myMalaysiabooks

Happy 2012 from mymalaysiabooks

2012-01-06T20:35:00.004+08:00

To a HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS 2012

Sultan of Kedah is New King

2011-12-13T14:52:00.003+08:00

Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah, the Sultan of Kedah, today (2011-12-13) began his reign as Malaysia’s 14th Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King), creating history as the first ruler to re-assume the role .

Tuanku Abdul Halim, 84, replaces the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, who ended his term as the 13th Yang di-Pertuan Agong Monday. This rotation system for the post of Yang di-Pertuan Agong among the nine Malay hereditary rulers began since Malaysia's independence on Aug 31, 1957

Daulat Tuanku - Salutations and Congradulations!

Read more on:
Malaysia
Kedah
Hotels in Malaysia

2012 Public Holidays in Malaysia

2011-10-08T16:41:00.000+08:00

Planing for a holiday in 2012, plan your holidays and print free 2012 calenders at myMalaysiabooks

2012 Public Holidays in Malaysia and Singapore

Date		Holiday	Malaysia Public Holidays		Singapore
Date		Holiday	State holidays	All Malaysia	Singapore
1 Jan	Sun	New Year	All states except Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis & Terengganu	-	National PH
14 Jan	Sat	Yang di-Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan's Birthday	Negeri Sembilan	-	-
15 Jan	Sun	Sultan of Kedah's Birthday	Kedah	-	-
23 Jan	Mon	Chinese New Year	National	National PH	National PH
24 Jan	Tue	Chinese New Year (Day 2)	National except Kelantan and Terengganu	(most private companies & banks closed)	National PH
1 Feb	Wed	Federal Territory Day	Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan & Putrajaya	-	-

....................More at myMalaysiabooks

Free 2011 Calendars by myMalaysiaBooks

Ramadan in Malaysia

2011-08-04T10:41:00.000+08:00

The month of Ramadan 2011 falls in the month of August 2011. During Ramadan in Malaysia and Singapore, Muslims spend the daylight hours avoiding food - and break their fast in the evening. A good, hearty, traditional meal is often prepared or served at the end of the day.
Ramadan bazaars are found all over the city/town. These bazaars often sells clothing and food. Food in Malaysia and Singapore - sold are usually a wide variety of dishes, such as, curries, rendang, satay, roasts, and 'kuih' or cakes and traditional juices.

Celebrations in Malaysia and Singapore May - June 2011

2011-05-14T14:03:00.000+08:00

If you travel around Malaysia or Singapore this May to June, you can get to enjoy some of the religious, cultural and state celebrations during these two months.
If you are travelling during the period which falls on the school holiday of Malaysia or school holidays of Singapore be prepared - book your travel and hotel early! Its bound to be fully if you are late.

17 May 2011 - Wesak Day; nationwide Malaysia and Singapore
30-31 May 2011 - Hari Keamatan; Sabah and P.Labuan, Malaysia
1-2 June Gawai Festival; Sarawak, Malaysia
4 June Agong's Birthday (King's Birthday)

For more check out:

Your help is most wanted

2011-03-16T09:31:00.004+08:00

Read on Malaysia at myMalaysiabooks

Japan Earthquake & Tsunami 2011

Extend your loving-kindness to the people of Japan
....How to Help:

Red Cross Japan (in Japanese)
Malaysia Red Crescent
Red Cross /Crescent: Locate your relatives
International Red Cross
CNN How you can help

Gong Xi Fa Cai

2011-02-04T12:10:00.003+08:00

Gong Xi Fa Cai

Keong Hee Huat Chai

....Happy New Year

....more on Chinese New Year and Free Calendars at mymalaysiabooks

From Japan to Malaysia

2010-09-28T14:06:00.004+08:00

Long-haul budget carrier AirAsia X recently announced that it will fly to Japan in December 2010, with three non-stop flights a week from KL International Airport to Haneda in Tokyo.

Check out how to get from Japan to Malaysia at:

Islands of Malaysia

2010-05-03T14:37:00.005+08:00

Malaysia is blessed with hundreds of tropical islands. These exotic tropical islands, in the sun, is often surrounded by white sandy beaches and turquoise blue seas.
Popular Islands:
Penang Island (Penang) - Cosmopoliton world heritage city (George Town) with some sandy beaches
Pangkor Island - Fishing village with great isolated beaches
Landkawi Island - Great beaches and Geopark

Other islands:

Off the coasts of West Malaysia (Malaysian Peninsular) are Pulau Payar, Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Tioman, Pulau Kapas, Pulau Rawa, Pulau Langkawi, Pulau Dayang Bunting, etc.
East Malaysia boasts several secluded island, many are well known dive sites such as Pulau Layang-layang, Pulau Gaya, Pulau Tiga, Pulau Sipadan, Pulau Talang Talang and many more. (pulau mean island in the Malay language)

..............more at myMalaysiabooks

The Bujang Valley, Kedah

2010-03-11T13:18:00.005+08:00

The Bujang Valley or Lembab Bujang is a rich historical site covering an area of about 400sq. km in the Merbok basin, bounded by Bukit Coras (Choras Hill) and Gunung Jerai. This archaeological area was the site of an ancient Hindu-Buddhist kingdom that ruled the region from the 4th century AD.
The valley is located in Central Kedah, Peninsular Malaysia.

To get to the Bujang Valley from the North-South expressway, you can exit at the town of Sungai Petani . At Sungai Petani (south exit) a straight road that bypasses the town centre takes you there.

..read about history of Kedah

....more on Kedah and the Bujang Valley HERE

Recommended places to stay in Kedah:

YEAR OF THE TIGER

2010-02-04T11:47:00.007+08:00

February 14, 2010 to February 2, 2011
The Year of the Tiger 2010, (in the Hsia calendar /Chinese calendar) is symbolized by two elements – metal sitting on top of wood. The Tiger is the third sign in the Chinese zodiac sign of 12 animals. It is a sign of courage and thus the tiger is revered by the ancient Chinese as the sign that wards off the three main disasters of a household: fire, thieves and ghosts.

