the decoration of the stair and window railings, fascia boards under the eaves as well as the ventilation grills above or beside doorways .

Chinese Farmhouse

The first Chinese settlers to Sarawak, the Hakka clan, brought with them Cha Kiak, the traditional Chinese wooden clogs as on display at the Chinese farm house. The typical Sarawakian Chinese abode is a tribute to the pioneering spirit and adaptability of these hardy people. Outside the house is the pepper garden - a sight not to be missed.

Chinese Farmhouse

Chinese farmers in Sarawak are likely to be of Hakka or Foochow descent. These hardy and frugal people migrated to Sarawak in the early 1900s, at the invitation of the Rajah who wanted to build up a solid farming middle class. Many came, most stayed; one-third of the state's population is now Chinese. The flourishing market gardens on both sides of the roads outside Kuching are almost exclusively cultivated by Hakka farmers.

Chinese Farmhouse

Unlike local dwellings, the Chinese farm house is built at ground level. The floor is made of trodden earth, the walls of whitewashed sawn timber. The roof is thatched with leaf attap. The house is divided into two main parts; the family room which contains the kitchen, eating and living area as well as a storage area for valuables such as bicycles or agricultural machinery, and the bedroom.

Chinese Farmhouse

One of the focal points of the main room is the household shrine. A print or statuette of the god revered by the family is displayed here, surrounded by joss sticks, candles, little cups of tea and other seasonal offerings. The doorpost is also divinely protected by the application of strips of red paper, inscribed with protection verses.

Source : Sarawak Cultural Village

Dec 24, 2007

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Wishing you a Merry Chrismas & Happy New Year

Video - Start of Le Tour de Langkawi 2007

Start of Le Tour de Langkawi 2007. ( Visual Not Very Good )

Video - Le Tour de Langkawi 2008 Route Launch

Le Tour de Langkawi 2008 Route Launch

Major Changes To Le Tour de Langkawi 2008

There will be one stage fewer and major changes to the route for next year's Tour of Langkawi which kicks off on Feb 9 in Alor Star.

Next year's Tour will have only nine stages and the usual final stage at the Kuala Lumpur Criterium has been cancelled. It will be replaced by a new route from Seremban to Dataran Merdeka covering a gruelling 153km.

And to provide more excitement in the battle for the King of Mountain category the Genting Hill climb covering 118km has been brought forward to Stage Two instead of the usual penultimate stage.

The Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said unveiled the new route at her ministry here yesterday.

Johor will have a major part in the Tour as three of the stages will be held there.

Stage One of the tour, which starts in Alor Star, will cover 130km and end in Kulim. Next comes the Genting stage followed by the longest stage, which will cover 195km. This will start at Lanchang, Pahang and will end in Cukai, Terengganu. It will then move to Johor, Malacca and Seremban before ending in Kuala Lumpur.

The Tour's chief operating officer Datuk Naim Mohamed said that there would be a carnival-like atmosphere at all the starting and finishing points.

“One of the major difference in the forthcoming Tour is that we want to take it closer to the people. We will organise more events for them to participate in.

“And to generate interest in the sport we will also organise cycling clinics at each stage,” said Naim.

New Route Layout For Le Tour de Langkawi 2008

IN meeting with tourism values, the sporting sense in Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) 2008 has been challenged with the unveiling of an unprecedented route layout.

The highlight of the annual Tour, the Genting climb, comes on the second stage of next year's edition on Feb 9-17, prompting questions from critics as it is the only significant mountain stage on offer in the shortened race.

Never in the 13-year history of the Tour has the Genting climb come so early and for the first time as well, the traditional final stage, the Kuala Lumpur Criterium has been excluded.
Instead, the nine-stage Tour ends on Feb 17 with a gruelling 153.8km ride through dangerous hilly routes in Kuala Klawang, Negeri Sembilan in an attempt by the organisers to inflict some change to the general classification on the final day.

The Cameron Highlands mountain stage has also been excluded this time around, providing for a predominantly flat race, with bunch sprint finishes anticipated in all but one stage.
The general classification for the overall title, is likely to be won by the rider who wins the Genting stage.

A bland race is thus expected as the team holding the yellow jersey having an easy task to control the race by its throat from then on over flat stages, which strengthens the belief that it will be bunch sprint finishes all the way.

On the back of Sports Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said's insistence that the next edition of the race will be closely scrutinised in meeting with a key performance index (KPI) set by the Government, the organising committee seems pressured.

"As I've said before, this race will be closely monitored and it must meet the Government's requirements if we are to continue pumping in money to host the race," said Azalina.
LTdL chief operating officer Datuk Naim Mohamad said the committee had no choice but to meet certain criteria in order to satisfy sponsors.

Still it can be an interesting race, with the climbers having a go first. A different type of rider might win the overall as they have time to make up ground in the stages remaining after Genting," said Naim.

The route - Stage One (Feb 9): 132.4km from Alor Star to Kulim; Stage Two (Feb 10): 125.4km from Tapah to Genting Highlands; Stage Three (Feb 11): 195km from Lanchang to Cukai; Stage Four (Feb 12): 128km from Kuantan to Kuala Rompin; Stage Five (Feb 13): 185.7km from Kuala Rompin to Bandar Penawar; Stage Six (Feb 14): 183.2km from Bandar Penawar to Johor Baru; Stage Seven (Feb 15): 128km from Johor Baru to Batu Pahat; Stage Eight (Feb 16): 150km from Malacca to Seremban; Stage Nine (Feb 17): 153.8km from Seremban to Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur.

Race Facts :-


DATES : February 9-17, 2008
SANCTION : Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI)
UCI RATING : UCI Hors Category
DURATION : 9 days
STATES : 8 (Kedah, Perak, Pahang, Terengganu, Johor, Melaka, Negri Sembilan, Kuala Lumpur)
NEW HOST VENUES : Lanchang, Bandar Penawar, Batu Pahat
NO OF TEAMS : 25 teams (5 Pro Tour and 10 teams from Asia)
RACE DISTANCE : 1,381.5 kilometres
TRANSFERS : 220km (to start)207km (to hotels)
LONGEST STAGE : Stage 3 (Lanchang to Cukai) 195 kilometres
SHORTEST STAGE : Stage 2 (Tapah to Genting) 125.4 kilometres

Race Schedule :-

Stage 1
Alor Setar - Kulim
Saturday - 9th February 2008
132.4 kms
Detail >

Stage 2
Tapah - Genting Highlands
Sunday - 10th February 2008
125.4 kms
Detail >

Stage 3
Lanchang - Cukai
Monday - 11th February 2008
195.0 kms
Detail >

Stage 4
Kuantan - Kuala Rompin
Tuesday - 12th February 2008
128.0 kms
Detail >

Stage 5
Kuala Rompin- Bandar Penawar
Wednesday - 13th February 2008
185.7 kms
Detail >

Stage 6
Bandar Penawar - Johor Bharu
Thursday - 14th February 2008
183.2 kms
Detail >

Stage 7
Johor Bharu - Batu Pahat
Friday - 15th February 2008
128.0 kms
Detail >

Stage 8
Melaka - Seremban
Saturday - 16th February 2008
150.0 kms
Detail >

Stage 9
Seremban - Dataran Merdeka
Sunday - 17th February 2008
153.8 kms
Detail >

Source : Le Tour de Langkawi 2008

Dec 21, 2007

Bank Negara Malaysia Issues New Design for RM50 Banknote to Commemorate Malaysia's 50th Anniversary of Independence

Bank Negara Malaysia today announces the issuance of a new design for the RM50 banknote to commemorate Malaysia's 50th Anniversary of Independence. This new design of RM50 banknote is the first denomination of the Fourth Series of Malaysian currency notes which will be replacing the existing series in stages.

