Saturday, June 14, 2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, or simply KL, is the capital of Malaysia. Literally meaning "muddy estuary" in Malay, KL has grown from a small sleepy village to a bustling metropolis (population 6.9 million) in just 150 years. With some interesting sights, the world's cheapest five-star hotels, great shopping and even better food, increasing numbers of travelers are discovering this gem of a city.
Getting to Know Kuala Lumpur
Located on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur lies at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak Rivers. KL is a fairly sprawling city with residential suburbs that seem to go on forever. The adjacent towns of Petaling Jaya (originally developed as KL's dormitory suburb), Subang Jaya, Shah Alam, Klang and Port Klang, have merged with KL to create a huge metropolis called the Klang Valley.
Weather
Protected by the Titiwangsa mountains in the east and the Indonesian island of Sumatra to the west, Kuala Lumpur has a year-round equatorial climate which is warm and sunny. Rainfall is plentiful-usually more than 93 inches a year-and especially heavy during the southwest monsoon from September to April. Temperatures tend to remain constant. Maximums hover between 88°-99°F and have never exceeded 99°F, while minimums hover between 71-74°F and have never fallen below 66°F.
People
Kuala Lumpur has a mix of different cultures. Unlike the whole of Malaysia, where Malays comprise the ethnic majority, the majority of Kuala Lumpur residents are Chinese. Additional major ethnic groups represented include Indians, Eurasians, as well as other indigenous races from East Malaysia and the Malaysian peninsula.
Malay (Bahasa Melayu) is the official language but English is widely spoken in the city, especially in business and tourism, and is a required subject in all schools. Malays form the bulk of the members of parliament and dominate the political scene in Malaysia.
A Malay woman being prepared for her wedding (flickr user buntalshoot)
In the late 18th century, with Europe in the midst of the Industrial Revolution, large groups of Chinese from Fujian and Guangdong in southern China were brought to Malaysia (then called Malaya) to work in the booming tin mining industry. The Chinese in Kuala Lumpur mostly speak Cantonese with some speaking the Hakka dialect. Like all residents, the Chinese have benefited from Kuala Lumpur's excellent public school system and can communicate in English and Bahasa Malaysia as well as Mandarin.
Indians formed 10% of the population in Kuala Lumpur in 2000. First brought in by the British during their colonization of Malaysia, most Indians practice Hinduism and speak Tamil or Hindi and English. The majority of their customs and traditions are intricately tied with their religion. Hence, during the Hindu festivals such as Deepavali, Indians perform colorful rites and visit temples.
In the Thaipusam festival, devout Hindus skewer portable shrines to their bodies and carry them all the way from central KL to the Batu Caves--a distance of about 8 miles
The city has many places of worship catering to the diverse religious population. Islam is practiced primarily by the Malays and the Indian Muslim communities while other religions present in KL include Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism (mainly among Chinese), Hinduism (among Indians) and Christianity.
With the rapid growth of the economy in Kuala Lumpur and across Malaysia, a large number of foreign workers from Indonesia, Nepal, Burma, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam and China have also emigrated to Malaysia, adding to the cultural and linguistic stew.
History
Founded only in 1857 as a tin mining outpost, Kuala Lumpur is fairly new as far as Malaysian cities go and lacks the rich history of Georgetown or Malacca. After rough early years marked by gang fighting, Kuala Lumpur started to prosper and was made capital of the Federated Malay States in 1896. Malaysia's independence from Britain was declared in 1957 in front of huge crowds at what was later named Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), and Kuala Lumpur continued as the new nation's capital. The economic boom of the 1990s brought KL the standard trappings of a modern city, including towering skyscrapers and efficient transportation systems.
Things to See and Do
Although Kuala Lumpur boasts some fascinating sights, many of the best experiences are to be found by wandering randomly, sightseeing, shopping and eating your way through the city. However, it's hot, humid and sometimes crowded, so schedule some air-conditioned downtime in shopping malls or restaurants into your plan. You may find that most attractions are only crowded on weekends and holidays and deserted on weekdays.
The following gives a brief description of KL's attractions by district:
City Center: This is the traditional core of Kuala Lumpur and the former colonial administrative center. Here you'll find Merdeka Square (Independence Square), the Sultan Abdul Samad Building and Selangor Club. This district also includes Kuala Lumpur's old Chinese commercial center which everyone refers to now as Chinatown.
- Merdeka Square (Dataran Merdeka): Merdeka Square has a special place in the hearts of all Malaysians, for it was here that the Union Jack was lowered for the last time in 1957 and Malaysia gained its independence. Surrounding the area are a number of historical structures like Sultan Abdul Samad building (see below) and the Old City Hall. The Royal Selangor Club and St. Mary's Cathedral are two famous landmarks nearby.
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building: Originally the offices of the Colonial Secretariat, the Sultan Abdul Samad Building later served as the first administrative center of the Malaysian government. Built in 1848 by British architects, this historical landmark is famed for its Islamic-inspired architecture. Today, it houses the Courts of Law. The 120-foot high clock tower is a popular gathering point for New Year's and National Day countdown celebrations and parades.
- National Mosque (Masjid Negara): The Masjid Negara is unique in that it incorporates Malay-Islamic rather than the usual Arabic-Islamic architecture. It is known for its conspicuous turquoise umbrella-like roof. Visitors are asked to dress modestly--robes for those in shorts and head scarves for women will be provided.
- National Museum (Muzium Negara): This museum contains exhibits on traditional life of the various ethnic communities in Malaysia, numerous well-explained artifacts including fine clothing and shadow puppets, and a sizeable natural history section showing the range of flora and fauna native to the country.
- Islamic Arts Museum (Muzium Kesenian Islam): One of the most interesting museums in KL, the Islamic Arts Museum shows how Malaysian Islamic culture is connected to the Muslim lands to the west and also celebrates the uniqueness of Malaysian Islamic art.
Merdeka Square has special meaning for all Malaysians (flickr user SqueakyMarmot)
A view of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building from across Merdeka Square
The national mosque in Kuala Lumpur offers a fascinating look at Islam in Malaysia (flickr user Balaji Dutt)
Chinatown: Kuala Lumpur has a vibrant Chinatown that should definitely be on your list of places to see.
