Pahang

The east coast state of Pahang is the largest in Peninsula Malaysia and is perhaps nature's gift to the country. It has so much to offer the visitor and is usually the most sought after holiday destination by both locals and foreigners. Exotic flora and fauna are an intrinsic part of the wild life and there is unspoiled beauty throughout the state. Rich varied scenery and landscape leave visitors thoroughly enchanted with the magnificent gifts nature has bestowed on this tropical paradise. From pristine waterfalls to invigorating mountains, palm-fringed beaches to refreshing jungles, Pahang is a rendezvous with diversity and contrast.

Apart from its attractions, Pahang is also rich in natural resources with two-thirds of the state covered by tropical forests. Palm oil, rubber, and cocoa are cultivated extensively in large land development schemes. Manufacturing has also provided additional income to the state.

Sabah

Located in East Malaysia with Sarawak, Sabah is Malaysia's second largest state and northernmost province. Its natural attractions entice travelers in search of a different kind of Southeast Asian experience. Those with a taste for adventure will find that Sabah has almost everything. Most visitors head straight for Mount Kinabalu, which is one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia. Sabah is also legendary among nature lovers. Its lush tropical forests have more than their fair share of unique wildlife. And their easily accessible national parks and reserves ensure that certain animals, such as the rare orang utans can be seen in their natural environment. One can choose to jungle trek, explore caves, try water rafting, visit secluded beaches, dive in remote tropical islands, or visit longhouses to meet their genuine friendly and hospitable people and be intrigued by their traditional lifestyles. Sabah is simple yet sophisticated. It has retained its traditional charms despite keeping up with modernization. Sabah will certainly impress you with its unique and unspoiled character.
Sabah's natural riches have drawn both traders and raiders for centuries. Its history dates back to 1881. Sabah was then known as North Borneo and was administered by the British North Borneo Company. The British continued to rule the colony until 1942 when the Japanese invaded it. However, Britain recaptured the state in 1946 and converted it into a Crown Colony. The British rule ended in 1963 when the state obtained its independence by joining the Federation of Malaysia.
But Sabah's natural wealth still attracts other prospectors. Sabah's proximity with Indonesia and Philippines ensures both nations claim parts of the state as their own. There are close cultural ties with the Philippines although Sabah shares strong Islamic traditions with Peninsula Malaysia.
The Long Houses of Sabah
These long houses, which are built from wood, can accommodate up to 20 families! Activities such as cooking, weaving, and beading are all done in a common place for all residents. Visitors are welcomed to spend a night or two in these houses. Most of these long houses are found among the Rungus tribe near Kudat town.
Tamu
Tamus are traditional open-air fairs where natives sell a wide variety of local food, agricultural produces, and traditional crafts. Rural Sabahans take this opportunity to peddle their wares for city folks to buy, barter, or trade. Tamus also acts as a social place for community members to meet and chat. It is indeed a colorful 'bazaar' that should not be missed.


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Johor with History

Situated at the southern end of Peninsula Malaysia, Johor is the third largest state in the country. It was named after the Sungei Johor, which is the longest river in the state. Economically, it is one of the most important states in the country with various large plantations. They include commodities such as rubber, palm oil, and pineapple. On top of agricultural products, Johor is also becoming an industrial base. It has even developed to become one of the most populated states with Johor Bahru (JB), its capital city, as the second-largest city in Malaysia. A causeway and a railway line connect JB to Singapore, thus making it easier to travel to and from each country.

It is believed that Sultan Mahmud Shah, the last ruler of Malacca, founded Johor when he was forced to flee from the Portuguese in 1511. After his death, his son Alauddin Riayat Shah moved the capital to Kota Tinggi in Johor. He was able to build a strong kingdom, was feared by many, and was able to make Johor a preeminent Malay state. However, this did not mean the end of turmoil and fights. In the 16th Century, the state was attacked by the Portuguese followed by the Achinese from Sumatra, and later the Bugis from Sundawesi (Celebes). However, the Malay rulers of Johor managed to hold their own fort against all odds.

When Sir Stamford Raffles set foot in Singapore in 1819, he witnessed the factional war within the court of the Johor Sultan, which was divided by Malay and Bugis factions. He pensioned off the sultans and gave actual power to the "temenggong" (Malay minister). Temenggong Abu Bakar was given that privilege to rule Johor. He elevated himself to the position of Sultan of Johor in 1886. He persevered to build up the state and to modernize its administration. He established Johor Bahru (New Johor) as the capital city and began modernizing it. He was thus aptly called "The Father of Modern Johor". Johor finally became part of the Federation of Malaya in 1948.