The New Design RM50 Banknote

The new design RM50 banknote retains the predominant colour of green-blue. The main theme of the design is the National Mission where the first thrust is "to move the economy up the value chain" which reflects Malaysia’s economic transformation to the higher value-added activities in the agriculture, manufacturing and services sectors of the economy.

The dominant intaglio portrait of the first Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Abdul Rahman ibni Tuanku Muhammad, is retained on the right and the national flower hibiscus is in the centre on the front of the new RM50 banknote. Design patterns from songket weaving, which are in the background and edges of the banknote, are featured to reflect the traditional Malaysian textile handicraft and embroidery.

The first 50 million pieces of the new RM50 banknote features Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj at the historic declaration of Malaya’s independence and the logo of the 50th Anniversary of Independence on the reverse side.

Security Features

The security features incorporated in the Fourth Series of RM50 banknotes are as follows :

The Watermark Portrait can be recognised by tints that are lighter or darker than the surrounding paper. This watermark portrait which has a three-dimensional effect appears without sharp outlines. At the base of the watermark, the numeral 50 is clearly visible.

The Security Thread is embedded in the paper and appears on the reverse side of the note as a silver coloured dotted line. When the note is held against the light, it is seen as a continuous dark coloured line and the repeated text BNM RM50 can be read. When viewed under ultra-violet light, the thread is seen in various changing colours known as the "rainbow effect".

Micro-Letterings of "BNM RM50" which can be viewed under a magnifying glass.

Invisible Fluorescent Elements can be seen through various elements of the background on the obverse and reverse side of the banknote and will fluoresce in different colours when viewed under ultra-violet light.

Perfect See-Through Register feature where the graphic songket design on the obverse side of the note will register perfectly with the same graphic songket design on the reverse side when it is held against the light.

Multicolour Latent Image of the denomination 50 can be seen when the banknote is tilted slightly and the colour changes when it is rotated.

Holographic Stripe features the denomination 50 and the hibiscus flower, with a multi-coloured pumping and matt-structure effect.

Hidden image with moiré effect where certain areas of the design appearance will change when the banknote is copied.

Members of the public are advised to take note of the security features and design of the new RM50 notes outlined above. The existing series of the RM50 banknotes will continue to be legal tender.

Sale of RM50 banknote with Special Packaging

The new RM50 banknote with a special packaging will be available for sale to members of the public. It will be priced at RM60 per set.

Twenty thousand (20,000) sets will be available for sale from Wednesday, 26 December 2007 at Bank Negara Malaysia's Head Office, and at Bank Negara Malaysia’s branches in Pulau Pinang, Johor Bahru, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.

The availability of these banknotes will be on a first come first served basis and will be limited to one set per person.

The new RM50 banknotes without special packaging will be available through commercial banks on 30 January 2008 onwards.

To view the new design of RM 50 banknote, please click here.

Bank Negara Malaysia
21 December 2007

Video - Malaysia One Golden Celebration

Malaysia One Golden Celebration

Dec 20, 2007

Video - Monsoon Cup 2007 - Terengganu Malaysia

Monsoon Cup 2007 - Terengganu Malaysia

Video - Malaysia Truly Asia: Food and Culture

Malaysia Truly Asia: Food and Culture

Video - Airbus A380 visit Malaysia on Discovery Channel

Airbus A380 visit Malaysia on Discovery Channel

Malaysia Airlines increases Australian flights on strong demand

Malaysia Airlines will offer 52 weekly flights to Australia, adding more flights to Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide due to strong customer demand from December 2007 to February 2008.

The national carrier will add 2 direct flights to Brisbane, and one additional flight to Perth and Adelaide to cater to the peak travel season.

Malaysia Airlines Commercial Director, Dato’ Rashid Khan said, “Australia is one of our key markets and we already fly to 5 destinations there – Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

“These extra flights underline our continuing commitment to fulfill customer demand during this peak season.

The strong customer demand clearly shows that Malaysia Airlines is the preferred carrier to the land Down Under.“We are delighted to offer 2 direct flights to Brisbane, bringing our weekly flights to 9, in addition to 10 flights to Perth, 5 flights to Adelaide, while maintaining 14 flights each into Sydney and Melbourne.

”Effective 10 December 2007 to 14 February 2008, Malaysia Airlines will offer 2 direct flights to Brisbane every Monday and Wednesday. MH7371 will depart Kuala Lumpur at 2300 hours and arrive in Brisbane at 0910 hours, joining MH141 which departs daily from Kuala Lumpur at 0930 and arrive at 2220.

Commencing 5 December 2007 through to 6 February 2008, Malaysia Airlines will offer one additional flight to Perth and Adelaide. There will be an extra flight to Perth on Wednesday.

MH 127 will now depart from Kuala Lumpur on Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 1825 hours and arrive in Perth at 0045 hours.

There will also be an additional flight to Adelaide, departing on Tuesday. MH139 will depart from Kuala Lumpur at 2145 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, arriving at 0715.

Bookings can be made with through Malaysia Airlines Call Centre, 1-300-88-3000. For further information, please visit the website at http://www.malaysiaairlines.com./

Source : Malaysia Airlines

MASWINGS Goes Live With Online Booking

MASwings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines will enable travellers to book and pay for their flights to any MASwings destination by simply logging on to http://www.maswings.com.my/ effective 15 December 2007.

The online booking tool on the MASwings website streamlines the booking process by guiding users through a series of quick and simple steps.

It also offers a flexible search function which will give the customer an idea of the entire range of fares between any two destinations including the lowest possible fare available, including taxes.

“Offering round the clock convenience, this new service allows our customers the flexibility of scheduling their travel plans at any point of time, while ensuring they get the cheapest airfares to choose from,” said MASwings Managing Director, Dr Amin Khan.

“The addition of online booking reflects our commitment to simplifying air travel, offering customers a more stress free and comfortable flying experience,” he added.

Once all flight and passenger details are entered, the booking is finalised through a secure credit card payment process. The customer will then be presented with a full printable itinerary of his travel arrangements.

MASwings, which commenced its operations on 1October 2007, offers 451 weekly flights, and serves 21 destinations in Sarawak and Sabah. It commands a fleet of 8 Fokker 50 and 5 Twin Otter aircraft.

Source : Malaysia Airlines

3D/2N in Langkawi Malaysia from RM260 with Golden Holidays’ Santai Supersavers Promotions

14 December 2007 :

Malaysia Airlines’ holiday arm, Golden Holidays, is offering fantastic packages for a whole month to domestic destinations under its Santai Supersavers promotion starting today, 15 December 2007 until 15 January 2008.

More than 30 attractive packages are on offer, all of which include return airfare, 2 nights stay with breakfast, and transfers to and from the airport. The traveling period is from 1 January to 28 February 2008.

Malaysia Airlines’ Assistant General Manager, Golden Holidays, Encik Yazid Mohamed said, “With more than 30 attractively-priced sightseeing tours, these great packages are perfect for those looking to jumpstart the holidays with family and friends.“Holiday makers can choose a package to Malaysia Airlines’ domestic destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Baru, Kuala Terengganu, Johor Bharu, Kuching and also Kota Kinabalu,” he added.

Golden Holidays‘ ‘Janji Sampai’ packages offers 3-star accommodation for a 3D/2N stay in Langkawi starting from as low as RM260, and a 3D/2N stay in Penang from RM250.

