41 – ADVENTURE WITH NATURE – BIRDWATCHING

BIRDWATCHING​

BIRDWATCHING

From muddy mangroves to misty mountain ranges, Malaysia’s diverse tropical landscape teems with hundreds of resident bird species. The country’s location on the Australasian crossmigratory paths also makes it a host to over 250 or so migratory birds. All in all, with over 795 species, Malaysia has emerged as a birdwatching haven. There are a total of 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country.

Well over half of Malaysia’s land mass is covered in rainforest environments or at least plantations. With the diversity of habitats, there are many places having abundant bird life to choose from. As the various birdwatching and nature sites around the country are easily accessible, it is easy to understand why bird lovers are drawn to Malaysia.

AVIAN HABITATS

Many birds are common to both Peninsular Malaysia as well as Sabah and Sarawak but some species, known as endemics, are unique to a BIRDWATCHING certain location, such as the Malayan Whistling Thrush in the peninsula. In Borneo, there are about 59 endemics including the Bornean Bristlehead and Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker in Sabah.

The Malaysian rainforests can be generally divided into three distinctive habitat types – coastal mangroves, lowland rainforests and montane or mountain forests. Swampy mangrove forest ecosystems where salt and freshwater environs meet on the coastline fringe are home to birds such as the Collared Kingfisher. Lowland rainforests, including freshwater swamp, peat and hill dipterocarp forests, remain the most extensive habitat for over 200 birds and are crucial to Storm’s Stork and Green Imperial Pigeon.

Mountain forests generally occur above an elevation of 900m, where species such as the Mountain Peacock-Pheasant and Mountain Blackeye thrive in the cool damp climates and stunted trees of these high altitude regions.

While each habitat provides an excellent concentrated birding experience, in Malaysia it is not difficult to visit several sites in different ecological zones to enjoy the variation in birdlife.

POPULAR BIRDING SITES

With the increase in nature and environmental awareness, more and more sites have been identified where birds can be observed and there are also bird sanctuaries designated around the country.

For the serious enthusiast, a comprehensive itinerary spanning the peninsula and Borneo could include: Kuala Selangor, Fraser’s Hill, Taman Negara, Bako National Park in Sarawak, Kinabalu Park and Danum Valley in Sabah.

For beginners or those who stay around Kuala Lumpur, there are several excellent birdwatching sites within a few hours’ drive from the city. A new area that has made a name for itself in birding circles is Putrajaya Wetlands, a human-enhanced wetland environment. Less than an hour south of Kuala Lumpur, it has begun to attract both birds and bird watchers.

For a pleasant day trip, check out the Kuala Selangor Nature Park, a mangrove swamp along the west coast that supports 157 bird species and some seasonal migrants including the rare Spoonbilled Sandpiper. Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands both offer lush green hill surroundings with panoramic views and hiking trails where bird life is astounding.

Those with more time may want to travel further inland into Malaysia’s premier national park, Taman Negara, where dense ancient lowland forests are home to over 300 bird species. Another popular site is Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary on the Perak coast, where endangered Milky Storks congregate. Over in Borneo, the Kota Kinabalu City Bird

Sanctuary, a feeding ground for many species of resident birds and several migratory species from Northern Asia is easily accessible from the capital of Sabah. Kinabalu Park, a World Heritage Site with its own endemics such as the Kinabalu Warbler, is just a two hours’ drive away from the city. Many good birding sites can be found in Sarawak, such as Gunung Mulu National Park. Sarawak endemics such as Hose’s Broadbill can also be found in the Kelabit Highlands.

BIRDWATCHING SEASON AND ADVISORY

Malaysia’s tropical climate allows bird watching to be a year-round activity. Take note of the rainy season when planning excursions and bring along rain gear or a poncho. In the West Coast of the peninsula, rain usually falls heaviest from September to December. There is a distinct monsoon in the East Coast from December to February, while the rainy season occurs a bit earlier in the year in Borneo.

Migratory birds use Malaysia’s West Coast flyway to travel to Sumatra and beyond with peak movements in April and October.

