Exploring Malaysia's Airport: Top Attractions And Experiences

what to see in malaysia airport

Malaysia is a tropical paradise with over 4,000 kilometres of coastline, secluded bays, coral reefs, and gorgeous beaches. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore its idyllic islands, lush jungles, and vibrant cities. With 63 airports across the country, including 7 international airports, Malaysia is easily accessible from anywhere in the world. Kuala Lumpur International Airport is Malaysia's main international airport, located about 45 kilometres south of the city centre. Other major airports include Penang International Airport, Melaka Airport, and Subang International Airport. These airports offer various facilities and services to cater to the needs of travellers, including duty-free outlets, restaurants, free WiFi, and transport options such as taxi and bus services. Beyond the airports, Malaysia has much to offer, from stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife to rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine.

Characteristics Values
Number of airports 63 (39 in East Malaysia, 24 in Peninsular Malaysia)
Number of airports with scheduled passenger service on commercial airlines 38
Number of international airports 7
Main international airport Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
Third busiest airport Penang International Airport
Airport with a golf course Segamat Airport
Facilities at Melaka Airport Free Wi-Fi, restaurants, conference rooms, cafes, gift shops, taxi services, event centre, wheelchair service, duty-free outlets, staff assistance, e-Visa services for Chinese nationals
Facilities at Subang International Airport Diaper changing room, nursery, ATMs
Facilities at other airports Charging station, baby care room, Muslim prayer room, children's playground, washrooms, clinic, smoking lounge, free Wi-Fi, duty-free outlets, restaurants

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Explore the country's rich history

Malaysia is a country steeped in history and culture. From ancient sites to colonial architecture, there is much to explore.

One of the most famous historical sites in Malaysia is the Batu Caves, located just 13km north of Kuala Lumpur. The caves are a pilgrimage site and house diverse wildlife, temples, and a 42.7-metre statue of the Hindu deity Murugan. The 272 steps leading up to the caves are a sight in themselves, and the Dark Cave offers a 45-minute guided tour that highlights the area's natural history.

Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can find the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, vibrant Chinatown, and a mix of traditional Chinese and Hindu temples, as well as magnificent mosques. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with culinary delights reflecting its Chinese, Thai, Arab, Indian, and Indonesian influences.

For those seeking a blend of Eastern and Western influences, Malacca and George Town in Penang are historic attractions showcasing unique cultural heritage. These once-thriving ports feature colonial buildings, ancient shophouses, and magnificent traditional sites, bearing testament to the centuries of cultural and trade exchange between the East and West. Christ Church, Malaysia's oldest functioning Protestant church, dates back to 1753 and is a must-visit site in Malacca.

Nature lovers will find plenty of historical context in Malaysia's national parks. Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans 52,864 hectares and boasts diverse biodiversity. The study of Gunung Mulu, a 2,377-metre sandstone pinnacle, can unlock 1.5 million years of history. The Sarawak Chamber, the world's largest cave chamber, is also located within this park.

Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a scenic view of thick rainforests and towering mountains. Mount Kinabalu, the tallest peak in this park, is one of the highest in Southeast Asia, and the surrounding area is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

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Discover idyllic islands

Malaysia is home to idyllic islands, some of which are reachable by plane. The LTS Pulau Redang Airport, for instance, is located on Redang Island, which is part of an archipelago designated as a Marine Park by the Malaysian government. The Malaysian government protects the area, prohibiting fishing and the collection of corals and aquatic life within a 2-mile radius of the island.

If you're looking for a more remote island experience, consider Layang-Layang Airport, which is located on Swallow Reef, an artificial island built by Malaysia. Alternatively, the Melaka Airport, which serves the state of Malacca and northern Johor, offers access to the historic city of Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The airport has recently been renovated and can handle 1.5 million passengers annually.

For those seeking luxury and relaxation, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is a great starting point. Located in the Sepang District of Selangor, KLIA is considered Malaysia's most prestigious international gateway. From there, you can easily access the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur, as well as nearby idyllic islands like Pangkor Island, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters.

Penang International Airport is another option, located just 16 km south of Georgetown. From there, you can explore the idyllic islands of Penang, such as Penang Island, with its lush hills and cultural attractions, or head to the nearby Langkawi Island, known for its stunning beaches and duty-free shopping. With its convenient location and efficient baggage check-in system, Penang International Airport serves as a gateway to many idyllic island experiences.

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Experience the local cuisine

If you're looking to experience the local cuisine when travelling through Malaysia Airport, head to Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (klia2). Here, you'll find an array of dining options offering a variety of cuisines, including local Malaysian dishes.

The Gateway@klia2 mall, located within the airport, boasts a wide range of food and beverage shops. You can indulge in over 300 varieties of cuisine, including Western, Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, Thai, Arabic, and, of course, Malaysian delights. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a hearty meal, the extensive fusion menu at klia2 is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

For a true taste of Malaysia, explore the various levels of the Gateway@klia2 mall to discover unique dining experiences. Level 2 is home to Nam Heong, offering a range of culinary options. If you're craving some spicy Malaysian cuisine, you won't be disappointed. Mr. Siew Bao, also located on Level 3, is another great option for savoury treats.

