THE SOLO DRIFTER: A Travel Guide to Harmonious Malaysia’s DiverCITY

This article was first published on 28 December 2019; updated on 3 January 2026.

Before our Asia-Pacific train-the-trainers program in Singapore, I once rerouted my flight to Malaysia and began what became the first stop of my third #SEAtour. Five years later, in April 2025, I found myself returning—not as a solo drifter, but traveling with my family. Got an affordable flight via AirAsia, amounting to MYR630 from Manila to Kuala Lumpur for all of us.

There is still no time difference between Malaysia and the Philippines, and the flight remains a comfortable four hours. Philippine passport holders continue to enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days—but travel processes have evolved, making the journey even more seamless.

You may want to watch my video detailing our Malaysia 2025 adventure:

What you need to know about Malaysia

Federal constitutional monarchy
The head of state is the king (elected monarch chosen from the hereditary rulers of the nine Malay states every five years)
The head of government is the Prime Minister
Consists of 13 states and three federal territories
Multi-ethnic and multi-cultural
The word “melayu” in Malay may derive from the Tamil words “malai” and “ur” meaning “mountain” and “city, land”, respectively
The country has developed into a centre of Islamic banking, and is the country with the highest numbers of female workers in that industry.
Islam is the religion of the Federation, while freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed

What you need to know about Greater Kuala Lumpur/ Kuala Lumpur

National capital and largest city in Malaysia
Among the fastest growing metropolitan regions in Southeast Asia, in both population and economic development
Houses three of the world’s ten largest shopping malls
Named as one of the New7Wonders Cities, and has been named as World Book Capital 2020 by UNESCO
Means “muddy confluence” in Malay; kuala is the point where two rivers join together or an estuary, and lumpur means “mud”
Protected by the Titiwangsa Range in the east and Indonesia’s Sumatra Island in the west, Kuala Lumpur is safe from strong winds and has a tropical rainforest climate, which is warm and sunny, along with abundant rainfall, especially during the northeast monsoon season from October to March.
Flood is a frequent occurrence in Kuala Lumpur after heavy downpours, especially in the city centre because the structural irrigation lacks behind the intensive development within the City.
Was administered by a corporation sole called the Federal Capital Commissioner from 1 April 1961, until it was awarded city status in 1972, after which executive power transferred to the Lord Mayor (Datuk Bandar).
The architecture of Kuala Lumpur is a mixture of old colonial influences, Asian traditions, Malay Islamic inspirations, modern, and postmodern architecture mix.

What you need to know about Cameron Highlands

Noted for its cool weather, orchards, nurseries, farmlands, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, wildlife, mossy forest, golf course, hotels, places of worship, bungalows, Land Rovers, museum and its aborigines (Orang Asli).
Named after William Cameron, a British explorer and geologist who was commissioned by the then colonial government to map out the Pahang-Perak border area in 1885.
Its mean annual temperature is 18 °C (64 °F).
As with most of western Pahang, the Cameron Highlands is not served by any KTM railway station, the closest being in Kuala Lipis and Tapah Road. Nevertheless, there are several bus services that connect the Highlands to the other towns in West Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Penang and Tapah.

Arrival in Malaysia

One important update since my earlier trips is the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). All foreign visitors are now required to complete the MDAC online within three days before arrival. This digital form replaces the old paper arrival card and is checked by immigration officers upon entry. In some cases, airlines may also ask for confirmation during check-in, so it’s best to keep a screenshot or digital copy on hand.

Where to stay

Back in my solo days, I stayed in Chinatown. In 2025, we based ourselves near Hotel Maluri, giving us a more local, residential feel—proof that Kuala Lumpur works just as well beyond its tourist cores.

Kuala Lumpur

While waiting for the first trip of KLIA Ekspres, decided to have a hot milk tea at Hometown Hainan Coffee, a premium café that modernizes the culture of relaxing in a local coffee house. It is known for its “kaya,” a coconut jam made from a base of coconut milk, eggs and sugar so did not miss to try it. What I love about the KL International Airport is its full of food choices, it has different restaurants and café offering different cuisines and courses.

