Traditional Malay Palaces in Malaysia

In days of yore, the Malay palace not only functioned as the official residence of the sultans but also played an important role in society as a centre of learning, administration and culture. It was the palace which played patronage to artisans and craftsmen as well as issued orders pertaining to the administration of the state which flowed down the hierarchy of Bendahara, Temenggung and Laxamana.

During feudal times, the Malay rulers invested great effort and pride in the construction of their wooden palaces, which were often sited near river mouths to observe ships coming form the sea. The friezes, wall panels and even windows were embellished with intricate carvings. However, over the years, even the hardest of timbers succumbed to the ravages of flooding and termites. As a result, only less than a dozen wooden places are still standing today.

It is unfortunate that the most beautiful Malay traditional palace in the country -- the Malacca Sultanate Palace --- no longer exists as it was struck by lightning in 1460, one year after Sultan Mahmud Shah ascended the throne. According to the Malay Annals, the Malacca Sultanate Palace had a seven tiered roof of copper and tin, which was supported with pillars adorned with carvings of swallow's wings and shapes of clouds. Today, a replica of the original palace stands at Jalan Kota in Melaka, showcasing multi-layered roofs; it houses the Melaka cultural Museum. On exhibit inside are costumes, weapons, traditional musical instruments, old photographs and a diorama of Malay court life.

Arguably the most unique traditional palace in the country is the Istana Kenangan, which stands atop Bukit Chandan (Chandan Hill) in Kuala Kangsar. It is uniqueness stems from its bamboo walls, which gave it the original name of Istana Tepas ("tepas" means wickerwork). It was built in 1926 during the reign of Sultan Iskandar Shah by Haji Suffian and his sons Zainal Abidin and Ismail from Penang who took a year to complete the building without using any nails or architectural plans. The outstanding characteristic of this palace is the repeated use of the polygonal design. The whole structure of the palace, in fact, consists of several interconnected polygonal buildings, and its end tower supports a polygonal roof. Sixty pillars support this beautiful palace, which is a testimony to the artistry and skills of the Malay craftsmen. Today, Istana Kenangan functions as the Royal Museum, which brings back evocative memories of the past lifestyle of the Perak royalty with its displays of medals, old photographs and artefacts.

Moving south of Negeri Sembilan brings us to historical Malay palaces that feature buffalo-horn roofs, which are a result of its historical tie with the Minangkabau of Sumatra. In the State Cultural Complex in Seremabm, there is a small but interesting palace named Istana Hinggap. Originally sited in Ampung Ampang Tinggi in Kuala Pilah, it was built in 1865 by the Yamtuan Ulin ibni Almarhum Yamtuan Hitam to serve as a temporary place of sojourn during his travel throughout the State. Also known as Istana Ampang Tinggi, it is a now a showcase of Minangkabau culture with its weapons, brassware, silverware and costumes. The interior of its veranda and its door panels are profuse with intricate carvings in the finest arabesque tradition.

Of more recent construction is the Istana Lama in the Royal Town of Sri Menanti, 30km east of Seremban. Set in geometric landscaped gardens, the palace is the result of the skills of Kahar and Taib, two Malay master carpenters. M. Woodford of the Public Works Department was the chief draughtsman. The building was completed in 1908, and functioned as the official residence of the royal family until 1931. The ground floor served as the reception area; the second floor, family quarters; and the third, the sultan's private quarters. A ladder from the sultan's room leads to a tower which once contained the archives and prayer room. Construction techniques revolved around the creative of tebuk pasak (mortise and tenon) instead of nails. Ironwood was used for its roof, while its 99 pillars were made of penak wood, transported from Bukit
Bukit Perigin in Jelebu, 60 km away.

Cultural influences have also played a role in the structure of palaces. In Alor Setar, the Istana Balai Besar features upturned roof finials and architraves of Thai design, reminiscent of the days when Kedah was under Thai rule. The two-story colonnaded building was originally built in 1895 by Sultan Abdul Hamid, and in 1905, an audience hall was added. Wrought iron railings and two curved stairways greet visitors at its façade. The palace was used by the sultans of olden days to hear grievance from their subjects and receive audiences.