If you're staying at the Tune Hotel klia2, MAKAN & MINUM is the perfect spot to savour local flavours. Additionally, with dining options available on multiple floors, you're never far from a delicious meal. So, whether you're passing through or waiting for your flight, take the opportunity to experience the vibrant and diverse flavours of Malaysia right in the heart of the airport.

Although the airport offers a range of international cuisines, don't miss out on the opportunity to try authentic Malaysian food. With its rich cultural heritage, Malaysia boasts a unique blend of flavours and spices that will tantalise your taste buds and offer you a true taste of the local culture.

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Enjoy water-based activities

Malaysia is known for its biodiversity and pristine beaches, making it a great destination for water-based activities. Langkawi Island, in particular, has been praised for its airport refurbishment, and is a great place to enjoy some of the country's most popular water sports.

If you're an adventure-seeker, parasailing might be for you. Feel the thrill of being flown like a kite while attached to a parachute that's connected to a boat. The price for parasailing in Malaysia is RM80 per person for 3km on the beach, and RM180 per person for 8km on the boat. Langkawi Island is the best place to go parasailing, and you can do it there year-round.

If you're looking for something that will really get your adrenaline pumping, wakeboarding is the perfect choice. It's one of the fastest-growing water sports in the world and Malaysia, with its pristine beaches, is a great place to try it.

For those who prefer something a little more slow-paced, kayaking is a fun activity that allows you to explore Malaysia's islands and archipelagos at your own pace. Langkawi Island, Merapuh, Kuching, and Seribuat Archipelago are some of the best places to go kayaking in Malaysia, and you can do it year-round.

Scuba diving is another popular water-based activity in Malaysia. It's a great way to cool off and explore the amazing marine life below the surface. Sipadan Island, Mataking Island, and Mabul Island are some of the best places to go scuba diving in Malaysia. The best time to go is from July to August, and from April to December.

If you're looking for a more relaxing water-based experience, you can catch a speedboat from Kota Kinabalu and explore the nearby Sapi Island and Manukan Island. You can swim and snorkel around the coral reefs, sunbathe on the shore, or explore the coastal forests of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, a nature preserve on Manukan. Snorkeling equipment is provided free of charge.

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Shop in the markets and malls

Malaysia, and particularly its capital city Kuala Lumpur, is a shopper's paradise, offering a mix of high-end malls, trendy boutiques, and vibrant markets.

If you're looking for a luxury shopping experience, head to the heart of Bukit Bintang, where you'll find Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, one of the most prestigious shopping malls in Malaysia. Here, you can indulge in a range of luxury brands like Gucci and Prada, as well as popular high-street names. The stunning architecture and array of dining options make it a must-visit destination. Kuala Lumpur is also home to other large shopping malls, where you can find everything under one roof, from luxury to budget options, and a wide variety of outlets for shopping, food, and entertainment.

For a unique shopping experience, visit Pasar Karat, also known as the flea market. Open every night, this market offers a lively atmosphere, delicious street food, and a range of products, from antiques to fashion items. If you're looking for traditional crafts and souvenirs, Central Market is the place to go. Located in the northern state of Kelantan, this handicraft village is the perfect spot to explore authentic Malaysian goods, from batik prints to handmade jewellery.

Street markets in cities like Penang also offer a bustling shopping experience, with fixed prices in malls, and the opportunity to haggle in smaller shops and markets. Don't forget to carry some cash, especially when shopping at these smaller vendors, and take advantage of Malaysia's sales periods, like the Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival, to bag some great deals.

Lastly, remember that tourists can claim tax refunds on certain purchases made in Malaysia, so keep your receipts and fill out the necessary forms at the airport to benefit from this.

Frequently asked questions

Malaysia has over 4,000 kilometres of coastline with secluded bays, world-class diving sites, coral reefs, and gorgeous beaches. The Perhentian Islands, for example, offer white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Malaysia also has vibrant night markets, bazaars, and malls for those who enjoy shopping. For history buffs, the city of Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the country's rich colonial history.

Malaysia has 63 airports, 38 of which offer scheduled passenger service on commercial airlines, and 7 of which are international airports. Some of the international airports include Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Melaka Airport, Subang International Airport, and Penang International Airport.

Most airports in Malaysia provide standard facilities and services such as restaurants, cafés, gift shops, taxi services, event centres, and duty-free outlets. Some airports also offer unique features such as a golf course (Segamat Airport) or a nursery and diaper changing room (Subang International Airport).

Several airlines operate to and from Malaysia, including Firefly, Wings Air, Sky Aviation, Raya Airways, Berjaya Air, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Citilink, and AirAsia.

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