Meanwhile, for the ‘Keluarga Santai’ and ‘Graduated Parents’ packages, prices for a 3D/2N stay in Langkawi starts from RM590 at a 5-star hotel, while a mere RM340 will afford a 4 star accommodation.

A 3D/2N stay in Kota Kinabalu will start from RM455 at a 5-star hotel, while 3D/2N package to Kuching will start from a low price of RM290 fro 5-star accommodation, and RM280 will get you a 3D/2N stay in Penang at a 4-star hotel.For packages to Langkawi and Penang, airfare add-on surcharge applies.

All promotional airfares exclude fuel surcharge and other applicable surcharges. These value-for-money deals are available at Malaysia Airlines' ticketing offices at the domestic stations stated above and appointed travel agents nationwide.

Bookings and purchases can also be made by calling the airline's 24-hour call centre at toll-free number 1-300-88-3000.

A complete list of packages and prices is available on www.malaysiaairlines.com.

Malaysia Awarded The Golf Destination Of The Year 2008

Malaysia was conferred the ‘2008 Asia and Australasia Golf Destination of the Year’ award from the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) during the 2007 annual awards gala dinner held at the Gran Melia Hotel in Cancun, Mexico, on 6 December 2007.

The award is a significant recognition of Tourism Malaysia’s accomplishment in promoting Malaysia as a premier golf paradise. With more than 210 different courses found in a variety of settings around the country, Malaysia is set to be the popular year-long golf-friendly destination in the Asia region.

IAGTO is the global trade organisation for the golf industry, comprising more than 1,040 companies from 73 countries, including 320 specialist golf tour operators in 45 countries.

The award also serves to inspire private and public sector organisations to work closely together in the development and promotion of new and existing golf destinations.

Last year, Malaysia received 350,000 golfers against RM723.5 million (USD212.8 million) in revenue.

Background on IAGTO

The Golf Destination and Golf Resort awards are voted by IAGTO’s specialist golf tour operator members which have more than 320 members from 45 different countries. Each operator will vote for the best performing golf resorts of the year based on the following criteria: customer satisfaction; quality of golf courses and accommodation; value for money; support from suppliers, tourist board and airlines; professional conduct of suppliers; and accessibility to tee times.

For more information, please log on to http://www.iagto.com/ or contact the General Manager, Mr. Carlton Carugati at +44 (0) 20 89063377, fax: +44 (0) 20 89068181 or email: ccarugati@iagto.com.

Source : Tourism Malaysia

Entry Requirements To Malaysia

To enter Malaysia, a visitor should possess the following documents:-

Passport or Travel Document

Every person entering Malaysia must possess a valid national Passport or internationally recognized Travel Document valid for travel to Malaysia. Any person not in possession of a Passport or Travel Document which is recognized by the Malaysian Government, must obtain a Document in lieu of Passport. Application for the Document in lieu of Passport can be made at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad. Holders of Travel Documents like a Certificate of Identity, Laisser Passer, Titre de Voyage or a Country's Certificate of Permanent Residence must ensure that their return to the country which issued the document or the country of residence is guaranteed. The documents shall be valid, for more than six (6) months from the date of entry into Malaysia.

Fulfill visa requirement

Foreign nationals who require a Visa to enter Malaysia must apply and obtain a Visa in advance at Malaysian Representative Office before entering the country.

A visa is an endorsement in a passport or other recognized travel document of foreigner indicating that the holder has applied for permission to enter Malaysia and that permission has been granted. Foreign nationals who require a Visa to enter Malaysia must apply and obtain a Visa in advance at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad before entering the country. Visa which has been granted is not absolute guarantee that the holder will be allowed to enter Malaysia. The final decision lies with the Immigration Officer at the entry point.

Types of Visas
How to Apply Visa
Visa Requirement By Countries
Security Bond Fees
Visa on Arrival

Valid return travel ticket and sufficient funds

A visitor is also required to present proof of his financial ability to finance his/her stay in Malaysia together with a confirmed return ticket to another destination.

Not a prohibited person

Any person classified under Section 8 of Immigration Act 1959/63 will not be allowed to enter Malaysia even though he/she is in possession of a valid Passport or Travel Document, Visa, travel ticket and sufficient funds.

Complete the arrival/departure card

A visitor is required to complete the Arrival/Departure Card (Imm.26) upon arrival at the gazette entry points.

This card is obtainable at any entry point, Malaysian Representative office abroad or travel agencies. A visitor must present his/her passport together with the duly completed arrival / departure card to the Immigration officer on duty and he/she must ensure that the passport or travel document is endorsed with the appropriate pass before leaving the immigration counter.

For more info on Malaysia Immigration Process, go to Immigration Department Of Malaysia

Malaysia Ranks Top Choice For Long-Stay Programs

Malaysia topped the list of the most popular long-stay destinations overseas in fiscal 2006, according to the 2007 statistical survey on the long-stay programs unveiled by the Long Stay Foundation of Japan.

It is the first time for Malaysia to top the list since the founding of the survey was created in 1992. Malaysia obtained a 14.9% share of the poll responses, outpacing the former leader Australia by a 0.9 percentage point, which is a 0.3 percentage point higher than that marked in fiscal 2005.

With strong support of male respondents, all age groups in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s all selected Malaysia as the top long-stay destination.

Second-ranked Australia (14%) was the most popular destination among female respondents. Australia topped the rankings by those in their 20s and 40s but ranked second and third in other age groups. Thailand took third place (11.2%), up from fifth in fiscal 2004, followed by New Zealand (10.5%) and Hawaii (9.9%).

The survey findings revealed that men tend to choose Asian countries while women selected North America or northern Pacific destinations as their first choice.

The Foundation said that areas such as Australia, Hawaii, New Zealand and Canada were popular due to their appeal as English-speaking destinations, their high level of safety and comfortable weather.

However, South Asian countries have grown increasingly popular as is the case with Malaysia and other tourist destinations such as Thailand and the Philippines, pointing to the growing demand among consumers.

Some of the reasons for their increased popularity, said the Foundation, is the relatively low cost of living, the short flight times and warm weather. These elements are referred to as "Cheap, Near, Warm," said the Foundation.

As for the desired length of stay, some 41.9% of respondents selected a stay of between one and three months, while 41.8% of them said they preferred three months or more. With fiscal 2005 data showing 47% interested in the one-to-three-month period and 34% citing a period of more than three months, the survey points to the rising demand for longer stay among long-stay participants from Japan.

Some have selected to stay more than a year in certain destinations due to the offering of long-term visas by countries. Examples are Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines, each providing long-stay programs and help to visitors on their long-stay programs, visas and other processes.

The Malaysian government introduced Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program in the early 2000s initiated as an international residency plan to allow foreigners to reside in the country on a long-stay visa of up to 10 years, renewable. Candidates must qualify by meeting certain financial and medical criteria.

Malaysia-based Tropical Resort Lifestyle managing director Shotaro Ishihara said that he expects the number of Japanese participants under the program to surge from the current 700 people to some 1,400 in three years, partly due to the exodus of baby-boomers starting in 2007.

Ishihara, who has conducted long-stay seminars in Japan, said that some 10,000 Japanese participate in inspection tours to Malaysia annually to decide whether to participate in long-stay programs.

Tropical Resort Lifestyle is an agency to assist in obtaining the MM2H visas to allow foreigners to stay in the country longer.

Such long-stay programs by national governments have helped boost interest in long-stay residency as an option for Japanese consumers during their so-called "sunset" years in Japan or abroad.

Meanwhile, participants in long-stay programs tend to choose the "Slow Life" or "Country Life," one that is far removed from city life in Japan with the average age of men at 57.4 years while women are 49.7 years, according to the survey findings.

