National Monument, Kuala Lumpur

Tugu Negara is an imposing sculpture in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, along the Jalan Tugu. It commemorates the soldiers who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom, particularly during World War II and the Malayan Emergency. The Tugu Negara literally connotes 'National Monument' in Malay. Elevated to the height of 15 meters (49.21 feet), Tugu Negara is identified as the largest freestanding bronze sculptures grouping in the world.

The monument illustrates a group of soldiers holding the Jalur Gemilang, the national flag of Malaysia, high in the air. Each of the bronze figures represents elements, such as, leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage, and sacrifice. Designed by Austrian sculptor Felix de Weldon, the sculpture was built in 1966. On 8 February 1966, Tugu Negara was formally opened by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and declared a memorial park dedicated to 11,000 heroes who died during the twelve-year Malayan Emergency

Ever since, on the Heroes Day (July 31) annually, the Prime Minister, Military Heads and the Police pay homage to the fallen heroes by laying garlands at the memorial. The monument's granite base bears the following inscriptions in English with Roman script and Malay with Jawi script: "Dedicated to the heroic fighters in the cause of peace and freedom, May the blessing of Allah be upon them."

In 1975, the monument underwent a major damage because of an explosion set off by a terrorist. However, the monument was restored to its original state soon. After erecting a fence, the complex was stated a protected area between sunset and dawn. On a daily basis, a soldier raises the national flag in evening and lowers it in morning. Encircled by a pool of water fountains and water lilies, the Tugu Negara is a nice place to spend some time in tranquility.

Ulu Yam - Selangor

Recently I went to Ulu Yam, in Selangor. It is a very beautiful place especially if you like nature. Ulu Yam is located very near from the town, about 30-45 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur only. It is located near to Batu Caves.

I heard a lots about Ulu Yam previously but I haven’t had any chances to visit this place. This is the first time I visit this place and it is worth visit (btw, I am a person that like nature, trees, waterfall, and greenaries)

There are a Dam in Ulu Yam. The dam is Batu Dam, a very beautiful place where you can sit down and watch amazing scenery. Here, you will feel the like you are at a beautiful ocean, where there are lots of water, surround by hilly and green scenary.

Other than the Batu Dam, Ulu Yam also a home of lots of crystal clear water fall which you can take a bath. It is a very good place to relax, picnic, conduct team meeting/team building, camping or even study natures.

How to go there

Well, I think there are not many option if you want to visit this place. It is either you drive your own car or hire a taxi or take a tour package. Ulu yam is a place that only jungle and not many people that stay near this place. The road that passed this area will go further until the hilly area up to Genting Highland.

What can you/do when you visit this place

well, other than bathing, relaxing or other activities that I share ealier. There are some other interesting activities that you can see at this area. One of the activities that, at some place, you can see lots of people sit on the roadside… no their are not begger, they actually go there to take the minerals water that flow from the mountain in the area… sometimes there are lots of people and they need to queue up and take turn to fill the water into their water container that they bring.

Endau-Rompin Johor National Park

Endau Rompin, located north of Johor and south of Pahang, is the second National Park proclaimed by the Government of Malaysia. It covers an area of approximately 50,000 hectares of rich flora and fauna, encompassing the watershed of the rivers Endau and Rompin, from which it derived its name.

The park is home to many species of birds, mammals, frogs, insects and many other wild animals, as well as varieties of orchids, herbs, medicinal plants and trees. A scientific expedition undertaken by the Malaysian Nature Society in 1985 uncovered some new and rare plant and animal species. One of the most spectacular discoveries was the fan palm (Livistona endauensis), endemic to the Ulu Endau area.

This centuries-old rainforest is also home to the largest surviving population of Sumatran Rhinos still left in Peninsular Malaysia. Primates, including the leaf monkey, the long-tail macaque and the white-handed gibbon are a common sight. Other wild animals inhabiting the area include tigers, leopards, elephants, and various types of deer and tapirs. There are also numerous rapids and falls awaiting adventure lovers and river trekkers here.

To protect the pristine environment, only limited areas of the park are open for ecotourism purposes. Entry to the park requires a special permit from the Johor National Park Corporation. Permits can also be obtained at the District Office, which is just alongside the Police Department in Kuala Rompin before reaching the FELDA Selendang turn off from Lanjut Beach. Upon entry to this park, trekkers will be guided by forest rangers to ensure safety at all times.

Mount Kinabalu/Kinabalu Park

The Kinabalu Park - Malaysia's first World Heritage was designated by UNESCO in December 2000 'for its universal values' and vital biological sites. Covering an area of 754 sq km, the focal point of the Park is of course the majestic Mount Kinabalu, (or Gunung Kinabalu) the highest mountain between Northern Burma and New Guinea.

The Kinabalu Park (Taman Negara Kinabalu) also houses numerous unique plants such as the pitcher plant, about 1000 orchid species and the largest flower in the world, Rafflesia. More than 250 bird species have also been recorded in the Park, namely the Mountain Bush Warbler, Kianabalu Friendly Warbler, Palefaced Bibul and the Mountain Blackeyes.

