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Langkawi P O R T E X P L O R E R

LangkawiM A L A Y S I A

This information has been compiled for the convenience of our guests and is intended solely for that purpose. While we work to ensure that the information contained herein is correct,

we cannot accept responsibility for any changes that may have taken place since printing.

© RCCL 2009. All rights reserved.

GENERAL INFORMATION Years ago many ea-gles made their nests on the island. Combined with the interesting rock formations, Langkawi seems to have gotten its name from the Malaysian word for eagle, “helang” and the classic Indian word for marble, “kawi”. Historians are not sure if this is ac-curate, but on an island that is so rich in folklore and legends, this makes for a good story.

Chinese historical records make mention of Lang-kawi dating as far back as 500AD (which is practi-cally modern in terms of Chinese history). As it is today, the island was under the rule of the Malaysian Royal Sultanate of Kedah (on the mainland) which came to power and wealth as a prime stop-over and resting spot along the ancient trade routes between India and China. Geographically close to Thailand, it is understandable that there should be a great deal of cross-cultural influence. During the colonial period Langkawi and all of Malaysia came under English rule and was regarded as an extremely important part of the British Empire. This led to the conquering of the peninsula by the Japanese army in the very early days of World War II.

For as long as India and China have used the Straits of Malacca as a seagoing trade route, pirates have probably used the islands of Langkawi as an excel-lent place to hide and from which to launch their at-tacks. Even a cut-throat pirate could appreciate the beauty and seclusion of a Langkawi beach. As it had been for countless generations, life for the villagers on the island was peaceful and quiet with little more to do than farming and fishing. That all changed when Dr. Mahathir Mohammad, who was personally very fond of Langkawi, was elected as the Prime Minister of Malaysia in 1981. In order to attract tour-ists to the island and encourage development, it was

decided that Langkawi would be designated as a duty-free zone. Today the island is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the world.

HISTORY Malaysia is an ancient country steeped in tradition, mystery and lore. Archeologists have discovered the evidence of human habita-tion that dates back over 40,000 years. A simple look at the map will show why Malaysia, over the centuries, has been such an important destination along the sea trade routes between China, India and Europe. Historians believe that a people related to the Orang Asli, together with others migrating south from China, came to the southern peninsula of Malaysia over 5,000 years ago. The people were good farmers and met-al workers, but it was the strategic location on the trade routes between India and China that had the biggest effect upon the development of the people, their language and culture.

In the early days there was a strong influence of the Hindu and Bud-dhist religions. Traders from Arabia also brought with them Islam and it slowly began to spread in the 13th century. When the rulers of Ma-laysia converted to Islam the transition was official and complete. In the early 16th century Portuguese explorers captured the strategic city of Malacca and added it to their trade empire for the next 150 years. In 1641 Holland, as they built their empire through the Dutch East India Company, captured the city of Malacca from the Portuguese and began, together with the British, their dominance of this entire region of the world up until World War II.

With the beginning of World War II the importance of Malaysia was clearly apparent and highly prized. The country had a large supply

SHOPPING Much of the growth and popularity of Langkawi is due to its being designated as a Duty-Free Zone for both na-tional and international goods and products. The island’s main town of Kuah is where you will find the majority of stores and shops. The choice and variety of goods might seem a bit limited, especially when compared to larger cities like Kuala Lumpur. The Langkawi Fair in Kuah has over 100 vendors and is the largest mall on Langkawi. The Jetty Point Shopping Complex, Saga Shopping Centre and Zone Shopping Paradise in Pantai Cenang make up some of the other shopping ven-ues.

The modern goods on Langkawi are available anywhere. It is the amazing craftsmanship of the Malaysian artisan that make items such as batik (hand-woven cloth) and the handmade pewter and pottery so special. Careful shopping can get you a piece that you will always treasure in remembrance of your visit to beautiful Langkawi.