The Foundation explained that long-stay participants -- particularly pensioners -- seem to consider spending their long stay in Southeast Asia due to the lower cost of living there while enriching their new lifestyle outside of Japan by communicating with the local people, learning a new language or developing specialties.

Some 31.7% of the respondents said they were interested in the culture of the country of their choice while 19.8% said they like the country they chose.

During their long-stay, some 25.1% of respondents said they would relax while 18.8% plan to participate in hobbies. Some 16.2% said that they plan to learn a language. And 21.1% said they will tour the country while living there.

The Foundation said that participants develop a new sense of values during their long-stay experience and that they rediscover new merits in traditional Japan and the culture by leaving Japan for a period of time.

As for long-stay expenses on a monthly basis, the largest cost range was between 100,000 yen and 150,000 yen marked by 44.1%, followed by the 150,000-200,000 yen segment (31.4%) and the 50,000-100,000 yen range (18.4%). The least marked was 200,000 yen or more, by 6.1%, suggesting the majority of consumers want to minimize their long-stay cost to below the 200,000-yen level per month.

Source : Malaysia My Second Home

Malaysia My Second Home Programme

Malaysia My Second Home Programme is promoted by the Government of Malaysia to allow people from all over the world who fulfil certain criteria, to stay in Malaysia as long as possible on a social visit pass with a multiple entry visa.

The Social Visit Pass is initially for a period of ten (10) years (depending on the validity of the applicants’ passport) and is renewable.

Eligibility

Malaysia My Second Home Programme is open to all citizens of countries recognized by Malaysia regardless of race, religion, gender or age.

Applicants are allowed to bring along their spouse and children as dependents (below 18 years old who is not married).

Foreigners who are married to Malaysians are not eligible for MM2H programme but may apply to stay in Malaysia under the Immigration Department's "Spouse Programme" or Long Term Social Visit Pass ( please refer to website http://www.imi.gov.my )

Take a moment and see why Malaysia is one of those country you should consider to live in :-

Governmental Support
This program is initiated organized and launched by the Malaysian Government. It is, therefore, a program, that the Government will continuously work to ensure its success.

Culture & Language
The Malay language (Bahasa Melayu) is the national language of the country; English is the second language but other languages can be freely used and practiced. Similarly the Malay culture is dominant in the country because the Malays are the dominant race in Malaysia and in the region. But other cultures can be practiced very freely and there is a free intermingling of different cultures.

Recreation & Entertainment
The country has everything for the family,-theme parks, jungle trails/sports, water sports and one of the highest numbers of golf courses – ratio or population.

Food & Fruit
All the food of the world can be found here at very reasonable cost. With so many races and cultures living together in harmony, it is understandable that each race has picked up the best of each other’s food and made Malaysia into Asia’s Food Paradise. Similarly the tropical fruits of Malaysia are unique, exotic and available in abundance practically throughout the year. It should be a real joy to savour these fruits.

Weather
The weather is pleasant, warm and balmy with moderate rain throughout the year, There are also highland residential areas and resorts with permanent spring-like weather throughout the country.

Shopping
Most of the items that tourists normally like to buy – perfumes, cosmetics, watches, fountain pens, a long list of electronic goods, branded goods etc. are completely free of tax. Quality goods from all over the world are imported and are relatively low in price and sold throughout Malaysia.

Safety
Statistics can proof that Malaysia is one of the safest countries in the world; its crime rate is relatively low.

Go to Malaysia My Second Home for more info & to apply.

Dec 19, 2007

Video - Tourism Malaysia Promotion Ad

Tourism Malaysia Promotion Ad

Video - Malaysia Truly Asia

Video - Malaysia Truly Asia

World Drums Festival 2007 Malaysia - 26th to 30th December 2007

For the first time ever in Malaysia, drummers and percussionists from all over the world, coming together to beat their way to the rhythm of the Nation.

The World Drums Festival 2007, a colossal cultural show with a variety of percussion and drum music from around the globe, promises energetic entertainment for the whole family.

The World Drums Festival 2007, which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, will present to the locals, diversity and harmony and to the world at large, our cultural identity, history and internationality of Malaysia.

A unique experience definitely not to be missed.

The Event guarantees an experience you will never forget.

Date : 26th - 30th December 2007

Location : Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur.

Performers :-

Enggar & Associates - Indonesia

Enggar & Associates has been formed in the year of 2002. the founder was Ms. Ngesti Inggarnasih (Nunuk as a Nickname) which in the 1987 with four of her colleague at Indonesian lions club was formed Nupomina & Associates and she rolled as its President.

Nupomina & Associates in the year 2000 has changed its name to Dwiwirya & Associates. During that time there was no activities because of the busy work of the member to which finally created a new association known Enggar and Associates.

At the beginning, Enggar & Associates has 35 dancer and traditional musicians as a member, but now there are 97 members all together.

Since in 1987 has showing its existence in the global by performing their group in countries such as Australia, Korea, China, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Holland, France, Malaysia, and Singapore

KOTTSU - Japan

This is a Japanese traditional drum team established in 1996. It is team of drummers and drum collections specially known the north Nagoya-shi region of Japan. The team now consists of 28 members representing various age groups, from junior high school students and those up to 60 years old drummers.

The ensemble displays lively and cheerful with a lot of noise just like some hungry peoples who had waited for so long but could get their food on time. There are many variations of noises these peoples or drummers can produced, may it be from a single, double, triplet and multiple drums. It is capable of producing a short play, a picture-story and noises, where the audiences are pleased and delighted to hear. Ones should enjoy the style of plays, postures, passions, heartbeats and energies displayed of the drummers.

The major global event involving this ensemble was during the global sport competition held in Taiwan in November 2000 where the performance involves exchanges of drummers from other participating countries. In March 2005, the ensemble had the honor to perform at the EXPO Dome during the World Exposition held in Aichi Japan. In April 2005, the ensemble took part in events held in Athens and Mykonos Island in the Aegean Seas.

It is the ambition and realization of the KOTTSU Japanese Traditional Drum Team to provide guidance, pass on their experience and expertise to children, coaching them to play and perform in local and international events.

Pathun Thani Nantamuneebamroong School - Thailand

The musical culture of the Thais mostly plays around the percussion music where various version, size and dimension of drums were used. The beats of drums are in incomplete without the soul and movement of dances of the beautiful maidens dressing with the traditional Thai classical costumes.

CIOFF Thailand has recommended the Pathun Thani Nantamuneebamroong School to represent Thailand. The performances of this group represent the way of life of the local people such as culture, tradition and the play.

The main musical instrument is long drum known as “Klong Yao”. Thus the group is also know as Wong Klong Yao or “Long Drum Troupe”. The performances not only include dances but also male performers/drummers standing on the shoulders of the other performers in order to make the body as high as possible and at the same time they dance and play drums. The troupe for this festival brought along eight performances for the pleasure and the enjoyment of the audiences.

The troupe had scored may first in various competition such as National Level Performance in 1993 to 1998, Crown Princess Cup in 2000, Crown Princess Cup (Long Drum Category) 2001, Secondary National and Private School Competition 2001, Mass Media Presentation For Outstanding Performance of Thailand Central Region, 2000-2001 and Long Drum Contest organized by National Culture Centre in 2005-2006.

Diplomats of Drum - Malaysia

The Diplomats of Drum are a band from Malaysia that comprises of each ethnic race in the country, giving testament to the phrase "Malaysia - Truly Asia!"