In Chinese culture, these red lanterns above the street symbolize good luck (flickr user akuppa)
- Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Association: The Yuen family built this clan house (kongsi), the largest and oldest in KL, in 1906.
- Sze Ya Temple: Built in 1882, Sze Ya, the oldest Chinese temple in the city, is dedicated to Shen Kong, the guardian deity for the local Chinese tin miners, and several other deities. The ornate interior and elaborate roof ridges are typical of religious Chinese architecture and visitors can still see patrons worshipping gods and ancestors.
- Sri Mahamariamman Temple: This elaborate Hindu temple is known as the starting point of the yearly Thaipusam pilgrimage to the Batu Caves north of the city, when Hindu devotees haul portable altars pierced to their skin with 108 lances.
The colorful Chinese architecture on display here is a delight to see (flickr user cornstaruk)
Sri Mahamariamman Temple, with its beautiful Hindu carvings (flickr user Prince Roy)
Golden Triangle: The area of Kuala Lumpur located to the northeast of the city center, the Golden Triangle is where you'll find the city's shopping malls, five-star hotels, the Petronas Twin Towers and party spots.
- Petronas Twin Towers: Until recently the tallest buildings in the world, they are now second only to the newly built Taipei 101 building in Taipei, Taiwan. Visitors may pick up passes to marvel at the view from the Skybridge (level 41-42), one of the highest suspended bridges in the world. But note that in general you only have about 10 minutes on the Skybridge, and the views at the KL Tower (see below) are actually better.
- Aquaria: A gigantic aquarium housing 5,000 varieties of tropical fishes, Aquaria has an underwater tunnel, various exhibits of flora and fauna, and multimedia kiosks.
- Petrosains: A museum of the science and technology behind the petroleum industry, located in the Petronas Towers. A great place to bring kids, but it shouldn't be too high on the agenda for older folks.
- KL Tower: 1,100 feet above ground, the observation deck on the top floor provides great city views, and you'll actually be a few dozen feet higher than the Petronas Towers since the tower is built on a hill. Traveler's tip: The views from the KL Tower are far superior to those from the Petronas Towers, though KL Tower is not a particularly easy place to reach by public transport.
Completed in 1998, the Petronas Towers ranked as the highest buildings in the world until 2004 (flickr user peter.macdonald)
The KL Tower, 1,381 feet tall if you include the antenna, is the fifth tallest tower in the world
Tuanku Abdul Rahman: This is the traditional, colorful shopping district of Kuala Lumpur north of the city center that moves into high gear during the festivals of Hari Raya Puasa (Eid ul-Fitr) and Deepavali.
Brickfields: This area, located south of the city center, is Kuala Lumpur's Little India, filled with saree shops and banana leaf rice restaurants. Kuala Lumpur's main railway station-KL Sentral-is also located here.
- Thean Hou Temple: The Thean Hou temple is one of the largest and most ornate Chinese temples in the region. The six-tiered temple is dedicated to Tian Hou, or The Heavenly Mother. But it also houses two other altars, one for Shui Wei Sheng Niang, the Goddess of the Waterfront and another for Kuan Yin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. Its grand architecture and fantastic views make it a tourist favorite.
The photogenic Thean Hou temple
Bangsar and Midvalley: Located south of the city, Bangsar is a popular restaurant and clubbing district while Midvalley, with its mega mall, is one of the city's most popular shopping destinations.
Damansara and Hartamas: Largely suburban, these two districts to the west of the city are home to some interesting restaurants and drinking areas.
Northern suburbs: This huge area to the north of the city is home to several attractions, such as Batu Caves, the National Zoo and the Indigenous Peoples Museum.
- Batu Caves: Hindus have used these caves as temples since their discovery in 1878 by William Hornaday. Crowds of Hindus visit the caves in January and February for the spectacular Thaipusam festival, when devout Hindus skewer portable shrines to their bodies and carry them all the way from central KL, about 8 miles away. The caves contain a large number of beautiful statues of the Hindu gods, with a golden, 130 foot statue of Lord Muruga at the entrance. Beware of the thieving monkeys and the bat droppings in the cave, and be prepared to climb 272 stairs to access the cave.
- Muzium Orang Asli (Indigenous Peoples Museum): A quaint museum situated on Orang Asli land that showcases the cultures of the different peoples indigenous to Peninsular Malaysia. Over 3,000 artifacts reveal the history and lifestyles of the many tribes which occupied Malaysia before the advent of urban society. Definitely worth the journey.
Batu Caves is a fascinating natural wonder and an important Hindu temple, as well as a nice excursion out of the city center (flickr user peter.macdonalsd)
Shopping
There's some great shopping to be done in Kuala Lumpur. Goods are available in every price bracket, and while electronics are a tad more expensive than in Singapore or Hong Kong, they are still often cheaper than in Europe. Kuala Lumpur's premier shopping district is the Bukit Bintang area in the Golden Triangle, named after the street of the same name.
Fans of electronic gadgets will delight in the multitude of choices at Low Yat Plaza, while shoppers hunting for the latest in affordable Asian style should definitely check out Times Square and Sungei Wang Plaza. Pavilion is a recent addition to the cluster of shopping malls in this area and houses a wide range of international retail brands in an ultra-modern complex.
Despite the onslaught of malls, KL still offers traditional shopping streets and markets. The best area for browsing is Chinatown in the City Center. Good souvenirs can be found in particular at the Central Market, a former produce market which has been converted into an arts and crafts market.
To really get a feel for Kuala Lumpur, be sure to spend some time among the crowds at street markets like this one (flickr user MyLifeStory)
Eating
Malaysians are obsessed with food and so it is hardly surprising that as the country's capital, Kuala Lumpur reflects this love affair with eating. You'll be able to find the entire range of Malaysian cuisine as well as food from around the world.