About the Year of the Tiger
The Year 2010 is the Year of the Metal Tiger, which begins on February 14, 2010 and ends on February 2, 2011. In Chinese feng shui, Metal is the destroyer of wood and so they are on the destructive cycle and have conflict relationship.

........more on at http://www.mymalaysiabooks.com/malaysia/chinese_festivals.htm

Travel bonus for 2010

2010-01-11T12:30:00.004+08:00

Checkout what the new year 2010 brings for travellers in Malaysia and Singapore

>> Offers by Hotels in 2010

>> MAS flies into new year with low fares 11-Jan-2010
>> Students can now get 50% discount on rail tickets 5-Jan-2010
>> Genting’s Singapore resort hotels to open Jan 20
Read details at myMalaysiabooks Travel News

Merry Christmas from myMalaysiabooks

2009-12-24T16:19:00.003+08:00

Merry Christmas!!! and Happy Holidays

Enjoy great Christmas in Singapore!!
Check out where to shop in Singapore

>>> Details of how to travel from Malaysia to Singapore HERE

>>> Check for budget Hotels in Singapore HERE

More at myMalaysiabooks

2010 Holidays in Malaysia

2009-12-11T10:56:00.006+08:00

Check out holidays in Malaysia for December 2009 and the coming year 2010

FREE 2010 calendar at myMalaysiabooks
Public Holidays in Malaysia and Singapore 2010

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

Date
2010 Public Holidays
Public holiday in

2010 Public holidays in Malaysia and Singapore
01-Jan ....New Year
Jan ..... Sultan of Kedah's Birthday. Kedah only
30-Jan....Thaipusam. Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Penang, Perak, Selangor, N Sembilan, Johor
01-Feb ...Federal Territory Day. Kuala Lumpur, Labuan & Putrajaya only
14-Feb.... Chinese New Year. Malaysia and Singapore All States / National
15-Feb.... Chinese New Year (Day 2) Malaysia and Singapore except states of Kelantan and Terengganu
26-Feb... Prophet Muhammad's Birthday. Malaysia All States / National
....more at myMalaysiabooks Calendar 2010

End of year Holidays in Malaysia and Singpore

2009-11-04T17:26:00.005+08:00

School holiday in Malaysia starts on 21st November 2009!

Plan your stay in Malaysia and Singapore before you arrive as November and December are peak holiday seasons in these two countries

Book your flight, hotel accommodations and tours early especially if you travel during the Malaysia and Singapore public holidays or school holidays.

Compare hotel rates, air flight offers and select reputable tours online.

Hotels combined free search and compare

Asia Airlines and budget airlines

2009 Calendar of holidays

If you are planning your holiday in 2010, check out this free 2010 calendar for Malaysia and Singapore

Celebrations in October

2009-10-18T16:37:00.003+08:00

Mooncake festival - 3 Oct 2009
Deepavali - 17 October 2009
Festival of the 9 Emperor Gods - from 18 - 26 October 2009

Read about these celebrations at myMalaysiabooks

Mid Autumn Festival - Moon Cake Biscuits

2009-09-26T14:08:00.007+08:00

Mid-autumn festival or Moon Cake festival (15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar) - celebrated by the Chinese to commemorate the overthrow of the Mongol dynasty in Ancient China. Moon Cakes are offered to the moon fairy or to ancesters during these period . During the 8th month, these cakes are exchanged as gifts among relatives and friends too. Children would light colourful lanterns in the shape of animals or other objects during the night in celebration of this festival. The moon cake festival fall on the 3rd of October 2009.

How to Make plain Moon Cake

Ingredients
Golden syrup:
- 1.2kg sugar
- 1 litre water
- 1 lime, squeeze out juice,
- 1 tbsp maltose

Mooncake biscuit dough :
- 300g superfine flour, sifted 200g golden syrup
- ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- ¾ tbsp alkaline water
- 50g corn oil

Egg glaze – (combined) :
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp water
- Pinch of salt
- A little thick soy sauce (for colour)

Method

Prepare Golden syrup: Put all ingredients, except maltose, in a pot. Boil until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and cook until syrup turns a light golden colour. Turn off the heat and add maltose. Stir to dissolve and leave to cool. Mooncake biscuit dough:
1) In a large mixing bowl, combine the golden syrup with bicarbonate of soda, alkaline water and corn oil. Add sifted flour to ingredients and mix into a dough and knead well. Cover with cling film and leave it aside for about 3 hours. Bake in preheated oven at 180°C
2) Divide dough into small portions and make into a small ball. Lightly dust balls with flour and press into mooncake biscuit moulds. (For biscuits with filling: Wrap dough with a little lotus seed paste and press into a small ball)
3) Grease a baking tray. Knock out the biscuits from the mould and place on the greased trays. Bake biscuits for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven. Leave to cool slightly. Brush with egg glaze and bake again for another 5-8 minutes or until golden brown.
4) Remove from oven and leave to cool. Biscuit should be soft, do not keep in air tight container.

more recipe at: http://food.mymalaysiabooks.com/

Hari Raya Celebrations in Malaysia

2009-09-17T10:19:00.006+08:00

Visitors to Malaysia can enjoy open houses to many homes and a full array of great Malaysian food. Hari Raya 2009 falls on 20 September 2009.

If you are looking for recipes of kuih muih for Raya or some spicy Malaysian or Malay food, check out http://food.mymalaysiabooks.com/

Read about how Malaysians celebrat the Hari Raya Puasa (Adilfitri) celebrations HERE
If you are looking to travel during this long weekend, be sure to book your accomodation early!!!...