The Diplomats fuses Malaysian melodies and rhythms with global beats and melodies, creating a unique brand of global Fusion. The global beats that they have pioneered have influenced many movements where they have played and they are highly regarded as the most exciting and promising youthful, ethnic-flavored percussion ensemble.

Born from pure creativity and experimentation with rhythms and percussions, the Diplomats of Drum started as an energetic bunch of street performers, slowly changing into a serious all percussion ensembles. Their enthusiasm is infectious and their diverse yet perfectly unified beats strike a deep down party chord, often leaving crowds captivated and wanting for more, what with combining showmanship and acrobatic stunts in their performances. Eventually they put undoubted talent together and naturally evolved into a global fusion band.

But they have not forgotten their humble beginnings, and have incorporated their drumline like percussion style and rhythms into their stage performances.

As a band, they have broken down musical barriers to celebrate musical and cultural differences, bringing everything together to create a pure organic sound! Their performances often create a carnival-like atmosphere, drawing large crowds and eliciting spontaneous dancing with their infectious rhythms and positive energy.

Just to give you an idea of what the band sounds like, imagine rasping Indian classical vocals backed by Gaelic chants, traditional Malay rhythms fused with Afro beat and Latin groove, powerful Bhangra rhythms played alongside the energetic Scottish Bagpipe, the subtle and silky-soft sounds of the Sitar grouped with the loud and powerful African Djembe... not forgetting drumline like percussion beats and sound scrapes.

If you think all of these are impressive, wait till you hear everything and everybody playing together!!

Then you would have experienced the true global sounds of the Diplomats of Drum!!

YAWA Eco Drum Circle - Malaysia

The YAWA ECO DRUM CIRCLE (E.D.C) is a part of YAYASAN ANAK WARISAN ALAM (Y.A.W.A).

EDC is a musical percussion group that incorporates everyday object/recyclable materials that are turned into musical percussion instruments. Object such as plastic bottles, pots & pans, basins and even plastics bags, can be used as instruments at an EDC gathering. EDC is for all ages, sexes, religion, races and cultures.

They use instruments made from everyday recyclable objects that participants bring along to the workshop. The excitement of creating, sharing and making beautiful music together as a group, will allow the participants to experience the magical musical moments where one voice is created out of many.

Furthermore in the Drum Circle, as in life, music is supposed to be all about healing the spirit. They will sit in a semi circle with the conductor in the middle. The "conductor/leader/founder of EDC", Afiq Safwan, will be the person leading the performances.

The group will also have some movements on stage and they will go down the stage and play with the audience. This is their way to interact with the audience.

It hopes to promote environmental awareness among participants as well as to make participants actively take part in recycling efforts at home. EDC is a self-discovery and mind body wellness programme, where people gather to share a spontaneous recreational rhythmic experience. A Drum Circle is really a People Circle.

It is NOT a Drum Class!

"SPREAD THE VISION - MUSIC IS THE BIG MEDICINE FOR THE 21st CENTURY PLANET EARTH"

D - Discipline, R - Respect, U - Unity, M - Music

The Trinity Collage, Kandy - Sri Lanka

MUSIC, DRUMS AND DANCE TROUPE

The infant idea of a School’s Dance troupe was conceived in mind of Mr. E.L. Fernando (Principal of T.C.K. 1960 – 1977) at the time when the School was making the initial preparations to celebrate her centenary year in 1972.

The TCK (Sri Lanka) Music, Drums and Dance Troupe now occupies a foremost place among Youth Dance Tropes in Sri Lanka and their performances have been well acclaimed.

This all male Trope which has 41 members trained by Mr. Vipula Jayashantha, has won 1st place for 14 consecutive years since 1978 at the National Dance and Ballet Drama Competition conducted by Sri Lanka’s Department of Education. The Troupe, trained under the watchful eyes of Mr. Vipula Jayashantha, has toured overseas, participated in competitions abroad. They had won the 1st prize for the Magul Bera playing and the 2nd place in the Drum Orchestra at the Cleveland Inter – tie Folk Festival in 1978. They participated in the Bristol International Music Festival in U.K in 1978, 1986, 1992, 1998 & 2004.

In 1978 they also toured and gave performances in Denmark and Sweden. In 1986 they performed in Switzerland, Germany and 1987 in Australia.

Rhythm Masala - Singapore

Rhythm Masala, Top Fusion Percussion Group in Singapore, holders of the Guinness World of Records for 50hrs of Non-Stop Drumming Marathon at the Awesome Africa Music Festival, Durban South Africa.

Rhythm Masala has a strong following in their native Singapore and their founder and principal drummer, Paskaran Sreekaram is acknowledged to be one of the finest world class percussionists to come out of the island state.

A combustible Fusion drumming of Brazilian Samba meets Latin Fire. Be blown away at the World Drum Festival by this 6 member multi-talented percussionist. The crazy drummers who can withstand 3 days of continuous drumming, against all odds weather, sleepless nights and such, will perform a power-packed International Percussion Performance.

Note: Participation of groups are subject to change without notice.

This event is FREE for all.

Come and join World Drums Festival, Be Our Participants and send your application to us.

Source : World Drums Festival 2007

Video - Rasa Sayang Malaysia Campaign (Tamil Version)

Rasa Sayang Malaysia Campaign (Tamil Version)

Video - Rasa Sayang Malaysia Campaign

Rasa Sayang Malaysia Campaign - Mixed Languange - Malay, English, Chinese

Rasa Sayang Malaysia - Send e-invites & stand a chance to WIN!

Express the love and patriotism for Malaysia as we celebrate 50 years of the country’s independence! As Malaysians, we’ve enjoyed half a century of freedom and continued progress in a harmonious environment. Our greatest source of pride remains the splendour of our diverse cultures and the beauty of our way of life.

Rasa Sayang Malaysia calls out to all Malaysians to share the wonders of this country with the world. Let’s play our part by inviting our friends, relatives and business associates from overseas to join in our 50th Golden Anniversary Celebration. Now is the best time to show our love for our dear country.

Show your love for Malaysia by inviting the world to our 50th Golden Anniversary Celebration! Send as many e-invites as you like and stand a chance to win exciting holiday packages below !


1st Prize: Exclusive Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Package worth over RM 6500

Voted Top 5 best hotels in Asia by Conde Nast Traveller 10th Annual Readers™ Travel Awards 2007

* 4 days/3 nights accommodation at Rasa Deluxe for 2 adults and
* 2 children with daily breakfast, hitea, 1 hour use of non-motorised watersport and inclusive of * hotel/airport transfer
* CHI spa treatment (Rasa Asmaradana signature treatment) for 2 adults worth RM660++
* 1 buffet dinner at the Spice Market Cafe for 2 adults and 2 children worth RM368++
* Special gifts for 2 adults and 2 children worth RM300


2nd Prize: Attractive Berjaya Tioman Beach, Golf & Spa Resort Package worth over RM 6500

* 3 night accommodation in a deluxe chalet for 2 persons
* Buffet breakfast & buffet/ set dinner for 2 persons for 3 days
* Kuala Lumpur/ Tioman/ Kuala Lumpur return flight on Berjaya Air for 2 persons (excluding taxes)
* Deluxe welcome fruit basket with a bottle of wine


3rd Prize: Pampering Four Seasons Resort, Langkawi Package worth over RM1600

* 2 days/1 night stay at Lower Malalueca Pavillion (room only)


4th Prize: Classy KL Hilton weekend package for 2 worth over RM850

* 2 days/1 night accomodation in Innovation Room for 2 persons inclusive of breakfast
* 1 dining voucher at the Noodle Room , KL Hilton worth RM150 nett
* 1 Sunday Brunch voucher for 2 persons at Sudu, KL Hilton


5th Prize: Relaxing Nexus Resort Karambunai Getaway

* 2 day/1 night package at Ocean Wing Deluxe Room inclusive of buffet breakfast for 2 persons

Send as many e-invites as you wish and you could be a winner.It's so easy! The more you send, the higher your chances of winning these greats prizes. Send those e-invites now!