Had my dollars exchanged with Malaysian ringgit at the RHB Bank in the airport. It has a good deal. Malaysia uses type G power socket, similar to the British socket so bought one in a FamilyMart in the airport, costing me MYR48. Then bought a single-journey card to KL Sentral via KLIA Ekspres, a non-stop airport rail link service to KL Sentral. It costs MYR55. I must say that KLIA Ekspres is one of the best airport services I have ever seen. On the other hand, KLIA Transit is a commuter rail service between KL Sentral and KL International Airport that stops at all stations. You may buy a weekly or monthly KLIA Transit TravelCard, ranging from MYR60 to MYR400. Enjoy a 10% discount when you buy your KLIA Transit tickets from the self-service kiosk.

From KL Sentral, took a budget taxi to Amigo Hotel. Room rate for two is only MYR66 but expect that hotels will ask you to pay a tourism tax of MYR10 as a foreigner. The room is not that big but that’s fine, would need to check out at night for Cameron Highlands tour.

Had breakfast at Texas Chicken, a fast food chain. I just noticed that almost all restaurants offer free refill of soda. I know, Filipinos will love this!

The Royal Palace

Picked up by tour guide, brought to the Royal Palace. In 2019, I booked the tour through Klook. In 2025, it was through GetYourGuide but I had to cancel the KL city tour because the tour operator (Exotic Asia Holidays Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd) was disrespectful. Thankfully, I was able to notice that a day before the scheduled tour and switched instead to our taxi driver, Mr. Simon, from the airport. He requested Mr. Long to fix our itinerary. For that whole day (10am-8pm), we paid MYR880.

The Royal Palace in Kuala Lumpur (often called Istana Negara) is the official residence of the reigning monarch of Malaysia, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. Set on expansive grounds along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim, it combines modern Malaysian and Islamic architectural elements and is a major ceremonial and symbolic landmark for the country’s constitutional monarchy.

Of course, tourists are not allowed to get inside so I only have a photo remembrance outside the Palace. Since Malaysia was a British colony, they have the same UK Palace set up, guards stand there all day long and with one riding a horse.

Batu Caves

One of the best things to do in KL is to make a journey outside of the city to the colorful Batu Caves. It is an important and sacred place for the Hindu people as the limestone hill houses a number of caves and Hindu cave temples. Batu Temple Cave has no entrance fee and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The complex features a series of limestone caverns—some transformed into temple halls—accessible via 272 vibrantly painted steps. The main Temple Cave houses numerous shrines dedicated to Murugan and other deities. At its entrance stands a 42.7-meter-tall statue of Lord Murugan, one of the tallest Hindu deity statues in the world.

Royal Selangor

Next stop is the visitor centre of the largest pewter manufacturer in the world. Pewter is a malleable metal alloy. The world’s largest pewter tankard recognized by the Guinness Book of Records was made by Royal Selangor in 1985 to commemorate its centenary. Royal Selangor Visitor Centre uses technology for the self tour as you will be given a gadget with sensor. When you go to a specific spot, you will hear a voice narrating history and trivia of that section or object, just plug the earphones! Notable attractions are the unique rendition of the Petronas Twin Towers made from over 7,000 tankards; the comyns archive that contain more than 35,000 artefacts from comyns; a prestigious silver brand founded in 1645; and watch how pewter crafting is done real-time from casting, polishing to assembling.

Of course, I did not miss to buy a souvenir – a unisex wearable 24k gold plated pewter.

National Monument

This place has a great view as you get to see the see of skyscrapers from the bronze monument of seven soldiers carrying a Malaysian flag which is dedicated to the Malaysian militaries who died during the World War II and the 11,000 people who died during the Malayan Emergency, which lasted for 12 years from 1948. The seven soldiers represent seven qualities of leadership – courage, strength, sacrifice, command, unity, suffering, and wariness.

Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Merdeka Square

Built in 1987, the building stand majestically with its breathtaking architecture. It was once the administration building of the British colonizers.