Search and compare online hotel rates from more than 30 websites free at HotelsCombined.com or search by their detailed hotel listing by location, city or islands in Malaysia and Singapore.
Hotels in Malaysia
Alor Star Kedah
Cameron Highlands Pahang
Cyberjaya Federal
Genting Highlands Pahang
Pangkor Island Perak
Penang Pulau Pinang
Petaling Jaya Selangor
Putrajaya Federal
Redang Island Terengganu
Sabah
Johor Bahru Johor
Kota Bahru Kelantan
Kota Kinabalu Sabah
Kuala Lumpur (KL) Federal
Kuala Terengganu Terengganu
Kuantan Pahang
Kuching Sarawak
more at Malaysia Hotels blog

Where to eat Char Kueh Teow in Penang

2009-07-31T15:05:00.009+08:00

If you are in Penang and looking for some good Char Koay Teow stall, check out some of these stalls.

Penang Char Koay Teow / Char Kway Teow (Fried flat rice noodles)
- Shop at 82, Lorong Selamat and Other coffee shop along Lorong Selamat, George Town
- Ah Leng Char Koay Teow, Jalan Datuk Keramat, opposite former Federal Theater
- Ping Hooi coffee shop, Lebuh Carnavon and Lebuh Melayu junction
- BB restaurant, opposite Hawker centre, (Sunshine Square area), Persiaran Mayangpasir 2
- Stall No 42, Hawker Centre at Batu Lancang market; afternoon
- Sisters Fried Kway Teow, Lam Heng Cafe, 185, Macalister Road, Pulau Tikus

Where to get the best noodles in Penang
More places to eat in Penang at http://food.mymalaysiabooks.com/
Learn more about Penang
Where to Stay in Penang - Compare rates

Flying from Malaysia to Singapore

2009-07-22T17:20:00.006+08:00

If you are planning to travel between Malaysia and Singapore, you will be happy to know that other than Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Jetstar and Tiger Air now flies direct from Singapore to many major towns and cities in Malaysia!

Air Asia - Singapore-Malaysia route, daily

Kuching, Sarawak to Singapore
Kota Kinabalu to Singapore
Penang - Singapore
KLIA (LCCT) - Singapore

New Routes by FireFly to Singapore, i.e. KL Subang Airport to Singapore

Kota Baru, Kelantan to Singapore - From Oct 25, 2009
Alor Setar , Kedah to Singapore - From Oct 25, 2009
Ipoh, Perak to Singapore - From July 12, 2009
Kuala Terengganu to Singapore - From July 14, 2009
Kuantan to Singapore - From July 22, 2009
Malacca to Singapore - from Sept 1, 2009
Tawau to Singapore - from Sept 2009
Miri to Singapore - from Sept 2009

More on how to travel between Malaysia and Singapore at myMalaysia books

Mulu World Heritage Site

2009-07-15T17:02:00.005+08:00

Mulu National Park is considered the 'jewel in the crown' among Sarawak's national parks. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site It is the largest national park, covering 52,865 hectares of primary rainforest, which is dissected by many fast flowing rivers and streams.

Mulu offers the adventurous traveller an exhilarating cave experience and rainforest trekking adventure. Mulu is famed for her unique rock formation and numerous cave types. Besides exploring Mulu's underground world, visitors can trek through the forest, take longboat river trips and guided walks. Trekkers can also step into the trail used by the head hunters of the past. However be very sure you are fit and very experienced if you want to trek to the Pinnacles or up to the summit of Gunung Mulu.

Tourism Centres in Malaysia

2009-07-02T17:13:00.006+08:00

Travellers to Malaysia can get free information brochure at many of these tourism office:

Malaysia Tourism Centre (MTC) 109, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur; Tel : 03- 2163 3664/2164 3929 Fax : 03- 2162 1149; Office Hours: Monday - Friday : 7.30am - 5.30pm

Other Tourism Malaysia information centres:
Bukit Kayu Hitam Tourist Information Centre, Changlun, Bukit Kayu Hitam 06050, Kedah Phone: +604-922 2078 Fax: +604-922 2078

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Lot 21, Tingkat 2, Balai Ketibaan, Kuala Lumpur City Air Terminal, Stesen KL Sentral, Kuala Lumpur 50050; Phone: +603-227 431 25

Kuala Lumpur International Airport; Visitor Service Centre, International Arrival Hall, KLIA, Sepang 64000, Selangor. Phone: +603-877 656 47 / 51 Fax: +603-877 657 22

Langkawi International Airport; Phone: +604-955 7155

Langkawi Tourist Information Centre, Jalan Persiaran Putra, Kuah 07000, LangkawiPhone: +604-966 7789 / 9416 Fax: +604-966 7889

Penang International Airport; Phone: +604-643 0501

Search and compare rates for hotels:

Malaysia's Nyonya Food

2009-06-23T20:14:00.003+08:00

Nyonya Cuisine (Peranakan food) is a blend of Chinese and Malay cooking styles, that originates from the Peranakans or Baba and Nyonya (or Nonya) of Malaysia and Singapore. This cuisine is unique to Malaysia and Singapore. Today the food of the communities that are found mainly in Penang, Kedah, Singapore and Melaka

Visitors to Penang, Melaka or Singapore should check out some Nyonya Dishes, such a below:

Acar Awak - Pickled vegetables of carrots, long beans, cucumber, etc, cooked with ginger, turmeric, garlic and vinegar (photo)

Acar Ikan - Pickled Fish; small fried fish soaked in sauce of oil, tamarind, garlic

Nasi Ulam - rice mixed with vegetables, a variety of local aromatic herbs, grounded salted fish, desiccated coconut, etc.

Inchee Kay Bin - Chicken spiced with curry paste and deep fried

check out more Nyonya food and Recipies at http://food.mymalaysiabooks.com/

or at food pages at http://www.mymalaysiabooks.com/recipe/food.htm

School Holiday Destinations

2009-06-10T19:13:00.005+08:00

Wondering where to go in Malaysia? Why not check out these World Heritage sites in Malaysia. To fellow Malaysian, it may be just a day trip or one or two nights stay at budget hotels.