Contest Period : 10 Dec 2007 - 10 Jan 2008

Source : Rasa Sayang Malaysia

Dec 18, 2007

Video - Turtle At Sipadan Island Malaysia

Turtle At Sipadan Island Malaysia

Video - Tioman Island, Malaysia

Video - Tioman Island, Malaysia

Video - Malaysia Scuba Diving - Tioman Island - Pulau Renggis

Video - Malaysia Scuba Diving - Tioman Island - Pulau Renggis

Video - Scuba Diving in Pulau Redang, Terengganu, Malaysia

Scuba Diving in Pulau Redang

About Terengganu Malaysia

Terengganu is located along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. To the north lies the Kelantan state, and to the south, Pahang. Terengganu covers around 12,995 square kilometers and comprises seven districts: Besut, Setiu, Kuala Terengganu, Hulu Terengganu, Marang, Dungun, and Kemaman.

Kuala Terengganu the state capital, is located on the banks of the Terengganu River which flows down from Lake Kenyir to the South China Sea. It features a blend of old and modern buildings and appears to have stood still in time, moving at a slow and relaxed pace. Good accommodation can be found to suit all tastes is this developing yet vibrant town.

Travel along the Terengganu coast and you will surely be awed by its impressive 244km long stretches of sandy coastline, traditional Malay coastal villages, domestic animals wandering in the fields and picturesque sunrises coming below the horizon. With swaying coconut and casuarinas trees lining the white sandy beaches, amidst the gentle breeze of the calm sea are just picture perfect.

Beyond Terengganu’s impressive coastline lie some of the most popular island destinations in Malaysia. Dotting the seas are spectacular emerald islands of powdery white sands, azure waters, naturally formed coral gardens and spectacular marine lives. Inland lies lush tropical rainforests, dazzling waterfalls, flora and faunas of exotic species and other natural wonders. Arriving by plane, you will pass the tropical rainforests and circle out across the ocean before descending across the foaming surf and beaches to the airport, welcoming you to the beginning of a memorable and magical holiday!

The treasures of nature, tradition and heritage awaits to explored! With so much of nature wonder to explore, so many traditional experiences to enjoy combined with its unique heritage to uncover, with the warm and friendly people everywhere, make sure you spend plenty of time in Terengganu because you’ll never forget your time in this blessed and amazing state. So many development is being planned by the present government.

New 4-lane highway connecting all major towns, the upgraded airport, Crystal Mosque, new international class indoor and outdoor stadiums, the international yacht facilities specially built for the annual Monsoon Cup event and also the world class Endurance Cup horse riding facilities will further enhance the state’s image of a developing and vibrant state.

With 2008 has been declared ‘Visit Terengganu Year’, spectacular events and activities are being planned to give honoured guests the time of their lives.

Source : Tourism Terengganu Malaysia

Turtle Stone - Terengganu Malaysia

Local villagers believed that the giant leatherback turtles are attracted to Rantau Abang every year because of the presence of a large black stone resembling a turtle in the river.

Nobody knows the reason why do these creatures choose to come back every year. However, the local believe that the turtles are attracted by two giant turtle stones (Batu Penyu) one lies between the bushes on a little hill in the village off the coast and another soaking in seawater.

The mysterious stone on the hill is accessible in a 30 minutes short walk passing through the village. There is sign board along the way or you may get a villager to bring you there. Whereas the other one is covered by sand and water and is not visible any more.

Source : Tourism Terengganu Malaysia

Batu Bersurat Terengganu Malaysia

The Islamic Inscription on the Inscribed Stone of Terenggany is a profound statement of Terengganu's Islamic Past. The Stone, which dates as far back as the early 14th Century, is known to be the earliest piece of inscription in Malay using the Jawi script which states Islam as the official religion of Terengganu, along with an Islamic law guide pertaining to misdeeds and sanctions.

Batu Bersurat Terengganu is the oldest artifact with Jawi writing on it. The artifact proves that Islam reached Terengganu earlier than 1326 or 1386. It was accidentally discovered near Teresat River at Kuala Berang, Terengganu, Malaysia by an Arab trader named Sayid Husin bin Ghulam al-Bokhari in 1899 after a flash flood hit Kuala Berang.Kuala Berang is situated about 33 kilometers from Kuala terengganu and it is an historical place. Kuala Berang became famous when an inscribed stone was discovered here. The inscribed stone found was the earliest record of Islam in Peninsular Malaysia.

The inscribed stone was discovered in 1899 when there was a major flood in Terengganu. After the flood, the villagers found a huge stone at the mouth of Sungai Teresat. The villagers then shifted the stone to a mosque at Kampung Buluh in Kuala Berang. In 1902, a gold and tin miner named Syed Hussain bin Ghulam Al Bukhari from Riau - Lingga and Engku Pengiran Anum arrived at Kuala Berang.

They saw the inscribed stone and brought it back to Kuala Terengganu where they presented it to Sultan Zainal Abidin, who was then the Sultan of Terengganu. Sultan Zainal Abidin kept the inscribed stone from many years as no one understood the Jawi writings that was inscribed on the stone.

Thus an Englishman who was working in Terengganu send photographs of the inscribed stone to history language specialists in Singapore and London. In the end, the inscriptions on the stone was able to be read clearly.The inscribed stone weighed about 215 kilograms, 84 centimeters in height, 53 centimeters wide at the top and 27 centimeters wide at the bottom. The thickness of the stone is 24 centimeters and is made of granite which cannot be easily broken.

The inscriptions are in Arabic - Malay believed to be written on the 22nd February 1303. Among the inscriptions on the stone are the ten Islamic laws and their punishments. With the discovery of this stone, historians felt that Islam has reached Terengganu before the 14th century. The inscribed stone also proved that a government existed in Terengganu long before Melaka was founded. Even after Melaka was founded, Kuala Terengganu still remained an important port.

Source : Tourism Terengganu Malaysia

Dec 17, 2007

Video : Penang Island Malaysia - A Food Paradise

Penang Island Malaysia - A Food Paradise

Video - Pangkor Laut Resort Malaysia

Pangkor Laut Resort Malaysia

Video - Explore Malaysia

Explore Malaysia

Malaysia School Holidays / Calendar 2008

Malaysia School Calendar 2008 :-

School Day Begins : 3rd January 2008

1st Mid Term Break : 8th March - 16th March 2008

2nd Mid Term Break : 24th May - 8th June 2008

3rd Mid Term Break : 16th August - 24th August 2008

End of the Year Break : 15th November 2008 - 4th January 2009

Note : * In Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu Term Break commerces a day earlier.