Merdeka Square, or Dataran Merdeka, is a historic public square in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is best known as the site where the Malayan flag was first raised on August 31, 1957, marking the country’s independence from British rule. Today, it remains a symbolic landmark for national events and celebrations.

River of Life

River of Life in Kuala Lumpur is a large-scale urban riverfront revitalization project that transforms sections of the Klang River and Gombak River into a vibrant public waterfront. It combines river cleaning, flood management, heritage conservation, and placemaking with tourism-oriented lighting, fountains, and promenades.

National Mosque

I really fell in love with Malaysia until our tour guide stopped here, explaining the message of this unique mosque – it represents harmony and unity of the different cultures living in Malay. It sends a message of respect of religion and beliefs. The way my tour guide in 2019 delivered this, coming from his heart, I saw and it manifests how people who live in Malaysia love this country, “Nobody owns Malaysia. We just love it.”

Harriston Botique

Our last top from Klook’s full city day tour in 2019, not to mention the Petronas and Chinatown and our free lunch, is Harriston Botique. It offers more than 150 chocolate variants, including my first try’s ruby chocolates. Yes, that was my first time to hear that kind of chocolate as I only know some like milk and dark chocolates. Witnessed how they make some of their products and bought pasalubongs – a kilo of unbreakable almond chocolates, “no need to refrigerate” monkey chocolate, a bottle of cacao powders.

Belice Chocolate Kingdom

For families, this stops ticks all the right boxes: it’s educational without being dull, gives kids (and adults) something fun to explore, and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and tasting. Belice Chocolate Kingdom added a sweet, immersive twist to the city’s food and cultural scene.

Chinatown and Central Market

Central Market (Pasar Seni Kuala Lumpur) is a historic market building and cultural landmark in central Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Originally a wet market in the late 19th century, it has been transformed into a major hub for Malaysian arts, crafts, and souvenirs, attracting both locals and tourists.

Today, Central Market functions as both a shopping destination and a showcase of Malaysian culture. Performances, seasonal festivals, and occasional street shows take place in and around the building, reinforcing its role as a cultural gathering point. Its location next to Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur and close to the Pasar Seni public transport stations makes it an easy stop for visitors exploring the city’s historic core.

After my worship service, I met my KPMG batchmate in the Philippines, Merk. He is now working in a shared service centre of a Malaysian low-cost airline company. He treated me to Nando’s.

KL Tower

A visit to Kuala Lumpur Tower offers a different perspective of the city—literally and figuratively. Returning in 2025, seeing KL Tower with my family made the experience more reflective than rushed. It wasn’t just about ticking off another viewpoint; it was about pausing to appreciate how expansive yet livable Kuala Lumpur feels from above.

Petronas Twin Towers

There are a lot of people outside the Petronas but worry not on your selfie, the space can accommodate your dream! The world’s tallest towers are beautiful whatever the angle is.

The Petronas Twin Towers are iconic skyscrapers located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Completed in 1998, they were the world’s tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004 and remain the tallest twin towers globally. Designed by architect César Pelli, the towers symbolize Malaysia’s modernization and economic growth.

Where to eat

Envi Skydining

Dining at Envi Sky Dining is as much about the view as it is about the food. From its elevated vantage point, the restaurant offers a panorama of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline, most notably, a clear and striking view of the Petronas Twin Towers rising proudly in the distance. As day turns to night, watching the Twin Towers illuminate the city adds a quiet sense of occasion to the experience. It felt like the perfect setting to slow down and take it all in together. Away from the noise at street level, the atmosphere encourages unhurried conversations and shared moments. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxed yet memorable evening, where Kuala Lumpur’s iconic skyline.