Malaysia's Heritage Site:

Visitors to Malaysia should check out some of the best Asian Food - Malaysian Food

Chang Festival or Dragon Boat Festival

2009-05-26T12:01:00.007+08:00

The Dragon Boat Festival or Chang Festival fall on 28 May this year (2009 )

The Chang Festival marks the death of a Chinese poet and scholar Qu Yuan who drowned in 296 BC in Hunan province in China . When people heard of his disappearance, they scoured the river in boats to rescue him, beating their drums to scare off the fishes from nibbling at his body. Unable to find his body, they made glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves and threw them into the river in the hope that the fishes would eat these dumplings instead of his remains. Boats were decorated with dragon heads on their bows.

This festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. The tradition of making dumplings (called 'chang') is celebrated by the Chinese community in Malaysia with the offering of the dumplings to the gods and their ancestors. The festival is celebrated in Penang annually with an international dragon boat competition which is immensely popular and attracts participants from all over the world.

Chinese Dumpling Recipe

2009-05-22T20:18:00.004+08:00

The Chinese Chang Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) falls on the 28th May 2009. Here's one of the many dumpling recipes by Amy Beh (at Kuali @ theStar)
Nyonya Rice Dumpling - Nonya Bak Chang
Ingredients

700g glutinous rice, soaked overnight
Some screwpine leaves, cut into 4 cm lengths
Dried bamboo leaves, washed and soaked for several hoursHemp strings for tying
2 tbsp salt1 tbsp sugar
Filling:
5 shallots, minced
2 tbsp chopped garlic
½ cup oil
3 tsp preserved soya bean paste (tau cheong)
7 tbsp coriander powder (ground ketumbar), mixed with 170ml water into a paste4
50g belly pork, skin removed and cut into very small cubes
12-14 dried mushrooms, soaked and diced
100g candied winter melon, diced
Seasoning (combined)
3 tsp pepper
5½-6 tbsp sugar or to taste
1 tbsp thick soy sauce1 tbsp light soy sauce
2½-3 tsp salt or to taste½ tsp ground black pepper

Method

To prepare the fillingHeat oil in a non-stick pan, fry shallots and garlic until aromatic. Add soya bean paste and coriander paste. Fry until fragrant.
Add pork, winter melon and mushrooms, and mix in combined seasoning. Fry until pork is heated through. Dish out and set aside.
To assemble the dumplingsOverlap 2 bamboo leaves lengthways then fold into a cone. Fill the cone with glutinous rice. Spoon a heaped tablespoon of filling over. Top up with more glutinous rice and cover with a piece of screwpine leaf. Press down to compress the dumpling. Wrap into a pyramid shape. Tie tightly with hemp string to secure. Repeat until all the ingredients are used up.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and sugar then put in the dumplings and immerse them completely. Cook in rapidly boiling water for 2-2½ hours. Remove the dumplings and hang them to drain off excess water.
More Chinese Rice Dumpling recipes at myfood.mymalaysiabooks.com

Cheap fare offer

2009-05-13T13:32:00.004+08:00

Air Asia (Malaysia's budget airline) and Malaysia Airlines (MAS) (Airlines in Malaysia) is currently offering huge discounted fares for flights on domestic and international destinations.

Those planning to travel in 2010 can even search for free (zero fare) tickets, but needs to pay for airport tax and other charges --- at Air Asia

MAS on the other hand offers special free tickets for children or buy one - free one holiday packages.

Travellers are adviced to check out these airlines and compare to all Asian Airlines in Malaysia.

...more on how to travel to and in Malaysia at myMalaysiabooks

Malaysian Noodle Dishes

2009-04-20T12:37:00.007+08:00

With a multicultural population, travellers to Malaysia will find an array of uniquely Malaysia noodle dishes of somewhat Chinese, Malay, Indian, Thai, etc origin...all with a flavour unqique only to Malaysia..
Be sure to check out great noodle dishes of Malaysia:

Curry Mee (photo) or curry noodles
Laksa Kedah and Penang Laksa
Penang Hokkien Mee
Penang Char Kueh Teow / Char Koay Teow
Chee Cheong fun.
..... more and recipes from myFood Domain at myMalaysiabooks

Islands of Malaysia

2009-04-08T10:42:00.004+08:00

There are over 100 tropical islands off East Malaysia and West Malaysia. The most popular of these are:

Pulau Pinang or Penang island
Pulau Langkawi
Pulau Tioman
Pulau Sipatang
Pulau Pangkor

...check out these exotic island destinations at myMalaysiabooks

or at islands of Malaysia

From KL to Bangkok

2009-03-14T21:54:00.005+08:00

Air Asia and Malaysia Airlines are currently offering discounts for numerous flights for this coming school holidays in Malaysia to Bangkok

Hotel deals - check and compare rates from multiple website HERE

Airlines flying to Asia and linking to Malaysia and Singapore - HERE

How to travel from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur

Thaipusam in Malaysia

2009-02-11T20:36:00.007+08:00

Thaipusam was celebrated in Malaysia on the 8th of February 2009.

On this day, Hindus pay homage to Lord Muruga and celebrations normally stretch over two to three days with drums and music played throughout the day and sometimes into the night.

VIDEO clips: Check out the celebration in Malaysia at:

READ MORE AT Religious celebrations in Malaysia

Year of the Ox in Malaysia

2009-01-13T20:35:00.008+08:00

2009 is the year of the Ox which is also known by its formal name of Yi Chou. 己丑 .

The Chinese calendar year goes on 60-year cycle. 2009 is the 10-th year in the current 60-year Cycle. 2009 is Year 4706 in the Chinese calendar. The Ox belongs to the earth element and is the second of the 12 animal signs.

Astrologists believe that it is a year for healing and relaxation from the turbulent times. It is a time for rebuilding and reconstructions from the damage of war, natural disasters and the financial tsunami of 2008.

