Hornbill Capital of the World-Malaysia's New Eco-Tourism Destination.

The Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia is promoting the Belum Temengor Forest Complex and the Aman Jaya Forest Reserve as Malaysia’s new eco-tourism destinations. Mohamed Shah Redza Hussein, the Executive Director for Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), has even named the site as the Hornbill Capital of the World since it is home to ten totally protected species of hornbills.

Hornbills-A unique and spectacular species of bird.

MNS and Tourism Malaysia is organising the International Hornbill Expedition (IHE) 2013 in Belum Rainforest Reserve, Gerik, Perak, happening from 20 to 22 September 2013, to coincide with the migration period of the globally threatened Plain-pouched Hornbills found at the site. International participants, local birdwatchers and nature guides are expected to take part in the IHE 2013 which will have a birdathon for national and international delegates and a Hornbill Education Camp for young adults.

Please read more about it here:

http://corporate.tourism.gov.my/mediacentre.asp?page=news_desk&news_id=893&subpage=Media_Releases

Malaysia and Thailand Sign Tourism MOU

KUALA LUMPUR, 17 September, 2013 – The Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) and the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) pledging enhanced joint cooperation and development of tourism in both countries here last Saturday.

MATTA President, En. Hamzah Rahmat and TTAA President, Mr. Suthiphong Pheunphiphop were signatories to the MoU which was witnessed by Tourism Malaysia Director of ASEAN, Syed Yahya Syed Othman, during a mega familiarization dinner hosted by Tourism Malaysia for Thailand travel agents in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2014.

Under the terms of the MoU, both MATTA and TTAA pledged to further strengthen joint cooperation in the development of tourism including participation in travel marts, exhibitions and other relevant tourism events especially in view of VMY 2014 and implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in 2015. 

AEC is a regional economic integration envisaging ASEAN into a single market with free movement of goods, service, investments, skilled labour and freer flow of capital for the mutual benefit of its member countries.

The Petronas Twin Towers, one of the most photograped iconic buildings in the world, beautifully defines the Kuala Lumpur city skyline.

“This close rapport certainly augurs well not only for VMY 2014 and AEC 2015 but also the long-term growth and prosperity of the tourism industry in ASEAN. It is imperative for our mutual success to maintain a cordial and close working relationship between all parties in the travel and hospitality sector,” said Director of Southeast Asia Division, Syed Yahya Syed Othman.

“TTAA has played an important role in promoting tourism and joint co-operation between Thailand and Malaysia for over 20 years. The signing of the MoU is significant as it is a win-win situation for both countries,” said its President, Mr. Suthiphong Phuenphiphop.

“MATTA will always continue to extend its cooperation to TTAA in all aspects of the travel trade for our mutual benefit and success. We recognise the importance of a well-knit and close working relationship in ensuring our mutual prosperity,” added its President, En. Hamzah Rahmat.

In 2012, ASEAN tourist arrivals to Malaysia amounted to 18,809,736 tourists, of which 1,263,024 were Thai tourists. 

Three Malaysian Beaches Make it to the Top 50 Beaches in the World

KUALA LUMPUR, 9 JULY 2013: According to a survey conducted by renowned 
international news network CNN on the World’s 100 best beaches, three beaches in Malaysia made it to the top 50.

The three beaches are Tanjung Rhu in Langkawi, Kedah (ranked at No.49), Juara Beach in Tioman Island, Pahang (ranked at No.21), and Perhentian Kecil island, Terengganu (ranked at No.13). The list was compiled from various sources taking into consideration feedback from travelers, colleagues and readers as well as on-site visits and research.

Tanjung Rhu in Langkawi, Kedah According to the CNN report, “Most tourists on Langkawi flock to Pantai Cenang beach, but the quieter Tanjung Rhu has an earthy beauty and serene atmosphere. The long beach area is surrounded by ancient limestone caves, rippling waterways and dense mangroves.”
We love Langkawi for the breathtaking view from atop Gunung Mat Cincang, one of the islands highest mountains.

Imagine lazing yourself at this tranquil beach at Tanjung Rhu. 

Tanjung Rhu Resort is one of the popular resorts on this long stretch of idyllic beach.

Juara Beach, Tioman Island, Pahang "Less developed and less polished than Thailand, Tioman Island's Juara Beach brings an all-natural, quiet vibe to the beach experience. This isn't the place for parties or nightlife, unless you like your parties hushed and your nightlife nonhuman," quoted CNN. Tioman Island is also a great place for adrenalin junkies who want a rock climbing challenge at Nenek Semukut Mountain.

Its almost paradise in Tioman.

Tioman is home to four of the world's seven species of sea turtles, including critically endangered species. Visitors have the opportunity to help them out at the Juara Turtle Project. 

Perhentian Kecil Island, Terengganu CNN wrote, “Malaysia’s Perhentian Islands are to beach bums what Kobe beef is to carnivores; once you’ve experienced it, nothing else quite matches up. The two main islands are the backpacker-happy Pulau Perhentian Kecil (Small Perhentian Island), and Pulau Perhentian Besar (Big Perhentian Island), which has slightly more expensive 
accommodations.” The highlight of Pulau Perhentian Kecil, according to CNN, is the blue waters which invariably contain turtles and small sharks.

Crystal clear waters make a perfect backdrop in Perhentian Island.

Perhentian Island is a favourite for scuba and snorkeling activities.

More Fun in the Sun Besides these three beaches, Malaysia has hundreds of tropical islands dotting its waters and countless picturesque beaches lining its shores, making it one of the region’s top destinations for sun, sea and sand holidays. Blessed with a tropical climate all year round and unparalleled natural beauty both on land and underwater, some of the world’s best islands and beaches can be found here. Here are the best beaches and islands according to the locals themselves.

Sipadan Island, Sabah Sipadan is an internationally famous dive site surrounded by the Sulawesi Sea. The geographic position of Sipadan at the Indo-Pacific Basin (the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world) makes it a paradise for divers. The seascape is decorated with huge gorgonian sea fans, barrel sponges and gigantic soft tree corals. Steep walls form a stunning backdrop while pelagic species such as sharks and turtles swim gracefully. To preserve the delicate ecosystem, accommodation is only provided at the neighbouring islands of Mabul and Kapalai, tours must be prearranged. The nearest airport to Sipadan is Tawau. From Tawau, take an hour’s drive to Semporna before proceeding with a 40-minute speedboat ride to the island.


For more information on the beautiful beaches of Malaysia and other interesting places, please visit:

www.tourism.gov.my