Tasty Malaysian snacks like these await you in Kuala Lumpur (flickr user SqueakyMarmot)
Here are a few options:
- Food stalls: "Coffeeshops" (kedai kopi) operate like a foodcourt with many stalls selling a variety of food, most of which is Chinese. Some coffeeshops offer streetside dining by placing their tables on the sidewalks. Coffeeshops are found on virtually every street in KL, but Chinatown in the City Center and Jalan Alor in the Golden Triangle have the greatest concentration. Be aware that they mostly open only at night.
- Mamak shops: Rivaling the coffeeshops in terms of their numbers, as well as in their prices, are what Malaysians call "mamak shops"--food outlets run by Indian Muslims. They can be found at almost every street corner in KL, although the Tuanku Abdul Rahman neighborhood is particularly well-known for its mamak shops. The food is halal, meaning it conforms to Muslim dietary laws.
Food courts: Clean and air-conditioned, the food courts found in shopping malls can also provide you with a good opportunity to sample Malaysian cuisine, although the prices will be a little higher than in coffeeshops or mamak stands.
- Restaurants: KL has a good number of restaurants, some of them offering better food than others. The Golden Triangle, Bangsar and Midvalley, Heritage Row and some areas in Damansara and Hartamas are the usual places for people looking for a restaurant meal. Beware that most restaurants close by 10 p.m., so you'll probably need to look for street food if hungry later at night.
Street vendors provide a quick, inexpensive way of getting both a meal and a cultural experience (flickr user Luca & Vita)
An unforgettable image from Kuala Lumpur--the Petronas Towers illuminated
The Columns of Ancient Egypt
Most people who have any familiarity with ancient Egypt will immediately recognize the form of Lotus and Papyrus style columns, but actually no less the about 30 different column forms have been isolated from temples of the various periods. Most of the time, the columns shafts were copies in stone of supports made from plants, resembling either a trunk or a bundle of stems of smaller diameter. Also the shape of the capital, the top of the column, also had a plant theme, and at the transition of the capital to the shaft, five bands might be found representing the lashing which held together the bundle of stems of which the earliest columns were made. Above the capital a low abacus usually connected the column to the architraves placed above it. However, there are exceptions to all of this. At least prior to the Graeco-Roman Period, we also find columns with tent pole and the goddess Hathor and other god or goddess motifs.
Actually, the type of column was usually, but not always dictated by its placement within the temple, and therefore most temples actually employ more then one design. Most of the time, "Bud" style columns were used in the outer temple courts, particularly away from the central axis of the inner temple. "Open" style capitals were most often found in the temples central areas. However, as time passed, into the late antiquities period, there was considerably more variation in these themes. In the Graeco-Roman period, column styles became especially varied, and many Egyptian designs were exported to Greece and Roman, where they underwent further evolutionary changes.
Left: Tent Pole style columns in the Festival Temple of Tuthmosis III at Karnak
In the very earliest of Egyptian history, columns were often made from one large monolithic block. However, in all later periods columns were usually built up in sectional blocks that were then first shaped and then smoothed from the top down. They were then normally painted, and afterwards, were difficult to tell that they were not cut from a single piece of stone.
Major Types of Columns and/or Capitals
Plant Style Columns
Fluted Column
This early form of column first appears in the Step Pyramid enclosure of Djoser, but the form died mostly died out by the New Kingdom. However, their use continued in Nubia. These columns resembled and represented bundled reeds or plant stems, but during later periods, sometimes took the form of a polygonal column shaft.Palmiform Columns
What is probably most interesting about fluted columns in Egypt is that they very probably represent the first columns made from stone in the world. While the fluted columns may have lost their popularity as an independent style many of the future columns incorporated design elements from them, in effect, simply incorporating a more complex capital.
The Palmiform Columns were also one of the earliest styles of columns in Egypt temple architecture. Example of this type of column were found, for example, in the 5th Dynasty pyramid mortuary complex of Unas. However, after the 5th Dynasty, these types of columns are rare, but continued to occasionally be used. Mostly we find examples during later periods at the Taharga temple in Kawa in Upper Nubia, and in some temples dating to the Graeco-Roman Period. However, they may also be found in the Ramesseum. There, at the inner side of the court, are two rows of ten columns. The four middle columns in each row are Papyriform columns while the others are Palmiform. These columns obviously had a palm tree motif, but did not actually represent the tree itself, but rather eight palm fronds lashed to a pole.Lotiform Columns
Lotiform columns were perhaps used in non-secular buildings then in the temples. However, this is not to say that they were not also sometimes employed in religious architecture. The simple, lotus bud form of the column is enjoyed widespread use in the Old and Middle Kingdom temples. Its use declined during the New Kingdom, but again found popularity during the Graeco-Roman Period. This column usually has ribbed shafts representing the the stems of the Lotus, and capitals in the form of a closed (bud) or open lotus flower.Papyriform Columns
Just as a side note, Lotus plants specifically are not present in the earlier times of Egyptian antiquity. What we so often refer to as "Lotus" was in fact a type of water lily.
There are several variations in this type of column. Some have circular shafts representing a single plant, while others have ribbed shafts that represent a plants with multiple stems. The capitals could be closed (buds) or open in a wide, bell-shaped form. During the New Kingdom, the shafts of most papyriform columns taper upwards from bases decorated with triangular patterns representing stylized stem sheaths. The earliest examples we know of the circular shaft style columns can be found in Djoser's Step Pyramid enclosure at Saqqara. However, these are not free standing columns, but incorporated into other structures. Though the circular shaft form of the column seems to have been used throughout Egyptian history, they saw widespread use during the New Kingdom, along with both open and closed capital styles.Coniform Columns
We first find the multi-stemmed form of this column employed during the 5th Dynasty, but it was also frequently used during the New Kingdom. 18th Dynasty columns are particularly fine, with considerable artistic detail. They became more stylized by the 19th Dynasty.