As with all wildlife, all possible care and respect is to be given to the birds and their habitats. It is illegal not only to shoot or capture any bird in a gazetted bird sanctuary, but even to harass or disturb them. Trafficking in protected species is also prohibited under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 in Peninsular Malaysia, with separate acts enforced in Sabah and Sarawak. Entry permits from the Forestry Department of the various states may be needed at some bird sanctuaries. Birdwatchers are advised to check with their guides or tour agent.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR BIRDWATCHERS

  1. Read or find out as much as you can about both the site and the bird species likely to be found in it before hand.
  2. A pair of binoculars helps to locate and identify distant and high flying birds.
  3. Most birds are active in the morning and late afternoon when the temperature is cooler. Consult your guide book as to the best times to spot a particular species.
  4. Many birds have regular feeding habits and patterns. A good place to watch for shorebirds is at mudflats during low tide.
  5. When photographing birds, use longrange lenses and avoid flash equipment so as not to disturb the birds.

BIRDWATCHING SITES

  • Gunung Raya – Langkawi, Kedah
  • Kilim Mangrove – Langkawi, Kedah
  • Sedim Rainforest – Kulim, Kedah
  • Hutan Pelajaran Air Hitam, Penang
  • Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill) (Highland Forest), Perak
  • Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary (Mangrove forest), Perak
  • Royal Belum State Park, Perak
  • Kuala Selangor Nature Park (Mangrove forest), Selangor
  • Hulu Langat Forest Reserve, Selangor
  • FRIM, Selangor
  • Paya Indah Wetland, Selangor
  • Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest, Selangor
  • Kuala Kubu Baharu, Selangor
  • Tanjung Tuan, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
  • Pasoh Forest Reserve, FRIM Pasoh Jempol, Negeri Sembilan
  • Keraboi State Park, Negeri Sembilan
  • Sungai Linggi, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
  • Sungai Menyala Edu-Ecotourism Center, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
  • Cameron Highlands (Highland forest), Pahang
  • Genting Highlands (Highland forest), Pahang
  • Taman Negara Kuala Tahan (Lowland rainforest), Pahang
  • Taman Rimba Kenong, Kuala Lipis, Pahang (Lowland rainforest)
  • Taman Negeri Endau Rompin (Lowland rainforest)
  • Fraser’s Hill (Highland forest), Pahang
  • Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu
  • Gunung Tebu, Terengganu
  • Kinabalu Park (Highland forest), Sabah
  • Kota Belud Bird Sanctuary (Lowland rainforest), Sabah
  • Danum Valley (Lowland rainforest), Sabah
  • KK Wetland Centre, Sabah
  • Rainforest Discovery Centre, Sabah
  • Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sabah
  • Bako National Park (Mangrove & Mixed Forest), Sarawak
  • Gunung Mulu National Park (Highland Rainforest & Limestone Pinnacles), Sarawak
  • Kubah National Park (Hill & Mixed Dipterocarp Forest), Sarawak
  • Borneo Highland (Highland & Mountain Rainforest), Sarawak
  • Tembeling Hornbill Valley, Jerantut, Pahang
  • Bukit Tinggi, Pahang
  • Taman Negara Sungai Relau, Merapoh, Pahang
  • Paya Kansar, Pulau Tawar, Jerantut, Pahang
  • Benus Bird Camp, Kg. Gol, Taman Negara, Pahang
  • Bebar Peat Swamp, Pekan, Pahang
  • Lanchang, Temerloh, Pahang
  • Lembah Kiol, Jerantut, Pahang
  • Kuala Koh National Park, Kelantan
  • Teluk Air Tawar- Kuala Muda Coast, Penang
  • Penang National Park, Penang
  • Perlis State Park
  • Tanjung Tuan Forest, Reserve and Wildlife

 

For more information, please view our ‘Birdwatching in Malaysia’ e-brochure at www.tourism.gov.my.

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

1. ADVENTURE WITH NATURE

4. MAP OF MALAYSIA

6. INTRODUCTION

9. JUNGLE TREKKING

15. MOUNTAIN CLIMBING

19. ROCK CLIMBING

23. CAVE EXPLORATION

29. RIVER CRUISING

33. WHITE-WATER RAFTING

37. MOUNTAIN BIKING

41. BIRDWATCHING

45. USEFUL CONTACTS

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS

MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board