Lai Foong Lala Noodles, Chinatown

One of the culinary gems we discovered in Chinatown’s vibrant food scene was Lai Foong Lala Noodles, a humble noodle spot that has earned a Bib Gourmand distinction in the Michelin Guide. Unlike Michelin stars (which recognize fine dining at the highest level), the Bib Gourmand designation celebrates chefs and eateries that deliver consistently delicious dishes without breaking the bank. Lai Foong’s signature lala (clam) noodles, simmered in an aromatic broth of ginger and Chinese yellow wine and served with springy rice vermicelli, exemplify this balance of flavour and approachability. What began as a simple street stall has grown into a must-visit culinary address in Kuala Lumpur’s Jalan Sultan area, making it perfect for families and food lovers seeking authentic local fare with Michelin-level endorsement.

Old Town White Coffee

Right around our hotel is Old Town White Coffee—a familiar, casual café that’s become a favorite stop for both locals and visitors looking for comforting Malaysian-style coffee and simple meals. Old Town is most famous for its white coffee, a uniquely Malaysian take where coffee beans are roasted with margarine and served with condensed milk, resulting in a smooth, rich cup that pairs perfectly with their signature kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and hearty noodle or rice dishes.

Cameron Highlands

Did not miss to visit Cameron Highlands. It is like Baguio in the Philippines. During my first Malaysia trip, this was the last part of my itinerary but during our family trip, this was the first.

But going up here is a challenge. During my first trip, took 11:45 p.m. trip at TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan) to Ipoh. Didn’t expect TBS – it’s like an airport, with functioning barcode scanner for your boarding passes, and buses leave the terminal on time. Arrived at Ipoh around 2 a.m. Bus ticket costs MYR20 via 12GOAsia. From Ipoh to Tanah Rata bus terminal is three hours and it costs MYR22. When we got to Tanah Rata, the bus conductor asked if interested to rent a taxi for a tour because unlike some tourist spots in Baguio, Cameron’s are meters away so you really have to take a taxi. Got to meet a Filipino administrative staff of a travel agency who arranged the tour, thanks to that bus conductor!

For our 2025 trip, booked a van through 12GOAsia to take us to Cameron Highlands from KL and costed us MYR860. Our tour was booked through Klook and costed us USD65. We went back to KL from Tanah Rata via bus booked through 12GO Asia, amounting to USD60 (for all of us five, including my brother’s girlfriend).

Boh Tea Plantation

Thanks to our taxi driver for the tour and for taking good photos. First stop is the Boh Tea Plantation that greets visitors with a panoramic sights of undulating tea fields that stretch our for acres. The café, which has a balcony and a terrace, offers spectacular viewpoints for visitors to indulge in while sipping on a cup of tea. I bought a number of tea here because it’s cheap and the quality is promising.

Boh Tea Plantation is a hillside tea estate and visitor destination in the Cameron Highlands of Pahang, Malaysia. It is part of the Boh tea company’s highland gardens, known for sweeping green terraces, cool mountain air, and an iconic modern café overlooking the valley. The plantation is one of Malaysia’s most famous scenic spots and a major draw in the Cameron Highlands.

Mossy Forest

Mossy Forest in the Cameron Highlands is a high-elevation cloud forest near the summit of Mount Brinchang in Pahang, Malaysia. It is famous for its otherworldly landscape of twisted, moss-draped trees, constant mist, and a cool, damp climate that contrasts sharply with lowland tropical forests.

Copthorne Hotel

One of the most relaxing and memorable moments of our Cameron Highlands visit was breakfast at Copthorne Hotel. The hotel offers a dining area that opens out to an expansive view of mist-shrouded hills, lush tea plantations, and layered valleys that stretch to the horizon. The calm, fresh air and panoramic scenery gave us a sense of space and serenity that’s uniquely Cameron Highlands, so different from the urban energy of Kuala Lumpur.

Other places visited

Cameron Lavender Garden

Rose Garden

Honey Bee Farm

Other places to visit

Strawberry Farm
Sam Poh Temple
Butterfly Farm

Did not try to visit these other places as we also have them in Baguio and they are better home but the vibe in Cameron Highlands is different – not crowded and the food deserve you. You should try them!

As usual, you don’t see any theme park activities here like the Legoland because I’m not really fan of it.