More at

......from myMalaysiabooks

.....Chinese New Year Recipes at myFood domain

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2008-12-19T15:19:00.006+08:00

If you are preparing for the holidays, check out some of these free items on mymalaysiabooks:

Free 2009 Calendars for Malaysia and Singapore
Get free recipes Christmas and Chinese New Year - Christmas cake, cookies, etc.
Free hotel seach tool to compare hotel rates

...and many more from mymalaysiabooks

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009

Hari Raya Haji - Malaysia

2008-11-22T11:05:00.004+08:00

8- November 2008 is Hari Raya Haji (Adiladha)

Adiladha is celebrated on the 10th of the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and again depends upon the crescent sighting for the first of the month. Many Muslim make their pilgrimage to Mecca during this period. On this day, after Salat al-'Eid (prayers), Muslims sacrifice an animal: a ram, goat, sheep, cow or camel. The meat is divided into three parts, one part distributed among the poor and needy, second part distributed among relatives and friends and third part is used by the family. This is also a major holiday for Muslims in Malaysia.

More holidays in Malaysia in November and December at myMalaysiabooks
2009 Islamic Calendar
Free Hotel Search Tool

Planning for the Holidays

2008-11-08T09:28:00.004+08:00

Before travelling to Malaysia and Singapore, check out the public holidays in the two countries. Public holidays may be national celebrations or religious or cultural celebrations celebrated by a large number of people. Its a great time to join in the celebrations but be sure to book hotels, air flights, train tickets and make your other travel arrangements early during public and state holidays. You can also expect crowds during these holidays

Nyonya Food and Recipes

2008-10-29T21:25:00.004+08:00

Check out some home recipies at myFood domain

from myMalaysiabooks

HAPPY DEEPAVALI

2008-10-26T10:13:00.003+08:00

HAPPY DEEPAVALI

TO ALL OUR READERS

from myMalaysiabooks

Visiting Malaysia during the school holidays

2008-10-16T16:09:00.006+08:00

Here's a few places you can visit

>> World Heritage sites in Malaysia: The cities of Penang and Melaka

>> UNESCO Geopark: Langkawi islands

>> World Heritage forest Park: Mulu, Sarawak

>> Check and compare hotel rates from multiple website before booking...FREE TOOL HERE

...brought to you by myMalaysiabooks

selamat hari raya

2008-09-27T20:35:00.003+08:00

SELAMAT HARI RAYA and HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OUR READERS
...from mymalaysiabooks

Check out:

Recipes from myFood domain

Ramadan in Malaysia

2008-09-17T20:49:00.005+08:00

To all Muslims-- have a blessed Ramadan.

Ramadan is a month of fasting by the Muslims.

Visitors to Malaysia can enjoy Malaysian food at Ramadan Bazaars all over Malaysia.

Check out Malaysian food at myFood domain

Learn more about Ramadan and Hari Raya here

Latest News on Malaysia

2008-09-13T10:33:00.006+08:00

The Chinese celebrations of the Mid Autumn festival falls on 14th September 2008. While Chinese Malaysians celebrates this festivities, not all will look at this week as a happy occasion.

Headlines in Malaysia today:

31st August 2008 in Malaysia

2008-08-30T18:57:00.005+08:00

Malaysia celebrates its 51 years of independence form British Rule. 31st August is the date the Federation of Malaya gained independence from the the British (read History of Malaysia).

Join in the celebration and numerous events in Malaysia this August.

...More on what independence means to the Malaysians at local Malaysian blogs and Malaysian Newspapers.

...more on Malaysia at myMalaysiabooks

TOP NEWS IN MALAYSIA

2008-08-28T17:17:00.008+08:00

TOP NEWS THIS WEEK

26 August - Results of Permatang Puah election - Opposition Adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim won with a larger majority.

(Malaysiakini) - Controversial online portal Malaysia Today had its access blocked by the country’s largest internet service provider (ISP) TMnet. Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) chief operating officer Mohamed Sharil Tarmizi confirmed that the block was ordered by the commission....Check out were to find Malaysia-today's new location HERE

(The Star) KUALA LUMPUR: PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was sworn in as Permatang Pauh MP at 10.05am Thursday in a brief ceremony in Dewan Rakyat here.

....more news links to Malaysia's newspapers and Blogs at myMalaysiabooks News

... Get to know Malaysia at myMalaysiabooks

(Photo: Street stalls during Ramadan in Malaysia, selling delightful Malaysian food)

What's top news in Malaysia today

2008-08-07T17:36:00.005+08:00

The top Malaysia news today is the Permatang Pauh 'Mother of all' Election and Malaysia's Olympic hope in Beijing:

From The Star ONLINE: PKR website collects over RM11,500
GEORGE TOWN: PKR has collected US$3,500 (RM11,550) from the party’s official Permatang Pauh by-election website for their campaign. Pantai Jerejak assemblyman Sim Tze Tzin, who is Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s political secretary, said they were touched by the response.........more
Malaysian awaiting Olympic gold medal from Lee Chong Wei..Final match tonight 17Aug 2008

Read news from Malaysian Newspapers HERE

George Town and Melaka on UNESCO Heritage list

2008-07-08T14:46:00.005+08:00

The World Heritage Committee meeting in Quebec City has added eight new cultural sites to UNESCO’s World Heritage List on the morning of the 7 of July. With these inscriptions, Papua New Guinea and San Marino enter the World Heritage List for the first time.
FOR MALAYSIA, The new site is:
Melaka and George Town, historic cities of the Straits of Malacca (Malaysia) have developed over 500 years of trading and cultural exchanges between East and West in the Straits of Malacca. The influences of Asia and Europe have endowed the towns with a specific multicultural heritage that is both tangible and intangible. With its government buildings, churches, squares and fortifications, Melaka demonstrates the early stages of this history originating in the 15th-century Malay sultanate and the Portuguese and Dutch periods beginning in the early 16th century. Featuring residential and commercial buildings, George Town represents the British era from the end of the 18th century. The two towns constitute a unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in East and South East Asia.
(source: from: http://whc.unesco.org/en/news/450/)

Celebrations in Malaysia

2008-07-01T14:05:00.002+08:00

Fruit Season in Malaysia

2008-06-16T17:04:00.006+08:00

May to July is certainly the time to enjoy the exotic tropical fruit of Malaysia. Check out some of these common tropical fruits.

Durian is the ‘king of fruits’ - which has a very pungent smell, but loved by many

Langsat and duku is the size of marbles; white to translucent; its taste can vary from sour to very sweet.

