Traditional activities and British sports
As a former British colony, Malaysia's most popular and talked-about sports come from the UK. Soccer and badminton are the most popular sports. The Premier League, the top division of British soccer, is the most closely followed league. Malaysians also enjoy field field hockey, cricket, rugby and table tennis. But traditional disciplines are also popular throughout the country.
Silat is a refined martial art, with fluid yet precise movements akin to dance. Originating in Malacca, it has been practiced in the Malaysian archipelago since the 15th century.
It is often performed to the rhythm of drums. Associated with the Islamic religion, silat is said to develop spiritual strength. Competitions are organized, and silat is also practiced at ceremonies and weddings. Visitors can attend demonstrations, notably in Kota Bharu.
Sepak takraw is another popular sport. Similar to volleyball, players have to keep a small rattan ball in the air (maximum 3 passes), before sending it back to the opposing camp. To do this, they can use any part of their body except... their arms and hands.
The spinning top. In Malaysia, spinning requires dexterity, synchronization and sometimes even strength. In fact, the spinning top(gasing) can weigh up to 5 kg and be the width of a dinner plate. Imagine, the best throws can last... two hours!
The kite. The wau bulan, or moon kite, is typical of Malaysia. It can be up to 3 m wide and 500 m high. Kite festivals attract participants from all over the world.
Active vacations
Malaysia offers some great ways to work up a sweat, while enjoying the exceptional natural surroundings.
Scuba diving. While all water sports, both motorized and non-motorized, can be practiced on Malaysia's coasts, tourists can take advantage of the country's exceptional seabed, tropical climate and large number of islands. The sites are mainly located off the east coast of the Malaysian peninsula, as well as off the coast of Sabah. The coral reefs are fairly well preserved and the underwater fauna highly diversified (tropical fish, numerous species of sharks and turtles, manta rays...).
For beginners, the Perhentian Islands offer shallow diving. Prices are very reasonable and it's an opportunity to pass a first level (PADI centers are the most represented) in three days. More experienced divers should head for Sipadan, THE diving spot in Malaysia. The dives are deeper, the current can be strong, but the rewards are endless (turtles, barracudas, hammerhead sharks, tuna, manta rays and all the tropical fish).
Hiking. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking on the trails of the national parks, whether in Taman Negara, Cameron Highlands, Kinabalu National Park, Gunung Mulu National Park or the other parks of Borneo. Those who want to be sure of not running into anyone should choose Endau Rompin Park. The heat and humidity add difficulty to long walks, so remember to keep well hydrated.
Golf. Malaysia has a large number of greens, around 250 in all, ranging from coastal and island courses to tropical rainforests, such as the Damai Golf & Country Club in Sarawak State. And what a pleasure it is to play a course surrounded by lush vegetation or offering a view of the sea.