This column style apparently quickly died out after their use in Djoser's Step Pyramid enclosure wall. It has not been found in later temples. The style is characterized by a fluted shaft surmounted by a capital representing the branches of a conifer tree.Tent Pole Columns
Though we probably know of other applications of this style from documentation, apparently the only surviving, known examples are found in the Festival Temple of Tuthmosis III at Karnak. It is possible that very early examples of the style were also constructed of brick. There is little doubt that this type of column made of stone was rare. The column is basically a representation in stone of the wooden "poles" used to support light structures such as tents, and sometimes shrines, kiosks or ships cabins.Campaniform Columns
Why this tent pole design was used is perhaps somewhat of a mystery, though they certainly reflect back on the earliest of Egypt's structures and their wood counterparts. It is sometimes believe that the specific columns in Tuthmosis III temple were modeled after actual wooden poles of his military tent.
Considerable variety existed in this style of columns. They sometimes took the shape of a floral column or pillar. Some had circular, ribbed or square shafts (pillars). They all had some form of flower shaped capital. Two of the best known of these are located in the Hall of Annals of Tuthmosis III at Karnak. At this temple, the, the structures take the shape of a pillar. They including two style of column, with one representing the heraldic plant of Lower (northern) Egypt, the Papyrus, and the other type representing the symbolic plant of Upper (southern) Egypt, the Lotus. They are positioned symbolically on the northern and southern sides of the hall. Such placement was not unusual, and we see many examples of columns positioned in the north and south of courtyards with northern and southern motifs. This specific types of column is rare, but their more stylized forms appeared most frequently in the Graeco-Roman Period.Composite Columns
These columns were common during the Graeco-Roman Period. Composite Columns were probably an evolutionary extension of the campaniform columns with capitals decorations including floral designs of any number of real, or even imagined plants. There variation could be endless, and they became so utterly stylized that the original floral motifs could hardly be recognized. In fact, this type of column continued to evolve in Greece and Rome, becoming very different then the Egyptian variety.
While natural plant columns were the most common in Egypt, other column and pillar types could represent deities or their attributes. Examples of these include:
Hathoric Columns
This type of column never appeared prior to the Middle Kingdom, and was probably originated in that period. They are usually instantly recognizable by their capital in the shape of the cow headed goddess, Hathor. They often had a simple, round shaft. All considered, they were fairly common, and examples may be found in the temple of Nefertari at Abu Simbel and within the hypostyle hall of the Ptolemaic (Greek) temple at Dendera. The Dendera columns are probably the best known, where all twenty four columns have the head of this goddess on all four sides. We also know of several other temples with Hathor columns, including the temple of Nekhebet at el Kab. Sistrum columns are also associated with Hathor, but represent in the capitals and shafts the handles and rattles of the sistrum.Osiride Pillars
All examples of this type of pillar are engaged, meaning that they are part of another architectural element. They appear to also have originated in the Middle Kingdom, and and take the form of a statue of the god Osiris on the pillar's front surface.
Temples of Egypt
by Monroe EdgarWriting an introduction to ancient Egypt temples is considerably more difficult then examining any specific structure, for a number of different reasons. First of all, the term "temple" is misleading, and secondly, the term covers a huge variety of different structures that evolved over such a vast period of time that many people have a difficulty comprehending just how long a time this period spans.
The Ramessuem on the West Bank at Luxor (Ancient Thebes)
For example, think of the Roman Coliseum (in Rome). It is almost 2,000 years old, and most of us would think of it as very ancient. Yet, when the Romans first came to Egypt, they were awe struck by Egyptian temples, some of which at that time were already more ancient to the Romans, then the Roman Coliseum is to us. So we must consider the effect that these temples had on the ancient Egyptians. Imagine the feelings of old tradition and holiness felt by a young priest when he first enters St. Peter's Cathedral in Rome. How must a young Egyptian priest felt as he strolled the courts of the much more temple of Heliopolis, which was much more ancient to him then St. Peter's would be to a young priest of today.
Webster's New World Dictionary defines temple as "1. a building for the worship of god or gods, and 2. A large building for some special purpose". For the second definition, they provide the example, "a temple of art". Neither of these definitions fit the ancient Egyptian temple very well, and yet, almost every religious structure in Egypt outside of the various types of tombs are almost always referred to as temples.
Certainly some of these "temple" structures do embrace both of Webster's definitions. In fact, it is difficult to imagine most any large, ancient building not falling under the second definition, including palaces and governmental buildings. However, our modern readers are more likely to think in terms of the first definition, that of a temple being a place of worship. However, this definition is simply too limited to fit even the structures that many modern Egyptologists better define as a "god's mansion". Even these temples sometimes had many other functions, acting sometimes as fortresses, administrative centers and even concrete expression of propaganda or royal retreats. However, it is difficult to define some other religious structures that are called temples as houses of worship or "god's mansions". They may have other political or all together different purposes.
It was the ancient Egyptian temple that received endowments. It was the mortuary temple and the cult of the dead king that funded the entire pyramid complex of the early kings, for example. Temples owned land, livestock and received donations, sometimes including the spoils of war, in order to support often large populations of priests, workers, and sometimes even an entire support town.
The Temple of Karnak at Luxor
Sites such as Karnak, Dendera and Kom Ombo would most likely fall under the category of "god's mansion". They were more then religious "temples" however. While the god may certainly have been worshiped in these temples, it was also his symbolic home, if not considered his physical residence, and the functions of the temple were as much to serve his or her symbolic physical needs as they were for the god's worship. There was probably little or no "preaching" as such, or carrying the message of the god to the people by priests associated with these "temples". Rather the efforts were directed inward, towards the care of the gods.
Also, though we often make a very specific distention between mortuary temples of kings, for example, and temples such as Karnak, they were actually very similar. Kings were considered gods, and after their death, they required a "mansion" and the same attention as other gods. Both regular and mortuary temples served to keep the name of the king or god alive.
The real distinction, religiously, seems to be in regards to structures that might not so easily be defined as "god's mansions". Nefertari's temple at Abu Simbel was certainly dedicated to the goddess Hathor, it would seem. But this also seems to be a situation where a "god's mansion" was built as much for political as for religious purposes. These great monuments at Abu Simbel, consisting of her temple, and the larger temple of her husband, Ramesses II, were not just temples. They were also reminders of Egypt's greatness to her southern neighbors. Other structures hardly fit within the "god's mansion" category at all. For example, Sed-festival Temples that celebrated the king's jubilees seem to have had a completely different purpose than "god's mansions", and ka Temples provided a residence not to the dead king, but for his soul.