Mangoes - a wide variety is sold and is popularly grown in Malaysia.

Mangosteen is about the size of a tennis ball and dark purple when ripe; sweet and slightly sour taste of the white flesh inside

Rambutan is the size of a ping-pong ball, very hairy on the outside, the fruit inside is very sweet.

Events from May to June 2008

2008-05-14T18:56:00.008+08:00

Look out for these events in Malaysia and Singapore

1) Colours & Flavours of Malaysia 2008 - 24 May; Venue : Dataran Perdana Putrajaya Get a fascinating glimpse of the Malaysian cultures, through colourful parades and traditional performances, crafts and savour mouth-watering local delicacies.

2) Vesak or Wesak day - 19 May- is celebrated by the Buddhist community in Malaysia and Singapore

3) Singapore’s half price surprise is back - This means travellers will get 50% discount to entrance fees at various tourist sights. And the Great Singapore sale with discounts of up to 70% kicking off on May 23.

Visitors should take note of the school holidays that starts on 24th of May. Book your vacation especially hotels early as this is the time when Malaysian and Singaporeans all rush to take vacation. Compare online rates before booking and also check offers that are given by Malaysia airlines, Jetstar, AirAsia, Firefly and others during this period.

Check Asia Airlines, Air travel to Malaysia, and air travel to Singapore)

Historical Sites in Malaysia

2008-04-20T19:57:00.003+08:00

History enthusiast should visit these states in Malaysia:

PENANG or PULAU PINANG - George Town boasts the largest collection of 19th and early 20th century houses in Southeast Asia.
KEDAH - Kingdom of Bujang 4th century, largest archaeological site in Malaysia. Alor Star, the capital is also a historical enclave - Kedah boasts the oldest monarchy -sultanate in Malaysia and and second only to Japan.
LANGKAWI, Kedah - first UNESCO Geopark in South East Asia
MELAKA (MALACCA) - renowned port city of Malacca (14th century), Malacca Sultanate and History of Malacca; learn about Hang Tuah and the history along the Malacca Strait.
PERAK - History of the state that is linked to Kedah and Melaka. The oldest archaeological finds - the Perak Man.

Learn about Heritage sites in Malaysia here

2008 Malaysia Election Results

2008-03-13T20:22:00.005+08:00

At the 2008 election in Malaysia on 8 March 2008, candidates vied for 222 parliamentary seats and 505 state seats. Though the coalition government (ruling government) won the federal government again (by a simple majority), opposition parties took over the state government in five states! A first for oposition parties in Malaysia.

2008 election results from New straits times, Malaysia
RESULTS AT GLANCE
PARLIAMENT
BN - 180 seats ; OPPOSITION - 82 seats
STATE
BN - 307 seats ; OPPOSITION - 194 seats; INDEPENDENT - 2 seats

more statistics at
Malaysia Political News
and news on Malaysia at www.mymalaysiabooks.com

Malaysian Politics and Election

2008-02-17T18:20:00.006+08:00

If you are traveling to Malaysia, take note of the general election!

"PUTRAJAYA: The Election Commission has set February 24 for parties to nominate candidates for 12th general election; Malaysia goes to the polls on March 8.
Parliament was dissolved yesterday, ending weeks of speculation.
Malaysians will be asked to give a fresh mandate to the government of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Candidates will vie for 222 parliamentary seats and 505 state seats.
Abdullah will lead the Barisan Nasional into the election for a second time......."
- the Star Malaysia, February 14 2008

Find out more at:

Malaysia Politics and election here - also check your registration and voting centres here.
About Malaysia
News today and communications in Malaysia
myMalaysiabooks

Gifts for Chinese New Year and Valentine

2008-01-28T19:03:00.000+08:00

If you are looking for some great gifts, check out some special offers for this Chinese New Year (2008 - Year of the Rat) and Valentine's Day, listed at bargain prizes - at these Asian websites:

Chinavasion - electronic products such as MP4, MP3, Car DVD, digital camcorders, digital cameras, etc......all sold at wholesale prices!

VisiMas - Special discounts and FREE delivery for branded timepieces and gifts

....details and more at the stores

Nian Gao for Chinese New Year

2008-01-12T12:01:00.000+08:00

The Chinese New Year 2008 fall on 7 February 2008. In Malaysia and Singapore the 7 and 8 of February is a national public holiday.

The most important cake is the Niangao/ Nian Gao/ Nian Kueh or in Penang Hokkien tnee kueh. This sticky sweet snack made of glutinous rice and sugar is traditionally offered to the Kitchen God (before the new year) to ensure that his mouth will be stuck with the sticky cake and hence cannot report on the family's bad deed to the God of all Gods (Yu Huang Da Di).

It is a tradition in Malaysia and Singapore to make or buy this. Friends and relatives invited to the house are often served this with a variety of these cakes and cookies. New Year cookies are also given as gifts to friends and relatives.

Check out more on Chinese New Year and get a free printable 2008 Chinese calendar here

2008 Calendar for Malaysia and Singapore

2007-12-25T19:50:00.001+08:00

Public Holidays in Malaysia and Singapore

Before travelling to Malaysia and Singapore, check out the public holidays in the two countries Public holidays may be national celebrations, religious festivals or cultural celebrations.
Public holidays 2008 Malaysia and Singapore

2008 Calendar to download or print

Malaysia and Singapore School terms and holidays 2008
Holiday and vacation options

Air flight deals

Selamat Ramadan, Selamat Hari Raya Adilfitri

2007-10-11T13:41:00.000+08:00

Celebrate Ramadan in Malaysia.

The 13th of October 2007 is Hari Raya Puasa for Muslims all over the world.

Travellers can enjoy open houses, raya dinners, raya shopping, and fabulous food here.

