Malaysia: Rich in Diversity

I did so much travelling during my twenties. However, this was more often living and working abroad; rather than pure ‘backpacking’, so to speak. But there was one place I did manage to travel, in the traditional sense. And that was Malaysia.

The Petronas Towers

A country that I picked purely because I had four weeks to fill, and Kuala Lumpur was the cheapest place to fly to between New Zealand and the USA. What an amazing piece of luck that turned out to be! To follow were astounding meanders amidst new formed friendships, prodigious parties, enviable experiences that you can only read about, and even better ones you don’t.

These unbelievable scenes took place in a travel movie, which was set in the city, the jungle, the beach; more cities, more jungles, a mountain and one mighty hangover.

The shadow of Mt. Kinabalu cascading for miles, as Borneo greets the sun for a new day.

A variety of ancient beliefs, traditions and cultures are hand in hand with the modern Western push. Shiny new cars driving on clean streets between magnificent skyscrapers, under the glow of soft warm restaurant lights with glimmers of vibrant neon from the fancy bars. The ambience of laughter and relaxed, intellectual conversation, hums through in a variety of accents and languages.

But this modern push has a dark side too. So many square miles of jungle are lost every day, just to clear the land to plant palm trees for palm oil. Cultivated in regimented rows, squatted and stunted; these natural factories hide behind walls, whose gates are often guarded by men at arms. None of the previous inhabitants will ever call that land home again.

Of course, it’s not all doom and gloom; but that shouldn’t be ignored either. I stayed with a tribe in Borneo, who lived so remotely that to visit, I had to travel for over an hour across a lake and up a river into the jungle. Yes, it was in one of those narrow boats you always see on TV. Yes, I constantly felt like I was going to fall in; and ever so tightly clutched my camera to my chest, for what it was worth.

 

As traditionally as they live, even the tribes people have modern technology as a part of their lives now. But they embrace it; they told me how proud they were of their children (and grandchildren) for going to study at university. Clearly pleased that their youngsters are also able to take advantage of the ever-expanding opportunities of the modern age.

A man fishing on the Tembeling River, our route into the Taman Negara jungle.

On another boat trip into the jungle. My first, into the Taman Negara. I saw a man fishing using a net, and a group of naked children with their mothers, coming to the river to bathe. People still living traditional lives.

The next day we ventured further still into the jungle, to meet a tribe who lived in cosy huts, constructed from the natural materials around, and raised off the floor on wooden stilts in case the river flooded. They showed us how they lived and we were able to share stories in return. This clearly wasn’t their first rodeo entertaining technological dependent foreigners, and we all had a truly entertaining and captivating day!

A beautiful sunset ends another day, and starts another party, on Pulau Perhentian Kecil.

Then you come back to the city and everyone is on their phone, getting angry in traffic, dancing to loud music. But, it’s still fun. You’re with your new friends, celebrating the shared, inimitable experiences you had in the jungle, and on the paradise island beaches.

Hanging out in the communal area of a traditional and authentic Iban Long House.

And that is why Malaysia is rich in diversity.

 

 

To be continued…

 

 

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest

177 Comments
Newest
Oldest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
legend link
legend link
7 hours ago

Malaysia’s cultural tapestry is truly remarkable! The blend of traditions and modernity creates unique entertainment experiences. Just as diverse cultures enrich a destination, variety in gaming keeps players engaged. A legend link game offers that same thrilling diversity for online entertainment enthusiasts seeking authentic experiences.

spark777game
spark777game
6 days ago

Spark777game is where it’s at! These games got that spark that keeps you coming back for more. Give ’em a spin and see if you can ignite your winning streak. spark777game

shwecasinologin
shwecasinologin
6 days ago

Looking for a slick casino login experience? shwecasinologin is worth a look. Quick, easy, and gets you straight into the action. No fuss, just pure gaming goodness. shwecasinologin

new8822
new8822
6 days ago

Yo, new8822 is the new hotspot! Fresh games, smooth experience, and decent chances to win. Jump in and see what all the hype is about. You might just find your new favorite! new8822

shwecasinologin
shwecasinologin
13 days ago

Looking for a slick casino login experience? shwecasinologin is worth a look. Quick, easy, and gets you straight into the action. No fuss, just pure gaming goodness. shwecasinologin

lucky97game
lucky97game
13 days ago

Feeling lucky? Head over to lucky97game! They’ve got a good vibe and some jackpots that are just begging to be won. Might be your lucky day, ya never know! lucky97game

apuesta caliente
apuesta caliente
13 days ago

Apuesta Caliente? I’d consider making a bet there. I am looking for a good place to bet on sports online, anything good about this one? apuesta caliente

jilli
jilli
26 days ago

Understanding game probabilities really enhances the fun, doesn’t it? Seeing how platforms like jilli online casino prioritize easy account setup & quick deposits makes getting started so much simpler for players! It’s all about access.

we9game
we9game
26 days ago

Anyone checked out we9game yet? Found a few gems I hadn’t seen before. Definitely bookmarking this one for future game hunts.

x222gamedownload
x222gamedownload
26 days ago

I checked out x222gamedownload and installed a couple of games. Worth it if you are into mobile gamingx222gamedownload.