Nevertheless, for convenience, we will refer to most religious structures other then tombs as temples in the remainder of this reference.
Dynastic era temples may be found throughout Egypt, though the ones that have survived time are mostly in the south. They were built for many different forms of worship, as well as other purposes. Some were major temples dedicated to major deities, while others were dedicated to a number of different deities. Some were mortuary temples, where the temple was dedicated to the deified dead king, and where he was worshiped and cared for by his cult. There were also valley temples, which were often no more then monumental gateways connected to the king's mortuary chapel by a causeway. There were all manner of specialized temples, such as Sed-festival temples, ka temples, sun temples, coronation temples and others.
Many of Egypt's temples became complex systems of buildings, added to by generations of pharaohs over sometimes thousands of years. Such temples include those of Luxor and Karnak, but others long destroyed, such as the Temple of Ptah. In fact, there are any number of northern temples, though long gone, that would have rivaled the southern temples that we most often visit today.
Most Temples had some sort of organized structure that evolved into a traditional, if somewhat varied floor plan. For example, the mortuary temple of 5th Dynasty kings invariably had an outer section and an inner sanctuary. The outer section would consist of an entrance corridor, followed by an open columned courtyard. Often, the pillars were inscribed with the king's name and title, and the northern columns would have scenes oriented to northern Egypt's symbolic gods, with a similar arrangement on the southern columns. Various additional minor chambers might also exist within the outer section, including, for example, an entrance vestibule or a guard station. Between the outer temple and the inner section there was usually a transverse corridor, and in the center of the long, west wall a doorway lead to the inner sanctuary of which the front section consists of a chapel with five niches for statues. Behind the chapel would be an offering hall, notable for a false door on the west wall that faces the pyramid, and before the door, an offering altar. Within the inner sanctuary there might also be additional rooms, such as vestibules and antechambers. Associated with both the outer and inner sections of the temple would be storage and other annexes to one side or both of the main temple components.
Non-mortuary temples often also had courtyards, chapels, offering halls, vestibules, antechambers, just like the mortuary temples. They tend to vary considerably in their style and elements, though temples built for specific gods tended to be more uniform (though not always). One of the major differences between mortuary temples and others was that the non-mortuary temples were very often added to, built upon and even usurped by various kings. Though in rare cases a mortuary temples, such as that of Djoser at Saqqara, became places of high holiness, and were built upon by later kings, most mortuary temples were never added to or usurped. They therefore most often were much more simple than major non-mortuary temples.
Latter temples took the form of fortresses, with massive entrance pylons and enclosure walls, huge courtyards, columned or pillared halls and inner sanctuaries.
Topics Applicable to Temples and Chapels
- The Columns of Ancient Egypt
- Construction in Ancient Egypt
- An Overview of Ancient Egyptian Cults
- Foundation Ceremonies
- Grand Festivals in Ancient Egypt
- The Location and Orientation of Ancient Egyptian Temples
- Mythology
- Offering Formulas and Rituals
- Pharaonic Egypt in Sketches
- Priests in Ancient Egypt
- Royal Cults of the Kings of Ancient Egypt
- Ancient Egyptian Temple Elements Part I: Approach and Entrance
- Ancient Egyptian Temple Elements Part II: The Outer Courtyards
- Ancient Egyptian Temple Elements Part III: On the Path to the Sanctuary
- Ancient Egyptian Temple Elements Part IV: The Sanctuary and its Environs
- Ancient Egyptian Temple Elements Part V: Associated Element
For Pyramid Mortuary Temples, see Ancient Egyptian Pyramids
- Abu Simbel - Nubia
- Aghurmi Temple and the Oracle of Amun - Siwa
- Ain el-Muftella, Temple of - Bahariya Oasis
- Alexander the Great, Temple of - Bahariya Oasis
- Amada, Temple of - Nubia
- Amenhotep III, Temple of - West Bank, Luxor
- el-Amarna, Tell - Deir Mawas
- Artemidos, Speos of - Mallawi
- Aten, Great Temple of - Amarna
- Aten, Small (Royal) Temple of - Amarna
- Beit el-Wali Temple, Nubia
- Bes, Temple of - Bawiti, Bahariya Oasis
- Dakka, Temple of in Nubia
- Deir el Bahari, Temple of - West Bank, Luxor
- Dendera, Temple of - Dendera
- Dendur, Temple of - New York
- Derr, Temple of - Nubia
- Dush, Temple of - Kharga
- Gerf Hussein, Temple of - Nubia
- Al-Ghuwaytah, Temple of - Kharga Oasis
- Al-Hager, Temple of Deir - Dakhla Oasis
- Hathor, Ptolemaic Temple of at Deir el-Medina - West Bank, Luxor
- Hercules, Temple of - Bahariya Oasis
- Hibis, Temple of - Kharga
- Horemheb, Speos of - Kom Ombb
- Horus, Temple of - Edfu
- Horus, Temples of (at Thoth Hill) - West Bank, Luxor
- Kalabsha Temple - Nubia
- Karnak, Temple of - Luxor
- Khnum, Temple of - Esna
- Kom-Ombo, Temple of - Kom-Ombo
- Luxor, Temple of - Luxor
- Maru-Aten - Amarna
- Medinet Madi (ancient Narmouthis) - Fayoum
- Mentuhotep II, Mortuary Temple of - West Bank, Luxor
- Merenptah, Mortuary Temple of - West Bank, Luxor
- Montu, Rattawy & Harpcrates, Temple of - Medamud
- Montu, Temple of - Tod
- Nekhbet and Thoth, Temples of at el-Kab
- Nile Delta, Minor Temples and Other Ruins of, Part I
Abusir, Tell Atrib (Arhribis), Ausim (Letopolis), Behbeit el-Hagar, & Tell el-Dab'a - Nile Delta, Minor Temples and Other Ruins of, Part II
Ezbet Rushdi, Tell Far'un, Kom el-Hisn, Kom Abu Billo & Tell el-Maskhuta - Nile Delta, Minor Temples and Other Ruins of, Part III
Tell el-Muqdam (Leontopolis), Tell el-Qirqafa and Tell el-Rub'a (Tell El Robee, Greek Mendes) - Nile Delta, Minor Temples and Other Ruins of, Part IV
Tell el-Retaba, Saft el-Hinna, Samannud (Sebennytos) and Tell el-Yahudiya - Nubia, Lost Temples of
- Nubian, Other Temples
- Osiris, Temple of (and former temple of Khentyamentiu) - Abydos
- Other Temples on the West Bank at Thebes, Part I
Temples belonging to Amenhotep I, Amenhotep II, Siptah, the Colonnaded Temple of Ramesses IV, the Ramessid Temple, the Chapel of the White Queen and the private temple of Nebwenenef - Other Temples on the West Bank at Thebes, Part II - Temples of Ramesses IV (mortuary), Amenophis son of Hapu, Tuthmosis II, and the North and South temples at Nag Kom Lolah
- Other Temples of the West Bank at Thebes, Part III: The Temples at Deir el-Medina - Temple of Amenhotep I, the Hathor Chapel of Seti I, the Ptolemaic Temple of Hathor, and a small Temple of Amun.