In Kota Bahru, the Istana Jahar is decorated with carved panels and woden fretwork. Its Balai Penghinapan has a pentagon-shaped balcony supported by columns. Located at Jalan Sultan, the palace has been converted into the Museum of Royal Customs. Inside are dioramas displaying scenes of court life as well as pieces of songket and other textiles.

Near to the Istana Jahar stands the Istana Balai Besar, which was built in 1844 by Sultan Muhammad II. It contains the Throne Room and State Legislative Assembly. An outstanding feature of its roof is the duck-tail ridges. This design element is also found in Patani palaces in South Thailand, which points to its historical links with Kelantan. The audience hall of the Istana Balai Besar (and also that of Istana Jahar) is built on ground level rather than on stilts as compared to several West Coast palaces.

In the current age, when super-structures like the Petronas Twins Towers, KL Tower, Putrajaya Convention Centre and other edifices are glorified, the traditional wooden Malay palace is slowly losing its pride of place in modern Malay culture. In fact, during the past several decades, a few exquisite wooden palaces such as the Istana Seri Akar in Kelantan had simply been abandoned, whilst others had been pulled down to be used as firewood! A visit to these showpieces of Malay craftsmanship is akin to taking a time journey back to feudal society.

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Kelantan, Cradle of Malay Culture

The east coast state of Kelantan is charming destination with colourful traditions, interesting pastimes and superb handicrafts. Watch captivating activities such as top-spinning, giant kite-flying or woodcarving. The batik and songket fabrics produced by cottage industries here are among the best in the country. Its laid-back atmosphere, rustic charms and friendly locals add to Kelantan's appeal.

Accommodation in the capital city, Kota Bharu, ranges from star-rated hotels to affordable rooms. In other main towns, visitors can find comfortable inns, rest houses and modest hotels. The state has a tempting variety of local delicacies. Continent food is available at major hotels while fast food can be found at main towns.

Among the popular places of interest are, Cultural Centre or locally known as Gelanggang Seni. It is a veritable showcase of the state's rich cultural heritage. You can watch an enthralling range of traditional performance such as shadow puppetry (Wayang Kulit), Malay martial arts (Silat), top-spinning (Gasing), giant kite flying (Wau Bulan) and musical performance.

Mount Stong is one of the most popular eco-adventure destinations in Kelantan. Mount Stong rises majestically at a height of 1,433m. Trek to view a diversity of flora and fauna, including Rafflesia, the world's largest flower. A highlight is the spectacular Jelawang Waterfalls, acclaimed to be the highest in Southeast Asia.

Wat Photivihan Buddhist Temple is one of tourist attraction in Kelantan. It houses a 40m long statue of reclining Buddha and believed to be the second longest in the world and the longest in Southeast Asia.

Live with a friendly local family and join their interesting pastimes. Home stays can be experienced at the villages of Renok Baru, Pantai Suri and Blok Ulu Kusial.

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Ten Essential Things to Do When You Visit Malaysia

Malaysia is a great place to go to if you are the kind of person who loves both the environment and the city. Amazingly, Malaysia can offer both for you - from its natural treasures, to its man-made architectural wonders. You will find Malaysia to be a country not only rich in resources but also in culture.

1.) Rafflesia, Pitcher Plant and other rare plant species

The list of plant species you can acquaint yourself with in Malaysia is very extensive. In fact, Malaysia is home to almost 8,000 flowering plant species, some of which are exclusively found only in Thailand. You can find the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, here in Thailand, and you can also find other rare plant species such as the Pitcher Plant.

2.) Malaysia's wildlife reserves and natural parks

But your trip with nature in Malaysia ought not to stop there. There are also wildlife reserves and natural parks in Malaysia, and only in Malaysia can you witness the gathering of so many animals. Orangutans, lizards, insects, bears, elephants, tapirs, rhinoceroses, and so many other endangered animals are well-protected in Malaysia.

3.) Wayang Kulit

Experience the richness of Malaysia's culture by watching the shadow-puppet theater that only professes too much how the Malaysians deal with each other. It also shows how remarkably well preserved their culture has been throughout time. There are also other unique forms of theater art in Malaysia.

