Malaysia's States: A Quick Guide
Malaysia is composed of three federal territories and 13 states. The country's land is divided between the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo, with most of the states concentrated on the Malay Peninsula.
Malay Peninsula
Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and one of Southeast Asia's major cities, alongside Singapore and Bangkok. The name Kuala Lumpur means "confluence of muddy rivers." The abbreviation KL is derived from the initials of Kuala Lumpur.
The area covers 243 km², with a population of approximately 1.9 million. The Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) features the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, and the Merdeka Tower, which will be the second tallest building in the world, is set to be completed in 2024, becoming a new symbol of Kuala Lumpur. Other attractions include Merdeka Square, KL Tower, and many more.
Federal Territory of Putrajaya
Putrajaya is the administrative capital of Malaysia, where government agencies are concentrated. The area covers only 49 km².
As an area where government officials reside, it has an overall calm atmosphere. One of Malaysia's two major tourist attractions, the Putra Mosque (commonly known as the Pink Mosque), is located here and draws many visitors. A popular attraction is the cruise around Putra Lake, which offers views of the Putra Mosque.
Other attractions include the Prime Minister's Office adjacent to the Putra Mosque and the relatively new Iron Mosque. In recent years, the Putrajaya Line has opened, allowing access by train from Kuala Lumpur, but it is approximately a 25-minute walk from Putrajaya Station to the Putra Mosque.
Selangor
The capital of Selangor is Shah Alam. With a population of 6.6 million and an area of 8,104 km², it is quite large, surrounding Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.
The living environment in the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur is particularly developed, with areas boasting convenience that rival those of Kuala Lumpur itself.
Main tourist attractions include the Batu Caves, a sacred site for Hindus, and the Blue Mosque. Although a bit farther from Kuala Lumpur, Selangor also includes Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the Sepang Circuit where the F1 Grand Prix was previously held, and Kuala Selangor, known for its firefly attractions.
Shah Alam hosts one of the world's largest Bon Odori festivals every year.
Malacca
Known as the birthplace of Malaysia, Malacca has a long history as a colony and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Control of the area shifted among the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, and during World War II, it was also occupied by Japan.
The capital of the state is also named Malacca. It is located about a two-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur, making it a popular destination for day trips that are often combined with Kuala Lumpur sightseeing.
Tourism is easy in every aspect. Major attractions are concentrated around Dutch Square, including St. Paul's Church, which served as a base for Francis Xavier, and Jonker Street, known for shopping. The Malacca Straits Mosque, located along the coast, is also a popular spot.
Additionally, during Christmas, many people gather in the Portuguese Village.
Perak
Perak is a state that developed around the tin mines, with a large portion of its population being of Chinese descent. The capital of the state is Ipoh.
It is about a three-hour journey from Kuala Lumpur, making it possible for day trips. Generally, it is easy to hail taxis (Grab) in the city center for sightseeing, but in some areas, like the Tempurung Cave, it can be challenging to find a taxi. If you plan to go to a place a bit farther away, it might be better to negotiate with the driver.
Attractions in Ipoh include Chinese temples and wall art. The city is also famous for its food, featuring renowned chicken rice shops and the first branch of the nationwide coffee chain Old Town White Coffee. There are many dogs around the city.
In addition to Ipoh, the town of Teluk Intan, known for its leaning tower, is also famous as a photography spot.
Negeri Sembilan
Negeri Sembilan is known for the beach resort town of Port Dickson, which is easily accessible from Kuala Lumpur. The capital of the state is Seremban.
Seremban is characterized by its traditional roofs shaped like water buffalo horns. Additionally, the new mosque, the Sri Sendayan Mosque, is sometimes referred to as Malaysia's Taj Mahal and has recently gained attention as a popular photo spot.
In Port Dickson, you can find Malaysia's oldest lighthouse, built during the Portuguese colonial period, as well as the Lexis Hibiscus resort hotel, which is shaped like the hibiscus flower, the national flower of Malaysia.
Pahang
Pahang is the largest state in Peninsular Malaysia, covering an area of 35,964 km². The majority of the state is covered by tropical rainforest.
The capital of the state is Kuantan. Pahang is home to the only government-approved casino resort in Malaysia, Genting Highlands, as well as the famous tea plantations of Cameron Highlands and Taman Negara National Park, which contains some of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world (Taman Negara National Park is large and spans multiple states).
It takes about an hour to get from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands, but it takes approximately six hours by bus to reach Cameron Highlands, showcasing the vastness of the state.
Kuantan has recently gained attention as it was portrayed as the dream destination of a popular character, Nanami Kento, from the manga "Jujutsu Kaisen."
Terengganu
Terengganu is predominantly Malay, with over 90% of the population being of Malay descent, resulting in a strong Islamic influence. The capital of the state is Kuala Terengganu.