- Other Temples of the West Bank at Thebes, Part IV - Mortuary Temple of Tuthmosis III, and the temples of Tuya and Nefertari, Tuthmosis IV, Wadjmose and Siptah and Tausert
- Philae (Now on Agilika Island), Temple of - Nubia
- Qasr Ibrim - Nubia
- Qertassi, Kiosk of - Nubia
- Ramesseum - West Bank, Luxor
- Ramesses II, Portal Tempel of - Abydos
- Ramesses II, Temple of - Abydos
- Ramesses II, Temple of - Minya
- Ramesses III, Temple of - West Bank, Luxor
- Red Chapel of Hatshepsut at Karnak - East Bank, Luxor
- Wadi al-Sabua (Sebua), Temple of - Nubia
- Sarabit al-Khadim, Temple and Mines of - Sinai
- Sarapeion, including Pompay's Pillar - Alexandria
- Satis, Temple of - Elephantine (Aswan)
- Senusret III, Mortuary Temple of - Abydos
- Seti I Temple of Millions of Years - West Bank, Luxor
- Seti I, Temple of and the Osireion at Abydos
- Shepseskaf, Mortuary Temple of (Unique, at South Saqqara)
- Shenhur, Roman Temple of
- Sobek-Re, Temple of - Qasr Qarun
- Sun Temples of the 5th Dynasty (Userkaf and Niuserre) - Abusir & Abu Ghurob
- Taposiris Magna, Temple of - Alexandria
- Temple of the Oracle - Siwa
- Tuthmosis III, Temple of at Abydos
- Tuthmosis III, Temple of Amun at Deir el-Bahari - West Bank, Luxor
- Umm Ubayda, Temple of - Siwa Oasis
- White Chapel of Senusret I, The - East Bank in the Open Air Museum, Luxor
- Al-Zayyan Temple - Kharga
Egypt Feature Story
Welcome. We need your input, and in doing so, you can help shape the stories we will be presenting on Tour Egypt over the coming year. This year we celebrate 10 years of serving the tourist who travel to Egypt, and the tourist industry in Egypt, actually a rather long haul for almost any web site. Tour Egypt dates back to the very early days of the commercial internet itself, when the Ministry of Tourism and the Egyptian Tourism Authority requested our services in providing them with their official site. Over that period of time, we have written about every pyramid known in Egypt, almost every major and minor temple, and most of the major tombs, as well as other archaeological sites such as ancient cities. We have written about most of the major historical Christian churches and monasteries, and most of the major historical mosques and other archaic Islamic era monuments. We have also covered various aspects of ancient culture, including religion, though the centuries, and a host of other topics related to antiquities and ancient society, including the history of Egypt. We have also written about most all of the modern tourists destinations, as well as many articles about specific types of tourism and various aids to tourism (See our Home Page).
There is much more that we can write about, and we are always expanding our libraries. We also have various writers in Egypt who we send out to write specific stories. Now, we would like your input as to what you want to read. Think of it as having your own research staff in Egypt. You tell us what you want to find out about in Egypt, what interests you, from general topics to specific ones, or specific sites, and we will send out our staff to accommodate your requests. Keep in mind that we have extensively covered many topics, but feel free to tell us even if you would like to have even more extensive information on a topic we have already covered.
Your input is extremely important to us and to Tour Egypt. We need and want it. This is not a survey as such, or at least not yet. What we really wish for our readers to do is leave us comments by clicking on the comments link below and provide us with a short explanation of what you would like us to write about. Its that simple. You may even tell us other ways that you would like to see Tour Egypt improved.
Thank you
Jimmy Dunn
Webmaster and Chairman
Tour Egypt
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
About Egyptian Pyramids
There are no more famous ancient sites within Egypt, or for that matter elsewhere in the world, than the Great Pyramids at Giza. They are, without question, the icon most associated with the Egypt. They have been both the main destination for tourists, and a source of imaginative thought to the world for over three thousand years.
However, there are actually over 100 pyramids in Egypt, many of which are relatively unknown to anyone who is not an ancient Egypt enthusiast. All but a very few are grouped around and near the City of Cairo, just south of the Nile Delta. Otherwise, only one royal pyramid is known in southern Egypt (at Abydos), that being the one built by Ahmose, founder of the 18th Dynasty and Egypt's New Kingdom. It may have also been the last royal pyramid built in Egypt.
Hence, major pyramids were not built throughout Egypt's ancient history. The Pyramid Age began with a burst of building, starting with the 3rd Dynasty reign of Djoser. Some of the early kings, most specifically Snefru, built more than one pyramid. Almost all of the kings added to their number through the end of the Middle Kingdom, with the possible exception of the First Intermediate Period between the Old and Middle Kingdoms. After the first Pharaoh of Egypt's New Kingdom, Ahmose, royal pyramid building by Egyptians ceased entirely. Somewhat abruptly the kings of the New Kingdom chose, rather than making their tombs completely obvious, to hide them in the hills of the West Bank of Thebes (modern Luxor).