Malaysia State Holidays 2008

Malaysia State Holidays 2008 :-

New Year's Day : 1 January (All states except Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis & Terengganu)

Birthday of Sultan Kedah : 20 January (Kedah only)

Thaipusam : 23 January (Johor, N.Sembilan, Perak, Penang & Selangor only)

Federal Territory Day : 1 February (Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur, Labuan & Putrajaya only)

Additional Holiday for Chinese New Year : 8 February (Kelantan & Terengganu only)

Anniversary of Installation of Sultan Terengganu : 4 March (Terengganu only)

Good Friday : 21 March (Sabah & Sarawak only)

Birthday of Sultan Kelantan : 30 & 31 March (Kelantan only)

Birthday of Sultan Johor : 8 April (Johor only)

Declaration of Melaka as a Historical City : 15 April (Melaka only)

Birthday of Sultan Perak : 19 April (Perak only)

Hol Day of Pahang : 7 May (Pahang only)

Birthday of Raja Perlis : 17 May (Perlis only)

Harvest Festival : 30 & 31 May (Federal Territory Labuan & Sabah only)

Dayak Festival : 1 & 2 June (Sarawak only)

Hol Day of Almarhum Sultan Johor : 9 July (Johor only)

Birthday of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Pulau Pinang : 12 July (Penang only)

Birthday of Yang di-Pertuan Negeri Sembilan : 19 July (Negeri Sembilan only)

Birthday of Sultan Terengganu : 20 July (Terengganu only)

Israk and Mikraj : 30 July (Kedah, Negeri Sembilan & Perlis only)

Awal Ramadan * : 1 September (Johor, Kedah & Melaka only)

Birthday of T.Y.T Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak : 13 September (Sarawak only)

Malaysia Day & Birthday of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah : 16 September (Sabah only)

Nuzul Quran : 17 September (Kelantan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Penang, Selangor & Terengganu only)

Birthday of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Melaka : 11 October (Melaka only)

Birthday of Sultan Pahang : 24 October (Pahang only)

Hari Raya Haji 1429 Hijrah (2nd Day) * : 9 December (Kedah and Perlis only)

Birthday of Sultan Selangor : 11 December (Selangor only)

Note : * Subject to confirmation

When a holiday falls on a weekend, the following day becomes a public holiday.Released by: The Prime Minister's Department

Malaysia National Public Holidays 2008

Malaysia National Public Holidays 2008 :-

Maal Hijrah (Awal Muharram) 1429 Hijrah : 10 January

Thaipusam : 23 January

Chinese New Year : 7 & 8 February

Prophet Muhammad's Birthday : 20 March

Labour Day : 1 May

Wesak Day : 19 May

Birthday of SPB Yang di-Pertuan Agong : 7 June

National Day : 31 August

Hari Raya Puasa * : 1 & 2 October

Deepavali : 27 October

Hari Raya Qurban 1429 Hijrah * : 8 & 9 December (2nd Day - Kelantan & Terengganu only)

Christmas Day : 25 December

Maal Hijrah (Awal Muharram) 1430 Hijrah : 29 December

Note:* Subject to confirmation

When a holiday falls on a weekend, the following day becomes a public holiday.

Dec 16, 2007

Asia's Biggest Space Adventure Exhibition Opens 15 Dec 2007

MALAYSIA INTERNATIONAL SPACE ADVENTURE : LAUNCHING MALAYSIA INTO ORBIT HERE ON EARTH

Malaysia international Space Adventure (MISA), the first NASA exhibit in Asia, closes Visit Malaysia Year 2007 and kicks off Visit Malaysia Year 2008 by giving Malaysians and tourists a taste of the Astronaut's life in Outer Space

Kuala Lumpur, 26 November 2007 (Monday): The Ministry of Tourism and homegrown world-class event specialists AD SURIA are proud to launch Malaysians on a unique experience of Outer Space exploration right here on Malaysia soil with the Malaysia International Space Adventure (MISA) - the latest Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2007 showcase event. MISA is the first such presentation by NASA in Asia And will kick off on 15 December 2007 showcase and wrap up on 16 March 2008, thus marking an end to VMY 2007 while being the perfect lead-in event to kick-start VMY 2008.

Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Minister of Tourism, said: " The MISA exhibition is designed to give Malaysia a taste of the Space Exploration experience onboard a NASA space trip earlier this year. In fact, real authentic NASA space exploration exhibits are being shipped in from the U.S and exhibited for the first time in Asia through MISA."

Indeed, with all the excitement of the Angkasawan programme dominating the imagination of the nation in 2007, MISA present Malaysians and tourists a chance to mark the end of Malaysia's Golden Jubilee with a (literally) out-of-world experience. Pn Jamilah Itam, Business Director of AD SURIA, the world-class homegrown events organizing company behind MISA, said: "Far from being one-dimensional stationary exhibits, there are 8 major MISA exhibition pieces designed to provide a multidimensional, multi-sensory experience."

Amongst these majoy MISA "experience" exhibits are the Space Shuttle Flight Deck where visitors can engage in a simulated space mission and discover how a space expedition is organized. Then there is the Space Station Interactive where visitors can experiment with six module racks that allow them to participate in everything from choreographing a spacewalk to repairing a solar array. MISA visitors can also capture the NASA experience through the world's latest and most spectacular 4D display at Malaysia's first ever 4D Theatre that will enhance the overall journey through MISA.

As an addes bonus, AD SURIA will also be bringing in Strange Fruit to help launch the first week of MISA. Strange Fruit is an internationally renowned performance arts troupe from Australia that presents a unique fusion of theatre, dance and circus as their performers perform a hypnotozing dance atop 4-meter high flexible poles of extreme strenght and flexibility that allow the performers to bow and sway in choreographed angles that are seemingly impossible. This will also be the first time Strange Fruit will be performing in Malaysia.

PnJamilah Itam said: "AD SURIA is proudto be the event organizers for MISA as part of our ongoing series of unique events to help Malaysians celebrate Malaysia's 50th year of nationhood and independence as well as helping promote Visit Malaysia Year 2007 and 2008. The first 65 tonnes of exhibits have already left the U.S. bound for Malaysia last week and we are expecting the 4D theatre to atart shipping this weekend. We at AD SURIA are confident that Malaysias and tourists both young and old will enjoy the MISA experience and look forward to opening the doors on 15 December 2007."

About MISA :-

• The theme for MISA is “Experience Space on Earth”

• MISA will be opened for 3 months from 15 December 2007 to 16 March 2008.

• This is the first NASA exhibit in Asia and will cover over 300,000 sq ft of exposition area.

• There will be 87 exhibits from NASA including the Apollo programme, the Gemini programme and exhibits from German Space Museum.

• There will be 8 zone exhibits including Galactic Concourse, History of Space Exploration, Magic Planet, Mars Rover, Space Station Interactive, Space Shuttle Flight Deck, Blast Zone and the first 4D Theatre experience in Malaysia.

EXHIBIT FROM NASA

Galactic Concourse
• A full immersion projection experience allowing visitors to gaze upon stars, be surrounded by interstellar clouds and walk through faraway galaxies.

History of Space Exploration
• A full educational experience allowing visitors to retrace the history of space exploration including the questions, the curiosity and the technological breakthroughs that introduced new terms like astronauts, rockets and quantum leap.

Magic Planet
• View spectacular digital video globes suspended from the ceiling while the Storyteller explains about the Sun, Moon and other planets through stories.

Mars Rover
• Join NASA’s trailblazing mobile robotic pioneers in exploring the many sides of the Martian landscape.

Space Station Interactive
• A free trial at the only inhabitable facility in space.
• There are 6 module racks available for visitors to control and participate in everything from choreographing a spacewalk to a repair of a solar array.

Space Shuttle Flight Deck
• A full-to-partial replica of the Discovery on which visitors can engage in a simulated space mission and discover how a space expedition is organized.

Blast Zone
• The Space Shuttle Theatre will take visitors through the final seconds before a spacecraft launch.

4D Theatre
• The first ever 4D theatre experience in Malaysia using the world’s latest and most spectacular 4D display.

