From gilded temples to steamy rainforests and sleek skyscrapers, this lush tropical nation is rich with remarkable diversity.

Kuala Lumpur serves up a sensory feast, with hotels that reach for the sky, labyrinthine streets dotted with family-run market stalls and hidden pockets of banyan tree greenery. Admire the street art around Chinatown, shop ‘til you drop in air-conditioned comfort at Pavilion KL and Mid Valley Megamall, then recover with a coffee in a traditional kopitiam (café), or ascend to sky-high rooftop bars for a refreshing cocktail – the iconic SkyBar, on the 33rd floor of the Shangri-La Traders Hotel, is not to be missed.

Travel 20 minutes out and you’ll be surrounded by the limestone beauty of the Batu Caves, where monkeys guard the entrance. Down south, Malacca beckons with its patchwork of forests, bustling Jonker Walk Night Market, historic architecture and pedal-powered trishaws, while the Desaru Coast in the south promises postcard-perfect beaches, wild jungles and five-star island resorts within a short ferry ride of Singapore.

Inland, retreat to the rolling green hills of the Cameron Highlands, then follow your nose up north to  Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed melting pot of culture, history and renowned street food. See sizzling skewers piled high on Kimberley Street, savour Michelin-starred dining and lose yourself in the sultry buzz of New Lane’s market stalls, which have been serving locals for decades. Cosmopolitan George Town is alive with trishaws peddling past historic clan houses and incense-filled temples.

For a different beat, the serene islands of the Langkawi archipelago are shining jewels just off the coast of the Malay Peninsula. Synonymous with white-sand shores and jungle-cloaked valleys, this cluster of more than 100 islands is perfect for relaxation. However, its waterfalls, hot springs, world-famous Sky Bridge and ancient UNESCO Geopark are reason enough to peel yourself away from your beach towel.

Snorkel, dive and sail into crystal clear waters of the Perhentian Islands and Redang Island. Head out on hiking trails, soak up postcard-perfect coastal views and experience local culture.

Fulfil your wildest dreams in Malaysian Borneo and the state of Sabah, where you can have out-of-this-world experiences spotting orangutans and swinging proboscis monkeys at Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, or Irrawaddy dolphins in the South China Sea. In Kota Kinabalu, immerse yourself in resort life, where fiery sunsets meet salt-licked breeze, fresh markets overflowing with seafood and glossy new malls.

Futuristic cities, rich nature and wildlife and a captivating crossroad of cultures: Malaysia’s diverse beauty has something for every palate.