LOCAL CURRENCY The local currency is called Ringgit Malaysia (RM). Ringgit banknotes are issued in denomina-tions of RM1, RM2, RM5, RM10, RM50 and RM100. Coins are issued in 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen. Banks are only located in the town of Kuah. Licensed money changers are available with their offices found close to duty-free shops.

TOURIST INFORMATION Help and advice you may need while on Langkawi is offered by Tourism Malaysia located at Jl Persiaran Putra, Kuah. If you have a bit more serious prob-lem then seek out one of the Malaysian Tourist Police. Their uniform consists of a hat with a checkered band and a dark blue shirt. On their shirt is a badge with the letter “I“ on it. The letter stands for “Information”. The Tourist Police patrol the areas most visited by guests to the island.

TRANSPORTATION The best way to get around on Lang-kawi is by taxi. Due to the fact that this is strictly a tourist destination the fares might seem a bit steep. You can hire a taxi for the day if you want to make a number of different stops, but for the most part they are very easy to find throughout the island.

When you get to the pier in Kuah don’t worry about finding a car rental company. Their representatives will find you. As a note of caution, please be aware that there are a number of illegal operators who try to rent out vehicles that are not li-censed and insured. In the event you have an accident in one of these vehicles you will be responsible to pay all damages and repairs. If you plan to rent a car be sure that you only deal with a licensed and insured company.

Scooters are widely available for rent. Always be sure to get a helmet. Not only is this the safe way to ride ... it is the law. As with car rentals, if you plan to rent a scooter, be sure that you only deal with a licensed and insured company. Buses are few and far between. Not worth your time or trouble.

USEFUL WORDS AND PHRASES “Selamat” is “good” as in “Good Morning” or “Good Day”.

Selamat Pagi - Good MorningSelamat Petang - Good Afternoon / EveningSelamat Malam - Good Evening / NightSelamat Tinggal - Have a good tripSelamat Jalan - GoodbyeTerima Kasih - Thank you

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P L A C E S O F I N T E R E S T

of rubber and tin. Those were two commodities that are vital to a modern army. As the British were preparing their defens-es against an attack they expected to come from the sea, the Japanese army attacked from behind by sweeping south down the Malay Peninsula and conquering the entire region within a couple months. Japan occupied Malaysia and much of the rest of southeastern Asia for the next three and a half years. Britain regained control of Malaysia after the war and it was not till 1957 she was to gain her independence. In 1963 Malaysia was united into the country we know today.

LANGKAWI PLACES OF INTEREST

1 Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach on Langkawi. Famous for its beautiful white sand and coconut palms, the

area near the beach also provides the visitor with an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars. Also of interest is the Zone Shopping Paradise that offers the visitor duty-free shopping for a wide variety of goods that range from electronics to apparel. Pantai Cenang is only a few miles from the pier and is very easy to get to.

2 Cable Car: There are some views in this world that will never be forgotten. From over 2,000 feet high on the peak

of Mount Mat Cincang you have an amazing vantage point over all of Langkawi and the surrounding waters. Off in the distance is Thailand and Kedah. The scenery of the surrounding islands, beaches and rainforest is nothing less than stunning.

3 Oriental Village: Think duty free shopping ... while enjoy-ing a marvelous view of Burau Bay. This village was espe-

cially built to offer the visitor a wide range of local, national and international goods and products combined with a wonderful selection of restaurants that feature Asian cuisine. The village, filled with souvenir shops, a beautiful lake, restaurants, and of course, the famous cable car ride, is located near the base of the imposing Gunung Mat Cincang (also known as Machinchang) and is a self-contained Malaysian and Asian styled attraction. At the Oriental Village you will have the opportunity to watch local artisans design and create their exquisite handicrafts. Entertain-ing cultural performances will give the visitor a sense of the deep history and rich heritage of the people of Malaysia.

4 Durian Perangin Falls tumble and slide their way down Mount Raya. Clean, clear and fresh the falls cascade over

14 levels through the tropical forest. A visit to the falls is a per-fect way to cool off on a warm day in the Malaysian tropics.

