Whether youre from Sabah, Sarawak, Kalimantan, or Brunei, this travel guide will help you make the most of your journey through some of Malaysia’s most iconic destinations. Embark on an adventure from Johor to Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya, and experience historical sites, delicious food, and modern city vibes. Here’s how to plan your trip, with tips on transportation, accommodation, and activities in each destination.
1. Flight to Johor Bahru: Your Journey Begins
Start your adventure by booking a direct flight with AirAsia or Malaysia Airlines from Kota Kinabalu (BKI) or Kuching (KCH) to Senai International Airport (Johor Airport, JHB) in Johor Bahru. AirAsia offers budget-friendly fares, while Malaysia Airlines is perfect for travelers seeking added comfort.
Tip: Be sure to adhere to the cabin luggage requirement! AirAsia allows a cabin bag weighing up to 7 kg, while Malaysia Airlines allows up to 7 kg per carry-on. Consider purchasing additional luggage allowance if needed.
Exploring Johor Bahru: Your First Stop
Johor Bahru, the capital city of Johor, offers a variety of attractions:
Top Attractions:
- Legoland Malaysia Resort: A fun-filled theme park with rides, water parks, and life-sized Lego structures – a perfect place for families!
- Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque: A beautiful and historical mosque with stunning architecture.
- Johor Bahru City Square: A popular shopping destination with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Danga Bay: A waterfront attraction featuring restaurants, cafes, and family-friendly activities.
- Johor Premium Outlets – Ideal for shopping branded items at discounted prices.
Must-Try Food in Johor Bahru:
- Mee Rebus at Haji Wahids in Plaza Angsana.9
- Laksa Johor – Try it at Restoran Selasih.
- Otak-Otak: Spicy fish paste grilled in banana leaves.
- Kacang Pool – A unique dish made from fava beans and minced beef, usually served with toast.
Recommended Hotels:
- Check out AirAsia Hotel for affordable options like TROVE Johor Bahru or KSL Hotel & Resort.
Journey to Melaka: A Step Back in Time
After exploring Johor Bahru, take a comfortable bus ride from Johor Bahru to Melaka – the journey takes around 3 hours. Buses can be booked online via BusOnlineTicket.com or purchased directly at Larkin Bus Terminal.
Top Attractions:
- A Famosa: The iconic Portuguese fort that’s a symbol of Melaka’s history.
- Stadthuys: A Dutch colonial building now serving as a museum.
- Jonker Street: Famous for its night market, local snacks, and antique shops.
- Melaka River Cruise: A scenic boat ride that offers stunning views of the city.
Must-Try Food in Melaka:
- Chicken Rice Balls: Fluffy rice shaped into balls, served with steamed chicken.
- Asam Pedas: A spicy and tangy fish stew that’s a local favorite.
- Cendol: A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and green jelly noodles.
Recommended Hotels:
- Consider staying at Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka or The Rucksack Caratel, both bookable via AirAsia Hotel.
Exploring Kuala Lumpur: The Capital Adventure
Next, take a bus via BusOnlineTicket.com or use the AirAsia Ride service to travel from Melaka to Kuala Lumpur. You can opt to stay in AirAsia Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, as they offer affordable and comfortable accommodations.
Top Attractions:
- Petronas Twin Towers: Marvel at the tallest twin towers in the world and take a walk on the sky bridge.
- Batu Caves: A limestone hill with a series of caves and temples – don’t miss the giant Murugan statue!
- Bukit Bintang: A shopping paradise with malls like Pavilion KL, Fahrenheit88, and Berjaya Times Square.
- Kuala Lumpur Tower (Menara KL): Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
- Merdeka Square – A historic site where Malaysia declared its independence.
You can explore other attractions in Kuala Lumpur using the new MRT3 or other train services such as the Monorail and LRT or AirAsia Ride. These convenient options can take you to popular destinations like IKEA and Tun Razak Exchange.
Must-Try Food in Kuala Lumpur:
- Nasi Lemak: Malaysia’s national dish, comprising rice cooked in coconut milk, sambal, fried chicken, and more.
- Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, eggs, and bean sprouts.
- Roti Canai: Flaky flatbread served with curry.
Recommended Hotels:
- You can find great deals at Berjaya Times Square Hotel or Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, easily bookable on AirAsia Hotel..
Putrajaya: The City of Modern Architecture
Before returning home, make a stop at Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia. Its just a 30-minute drive from KL via Grab or AirAsia Ride. For a more personalized stay, consider staying at Arinara Homestay, offering a cozy and comfortable homestay experience.
Top Attractions:
- Putra Mosque (Pink Mosque): A stunning mosque with a unique pink dome, overlooking Putrajaya Lake.
- Putrajaya Lake Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise to view Putrajayas beautiful bridges and landmarks.
- Perdana Putra: The Prime Minister’s Office, a beautiful green-domed building.
Food in Putrajaya:
- Nasi Ayam Bonda – At Ayer 8 for a delicious meal of chicken rice.
- Satay Kajang – Famous skewered and grilled meats, served with a rich peanut sauce at Taman Warisan, Precint 16.
Accommodation Tip: Stay at Arinara Homestay
- For a comfortable stay in Putrajaya, consider Arinara Homestay for a cozy, home-away-from-home experience.
Heading Back Home: From Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu/Kuching, Kalimantan or Brunei
After your exciting journey through West Malaysia, it’s time to return home. You can choose to fly from KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) or the more budget-friendly Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport) to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Kalimantan (via Kota Kinabalu or Kuching), or Brunei, ensuring a smooth end to your travel experience.
Tip: Make sure you have purchased enough luggage allowance for your return journey, especially if you’ve done a lot of shopping!
Bonus Tips for Travelers:
- AirAsia Ride is a convenient and affordable way to get around the cities. Pre-book your rides through their app to save time.
- Adhere to Cabin Luggage Requirements: Be aware of cabin luggage limits for airlines, especially if you’re flying with AirAsia or Malaysia Airlines. Standard cabin luggage is usually capped at 7 kg.
- Plan for Extra Luggage: If you plan on shopping, buy extra luggage allowance in advance to avoid surcharges at the airport.
- Travel Light: Pack within the cabin luggage limits and buy luggage allowance if needed.
- Book Early for the Best Deals: Use AirAsia Ride for transport and AirAsia Hotel for accommodation to ensure budget-friendly options. Early bookings can save you money, especially for flights and hotels.
- Bring a Powerbank and Travel Adapter: Keep your devices charged during long journeys and make sure to have the correct power adapter for Malaysian outlets.
Top Reasons to Take This Trip:
- Culture & Heritage: Explore the rich history of Melaka and the modernity of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.
- Diverse Cuisine: Sample different Malaysian dishes across these cities.
- Shopping Galore: From premium brands in Kuala Lumpur to Jonker Street’s quirky finds in Melaka.
Conclusion: A Memorable and Budget-Friendly West Malaysian Holiday
Traveling from Sabah or Sarawak or Kalimantan or Brunei to West Malaysia can be a fulfilling experience filled with adventure, culture, and history. By following this guide, you’ll ensure that your trip from Johor to Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya is smooth, budget-friendly, and filled with memorable moments. Whether you’re exploring Legoland in Johor, admiring the historical landmarks of Melaka, or enjoying the urban vibes of Kuala Lumpur, this holiday promises something for everyone.
Happy travels!
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
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