4.) Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers was once the tallest skyscraper in the earth. Today, the glamour of the towers has not vanished at all, and you have the chance of seeing the towers firsthand by visiting Kuala Lumpur. The astounding command the Petronas Towers has over the sky will surely leave you breathless.

5.) Mount Kinabalu in Borneo

You should pay a visit to Mount Kinabula in Borneo. The mountain has the highest peak in the whole Malay Archipelago. It is also a good place to relax and have some quality time with your family in the comfort of nature.

6.) Convention Center in Putrajaya, Malaysia

The function of the convention center in Malaysia is similar to that of the White House. It is actually a place where important government issues and functions are placed. You may not know this, however, because of the architectural beauty of the place but something you will surely revel upon.

7.) Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque

Religion plays an invariable role in Malaysia. Sultan Ahmad is actually one of the recently built mosques, and yet, it has gained worldwide attention because of the beautiful dimensions of the place, a usual trait in mosques. Sultan Ahmad is one of the examples of classic yet modern Islam architecture.

8.) Longhouses in Sarawak

Longhouses are commonplace in Malaysia, but you might want to take a moment and visit these houses. These are houses built over rivers. You will surely marvel at how ingenious the houses' designs are, inasmuch as it has stood the test of time.

9.) Terengganu State Museum

A visit to Malaysia can never be complete without a visit to one of Malaysia' national museums. Before you think that Terengganu State Museum is just like any other museum, think again. It is actually one of the largest museums in Southeast Asia, and it houses diverse forms of art and archaeological finds exclusive to the place. The architectural structure and design of the place itself will mesmerize you.

10.) Istana Kenangan in Kuala Kangsar

Istana Kenangan is a sort of transient house built exclusively for the sultan whenever he would visit the place. What is so unique about this place (aside from its being historic) is the fact that no nails were used to construct the building. This is truly an architectural wonder.

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Experience the Many Festivals and Events in Malaysia

Malaysia is a colorful country not only for its exotic beauty and amazing culture, but also of the many festivals that is celebrated by Malaysians. Every Malaysian celebration is very vibrant and lively. One will definitely enjoy being a part of these amazing events.

Here are some of the well known festivals and celebrations in Malaysia:

• Chinese New Year - like any other New Year celebration, the Malaysians celebrate theirs with such vigor. Fireworks and lots of colorful craze are seen. The whole country is really multicolored and vibrant during this occasion.

• Gadai Dayak - the Malaysian's celebration for the harvest seasons. This is to give appreciation to their gods who blessed the Malaysians with good harvest. During this occasion, locals eat and drink together. There are also dance performances by the members of the community. The Gadai Dayak is celebrated during the end of May until mid July. Malaysians are always in their traditional clothing and the elders perform rituals and services.

• Malaysia Water Festival - held from the second week of April until the month of May. This occasion is managed and organized by the Malaysia's Ministry of Tourism. The celebration is all about water sports activities. There are competitions and games that involve water tricks and races. The celebration is then completed with singing and dancing of the locals with their traditional dances.

• Merdeka day - the Malaysians' own celebration of Independence Day. It is celebrated in August 31st, and is their National Day. During this day, all the streets of Malaysia are packed with music, parades, and people dancing around. People are out blowing horns and trumpets making loud noises around their community.

• Tadau Kaamatan - held during the month of May and lasts for two days. The whole celebration is to commemorate the culture of Sabah's largest ethnic group. The tribes conduct rituals and give honor to their gods. There are also a large variety of foods that are served during the Tadau Kaamatan. Residents enjoy indulging with these tasty and delicious foods for the entire celebration.

• Malaysia Mega sale Festival - probably the most favorite event of all shopaholics. This is to celebrate Malaysia's big gross from its shopping industry and to commemorate this; the Malaysia's tourism department conducted a Mega sale festival. Almost everything that is sold in all shopping stores in the country is on sale during this event. One can enjoy shopping with the lowest prices shops has to offer. The country's shopping department stores are always swarmed with thousands of people buying and treating themselves with bargains and discount prices.

These are just some of the many well known events in Malaysia. Whatever the country celebrates, definitely is a must see for all.

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10 Reasons Why It's Worth Visiting Malaysia

Malaysia is a beautiful country and a popular tourist destination. Its unique culture, incredible climate, beautiful scenery and delicious cuisine are only a few of the reasons why Malaysia is considered to be one of the best holiday vacation spots in the world.

