We love family outings for how much we’re able to bond with our loved ones. It can get daunting planning a family day out that caters to everyone, so we’ve compiled a few of the best attractions in Malaysia. Whether it’s lush greenery, hair-raising theme parks, or a lazy sunny escape, we’ve got you covered.
Visual by: Curiosity.com
Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM)
FRIM is an urban respite – an oasis of green barely a hop, skip and jump away from the heart of the city. Located in the township of Kepong, FRIM is mainly utilized for forestry research, but it is also recognized as a Malaysian Natural Heritage Site. It’s the perfect spot for families to escape to when they want momentary relief from the rat race and a little taste of nature. You can easily while the day away exploring its various trails, admiring the canopy trees and observing the numerous species of birds. Head on over to the mini waterfall and bond over a picnic. Take a few moments to close your eyes and relax while the echoing of the water provides you a little sliver of bliss.
Entrance is only RM1 for Malaysians, and RM5 for non-Malaysians. Vehicle charges apply as well – it’s RM5 per car entry, and RM3 per motorcycle entry.
IKEA Cheras
What more iconic than IKEA? It has the proud honor of being one of the highlights of our past, present, and dare we say future. IKEA Cheras boasts a ‘greenhouse’, displaying both live and artificial plants alike. Hop on over, dig into its signature meatballs for dinner, get your fill of Instagram photos in their showrooms, and don’t forget to steal a pencil or two. It is easily accessible via MRT as well. Say goodbye to circling around in frustration!
IKEA Cheras is adjoined to MyTOWN Cheras – take your shopping experience further!
Sunway Putra Mall
Bet you didn’t know that Sunway Putra is an autism-friendly establishment. The first of its kind in Malaysia, it’s filled with features that are designed to stimulate and relax autistic children like sensory walls and a ‘calm room’. Besides that, it’s chock-filled with exciting activities that make for a great family day out. For those with a catitude, make a beeline for the CAT Playground where you can spend a couple hours cuddling those purr-fect furry pals. There are also indoor playgrounds and entertainment outlets like a karaoke joint, a cinema, an arcade and even a co-working space!
Autism Friendly Shopping Day happens every Tuesday from 10AM-5PM.
Visual by: Trip.com
Image link to: https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/16949100/
LEGOLAND
Ah, the plastic toy bricks that let us live out our engineering fantasies, which also caused us immense pain whenever we were careless enough to have accidentally stepped on a piece. LEGOLAND undoubtedly makes for the perfect family outing, and the one in Johor is the only one in Southeast Asia. LEGOLAND is divided into six different sections, and there’s always something to be impressed by in every single one of them. LEGO Technic leans more futuristic – the Great Lego Race roller coaster requires the usage of a VR headset which makes the experience all the more intense. LEGO Academy allows for more educational activities such as testing your car-assembling skills and constructing building towers. LEGO Kingdom leans more medieval and is home to the Dragon roller coaster, modeled after the LEGO Dragon. LEGO Ninjago World combines the 4 elements of fire, earth, lighting & ice. The Land of Adventure allows you to get friendly with dinosaurs, and Miniland is entirely constructed out of 30 million LEGO bricks and showcases iconic monuments from 17 Asian countries!
If you are starting to really feel the sun, head on over to the LEGOLAND Water Park to cool off!
Visual by: Mah Sing
Batu Ferringhi
Look north to the cultural city of Penang for an intriguing getaway. The second largest city in Malaysia plays home to a plethora of exciting activities. Eat your way throughout the island, café hop, visit historical attractions and museums, or daze your days away at the beach. Batu Ferringhi is a gold mine for those looking for a sunny, sandy escape. Retreat into nature by trekking the Penang National Park which will eventually lead you to the beach, visit tropical fruit farms, hop on a banana boat or a jet ski for an exhilarating ride, visit the Escape Adventure Park, or kick back in a beach bar to enjoy a drink or two.
Visual by: Christian Kober / Getty Images
Image link to: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/malaysia/kuala-lumpur/images/taman-tasik-titiwangsa-aeeac71acdde9e5d1f86c149660ea98b
Taman Tasik Titiwangsa
If you’re a true-blue KL resident, you’re bound to have heard of this one! Taman Tasik TItiwangsa has been around for quite a while already, but in recent months it has undergone a major facelift! Expect to partake in fun attractions like a water park that includes a High Fountain Jet, a canopy walk and a maze garden that will certainly make for a relaxing family day out.
Aviary and Bunny Park, Taman Botani Negara Shah Alam
If there’s anything that can bait us, it’s cuddly animals. Off the beaten trail, this spot is situated in the Shah Alam Botanical Gardens and is a great spot to get up close (maybe not so personal) with the animals that call it home! Even the grumpiest of folks will be charmed by the various species of birds, porcupines, deers, rabbits and horses! Hop on over to the adjoining 4 Seasons Temperate House, Tropical Fruits Garden, Ornamental Garden and paddy field if you wish to explore a little longer.
Entry is RM7 for adults and RM5 for children
Doesn’t matter whether you’re a toddler, a millennial or a boomer – there’s always something for everyone in the vibrant, bustling country of Malaysia.