However, smaller pyramids were constructed, for example in the Deir el-Medina necropolis, by private individuals. The Late Period Nubians who ruled Egypt also built relatively small pyramids with much steeper sides, though these were in fact constructed in Nubia itself. This tradition was carried on in Nubia after these southern rulers lost control of Egypt, and eventually, more pyramids were actually built in Nubia than Egypt, though on a much smaller scale.
Other pyramids in the world certainly exist, but their purpose, for the most part, was different than those of ancient Egypt. The most famous outside Egypt are probably those located in Mexico and to the south of Mexico, but these appear to have been built more as temples. In Egypt, all but a select few of the pyramids were built as tombs, sometimes to hold the physical body of a pharaoh (as well as other individuals), or to hold the soul of the deceased (as in the case of the small cult pyramids built next to the larger ones). Otherwise, the purpose of only a few small, regional stepped pyramids remains elusive.
While pyramids were, for the most part, tombs for the Pharaohs of Egypt, one must nevertheless question the reason that Egyptian rulers chose this particular shape, and for that matter, why they built them so large. Today, we believe that they chose the shape in order to mimic the Benben, a pyramid shaped stone found in the earliest of temples, which itself is thought to symbolize the primeval mound from which the Egyptians believed life emerged. This also connected the pyramid to Re, the Sun God, as it was he, according to some of the ancient Egypt mythology, who rose from the primeval mound to create life.
As far the great size of many of the pyramids in Egypt, we can really only surmise that the Pharaohs were making a statement about their own power and perhaps, about the glory and strength of their country. However, it should also be remembered that many of the latter pyramids were not nearly as large as the Great Pyramids at Giza (and elsewhere).
Pyramids evolved. The first of them was not a perfectly formed pyramid. In fact, the first Pyramid we believe that was built in Egypt, that of Djoser, was not a true pyramid at all with smooth sides and a point at the top. Rather, its sides were stepped, and the top of the pyramid truncated with a flat surface (as best we know). As the Egyptian pyramids evolved, there were failures as well glorious failures until finally, they got it right with what was probably the first smooth sided true pyramid built at Meidum. In fact, pyramids continued to evolve throughout their history, perhaps not always in outward appearances, but in the way that they were built and in the theology surrounding their construction. For example, towards the latter part of Egypt's Pyramid Age, Osirian beliefs seem to have had more and more impact on the arrangement and layout of the subterranean chambers.
However, soon after the first pyramids were built, their form became somewhat standardized. Royal pyramid complexes included the main pyramid, a courtyard surrounding the main pyramid, a much smaller cult pyramid for the king's soul, a mortuary temple situated next to the main pyramid, an enclosure wall and a causeway that led down to a valley temple. Some pyramid complexes included subsidiary, smaller pyramids for family members, and most were surrounded by some sort of tombs for family members.
Our thinking on pyramids has evolved considerably over the years. Many of us who are a bit older were taught that the pyramids were built using Jewish slave labor, which is a fabrication of immense proportions. Most of the pyramids were built long before the Jews made their appearance historically and currently, many if not most scholars believe they were not built using slave labor at all (or perhaps a nominal number of slaves).
Otherwise, we can also dismiss offhand alternative theories related to aliens or some lost culture being responsible for pyramid building. There is just far too much evidence, including tools, drawings, evolutionary changes, and even worker villages that rule these farfetched ideas obsolete.
However, some mysteries remain, even in some of the best well known Pyramids. The most famous of them all, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, continues, year after year, to give up a few more secrets, and there doubtless remains much to learn from these Egyptian treasures. There may even be one or more pyramids yet to be discovered.
Egypt Feature Story
Welcome. We need your input, and in doing so, you can help shape the stories we will be presenting on Tour Egypt over the coming year. This year we celebrate 10 years of serving the tourist who travel to Egypt, and the tourist industry in Egypt, actually a rather long haul for almost any web site. Tour Egypt dates back to the very early days of the commercial internet itself, when the Ministry of Tourism and the Egyptian Tourism Authority requested our services in providing them with their official site. Over that period of time, we have written about every pyramid known in Egypt, almost every major and minor temple, and most of the major tombs, as well as other archaeological sites such as ancient cities. We have written about most of the major historical Christian churches and monasteries, and most of the major historical mosques and other archaic Islamic era monuments. We have also covered various aspects of ancient culture, including religion, though the centuries, and a host of other topics related to antiquities and ancient society, including the history of Egypt. We have also written about most all of the modern tourists destinations, as well as many articles about specific types of tourism and various aids to tourism (See our Home Page).
There is much more that we can write about, and we are always expanding our libraries. We also have various writers in Egypt who we send out to write specific stories. Now, we would like your input as to what you want to read. Think of it as having your own research staff in Egypt. You tell us what you want to find out about in Egypt, what interests you, from general topics to specific ones, or specific sites, and we will send out our staff to accommodate your requests. Keep in mind that we have extensively covered many topics, but feel free to tell us even if you would like to have even more extensive information on a topic we have already covered.
Your input is extremely important to us and to Tour Egypt. We need and want it. This is not a survey as such, or at least not yet. What we really wish for our readers to do is leave us comments by clicking on the comments link below and provide us with a short explanation of what you would like us to write about. Its that simple. You may even tell us other ways that you would like to see Tour Egypt improved.
Thank you
Jimmy Dunn
Webmaster and Chairman
Tour Egypt
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
[Malaysiakini.com]SPECIAL REPORT: Anwar's Black 14
About 20,000 people attended a rally in central Kuala Lumpur tonight to mark the expiry of Anwar Ibrahim ban from public office, a decade after he was sacked as deputy prime minister.
The crowd defied a ban on the event which was held in Kampung Baru despite scores of riot police were deployed in the futile attempt to stop the illegal gathering.