OPERATION HOUR

Monday to Thursday -10am - 11pm (Last Entry at 9PM)

Friday to Sunday -10am - 12pm (Last Entry at 10PM)

TICKET PRICE

Adult -RM 38.00 per person

Children (3-12 year old) - RM 23.00 per person

Address :-

Precinct 5,
Putrajaya(By Putrajaya Lake and near Putrajaya International Convention Centre)

Website : Malaysia International Space Adventure

Dec 15, 2007

Video - Malaysia Airlines Commercial

Malaysia Airlines

Video - Visit Malaysia Year Campaign

Visit Malaysia Year Campaign

Malaysia Traditional Music

AN EXOTIC ENSEMBLE OF ENCHANTING EXPERIENCES

Malaysia's multi-cultural and multi-racial heritage is most prominently exhibited in its diverse music and dance forms. The dances of the indigenous Malay, Orang Asli and different ethnic peoples of Sabah and Sarawak are truly exotic and enchanting. As the Chinese, Indians and Portuguese settled in Malaysia, the traditional dances of their homelands became a part of Malaysia's culture and heritage.

DANCE

Malay Mak Yong

Originating from Patani in Southern Thailand, Mak Yong was conceived to entertain female royalty, queens and princesses, when their men were away at war. Combining romantic drama, dance and operatic singing, tales of the golden age of the Malay kingdoms are dramatised in enchanting performances.

Kuda Kepang

Kuda Kepang is a traditional dance brought to the state of Johor by Javanese immigrants. Dramatising the tales of victorious Islamic holy wars, dancers sit astride mock horses moving to the hypnotic beats of a percussion ensemble usually consisting of drums, gongs and angklungs.

Zapin

Islamic influence on Malaysian traditional dance is perhaps most evident in Zapin; a popular dance in the state of Johor. Introduced by Muslim missionaries from the Middle East, the original dance was performed to Islamic devotional chanting to spread knowledge about the history of the Islamic civilisation.

Joget

Malaysia's most popular traditional dance, is a lively dance with an upbeat tempo. Performed by couples who combine fast, graceful movements with playful humour, the Joget has its origins in Portuguese folk dance, which was introduced to Melaka during the era of the spice trade.

Tarian Lilin

Also known as Candle Dance, it is performed by women who do a delicate dance while balancing candles in small dishes.

Silat

One of the oldest Malay traditions and a deadly martial art, Silat is also a danceable art form. With its flowery body movements, a Silat performance is spellbinding and intriguing.

Chinese Lion Dance

Usually performed during the Chinese New Year festival, Lion Dance is energetic and entertaining. According to the legend, in ancient times, the lion was the only animal that could ward off a mythological creature known as Nian that terrorised China and devoured people on the eve of the New Year. Usually requiring perfect co-ordination, elegance and nerves of steel, the dance is almost always performed to the beat of the tagu, the Chinese drum, and the clanging of cymbals.

Dragon Dance

The dragon is a mythical creature that represents supernatural power, goodness, fertility, vigilance and dignity in Chinese culture. Typically performed to usher in the Chinese New Year, the Dragon Dance is said to bring good luck and prosperity for the year to come. Usually requiring a team of over 60 people, this fantastic performance is a dazzling display of perfect co-ordination, skill and grace.

Indian Bharata Natyam

This classical Indian dance is poetry in motion. Based on ancient Indian epics, this highly intense and dramatic dance form uses over 100 dance steps and gestures. As mastery requires many years of practice, some children begin learning the dance form at the age of five.

Bhangra

Bhangra is a lively folk music and dance form of the Sikh community. Originally a harvest dance, it is now part of many social celebrations such as weddings and New Year festivities. Typically centred around romantic themes with singing and dancing driven by heavy beats of the dhol, a double-barreled drum, the bhangra is engagingly entertaining.

Sabah & Sarawak Ngajat

The Warrior Dance is a traditional dance of Sarawak's Iban people. This dance is usually performed during Gawai Kenyalang or 'Hornbill Festival'. Reputedly the most fearsome of Sarawak's headhunters, the tribe's victorious warriors were traditionally celebrated in this elaborate festival. Wearing an elaborate headdress and holding an ornate long shield, the male warrior dancer performs dramatic jumps throughout this spellbinding dance.

Datun Julud

The Hornbill Dance is a traditional dance of Sarawak's Kenyah women. Created by a Kenyah prince called Nyik Selong to symbolise happiness and gratitude, it was once performed during communal celebrations that greeted warriors returning from headhunting raids or during the annual celebrations that marked the end of each rice harvest season. Performed by a solo woman dancer to the sounds of the sape, beautiful fans made out of hornbill feathers are used to represent the wings of the sacred bird.

Sumazau

Sumazau is a traditional dance of Sabah's Kadazan people. Usually performed at religious ceremonies and social events, it is traditionally used to honour spirits for bountiful paddy harvests, ward off evil spirits and cure illnesses. Male and female dancers perform this steady hypnotic dance with soft and slow movements imitating birds in flight.


Bamboo Dance

Another highly popular and entertaining traditional dance is Bamboo Dance. Two long bamboo poles are held horizontally above the ground at ankle-height. They are clapped together to a high-tempo drumbeat. Requiring great agility, dancers are required to jump over or between the poles without getting their feet caught.

Orang Asli

The traditional dances of the Peninsular Malaysia's Orang Asli are strongly rooted in their spiritual beliefs. Dances are commonly used by witch-doctors as rituals to communicate with the spirit world. Such dances include Genggulang of the Mahmeri tribe, Berjerom of the Jah-Hut tribe and the Sewang of the Semai and Temiar tribes.

The Portuguese of Melaka Farapeira

The Farapeira is a fast, cheerful dance usually accompanied by guitars and tambourines, performed by couples dressed in traditional Portuguese costumes.

Branyo

Favoured mainly by the older Portuguese generation, compared to the Farapeira the Branyo is a more staid dance. Male dancers dressed in cowboy-like costumes and female dancers dressed in traditional baju kebayas with batik sarongs sway to the steady rhythm of drums and violins.

MUSIC

Orchestra

Malaysia has two traditional orchestras: the gamelan and the nobat. Originally from Indonesia, the gamelan is a traditional orchestra that plays ethereal lilting melodies using an ensemble of gong percussion and stringed instruments. The nobat is a royal orchestra that plays more solemn music for the courts using serunai and nafiri wind instruments.

Musical Instruments

Rebana Ubi

In the days of the ancient Malay kingdoms, the resounding rhythmic beats of the giant rebana ubi drums conveyed various messages from warnings of danger to wedding announcements. Later, they were used as musical instruments in an assortment of social performances.

Kompang

Arguably the most popular Malay traditional instrument, the kompang is widely used in a variety of social occasions such as the National Day parades, official functions and weddings. Similar to the tambourine but without the jingling metal discs, this hand drum is most commonly played in large ensembles, where various rhythmic composite patterns are produced by overlapping multiple layers of different rhythms.

Gambus

Brought to Malaysia by Persian and Middle Eastern traders, the gambus or Arabian oud is played in a variety of styles in Malay folk music, primarily as the lead instrument in Ghazal music. Carefully crafted with combinations of different woods, this instrument produces a gentle tone that is similar to that of the harpsichord.

Sape

The sape is the traditional flute of the Orang Ulu community or upriver people of Sarawak. A woodcarving masterpiece with colourful motifs the sape is made by hollowing a length of wood. Once played solely during healing ceremonies within longhouses, it gradually became a social instrument of entertainment. Typically, its thematic music is used to accompany dances such as the Ngajat and Datun Julud.

Source : Tourism Malaysia