The Crystal Mosque is famous as the new symbol of Kuala Terengganu, while the historic White Mosque is also beautiful. Additionally, the Islamic Civilization Park, where you can see miniature versions of mosques from around the world, is quite interesting.
This state is also home to Redang Island, a renowned diving destination.
Penang
Known as the "Pearl of the Orient," Penang has been famous as a resort destination in Malaysia for a long time. The capital is George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Like Malacca, Penang played an important role as a British colony, and its name is derived from King George IV of England.
The area is famous for its wall art, and taking photos in front of pieces like "Children on a Bicycle" and "The Boy on a Motorcycle" has become a popular activity.
Other major tourist attractions include Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Chinese temple in Malaysia, and Penang Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city.
For a luxurious experience, staying at the "Blue Mansion," a former mansion of a wealthy tycoon that has been converted into a hotel, is highly recommended when visiting Penang.
Kedah
Kedah is known as one of the major granaries in the country, with vast rice fields stretching across the landscape. The capital is Alor Setar.
A well-known tourist destination is Langkawi Island, which aims to become the second Penang through tourism development. Langkawi Island was also chosen as the setting for the popular Japanese drama "Confidence Man." The eagle is considered the symbol of Langkawi, and many eagles can be seen during cruises around the island.
The capital, Alor Setar, is known as the birthplace of Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, as well as the legendary former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. Tourist attractions include Mahathir's childhood home, Zahir Mosque, and the Alor Setar Tower.
Perlis
Perlis is the smallest state in Malaysia, located adjacent to Thailand. It borders Thailand to the north and Kedah to the south. The capital is Kangar.
There are not many notable attractions, but the seaside mosque is a symbolic architectural feature of the state. The area is mostly agricultural, with no tall buildings, making the large rocky hills stand out. It truly represents rural life at its finest.
Public transportation is virtually nonexistent, and it's unlikely to find a Grab taxi, so it's essential to secure a driver when visiting.
Kelantan
Kelantan's capital is Kota Bharu, which can be confusing as it has a similar name to Kuantan, the capital of Pahang. While Kuantan refers to a city, Kelantan refers to the state.
Due to its proximity to Thailand, Kelantan is home to many Thai Buddhist temples. Although there aren't many famous tourist spots, there are several Thai temples and unexpected photo opportunities, such as Pantai Senok, lined with countless pine trees.
There are a lot of dogs around.
Johor
Johor is a state adjacent to Singapore. Although you can see Singapore from the other side of the bridge, the downtown area is not visible, so there is little scenic appeal.
The capital is Johor Bahru. Johor FC, based in Johor Bahru, boasts overwhelming strength in the Malaysian football league and has the ability to defeat strong teams from foreign leagues. Previously, they played at Larkin Stadium, but in recent years, the new Sultan Ibrahim Stadium has been completed, and it is now the main stadium.
Tourist attractions include Legoland and the southernmost point of the Eurasian continent. It is also famous among Japanese football fans as the place where the Japanese national team first secured a spot in the FIFA World Cup.
Borneo Island
Not all of Borneo Island belongs to Malaysia; it is divided into territories of Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
It takes about two and a half hours by plane from Kuala Lumpur. It is farther from Kuala Lumpur than Bangkok, Thailand.
On Borneo Island, you can see the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, and the endangered proboscis monkey.
Sabah
Located in northern Borneo Island, Sabah is known for Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Malaysia. The state capital is Kota Kinabalu.
The town of Kundasang, at the foot of Mount Kinabalu, offers stunning views of the mountain and, with some luck, you may even spot the Rafflesia flower. However, Kundasang has no public transportation, and it can be challenging to secure a Grab or taxi, so it is essential to arrange a driver for a round trip from Kota Kinabalu.
Tanjung Aru Beach, a popular sunset spot in Kota Kinabalu, is loved by the locals.
Sarawak
Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia, located on Borneo Island. The state capital is Kuching.
The name "Kuching" means "cat" in Malay, and you can find cat statues throughout the city. The surrounding area of Kuching has many attractions and easy access, making it one of my top recommendations for travel destinations.
In Sarawak, you can visit Bako National Park, home to the endangered proboscis monkey, and the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, where you can see wild orangutans. There are also spots like Gunung Gading National Park, known for the blooming Rafflesia.
Additionally, Sarawak is home to Gunung Mulu National Park, famous for the spectacle of millions of bats flying out of the caves, creating a "dragonfly" effect.
Federal Territory of Labuan
Labuan is an island located off the coast of Sabah on Borneo Island. It was originally part of Sabah. Known as a tax haven, Labuan has a unique status within Malaysia.
During World War II, Labuan was the site where Japanese forces surrendered to the Allied troops. The island is home to various memorials, including cemeteries for those who lost their lives during the war, peace parks, and monuments built to honor peace.
While there are not many notable tourist attractions, the Chimney Museum is considered a symbol of Labuan. The island also features surprisingly modern water villages, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary lifestyles.
