Top attractions in Malaysia

IbanWanderlust,

Table of Contents:

  1. Kuala Lumpur
  2. Selangor
  3. Pulau Pinang
  4. Kedah
  5. Langkawi
  6. Perlis
  7. Sabah
  8. Sarawak
  9. Labuan
  10. Pahang
  11. Johor
  12. Malacca
  13. Terengganu
  14. Kelantan
  15. Negeri Sembilan

1. Kuala Lumpur:

Petronas Twin Towers:

  • Iconic twin towers with a sky bridge and observation deck.

Batu Caves:

  • Limestone caves with Hindu shrines and a giant golden statue.

Merdeka Square:

  • Historical square with colonial-era buildings and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building.

KL Tower (Menara Kuala Lumpur):

  • Communication tower with an observation deck and revolving restaurant.

National Mosque of Malaysia:

  • Modern mosque with a unique design and beautiful gardens.

Central Market:

  • Cultural and artsy market with local crafts, souvenirs, and Malaysian street food.

Chinatown (Petaling Street):

  • Bustling area with markets, shops, and a lively atmosphere.

KL Bird Park:

  • One of the world’s largest covered bird parks with a variety of bird species.

Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia:

  • Museum showcasing Islamic art and artifacts from around the world.

KLCC Park:

  • Green space surrounding the Petronas Twin Towers with a jogging track and water features.

Aquaria KLCC:

  • An aquarium located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

KL Forest Eco Park:

  • Urban rainforest reserve offering nature trails and a canopy walk.

National Museum of Malaysia:

  • Museum showcasing Malaysia’s history, culture, and heritage.

Sri Mahamariamman Temple:

  • Oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur with ornate architecture.

Perdana Botanical Gardens:

  • Extensive gardens with a deer park, orchid garden, and a hibiscus garden.
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2. Selangor:

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park:

  • A popular amusement park with water rides, a zoo, and various themed zones.

Batu Caves:

  • Limestone caves with Hindu shrines and a giant golden statue, a significant religious site.

i-City:

  • An integrated city with colorful LED-lit attractions, including the Digital Lights Show and Snowalk.

Sultan Abdul Samad Building:

  • An iconic Moorish-style building in Kuala Lumpur with historical significance.

Royal Selangor Pewter Factory and Visitor Centre:

  • Learn about pewter crafting and explore the factory and museum.

Firefly Park Resort:

  • Witness the mesmerizing display of fireflies along the Selangor River at night.

Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM):

  • A research institute with nature trails, canopy walks, and a botanical garden.

Kuala Selangor Nature Park:

  • A mangrove forest reserve with a boardwalk for bird watching and nature exploration.

Sky Mirror:

  • A unique experience where the sea reflects the sky, creating a mirror-like effect during certain times.

District 21:

  • An indoor adventure park with obstacle courses, zip-lining, and challenging activities.

Selangor State Museum:

  • Museum showcasing the history, culture, and heritage of Selangor.

Sepang International Circuit:

  • A world-class motorsports racing circuit hosting Formula One and MotoGP events.

Kanching Rainforest Waterfall:

  • A series of waterfalls in a lush rainforest setting, ideal for a refreshing dip.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque):

  • One of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia with a distinctive blue dome.

Shah Alam Lake Gardens:

  • A scenic park with a large lake, jogging paths, and recreational areas.
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3. Pulau Pinang (Penang):

George Town:

  • The capital city and UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved colonial architecture.

Penang Hill:

  • A hill station with a funicular railway, panoramic views, and cooler temperatures.

Kek Lok Si Temple:

  • The largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, featuring a towering pagoda and a statue of Kuan Yin.

Penang Street Art:

  • Murals and installations by local and international artists scattered around George Town.

Peranakan Mansion:

  • A museum showcasing Peranakan (Straits Chinese) culture and heritage.

National Park:

  • The smallest national park in Malaysia, home to diverse flora and fauna, hiking trails, and beaches.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (The Blue Mansion):

  • A historic mansion known for its distinctive blue color and cultural tours.

Penang Butterfly Farm:

  • A tropical butterfly sanctuary with a variety of butterfly species.

Penang War Museum:

  • A historical museum within a former fortress showcasing artifacts from World War II.

Dharmikarama Burmese Temple:

  • The oldest Burmese Buddhist temple in Malaysia, known for its intricate architecture.

Fort Cornwallis:

  • A historical fort built by the British East India Company, with cannons and a historical mural.

Peranakan Heritage Mansion:

  • A heritage house displaying the lifestyle of the Peranakan community.

