Malaysia has plenty of natural wealth. However, there are also plenty of iconic man-made marvels that are easily recognisable and continue to impress visitors. From Sarawak’s Darul Hana Bridge to Melaka’s historic Christ Church, check out this list of must-see landmarks in Malaysia.
State Legislative Assembly building & Darul Hana Bridge, Sarawak
Kuching Waterfront commands such a great view of Sarawak’s iconic landmarks: the new State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building and Darul Hana Bridge. Both structures have distinct architectural designs. The golden roof of the new DUN building resembles a terendak, a straw hat that is distinct to the Melanau tribe. Meanwhile, the Darul Hana Bridge is structured into an S-shaped walkway meandering across Sarawak River. The “S” shape represents Sarawak.
Marvel at the grand architecture of the New DUN Building as you take a walk on the Darul Hana Bridge to the other side of the Kuching Waterfront. Visit these two iconic landmarks after dark and see them illuminated in brilliant lights, further enhanced with a colourful musical fountain show at scheduled times.
Darul Hana musical fountain times:
Sun-Thu : 8:30pm and 9:30pm
Fri-Sat : 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 10:30pm.
Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur
This iconic twin skyscraper is the symbol of Malaysia’s towering ambition as a major player in a globalised world. Between 1998 and 2004, this glass-and-steel landmark megastructure reigned as the tallest building in the world, standing at 452 metres (1,480ft) with 88 storeys.
Walk across the sky bridge on the 41st Floor, which connects between the two towers. See breath-taking views of Kuala Lumpur from its observation deck on the 86th floor.
The Petronas Twin Towers feature offices and the Petronas Philharmonic Hall, as well as the adjoining Suria KLCC shopping mall, which is also home to the Petrosains science discovery centre.
Christ Church, Melaka
Literally one of the most photographed landmarks in Malaysia, Christ Church in Melaka is a fine example of classic Dutch architecture. The brick-red landmark was built in 1753 to commemorate a century of Dutch occupation in Melaka. Inside, it features 200-year-old handmade pews, fanlights and plaques honouring Dutch soldiers and locals.
Located at the town square opposite Melaka’s Stadthuys, Christ Church is a booming tourist spot that’s constantly packed with tourists, especially on the weekends. Get on one of many colourful trishaws offering a tour around the area if you’re tired from walking!
Eagle Square, Langkawi
At Eagle Square, there is a 12-metre landmark in the form of a reddish-brown eagle statue dominating the square. According to folklore, Langkawi’s name is the combination of two Malay words: ‘helang’ (eagle) and ‘kawi’ (reddish brown). Hence, this statue is the very emblem of Langkawi Island.
Situated at the southeastern corner of Langkawi, Eagle Square is a popular vantage point for watching ferries harbour. Some of the best duty-free shops in Langkawi are located just nearby. Don’t forget to stock up on those chocolates while you’re there!
Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang
Kek Lok Si temple is one of the biggest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. Set on the hills of Air Itam, it is believed that these hills have the right ‘feng shui’ for a temple. This makes Kek Lok Si an important pilgrimage centre for Buddhist worshippers from across Southeast Asia, and is a popular retreat for monks.
Visitors coming to this landmark will be amazed by the temple’s elaborate features such as carved dragon pillars, beautifully landscaped gardens, seven-storey Pagoda of Rama VI and an enormous Goddess of Mercy statue. Best to come here during Chinese New Year celebrations, as the temple’s complex will be illuminated with thousands of bright red lanterns.
Crystal Mosque, Terengganu
Due to Islam being the official religion of Malaysia, there are plenty of mosques to see in Malaysia. However, Terengganu has a unique mosque that is practically dazzling. Known as Crystal Mosque, this iconic landmark is built within the Islamic Heritage Park on Wan Man Island.
Its shimmering exterior is coated with smoke-coloured glass, steel and crystal, making Crystal Mosque a magnificent landmark that is frequently visited by tourists. You can literally see the surrounding waters reflected on its shiny domes on a scorching hot day!
So, which landmarks are you planning to visit for your #TravelLater #TravelTomorrow?
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