In a nutshell, the Kinabalu Park is one of the world's most unique ecological systems with an altitude between 152 metres to 3,952 metres above sea level: having beauty, splendour and charm to delight any category of visitors, from the tired businessman in need of a rest to nature lovers.

Lata Rek (Rek Waterfall)

One of several river attractions in Kelantan, Lata Rek is a series of cascading waterfalls, each no more than 20 metres tall, that stretches about 100 metres long. This charming river tends to be on the dry side during the dry season. But it can be quite a sight during the monsoon season which falls between November and February.

The word "cataract" will conjure up a good image of this waterfalls. A river tripping down many tiny steps. The overall height of this waterfall is no more 20 metres but it is over 100 metres wide.

Contrary to the usual damp and humid environment that envelop most waterfalls, this place appears arid. This is typical of the terrain on the eastern coastline, the influence of the strong wind and heavy rain from the South China Sea bring very heavy downpours and extended period of drought, broad and sandy basins are testimonies to this effects.

Because of the shallowness, Lata Rek may not be an ideal place to go swimming. But you will enjoy dipping your feet into its clear, cold waters nevertheless. For those seeling quiet solitude, Lata Rek is the place to go. Located south of Manik Urai, you can also complement your trip here with a stop at Lata Beringin.

Kelantan - kuala koh national park

Kuala Koh is the new entry point to Taman Negara on its northern border. This is still a lightly visited area of superb wilderness and pristine rivers flowing down from the mountains of Tahan, Perlis, Penumpu and Gagau. These rivers are lined with giant trees like the tualang and the neram, the fruit of the latter providing food for the kelah, Malaysia's premier river sportfish.

Kuala Koh houses the headquarters of this part of Taman Negara. Chalets and dormitories are available and a small cafe serves local fare upon request. Fishing waters are found as close as 10 minutes boat ride from Kuala Koh. For the more adventurous, camping-cum-fishing packages are available where tent accommodation, meals and fishing guides are provided. This, however, must be arranged well in advance.

Kuala Koh boasts pleasant natural settings and lush rainforest greenery. At the same time, it is equipped with facilties that will make your visit here a comfortable one. It is ideal for nature activities such as jungle-trekking, bird watching, river rafting, fishing and mountain climbing. There are several activities that you can participate in this wildlife nature park.

Bird Watching

More than 200 species of birds can be found in Kuala Koh National Parks and this makes bird watching to be a very rewarding activity in the park especially for a professional and even for an amateur birdwatcher. An experienced birdwatcher may be able to observe more than half the number recorded species within a few days.

Fishing

The rivers in Kuala Koh National Parks are well known among anglers in being able to provide a memorable angling experience. Nevertheless not all the rivers in the park are open to anglers as some rivers are reserved as spawning grounds for the fish species.

Tubing

The clean waters of the rivers around Kuala Koh allow tubing activity to be done. Experience the one kilometre tubing activity along Sungai Lebir. This relaxing activity is suitable for team building. Prepare yourself to brace the river rich in flora and fauna on a big tube.

Trekking

A number of interpretive trails are available around Kuala Koh. Among them is the ‘ficus trail’ located across the river. Visitors need to cross a river via a haggling bridge to get to the trail. Due to the rugged and hilly nature of the trail, only those who are really fit are advised to use the trail. There are also other trails for other visitors who wish to enjoy the natural beauty of Kuala Koh.

Canopy Bridge

The latest attraction in Kuala Koh is the newly completed canopy bridge, which extends to 300 metres long upn on a thick jungle. With five platforms and the highest at 50 metres, the canopy bridge stops at five humongous trees such as Tualang and Meranti Tembaga. Behold the enchanted view of Kuala Koh National Park up above its canopy bridge.

Bunga Raya Island Resort

Torn between luxurious beaches and lush jungles, what’s a traveller to do? Two words: Bunga Raya.

Combining the two elements Sabah is mostly famous for—rainforest and island—Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa serves as the best destination for those wanting the best of both natural worlds. This resort’s rustic spirit makes the experience a lot like a visit to some epic fantasy kampong.

Bask in some sun-fun on the beach and have a warm dip in the sparkling azure water. The excellent water visibility also makes it perfect for snorkelling. In the evening, play a game of beach volleyball with other guests or simply lie on your beach towel with a good book. Those seeking for more challenging adventures will have a swell time kayaking, scuba diving and jet skiing.

Had enough of soaking in brine? Chill out by lounging at the sun deck or do a few laps in the gorgeous infinity pool. Alternatively, spice up your escapade by doing some jungle trekking to explore the verdant beauty beyond the beach.

For some TLC and personal pampering, hike up to Solace Spa and enjoy some serious decompression. If you think a massage on a tropical beach is passé, get novelty-stoked by having your treatment at this jungle-themed spa—the first of its kind in Sabah. Otherwise, you can still request for a soothing massage on the beach or at the pavilion overlooking the sea.

A fabulous place is nothing without fabulous food—and Bunga Raya has it too. The Koi Restaurant is apt for a romantic dinner for two as well as other formal events. Should you prefer a more laid-back and casual dining experience, head to Pantai Grill by the beach and order a plate of finger food with chilled fruit punch or soda. Ultimate bliss!