Learn more about Malaysia and this celebration at www.mymalaysiabooks.com

Travel tips for September

2007-09-11T20:37:00.000+08:00

If you are planning a trip to Malaysia this september, take note:

1) Best time to enjoy local street food is during Ramadan which begins on the 13th of September. Stall are set up in the late afternoon catering to the Muslims but all Malaysian and visitors shop for food too!! Get a taste of Malaysian food from streets stalls selling cakes and cooked dishes or meals. (see photo). See what to eat in Malaysia at Malaysia Food

2) Travelling by public transport during the raya holidays (13-14th Ock plus a few days before and after - Be sure to book early.. In fact air tickets an buses may already be fully booked! ......check out Transportation guide to Malaysia and Singapore

3) Planning a holiday during the 2nd week of October .....Book now.....its a one week school holiday for Malaysians and a long week of holidays for many companies in malaysia. Get a free comparison of hotels in Malaysia by cities in Malaysia

News on Malaysia today

2007-08-15T13:29:00.000+08:00

Newspapers are published in several languages - mainly Malay, Chinese, English and Tamil. Most Newspapers in Malaysia are owed by or have links to the current ruling coalition government of Malaysia.
English Newspapers: The Star publications, New Straits Times, The Sun, BERNAMA, Malay Mail
However you can also find publications that reflect thoughts from intellectuals and the average Malaysians in the streets - not linked to the current government. Some publications are not widely sold or have restricted circulation. Signts that offer differing news and views of Malaysia today are:
DAP news(political party, Aliran, Malaysia Today, Malaysiakini, Inside Sarawak
........More on English, Chinese newspapers, Malay and Tamil news at:
My Malaysia News Media

Check out the latest headlines:
>> 50th years of Nationhood - Merdeka celebrations, from organised events to sales, contests, etc.
>> Student Wee Meng Chee, 24, who caused a furore here with his Negaraku rap video clip on YouTube
>> Altantuya (Mongolian women) murder trial
>> Bukit Gantang bus tragedy
links to Malaysia and Singapore news media websites at:
My Malaysia News

2007-07-08T21:23:00.000+08:00

Events in Malaysia July-Aug 2007

Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival 16 June 2007 - 2 September 2007

World Music Festival 2007 – Penang (20 to 22 July 2007) -

Menara Kuala Lumpur has announced KL Tower International BASE Jump Merdeka Circuit 2007. (7-26 August 2007)............. more at http://www.mymalaysiabooks.com/

How to get discounts!

2007-05-26T02:00:00.000+08:00

Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival 16 June 2007 - 2 September 2007
Travel to Malaysia now to enjoy amazing discount and special offers during Malaysia's biggest sales carnival!. From branded goods and local goods at shopping mall and store to shops at open markets. Venue: All of Malaysia
Hotel booking tips.
Planning a few days stay in Malaysia? There are numerous offers and promotional rates so be sure to COMPARE rates before you book
>> Compare hotel rates from multiple sites here

Border crossing from Singapore to Malaysia

2007-03-06T16:08:00.000+08:00

Singapore to Malaysia border checkpoints with customs and immigration checks are at:
1. Changi Airport - airlines flying Singapore to Malaysia.
2. Selatar Airport - scheduled flights from Singapore to Tioman island (Malaysia) and Batam (Indonesia).
3. Road link - Causeway link from Woodlands checkpoint (Singapore) to Johor Bahru city, Johore (Malaysia)
4. Road link - the Second link at Tuas, Singapore - road links to the North-south (PLUS or toll) expressway in Johor, Malaysia.
5. Railways - from Woodlands, Singapore for Singapore immigration and at Tanjong Pagar (Singapore) for Malaysian Immigration. (Confusing?!); from JB railway station, you can travel to KL, until Padang Besar and to Thai railways, up to Bangkok.
6. Ferry treminals and checkpoints - from Singapore to JB: Changi point ferry terminal, Tanah Merah terminal, Changi ferry terminal.
7. Singapore Cruise Centre, Harbour Front Centre, at Maritime Square - for cruise ships going to Port Klang or Langkawi.
Details of transport options and how to get to Malaysia from Singapore at: myMalaysiabooks

Travel by sea to Malaysia

2006-10-13T10:42:00.000+08:00

By sea to Malaysia
Instead of rail or road transport, travellers can also travel from Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore by daily ferries.
Most common checkpoints to enter Malaysia by regular ferries are:
Ferry from Singapore: from Tanah Merah (Singapore) to JB International Ferry Terminal & Sebana Cove (Johor); .... and other ferry terminals.
Ferry from Thailand: from Satun (south Thailand) to Pulau Langkawi; Tak Bai (south Thailand) to Pengkalan Kubur, Kelantan.
Ferry from Indonesia: Medan to Penang island; Bintan and Batam to Johor Bahru
Ferries to Islands of Malaysia ....this and more at the transport pages of myMalaysiabooks

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

2006-09-12T13:47:00.000+08:00

Learn how to get from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and discover the places to go in KL.
Get new maps of States in Malaysia - Perak, Kedah, Langkawi, Penang, Malacca, etc., in myMalaysiabooks.

Perak - Land of Grace

2006-09-07T09:37:00.000+08:00

If you are travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, ...
you will cross the state of Perak - the 'Land of Grace.
Drop by Ipoh - located in the Kinta Valley, surrounded by beautiful limestone hills. Ipoh is famous for her hor fun, wan tan mee (noodle dishes) and pomelo. Perak was the film site for the Hollywood movie Anna and the King'..............read more on Perak here.

Sarawak - paradise of Borneo

2006-09-01T19:08:00.000+08:00

Introducing Sarawak in East Malaysia.....
.... land of the hornbills and the paradise of Borneo.
Explore and learn about the virgin rainforest that you can visit here at myMalaysiabooks
............................................into Sarawak

Penang and Melaka

2006-06-13T08:44:00.000+08:00

Melaka is a state rich in history and culture. Her strategic position at the narrow Straits of Melaka made her one of the most important stopover post for ships travelling from east to west. The end of the 14th century saw Melaka grow into a rich trading post and kingdom under the Melaka Sultanate, gaining a name in the maritime world.......

Penang or Pulau Pinang is a state with an interesting past - from being part of the Kedah sultanate to a British colonial administrative centre. Penang is today a unique Asian rich in cultural and history......