z999
z999
26 days ago

z999 popped up as something new to check out. I played there a little and thought it was fun and worth investigating z999.

elpatrullero777
elpatrullero777
30 days ago

Elpatrullero777… okay, so it’s not the flashiest site out there, but it gets the job done. Games are fair and the experience is smooth. Nothing wrong with that. Explore it here, elpatrullero777

vegeta777
vegeta777
30 days ago

Listen, Vegeta777 is pretty decent. I’ve won a few bucks there. The customer service is surprisingly helpful too. Give it a try vegeta777

vegeta7777
vegeta7777
30 days ago

Vegeta7777? Yeah, I’ve dabbled a bit. Interface is clean and easy to navigate. Could use a few more game variety, but overall not bad. Worth a shot. See for yourself vegeta7777

86win
86win
1 month ago

86win? Well, that’s the goal isn’t it! Let’s see if it lives up to the name. I hope I win there! Right here: 86win

811bet
811bet
1 month ago

811bet, huh? I’m liking the sound of that. Hoping for some big wins there. Gonna give it a spin tonight! Get your tickets: 811bet

79xapp
79xapp
1 month ago

79xapp sounds like fun, maybe something new to try. Downloading now, let’s see if this is my new favorite. Worth a try: 79xapp

bb8
bb8
1 month ago

Interesting read! Thinking about the evolution of casino games-from brick & mortar to digital-is fascinating. Platforms like bb8 game really show that transition, offering both classic & modern experiences. Solid analysis!

68wim
68wim
1 month ago

68wim seems like a fun place to hang out and play. The community aspect seems big, which is cool. Give it a look for some new friends and games! Check the site 68wim.

5mbdangky
5mbdangky
1 month ago

Registration on 5mbdangky was really fast. If you’re looking for a quick setup, give them a try. Pretty straightforward and easy to navigate. Take a look here 5mbdangky.

345vipbet
345vipbet
1 month ago

Been using 345vipbet for a while now and their odds are pretty competitive. They also offer a live betting section. Worth checking out if you are into sports betting. Link is 345vipbet.

pak365game Player
pak365game Player
1 month ago

pak365game’s got some interesting games! Quick access and a decent selection. Worth a look if you’re bored. See for yourself at pak365game.

y888gameapk Fan
y888gameapk Fan
1 month ago

Yo, y888gameapk! Found some pretty cool APKs here. Easy to download and all that. Good stuff! Checkout y888gameapk for some fun.

jili777win
jili777win
1 month ago

Oi, oi! Gave jili777win a burl and it’s actually pretty decent. Easy to navigate too, even when you’ve had a few. Give it a go! jili777win

vipph21
vipph21
1 month ago

VIpph21, feels promising. Anyone has good experience here? I’m curious. Thinking about registering. Have anyone try this? vipph21

superph vip
superph vip
1 month ago

Signed up for Superph vip, and the benefits are already kicking in like free spins and bonuses. Time to have some serious entertainment and hopefully a big victory! Join the vip club! superph vip.

88clb8gq
88clb8gq
1 month ago

88clb8gq? Sounds like something new. Let see if this site has some fun things to do! I have a good feeling about this one. Here’s the site: 88clb8gq

Gerard492
Gerard492
2 months ago
me777
me777
2 months ago

That’s a great point about responsible gaming – crucial for enjoying any platform! It’s interesting how me777 focuses on a VIP experience & secure access. Check out me777 slot download for a curated, high-stakes gaming club – seems pretty exclusive! Definitely prioritizing quality over quantity there.

8855betapp
8855betapp
2 months ago

The 8855betapp is fantastic for mobile betting! It’s designed well, runs smoothly. It’s my pick for betting on the go! 8855betapp

8855bet9
8855bet9
2 months ago

I recently tried my luck at 8855bet9. They have a responsive customer support and wide games. It’s a decent platform for all kinds of players! 8855bet9

jilibet020
jilibet020
2 months ago

Alright, jilibet020, let’s see what kind of games you have. I hope it has a decent user experience. Let’s take a look at jilibet020.

500jlcasino
500jlcasino
2 months ago

500jlcasino has been a steady experience. Offers many perks to new players. You can join up over at 500jlcasino.

codwincasino
codwincasino
2 months ago

Decent casino experience on codwincasino. The live games are pretty good, and the customer support is responsive. Give codwincasino a try if you’re after something new.

777phslot
777phslot
2 months ago

777phslot, slots are fun, and the graphics are pretty good. I’ve had a few wins, so I can’t complain. Spin those reels at 777phslot.

yonorummyappbet
yonorummyappbet
2 months ago

Yono Rummy app bet – I am a good player of this, has anyone else tried it? Is this site legit? Don’t want to get scammed and lose what I’ve won. Try it yourself at: yonorummyappbet

spinluckybet
spinluckybet
2 months ago

Hey guys, anyone tried Spinluckybet? I just signed up and the slots seem pretty fun. Let’s see if it’s actually lucky! Check it out for yourself: spinluckybet

royalwincom
royalwincom
2 months ago

Royalwincom… the name sounds promising! Gave it a browse and honestly wasn’t blown away, but it’s functional and has what you need. Check it out for yourself: royalwincom.

177
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x