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Malaysia and Borneo: two countries in one

Malesia ★★★★☆ 378 views
Maya Wilde
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About Malaysia and Borneo: two countries in one

Malaysia and Borneo: two countries in one | Secret World Trip Planner

Two countries in one. Divided by the South China Sea. On one side, peninsular Malaysia, and on the other, the States of Sabah and Sarawak, which occupy the northern side of the island of Borneo. In the peninsula are the capital Kuala Lumpur, Malacca and the endless tea plantations, while in the other, nature reigns supreme with primordial forests, national parks and rivers. Located halfway between India and China, Malaysia has always been a multiracial society in which different cultures and religions coexist. The political stability that the country has achieved in the last decades of its history has made Malaysia one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. The country's greatest attraction is its tropical islands, bordered by long coral reefs, ideal for snorkelling. The flora and fauna, including marine life, are Guinness World Records. Just think that most of its territory is covered by one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back over 130 million years. Its vegetation, thanks to its climate and frequent rainfall, is truly lush and includes over 2000 types of tall trees and over 5500 plant varieties. As for animals, one cannot but remember the tiger, one of the symbols of Malaysia, and the black leopard. But to stop and explore peninsular Malaysia is a pity. In addition to Kuala Lumpur and the Malacca Peninsula, in fact, Eastern Malaysia, formed by the State of Sabah, is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, while the State of Sarawak, entirely covered by an impenetrable jungle, is protected by the establishment of several national parks such as Kinabalu National Park and Bako National Park. The capital Kuala Lumpur is the largest city in Malaysia and was founded in 1857 at the confluence of two rivers: the Gombak and the Kelang.

Malaysia and Borneo: two countries in one | Secret World Trip Planner
Malaysia and Borneo: two countries in one | Secret World Trip Planner

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Frequently Asked Questions

Peninsular Malaysia and Eastern Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo) are separated by the South China Sea. The peninsula features cultural cities like Kuala Lumpur and Malacca with tea plantations, while Borneo is dominated by primordial forests, national parks, and pristine nature with exceptional scuba diving and jungle exploration opportunities.
Malaysia's rainforests, dating back over 130 million years, are home to iconic animals including tigers and black leopards, along with extraordinary marine life. The country holds multiple Guinness World Records for its flora and fauna, featuring over 2,000 types of tall trees and 5,500 plant varieties across its lush tropical landscape.
Sabah in Eastern Malaysia is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities to explore coral reefs and marine life in tropical waters. The state is also home to Kinabalu National Park, making it an ideal destination for both underwater adventures and terrestrial exploration.
Sarawak is entirely covered by impenetrable jungle and is protected by several national parks including Bako National Park, offering unparalleled jungle trekking and nature exploration. The state showcases Malaysia's most pristine wilderness and is perfect for travelers seeking authentic rainforest experiences away from urban areas.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's largest city and capital, was founded in 1857 at the confluence of two rivers: the Gombak and the Kelang. The city has grown from this strategic river location to become a modern metropolis, reflecting Malaysia's political stability and development over recent decades.