Botanic Gardens:

  • A lush and scenic garden with a variety of plant species and a large lily pond.

Penang Time Tunnel:

  • A museum with exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Penang through 3D art.

Gurney Drive:

  • A popular seafront promenade with a variety of street food, restaurants, and sea views.
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4. Kedah:

Alor Setar:

  • The capital city of Kedah, known for landmarks like Zahir Mosque and Alor Setar Tower.

Zahir Mosque:

  • An iconic mosque with stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings.

Langkawi Geopark:

  • Part of Langkawi’s UNESCO Global Geopark with unique geological formations.

Muzium Padi (Rice Museum):

  • Museum dedicated to the history and significance of rice cultivation.

Kedah State Art Gallery:

  • A gallery showcasing traditional and contemporary Malaysian art.

Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai):

  • A mountain with lush rainforest, hiking trails, and a Hindu temple at its peak.

Kedah Royal Museum:

  • Former palace turned museum displaying royal regalia and artifacts.

Pedu Lake:

  • A scenic lake surrounded by rainforest, offering activities like boating and fishing.

Bujang Valley Archaeological Museum:

  • Museum showcasing artifacts from the ancient Bujang Valley archaeological site.

Kuala Kedah Fort:

  • A historical fort overlooking the sea with cannons and scenic views.

Tok Pasai Beach:

  • A tranquil beach with clear waters, ideal for relaxation and picnics.
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5. Langkawi:

Pantai Cenang:

  • A popular beach with white sand, water sports, and a vibrant nightlife.

Langkawi Sky Bridge:

  • A suspended bridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park:

  • A mangrove forest with limestone formations, caves, and boat tours.

Langkawi Cable Car:

  • Takes visitors to the top of Mount Mat Cincang for breathtaking views.

Eagle Square (Dataran Lang):

A square with a large sculpture of an eagle, a symbol of Langkawi.

Underwater World Langkawi:

  • An aquarium with a tunnel that allows visitors to walk through a tank of marine life.

Langkawi Wildlife Park:

  • A zoo showcasing a variety of animals, including birds and reptiles.

Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells Waterfall):

  • A beautiful waterfall with seven natural pools.

Langkawi Craft Complex:

  • Showcasing traditional Malaysian handicrafts and cultural exhibits.

Mangrove Tour:

  • Explore the mangrove forests and limestone formations by boat.

Crocodile Farm:

  • Home to various species of crocodiles and other reptiles.
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6. Perlis:

Kangar:

  • The capital city of Perlis, known for its vibrant markets and cultural heritage.

Alwi Mosque:

  • A modern and beautifully designed mosque in Kangar.

Gua Kelam (Kelam Cave):

  • A limestone cave with a river running through it, popular for cave exploration.

Padang Besar:

  • A town near the border with Thailand, known for its bustling market.

Tasik Melati (Melati Lake):

  • A scenic lake surrounded by greenery, ideal for picnics and relaxation.

Wang Kelian State Park:

  • A park with limestone hills and caves, offering trekking and bird watching.

Kuala Perlis:

  • A town with a scenic waterfront and a starting point for ferry trips to Langkawi.

Snake and Reptile Farm:

  • A farm that houses various species of snakes and reptiles for educational purposes.

Perlis State Park:

  • Home to Bukit Chabang, the highest point in Perlis, and a trekking destination.

Ar-Rahman Mosque:

  • A mosque known for its unique architecture and serene surroundings.

Kaki Bukit:

  • A town with a hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Lubuk Sireh Recreational Park:

  • A park with a lake, jogging tracks, and recreational facilities.
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7. Sarawak:

Sarawak Waterfront:

  • * A picturesque area along the Sarawak River with restaurants, shops, and cultural performances.

State Legislative Assembly Building:

  • * An iconic building with a distinctive roof shape.

Cat Museum:

  • Dedicated to everything feline, reflecting the city’s nickname as the “Cat City.”

Bako National Park:

  • Sarawak’s oldest national park, home to diverse wildlife, ecosystems, and hiking trails.

Proboscis Monkey:

  • An opportunity to see the endemic proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.

Semenggoh Wildlife Centre:

  • A rehabilitation center for orangutans, offering a chance to observe these great apes.

Gunung Mulu National Park:

  • A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning limestone formations, caves, and diverse flora.

Deer Cave:

  • One of the largest cave passages in the world, home to millions of bats.

Sarawak Cultural Village:

  • A living museum showcasing the diverse cultures and traditional houses of Sarawak’s indigenous people.

Rejang River:

  • The longest river in Malaysia, providing opportunities for river cruises and exploring indigenous communities.