5 Sungai Kilim Nature Park is a beautiful reserve where you can take a peaceful boat ride down the Kilim River

through a rainforest teaming with an abundance of wildlife. The elegant and powerful eagles whose name in the Malaysian lan-guage (helang) makes up part of the name of Langkawi, can be seen nesting high in the trees and soaring higher in the bright blue skies of the park. The park also offers a wonderful assort-ment of fascinating caves and secluded lagoons which you can explore or just lay back and enjoy. The park covers an area over 100 sq. km and is truly a jewel in Langkawi.

6 Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall is another one of the beautiful and alluring falls on Langkawi. The islanders tell

of the mystical fairies that live in the seven pools.With the lush jungle and refreshing waters it is easy to understand why the fairies would choose such a wonderful spot to call home. If you go to the falls you can climb to the top in about 45 minutes and reward and refresh yourself with a swim in the natural pool. A note of caution: The waterfalls are a lot of fun, but you must be careful. The rocks are obviously wet and slippery.

Beyond Langkawi

Langkawi is the largest of nearly 100 islands that form this beautiful archipelago in the Andaman Sea. There are a number of out-islands that offer much to entice the visitor.

7 Pulau Tuba is the jungle home to a wide assortment of beautiful birds and a small group of fishermen. It is a won-

derful place to explore or relax. It is easy to get a local boat to take you to the island for a modest fee.

8 Pulau Dayang Bunting holds a special secret. Its name means “Island of the Pregnant Maiden”. On the island is

a beautiful lake that is fed from the surrounding mountains and rainforest. Legend has it that the waters will help a barren wom-an to have children. That might just be another way of saying that this island can be a very romantic setting. There is a large cave on the island that is home to thousands of bats. It is just a short boat ride from Knah, but be sure to take bottled water and food with you because there is none on the island.

9 Pulau Payar Marine Park is an absolute jewel. Encom-passing a group of 4 very small islands, the park can be

reached easily by boat. The park is a fantastic spot for diving and snorkeling. The coral formations and wide variety of sea life are some of the most spectacular to be found anywhere in the world. If you wish to stay dry there are glass bottom boat tours available. The tropical forest and beaches of the island will help make it an unforgettable day.

SHORE EXCURSIONS To make the most of your visit to Langkawi and surrounding areas we suggest you take one of our organized Shore Excursions. For Information concerning tour content and pricing, consult your Shore Excursion Brochure or contact the Shore Excursion Desk. When going ashore, be advised to take only necessary items and secure any valuables onboard. If you are planning to visit any temples or shrines re-member to dress modestly and respectfully.

LOCAL CUSTOMS The people of Malaysia are quiet and mild-mannered. To show frustration or to raise the voice in an-ger is very uncommon. Talking with your hands on your hips or crossing your arms is often seen as an act of aggression. The head is deemed sacred. Be careful not to pat someone, espe-cially a child, on the head. Be careful not to show the bottom of your feet as this is seen as offensive.

Bargaining: Most items have fixed prices, but it may be possible to bargain and get a discount on a large purchase.

Tipping: Tipping is not very common.

Local Cuisine: There are three distinct styles of cuisine in Lang-kawi; Malay/Thai, Indian and Chinese. Western dishes are also available in some restaurants. Due to the close proximity of Thailand many of the local dishes are heavily influenced by strong chilies. Noodles with vegetables and a wide variety of seafood dishes are popular and delicious. One of the more popu-lar dishes in Malaysia is Nasi Lemak. It is white rice cooked in coconut milk with chicken, hard boiled eggs and chili paste. Very spicy! Nasi Dagang is also very popular. It is made with white rice and coconut cream with a side of tuna curry and fresh vegetables.

Drink Specialties: There are many juices made with fresh fruit available on Langkawi. They are very refreshing in the tropical heat. Bottled water is recommended.

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