Malaysia-Singapore

Now is the time to bid good bye to Malaysia. In 2019 – straight from Tanah Rata, went back to KL Sentral to pick up luggage, in time for Singapore trip. Failed to catch booked Singapore bus and yes, they are not providing refund so I needed to buy a new one. At TBS, there are available lockers where you can rent for only MYR5 to MYR10.

At the Malaysia-Singapore border, it will take you around 30 minutes for immigration processes. It’s hassle-free in Malaysia, but Singapore is more strict.

In Southeast Asia, Malaysia is my second favorite country after Thailand because of its diversity and vibe. The people’s humility manifests their love to their country. Where progress does not erase culture. Where people choose parks over pressure, family over frenzy.

Also, because of its cheap gas and diesel, families in Malaysia, according to our tour guide, averagely own four cars. But, Manila traffic is still heavier because of Malaysia’s good transportation system and road system. Malaysian people like to take their own cars instead of the public transportation because they appreciate more time with their family. Most of them choose to stay home or enjoy the parks with their loved ones. And that is the culture I love most about Malaysia.

You may also watch my 2019 video here:

Click this for the itinerary and budget.

Please click the following links for their respective travel guides:

Singapore

Indonesia

WRITE A RESPONSE ARTICLE
Response article enables VoicePoints readers to respond to the article published by the author by completing the form below. Under ‘Message’ box, please ensure to include the title of the main article you are responding.

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

About the Author

Paul Michael JaramilloChief Executive Editor

PJ is a Certified Public Accountant, writer, storyteller, and an advocate for youth empowerment and environmental protection. His passion for storytelling and social impact has taken many forms—from writing thought-provoking articles on national development, featured in a Spanish newspaper and Rappler, to producing documentaries on mining and environmental issues that aired on ABS-CBN News and GMA News.

A proud Ilocano and graduate of Northwestern University, PJ earned his degree in Accountancy then passed the CPA licensure exam in 2015. That same year, he began his professional career at KPMG in the Philippines. As an external auditor, he handled a diverse portfolio of clients, including a global workspace provider (the largest audit engagement of KPMG Philippines), a global bank, a major FMCG player, and several shared service centers.

His commitment to innovation was evident early in his career. PJ and his team won the KPMG Asia-Pacific Data & Analytics Challenge and later coached the Philippine team to a top-three finish at the KPMG GlobalRunner Cup. He went on to lead KPMG Philippines' Network of Audit Innovators and Data & Analytics Champions, as well as its academic arm. He was an active contributor to the Asia-Pacific Audit Digital Transformation Workstream and a member of both the Audit Methodology Group and the Root Cause Analysis Team. Beyond technical excellence, PJ is deeply committed to learning and leadership. He was a regular training facilitator on audit methodology, professional standards, and emerging tools in data and analytics. He also served as the Firm’s System of Quality Management (SoQM) Implementation Manager and one of its Workforce of the Future Champions.

In 2019, he contributed to the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) as a member of its Technical Working Group on Audit Methodology. His role in shaping audit quality and innovation has left a meaningful imprint on the profession.

PJ defines success by the people he uplifts. As a mentor and coach, he invests in the growth of emerging professionals and previously served as a member of the KPMG Philippines People Committee.

He leads various community-centered advocacy projects and shares inspiring stories through his vlog, PJspirations, a platform that celebrates individuals and their journeys. As a volunteer, he serves as Academic Master and Head Coach of PREMIER International Learning and Development Center, an organization devoted to providing coaching, mentoring, and training programs that help people grow personally and professionally.

Today, PJ brings his passion and expertise to the Middle East, South Asia, and Caspian regions as part of KPMG’s Professional Practice and Audit Learning & Development team. In this role, he contributes to audit methodology advancement and learning strategy across the Middle East Cluster.

He is also a certified #IAmRemarkable facilitator, leading sessions of the global Google initiative that empowers women and underrepresented groups to celebrate their achievements.

Tiktok: PJspirations
Snapchat: pgb_088
Personal Website: http://lnk.bio/pjspirations

Author’s latest published articles

All articles published by this author