Sarawak Orchid Garden:

  • A botanical garden featuring a vast collection of orchid species.

Kubah National Park:

  • Known for its diverse plant and animal life, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Niah National Park:

  • Famous for the Niah Caves, which have archaeological significance and ancient cave paintings.

Satang Islands:

  • A group of islands known for turtle conservation and snorkeling activities.

Sarawak Regatta:

  • An annual boat race held on the Sarawak River, featuring traditional longboats.

Damai Beach:

  • A popular beach resort area with beautiful beaches and cultural attractions.
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8. Sabah:

Kota Kinabalu (KK):

  • The capital city of Sabah, known for its bustling markets and waterfront.

Mount Kinabalu:

  • The highest peak in Southeast Asia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a popular trekking destination.

Kinabalu Park:

  • Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounding Mount Kinabalu with diverse flora and fauna.

Poring Hot Springs:

  • Natural hot springs within Kinabalu Park, offering relaxation and canopy walks.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park:

  • A group of islands near Kota Kinabalu, known for snorkeling and diving.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre:

  • A sanctuary for orphaned orangutans, dedicated to rehabilitation and conservation.

Danum Valley Conservation Area:

  • A pristine rainforest with diverse wildlife and ancient trees, ideal for eco-tourism.

Sipadan Island:

  • One of the best diving spots in the world, known for its rich marine life and coral reefs.

Mabul Island:

  • A popular diving destination with clear waters and diverse marine biodiversity.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park:

  • A zoo and botanical garden showcasing Borneo’s indigenous species.

Kundasang:

  • A town with scenic views of Mount Kinabalu, vegetable farms, and the Desa Dairy Farm.

Tawau Hills Park:

  • A park with hot springs, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems.

Lankayan Island:

  • A small, private island known for its pristine beaches and excellent diving opportunities.

Sabah State Museum:

  • Museum showcasing the cultural and natural heritage of Sabah.

Kudat:

  • A district known for its beautiful beaches, traditional Rungus longhouses, and cultural richness.
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9. Labuan:

War Cemetery:

  • A well-maintained cemetery honoring soldiers who died during World War II.

Museum:

  • Showcasing the history, culture, and heritage of Labuan.

International Sea Sports Complex:

  • A venue for various water sports and activities.

Bird Park:

  • A park with a diverse collection of bird species and lush greenery.

Peace Park:

  • A memorial park dedicated to promoting world peace.

Chimney Museum:

  • Located in Tanjung Kubong, it features the history of coal mining in Labuan.

An’Nur Jamek Mosque:

  • A beautiful mosque with impressive architecture.

Labuan Square:

  • The central square in Labuan with a clock tower and open space.

Financial Park Shopping Complex:

  • A shopping complex in Labuan with duty-free shops.

Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC):

  • Labuan’s financial district attracting international businesses.

Papan Island:

  • A nearby island known for snorkeling and diving activities.

Botanical Garden:

  • A botanical garden with a variety of plants and a peaceful atmosphere.

International Golf Club:

  • A golf course with scenic views and well-maintained facilities.

Marine Park:

  • A protected area with coral reefs, ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Tanjung Kubong Tunnel:

  • An underground tunnel that was part of a World War II defense system.
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10. Pahang:

Cameron Highlands:

  • A hill station known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and strawberry farms.

Taman Negara National Park:

  • One of the oldest rainforests in the world, offering diverse flora and fauna.

Genting Highlands:

  • A popular resort destination with a casino, theme parks, and entertainment.

Kuantan:

  • The capital city of Pahang, known for its beaches and cultural attractions.

Tioman Island:

  • A tropical island with coral reefs, marine life, and beautiful beaches.

Berjaya Hills Resort:

  • A hill resort with French-themed architecture and a scenic environment.

Cherating:

  • A beach town known for its laid-back atmosphere and water sports, such as surfing.

Fraser’s Hill:

  • A highland retreat with cool temperatures, birdwatching, and hiking trails.

Bukit Gambang Resort City:

  • A water park and resort offering family-friendly activities and accommodations.

Elephant Sanctuary Kuala Gandah:

  • A conservation center for elephants, providing education and rehabilitation.

Lata Iskandar Waterfall:

  • A picturesque waterfall along the road to Cameron Highlands.

Jerantut:

  • The gateway to Taman Negara, offering river cruises and jungle trekking.

Kuala Lipis:

  • A town with historic colonial architecture and the scenic Merapoh Caves.

Pulau Tenggol:

  • An island known for its coral reefs and excellent diving opportunities.

Pekan:

  • A royal town with cultural attractions, including the Sultan Abu Bakar Museum.
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11. Johor:

Johor Bahru (JB):

  • The capital city, known for its modern developments, shopping malls, and proximity to Singapore.

Sultan Abu Bakar Mosque:

  • A grand mosque with Victorian and Moorish architectural influences.

Johor Bahru City Square:

  • A popular shopping mall and commercial center.

Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple:

  • A historic temple with intricate architecture.

Legoland Malaysia Resort:

  • A theme park with rides, shows, and attractions featuring Lego-themed designs.

Legoland Water Park:

  • Adjacent to the theme park, offering water-based attractions and slides.

Johor Premium Outlets:

  • A shopping destination with numerous designer and branded outlet stores.

Sultan Ibrahim Building:

  • A prominent landmark in Johor Bahru, featuring an imposing architectural style.

Desaru Coast:

  • A coastal resort area with golf courses, water parks, and luxury hotels.

Desaru Beach:

  • A scenic and popular beach destination.

Kota Tinggi Waterfalls:

  • A series of waterfalls in a tropical rainforest setting, ideal for picnics and nature walks.

Endau-Rompin National Park:

  • One of the oldest rainforests in the world, known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Pulau Kukup National Park:

  • Malaysia’s only national park that is entirely a mangrove island.

Istana Besar:

  • The Grand Palace of Johor with a mix of architectural styles, serving as the official residence of the Johor Sultan.

Kukup Fishing Village:

  • A traditional fishing village on stilts, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

Johor Zoo:

  • A family-friendly zoo with a variety of animal exhibits.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple:

  • A Hindu temple known for its unique glass architecture.
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12. Malacca:

Historical City of Malacca:

  • The historic center of Malacca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing a blend of cultural influences.

A Famosa:

  • A famous historical fortress that was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century.

St. Paul’s Church:

  • A church that dates back to the 16th century, with a commanding view of the city from the top of St. Paul’s Hill.

Jonker Street:

  • A vibrant and colorful street in the heart of Chinatown, known for its antique shops, street food, and night market.

Christ Church Melaka:

  • A red-brick church built by the Dutch in the 18th century, featuring distinctive colonial architecture.

Dutch Square (Red Square):

  • The central square in Malacca with historical Dutch colonial buildings and the iconic Christ Church.

Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum:

  • A museum that replicates the 15th-century palace of the Malacca Sultanate, providing insights into local history.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple:

  • The oldest Chinese temple in Malaysia, showcasing intricate architecture and religious artifacts.

Malacca River Cruise:

  • A relaxing boat ride along the Malacca River, offering scenic views of the city’s landmarks.

Malacca Straits Mosque:

  • A stunning mosque located on the man-made Pulau Melaka island, known for its unique design.

The Shore Sky Tower:

  • An observation tower offering panoramic views of Malacca from a height.

Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum:

  • A museum housed in a Peranakan mansion, providing a glimpse into the life of the Straits Chinese.

Malacca Butterfly and Reptile Sanctuary:

  • A conservation center with a variety of butterflies, insects, and reptiles.

Kampung Kling Mosque:

  • A mosque with a unique blend of Javanese, Sumatran, Indian, and Chinese architectural influences.

Flora de la Mar Maritime Museum:

  • A museum housed in a replica of the Portuguese ship “Flora de la Mar,” featuring maritime artifacts.
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13. Terengganu:

Islamic Heritage Park (Taman Tamadun Islam):

  • A cultural park showcasing Islamic architecture and monuments from around the world.

Crystal Mosque (Masjid Kristal):

  • A modern mosque made of steel, glass, and crystal, situated by the Terengganu River.

Pulau Redang:

  • A beautiful island known for its clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. Popular for snorkeling and diving.

Kuala Terengganu:

  • The capital city known for its traditional Malay architecture and vibrant markets.

Pasir Payang Market:

  • A bustling market by the river selling traditional textiles, batik, and local crafts.

Floating Mosque (Tengku Tengah Zaharah Mosque):

  • A mosque located on the Terengganu River.

Batu Buruk Beach:

  • A popular beach with golden sands and a scenic coastline.

Perhentian Islands:

  • A group of beautiful islands known for their coral reefs, diverse marine life, and laid-back atmosphere.

Terengganu State Museum:

  • One of the largest museums in Southeast Asia, highlighting the cultural and historical heritage of Terengganu.

Merang:

  • A coastal town known for its pristine beaches and as a gateway to the islands.

Seberang Takir:

  • A fishing village with traditional Malay wooden houses and a historical fort.