1. Kuala Lumpur is one of the best reasons to visit Malaysia. It is the capital of Malaysia and is also known as the 'Garden City of Lights'. Its shopping complexes and malls offer a choice of traditional handicrafts as well as branded products from all over the world. The mega sales that are held annually all over the country attract shoppers from all over Southeast Asia.

2. Malaysia offers an amazing range of cuisines to suit all palates and budgets. The different cuisines available include hot and spicy Malaysian dishes, exotic Chinese delicacies, rich Indian cuisine and a multitude of Continental dishes.

3. Sightseeing in Malaysia is a treat in itself. The country has a plethora of exotic destinations that attract tourists from all over the world, including islands, beaches and forests. Some wonderful places worth visiting are Langkawi, Cherating, Port Dickson, Labuan Island, Tioman Island, Pangkor Island and Redang Island.

4. Malaysia is famous for its beautiful heritage sites like the Churches in Malacca and the Malacca Museum, the Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur and the Snake Temple in Penang.

5. For those who love exploring the outdoors, it would be worth visiting the Cameron Highlands, Frasers Hill, Berjaya Hills and Genting Highlands.

6. Malaysia's natural beauty is at its most resplendent in the rainforests. The best places to see the splendour of the rainforests would be Kinabalu Park, Kuala Selangor Park, Endau-Rompin and the Mulu national park.

7. A typical tour for lovers of wildlife would include a trip to the Botanical Garden and Bird Park, in addition to the Bukit Jambul Reptile farm.

8. Accommodation in Malaysia spans a wide range of hotels and resorts that appeal to all tastes and budgets. There are high end five star facilities such as the Taj Resort in Langkawi, Berjaya Time Square in Kuala Lumpur, Bayview Beach Resort in Penang and the Berjaya Langkawi Resort, to name a few. Among the hotels that offer good deals are the Holiday Inn Malacca, the Andaman in Langkawi, Citrus Hotel in Kuala Lumpur and the Dorsett Penang.

9. Getting around Malaysia is not difficult. and visitors can travel through the region via air or road. One of the best transport options open to travellers are the car rentals from places like Hertz and Hawk that can take you anywhere in Malaysia. Luxury buses are also available between Malaysia and Singapore.

10. Malaysia still has a fascinating tribal culture. A visit to Sabah provides an opportunity to observe the indigenous tribe in their natural environment.

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Ethnic groups urged to preserve culture and traditions

MIRI: More than 30 native ethnic groups in Sarawak have been advised to record down their cultural heritage and unique traditional practices so that they do not end up losing these priceless assets while in their pursuit of development and progress.

These assets are irreplaceable and cannot be compensated by material advancements, said Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam.

‘’No amount of material progress can ever replace the unique lifestyles, cultural identities and traditions that we have,” he said when launching the Sarawak 2009 Gong Festival at the Miri Oil Musuem here recently.

Preserve culture: dr chan (right) exchanging souvenirs with Manyin during the launch of the Sarawak Gong Festival 2009.

‘’The natives in Sarawak have shown to the world that they are indeed special. Their way of life and traditional practices cannot be found anywhere else.

‘’Don’t lose these treasures. Keep them alive. What is the point of gaining development in the material sense and yet lose the cultural assets that we have inherited from our forefathers,” he added.

Dr Chan said each ethnic group in Sarawak have their own songs, musical instruments, gongs, dances, traditional attires, language and dialects and traditional practices that no other has.

These must be preserved in their entirety, he said, stressing that those organisations in the community responsible for promoting these arts must find ways to record them in audio and visual forms and then ensure the youths learn and continuously practice them.

State Tourism Minister Datuk Michael Manyin said his ministry would organise the gong festival on an annual basis and turn it into another major tourism attraction.

‘’So far, we have successfully promoted the Rainforest World Music Festival in Kuching and the Miri International Jazz Festival and turn them into big tourism events.

‘’I think the gong festival can have similar appeal for tourists.

“In Sarawak, the gongs are used for different reasons and every ethnic groups have different types of gongs that can produce different sounds and beats,” he said.