Discover Malaysia: Must-Visit Attractions in All 13 States

If you are looking for a tropical South East Asian paradise without the over-tourism that locations like Bali suffer from, Kedah is the place for you. Kedah is home to the world-renowned travel destination Langkawi. Known for stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and cultural wonders, Kedah offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Be sure to head to Pantai Cenang, a top-rate beach destination in Langkawi. There is no shortage of activities: para-sailing, jet skis, cafes, beach bars -Langkawi has it all.

Another world renowned attraction is the Paddy Museum, the fourth of its kind in the world. Here, you can learn about how Kedah earned its namesake as the rice bowl of Malaysia and plays an important role in paddy production to support Malaysia’s food sustainability goals.

A tranquil state located on the Northeast Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Kelantan is often referred to as the Cradle of Malay Culture. Kelantan is where many traditional Malay customs and arts and crafts originate from. These include Wayang Kulit (shadow puppet plays), Wau Bulan (traditional kite-flying), and Silat Melayu (artistic self-defence) which has been inscribed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

A must-visit in Kelantan is Kampung Kraftangan (handicraft village). Here, visitors can learn about traditional silver work, wood carving, and the origins of batik printing. You can see firsthand how Kelantan's famous handicrafts have preserved traditional Malay culture. To witness these uniquely Malaysian cultural products elsewhere is to see a derivative; in Kelantan, you will see the original masterpiece in its natural habitat.

Kelantan is also home to Gunung Stong State Park, which features a majestic 7-tiered waterfall -one of the highest in Southeast Asia. Gunung Stong State Park is rich in biodiversity featuring exotic wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and tapirs. It is also arguably home to the Rafflesia, the world's largest flower, featuring the largest number of distinct Rafflesia species in a single location.

Known for its captivating history as a vital trading port in the Maritime Silk Road, Terengganu is the birthplace of textiles such as batik and songket that date back to the 13th century. It was here, on the wooden looms of Malay artisans, that batik and songket was produced for international export and local elites.Terengganu’s rise as a textile production centre also spread to other significant ports of the Malay Archipelago, such as the neighbouring sultanate of Kelantan and powerful kingdoms in Southeast Asia

Terengganu is also known as the heart of Malaysia's batik industry. Batik is recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. This traditional art is kept alive at Noor Arfa Craft Complex (NACC), a must-stop destination. Here, you can learn about batik's origins, its techniques, and even experience the batik-making process by joining one of NACC's many workshops.

Beyond textiles, Terengganu is home to Masjid Kristal, also known as the shining jewel on the river. The mosque is uniquely built using steel and glass, with four minarets that radiate a golden hue during the day. Masjid Kristal is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in all of Asia.

Hailed as the Gateway to Malaysia, Selangor is home to two international airports and Malaysia's largest seaport, Port Klang. The state offers visitors an exciting discovery of fabulous natural wonders, exciting theme parks, shopping malls, and never-ending culinary delights from all around Malaysia.

Famed for its rainbow-hued stairs and ornate shrines tucked within hollow limestone caves, Batu Caves is a must-visit attraction in Selangor. Inhabiting a 400-million-year-old limestone hill, Batu Caves is a Hindu religious site featuring the second largest statue of Lord Murugan in the world.

For travellers seeking a uniquely Malaysian cultural perspective, the Sultan Alam Shah Museum is the place to go. Visitors can explore displays of traditional weapons like Malaysia's national cultural symbol, the keris.

Try to catch the villagers performing the unique Silat Cimande Malay martial arts, where fans are used instead of weapons. This is one of many Silat forms that originated from Malaysia and has been recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Negeri Sembilan's name literally means "Land of the Nine States", a reference to the nine districts that once made up the state. The state is known for its Minangkabau cultural heritage which dates back to the 15th century. Its influence can still be seen in the distinctive buffalo-horn-shaped roofs of many iconic buildings across the state.

No visit to Negeri Sembilan would be complete without visiting the Seremban Cultural Complex, built in the traditional Minangkabau architectural style. Visitors will be transported to the past through diverse displays of historical relics such as royal silver, complex handicrafts, traditional costumes, and historical pictures illustrating the strong and unique Minangkabau roots in Negeri Sembilan.

When in Negeri Sembilan, you must check out Aunty Aini's Garden Cafe to try out her famous Rendang (slow-cooked beef curry) dish. Even the renowned chef Gordon Ramsay came to learn how to cook Rendang from Aunty Aini. The slow-cooking process of beef with coconut milk and spices results in a rich and complex flavour. It is no wonder that Rendang is regarded as one of Malaysia's national dishes.

From sweeping plantations, well-manicured golf lawns, tranquil fishing villages, lush nature reserves and golden sandy beaches, Johor promises an unforgettable tropical holiday experience.

Not to be missed is the Johor Bahru Heritage Trail, which offers a curated exploration of the city's historical landmarks. One attraction along this trail is the Old Chinese Temple, a 19th century relic that is testament to the city's enduring cultural ties. Another is the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple -the world's first glass Hindu temple. This architectural marvel offers a unique spiritual experience and a glimpse into the fusion of traditional religious practices and modern aesthetics.

Visitors looking for a fuss-free experience can opt to stay at Desaru Coast, a premium integrated destination resort. The resort features a 45-hole golfing paradise and waterparks offering rides and games for visitors of all ages. Be sure to try out the Tidal Wave Beach, one of the biggest wave pools in Southeast Asia.

Occupying the southwestern ridge of Borneo, Sarawak is an adventure destination unlike any other. The state is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, numerous protected national parks, the world's largest cave chambers, and razor-sharp limestone pinnacles. Primates such as the Orang Utan and proboscis monkey are among the state's treasures.

Adventure seekers have a pick of 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There is the 60 million-year-old rainforest of Gunung Mulu National Park with its limestone formations, waterfalls, and river walks. Alternatively, Niah National Park is known for its cluster of remarkable caves and prehistoric archaeological sites.

Trying out Sarawak's diverse and sumptuous cuisine will make you understand why Kuching was recognised as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Try the signature Sarawak Laksa (spicy and sour noodle dish) or savour a bowl of Kolok Mee (Chinese noodle dish tossed with lard, garlic oil, and black vinegar). Seafood lovers can delight in ikan terubok (salted fish that is fried or grilled).