Read more on Malaysia at www.mymalaysiabooks.com

2006-05-24T18:44:00.000+08:00

Getting to know Malaysia
Check our updates on:

Malay food and Nonya food - get our home laksa recipe
How to travel from Singapore to Malaysia and visi versa
Celebrations and Festivals
Travel tips

Tips on Travelling in Malaysia and Singapore

2006-03-28T14:17:00.000+08:00

Learn more about Malaysia at myMalaysiabooks

* Get your best holiday deals and your choice hotels here.
* Travel tips and selected sites for your travel supplies or gear

Learn where to shop in SINGAPORE - Shopping guide and insider tips

Where to go in Malaysia:

Start with learning about Malaysia

Penang * Kedah * Langkawi * Johor * Melaka * KL and other states

Learn about Singapore at our Singapore blogspot

and much more at our Singapore page

Happy New Year - 2006!

2006-01-03T08:56:00.000+08:00

Wishing you a great Year!!

Check out what's new for 2006 at myMalaysiabooks

>> Get your Malaysian 2006 Calendar

>> Hop over to the State of Johor - Malaysia's Southern Gateway. Its just a few minutes from Singapore, so here's how to get from Singapore to Johor

>> Chinese New Year this 29th January 2006

Food and culture of Malaysia

2005-08-25T10:37:00.000+08:00

What's in Penang Hawker Food (Asia's best street food) ?
All about Penang laksa, Nyonya kueh here......
Malaysian Recipes - Penang Nyonya (Peranakan) Recipes here
Learn more About my Penang

About My Malaysia
* About Malaysia
* English-Malay dictionary for travellers
* Festivals and Celebrations

About the oldest monarchy in Malaysia - State of Kedah
* About Kedah and her history
* Langkawi - the paradise isles of legends
* myKedahblogspot

Malaysia Maps

2005-08-02T16:11:00.000+08:00

Looking for fee maps of Malaysia?
Go to mymalaysiabooks map page at myMalaysia Maps
Maps available:
>> Road map of West Malaysia
>> A free shuttle bus map of George Town, Penang is also available.
>> Maps of Johor, Kedah, Pulau Pinang (Penang), etc......

mymalaysiabooks - Tips on travel

2005-07-27T11:01:00.000+08:00

Visit mymalaysiabooks (www.mymalaysiabooks.com) to read about some tips on travel to and around Malaysia. Free maps of Malaysia is available. You can also get to print the free shuttle bus map of George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

Penang - the adjective for food

2005-07-22T13:48:00.000+08:00

Book Review on myPenang by Augustine Wong, in the Star publications (26 June 2005)

"....myPenang is a slim guidebook that tells you what to eat and where to find it.....
.....Lim guides us with a historian's eye, from the charming streets of colonial George Town to the breathtaking Kek Lok Si temple.... ...myPenang is one of the best-illustrated guidebooks that I have used, surpassing many better known ones bringing to life the immediacy and local colour of the island.
... For many Malaysians, Penang is more than a place, it's an adjective: Penang laksa, Penang kuey teow, Penang loh bak. With culinary flair, Lim has cooked up a concise, attractive guide to the eating capital of the north."

*********
New Straits Times, Malaysia (8 September, 2005)
Know Penang like a local Review by Philip Lim

..... the crème de la crème in this book is the Where To Eat chapter. Lim, like most true Penangnites, knows her food. She has detailed all the places one can think of or has been to. I believe she has covered most food places of repute.
... There are other books on Penang but this one in particular deserves a place on our bookshelves.

To read details, go to..>> www.mymalaysiabooks.com

myPenang

2005-05-21T16:06:00.000+08:00

myPenang
About this book
This book has been compiled to guide visitors through the labyrinth of Penang’s hawker streets as well as provide a glimpse of the rich historical heritage and culture of the island which saw birth during the 18th century as a port for the spice trade.
Author: Bee Chin

about Penang, Malaysia
Officially known as Pulau Pinang, the state comprises an island (Penang island) and a stretch of land on the west coast on the Malaysian Peninsular (Seberang Perai). Penang island is often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient and is a melting pot of many cultures. The illustrious history of the region spills into its streets and is reflected in the architecture and lifestyles of Penang.
George Town the administrative centre is a cosmopolitan city with a mix of old and new. Move around the city to see the many cultural and heritage sites - Chinese clan houses, colonial buildings, old temples, mosques and the many pre-war houses.
The best of Penang is her street food (hawker food), from rice dishes to noodles and snacks. Typical local hawker food are: Hokkien Mee, Laksa, Char Kueh Teow, Lobak or Otak-otak, etc. Sample her rich variety of cuisines - Malay, Chinese or Indian, and don't leave Penang without tasting the unique local Nyonya Cuisine (Nonya/ Peranakan Cuisine).
Be amazed by the diverse shopping scenes - from open-air markets to shopping complexes. There are ample parks and beautiful beaches on Penang island.
Travel to and around Penang like a local and get to know more about Penang from the travel guide myPenang

myMalaysiabooks

2005-05-20T20:27:00.000+08:00

Introducing the Pearl of the Orient
GET a copy of myPenang, a personal travel guide on Penang, Malaysia
An inside guide to Penang written by a Malaysian author who wishes to share its many attractions and treasures with you. This guide book is filled with interesting, useful information and fully illustrated with colour photos and maps. The only guide you need to plan your trip and get around Penang.

Get tips from how to get there, where to go and what to eat. Enjoy what the Pearl of the Orient has to offer and savour the best of Asia's street food
Welcome to Penang!

The book is endorsed by the Penang State Government and the Penang Tourist Guides Association
Read about myPenang Check out details at: www.mymalaysiabooks.com

"This book is written by a Malaysian who has a profound love of Penang. With a passion, especially for Penang hawker food, and her family’s affinity to the Peranakan heritage, she brings her knowledge, experiences and special personal insights to share with you."- Message from the Right Honourable Chief Minister of Penang, Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon