As Merdeka Day approaches, Malaysia has yet another reason to stand tall and proud. Recent booking data from digital travel platform Agoda revealed that Kuala Lumpur ranked fifth among the top international destinations for the first half of 2024, behind Tokyo, Bangkok, Osaka, and Seoul.
But Malaysia’s appeal to international travellers extends beyond its capital. When looking at top destinations in Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Penang, Kota Kinabalu, and Melaka are the top choices for international travellers.
This Merdeka, Agoda showcases Malaysia’s “peaks” across the country – literal top spots located within these beloved destinations, each offering a unique story of triumph, heritage, natural wonder and spectacular views.
Merdeka 118 – the Modern Marvel Peak
Kuala Lumpur’s skyline was recently transformed with the opening of Merdeka 118, a 118-story skyscraper standing at 678.9 meters, making it the world’s second-tallest building, only surpassed by Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Named in honour of Malaysia’s independence, its spire reaches 700.9 meters above sea level, securing its place as the tallest building in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Its proximity to the historic Stadium Merdeka, where independence was proclaimed, adds historical significance, symbolising Malaysia’s modern achievements and aspirations for the future. Tourists can visit the observation deck to behold the beautiful skyline of this metropolitan city.
Gunung Ledang – the Blockbuster-worthy Peak
In Johor, the towering Gunung Ledang, or Mount Ophir, stands at 1,276 meters, making it the state’s highest peak and the heart of Gunung Ledang National Park. This natural treasure is rich with stunning landscapes and folklore. The mountain is known for the Legend of Gunung Ledang, in which a mystical princess set impossible tasks for her suitor, the Sultan of Melaka. The peak’s mystique and majesty continue to attract visitors eager to explore its trails and stories. Notably, it inspired films such as “Puteri Gunung Ledang” starring Tiara Jacquelina and M. Nasir.
Penang Hill – the Historic Peak
Up north, Penang Hill offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. It is part of the UNESCO-recognised Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve and is Malaysia’s third listing in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Serving as a hill resort since the late 18th century, Penang Hill is home to the Penang Hill Railway, a funicular railway that climbs to the peak. The original railway opened in 1924 and was most recently overhauled in 2010.
Mount Kinabalu – the Natural Wonder Peak
In Borneo, Mount Kinabalu rises to 4,095 meters, making it the highest peak in Malaysia and the third-highest island peak globally. This natural wonder is the centrepiece of Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its biodiversity. The slopes of Mount Kinabalu host a vast array of flora and fauna, including the Rafflesia plants and elusive hornbills. With 5,000-6,000 plant species, 326 bird species, and over 100 mammalian species, it is one of the world’s most important biological sites. For adventure seekers, climbing to its peak is both a physical challenge and a journey through nature’s splendour.
Taming Sari Tower – the Panoramic Peak
The Taming Sari Tower, is an iconic landmark in Melaka, standing at 110 meters and offering panoramic 360-degree views of the historic city, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, A Famosa Fort, St. Paul’s Hill, and bustling Jonker Street. Named after the legendary Taming Sari keris, a mythical weapon wielded by Malay warrior Hang Tuah, this gyro tower’s rotating observation deck accommodates up to 80 people and provides breathtaking birds-eye views of Melaka and beyond.
Celebrating Malaysia
With Merdeka Day taking place on the 31st of August, Agoda recommends both local and international travellers to elevate their journeys by adding these ‘top spots’ to their travel itineraries. From the sophistication of Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka 118 to the mystical allure of Mount Ledang, the historical richness of Penang Hill, and the natural grandeur of Mount Kinabalu, each peak symbolises a unique aspect of Malaysia’s heritage and achievements, while offering visitors experiences like no other.