Dungun:

  • A district with beautiful beaches, including Tanjung Jara, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Kenyir Lake (Tasik Kenyir):

  • One of the largest man-made lakes in Southeast Asia, known for its scenic landscapes and freshwater fish.

Gong Making Village (Kampung Gong):

  • A village where traditional Malay gongs are crafted by skilled artisans.

Lang Tengah Island:

  • A smaller island between Redang and Perhentian, offering pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities.

Rantau Abang:

  • A village known for its turtle nesting sites, especially the leatherback turtles (during certain seasons).

Paka:

  • A town with a mix of modernity and traditional Malay charm.
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14. Kelantan:

Kota Bharu:

  • The capital city known for its traditional Malay architecture, markets, and cultural attractions.

Siti Khadijah Market:

  • A bustling market named after Prophet Muhammad’s wife, known for fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional crafts.

Istana Jahar:

  • A museum housed in a former palace, showcasing Kelantanese cultural artifacts.

Kota Sultan Ismail Petra:

  • The royal palace of the Sultan of Kelantan.

Pantai Cahaya Bulan (PCB):

  • A popular beach known for its white sandy shores and calm waters.

Wat Photivihan:

  • A Thai Buddhist temple known for its giant reclining Buddha statue.

Bachok:

  • A district known for its fishing villages, serene beaches, and traditional Malay kampungs.

Kampung Laut Mosque:

  • One of the oldest mosques in Malaysia, known for its traditional Terengganu-Malay architectural style.

Kampung Kraftangan:

  • A village dedicated to traditional arts and crafts, showcasing local handicrafts and cultural activities.

Kelantan Royal Museum (Muzium Diraja Kelantan):

  • A museum housed in the former royal palace, displaying royal regalia and artifacts.

Kuala Krai:

  • A town with a traditional Malay market and access to natural attractions like waterfalls and rivers.

Gunung Stong State Park:

  • Home to Mount Stong and Jelawang Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Southeast Asia.

Tumpat:

  • A town known for its Buddhist temples, including Wat Machimmaram and Wat Phothikyan Phutthaktham.

Pengkalan Kubor:

  • A town near the Thailand-Malaysia border, known for its border market.

Wakaf Bharu:

  • A town known for its railway station and as a gateway to explore the scenic countryside.

Gua Ikan:

  • A limestone cave known for its unique rock formations and the presence of stalactites and stalagmites.

Pantai Seri Tujuh:

  • A picturesque beach with golden sands and a view of the South China Sea.

Bukit Keluang:

  • A hill offering panoramic views of the coastline, popular for hiking and photography.

Tok Bali Beach:

  • A tranquil beach known for its fishing activities and beautiful sunrise views.
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15. Negeri Sembilan:

Seremban:

  • The capital city known for its blend of modern and traditional architecture.

Seremban Market (Pasar Besar Seremban):

  • A bustling market offering local produce, snacks, and traditional crafts.

Seri Menanti Royal Museum:

  • A museum housed in a former royal palace, showcasing the history and culture of the state.

Centipede Temple (Zhao Zi Gong):

  • A Chinese temple with unique centipede-shaped incense coils.

Port Dickson:

  • A coastal town with popular beaches and resorts.

Port Dickson Beach:

  • A stretch of sandy coastline with water sports and recreational activities.

Cape Rachado (Tanjung Tuan):

  • A historic lighthouse and nature reserve with hiking trails.

Jelebu:

  • A district known for its serene landscapes and traditional villages.

Teratak Za’ba:

  • The former residence of the Malay scholar Za’ba, now a museum.

Jeram Toi Waterfall:

  • A scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Rembau:

  • A town with historical significance and traditional Minangkabau architecture.

Rembau Most Wanted Museum:

  • A museum showcasing the history of local bandits and outlaws.

Tampin:

  • A town known for its historical railway station and gateway to Mount Datuk.

Mount Datuk:

  • A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Kuala Pilah:

  • A district with a mix of historical and natural attractions.

Ulu Bendul Recreation Park:

  • A recreational area with a waterfall and picnic spots.

Teratak Tok Mat:

  • A traditional Malay house turned museum showcasing local artifacts.

Gemencheh Bridge:

  • A historical bridge with significance from World War II.

Linggi:

  • A town with historical landmarks and traditional Minangkabau architecture.

Linggi River:

  • Offers boat rides and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Jempol:

  • A district with rural charm and natural attractions.

Lata Kijang Waterfall:

  • A waterfall in a forest reserve with hiking trails.
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Malaysia