Malaysiakini has the reports, videos and photos of the event.
20,000 defy police to celebrate Anwar's ban expiry
Kampung Baru hails 'Ketuanan Rakyat'
Anwar: We have numbers to topple gov't
On eve of political liberation, Anwar is in a forgiving mood
VIDEOS
Watch 6-min video of the rally
Watch 2-min video of press conference
PHOTOS
THE DAY AFTER
PKR leaders get early morning police visits
Police: They said Black 14 was a dinner event
MB gives statement in his office, others off to S'gor IPK
Police: Anwar 'may be' called in
Monday, June 9, 2008
About Ancient Egypt
In Egypt, we find the earliest detailed records of warfare recorded thousands of years ago, but we also find the cemeteries and monuments of the world's last global war, World War II. In Egypt, we find some of the first written words of civilization, but we also find great thinkers and writers through the Greek period, into the Christian era, the archaic Islamic period and even modern Nobel Literates. In Egypt, we find ancient pyramids and giant columns supporting massive temples, but we can now find these architectural elements spread throughout the world. Here, along with the first monumental buildings made of stone, we also find the first paved roads, the first wines and beer and even the first peace treaties between organized governments. However, we also find the world's first scientists, doctors, architects and mathematicians.
Egypt is our window to humanity's distant past and in understanding its history, we find both mankind's greatest glories and achievements, as well as his often repeated mistakes. We may follow along with the building of empires, only to see them collapse again and again. We find great men and rulers of renowned, but we often also see their ultimate demise.
And here, we learn about religion, its evolution and, as the world grows older, its replacement with newer religions. Yet, the ancient Egyptian religion has never really completely died out. Even today, many Egyptians continue customs, including some aspects of religion, held over from thousands of years ago. In fact, throughout the world, aspects of the ancient Egyptian religion, particularly funerary, continue to effect our modern lives.
We hope you enjoy our efforts to bring Egyptian history and its monuments to your fingertips. Here one will find just about every aspect of ancient Egypt, from culture to people, from monuments to knowledge. Take the time to understand ancient Egyptian history, and we feel certain you will find, within this knowledge, a better understanding of this modern world in which we live.
Egypt Travel Destinations
Click on the city you would like to Explore
(More Cities and Destinations listed Below)
Egypt could be said to have six different tourist super-sites. Each has its own flavor, and mostly each serves a different purpose. Surprisingly, or perhaps not, most of these tourist areas do not depend on ancient monuments to sustain them. In fact, only Luxor is completely dependent on this trade. These super-sites consist of:
Alexandria and the immediate area around the City. It could in fact be argued that this area extends to Marsa Matruh to the west on the coast. The area has a Mediterranean feel about it, and the attraction is the Mediterranean Sea, and to the people of Cairo, a somewhat cooler climate.
Cairo and the immediate area around the City. Cairo has everything. Cairo has great hotels, entertainment, restaurants, all manner of monuments from throughout the history of Egypt and it is often the entry point for most people visiting Egypt. It even has bowling allies and several golf courses to chose from.
Luxor, and the surrounding area. Luxor is a living museum with vast numbers of ancient Egyptian monuments. It is also highly oriented to tourists, and might be thought of in the same regard as a theme park, where the attractions just happen to be real monuments.
Aswan and the surrounding area. Aswan is probably the least of the super-site tourist areas, but has great hotels, along with the huge Lake Nasser just to the south.
Hurghada and the surrounding area, particularly El Gouna. Not to far apart are El Gouna, Hurghada and Safaga, and these areas contain just about everything a tourist would like to have, with the exception of ancient monuments. They make up for that with every variety of water sports, several golf courses, casinos and more. The Red Sea area has less of an Egyptian feel, but not as European as the Sinai.
Sharm El Sheikh, and the surrounding area including Sharks Bay. This is the Sinai super-site, again with most everything any tourist might wish. There are even some wonderful Christian monuments nearby, and the water sports, as at Hurghada, are all inclusive.
This is not to say that there are many more tourist destinations, particularly on the Red Sea and in Sinai, and on Egypt's mainland interior, the oases. However, in much of the rest of the mainland interior, travel and destinations are limited. However, the tourist super-sites encompass perhaps ninety-five percent of the ancient monuments, and most else there is to do in Egypt.
Major Destinations
Alexandria and the North Coast
Beautiful beaches and Mediterranean resorts.The Delta from North of Cairo to the Mediterranean East of Alexandria
With Tanta, Zagazig, Dumyat, Damanhur, El Mansura, BenhaCairo and the Lower Nile Valley from Cairo to El Tabbin
With Abu Sir, Dhashur, Giza, Meidum, SaqqaraThe Lower Nile Valley from El-Minya to El-Minya
With Atfih, Beni Suef, Ihnasya el Madina, El Lahun, El MinyaUpper Nile Valley from South of El-Minya to Qena
With Abu Tig, Akhmim, El Araba el Madfuna, Asyut, El Badari, Dairut, Durunka, Girga,Hiw, Sohag, Qena, El QusiyaLuxor/Thebes, from South of Qena to North of Idfu
With Luxor and the Surrounding AreaAswan and Nubia, from Idfu to Abu Simbel
With Elephantine Island, Kitcheners Island, High DamRed Sea
With El-Gouna, Hurghada, Suez, Berenice, Ain Sukhna, Al-QuseirSinai
With El Arish, Ras Mohamed, Dahab, TabaOasis
OtherFayoum
Siwa Oasis
Bahariya Oasis
Farafra Oasis
Dakhla Oasis
Kharga Oasis
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Fast Facts About Malaysia
The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
Geographical Location
Located between 2º and 7º north of the Equator, Peninsula Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsula Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are north of Indonesia in Borneo while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei.
Area
329,758 sq km
Population
26 million
Capital
Kuala Lumpur
People
Malays who make up about 57% of the population are the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest.
Language
Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also speak various languages and dialects.
Religion
Islam is the official religion but all other religions are freely practised.
Government
Malaysia is governed by a Parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system. The Head of State is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position that is awarded to a different State Monarch every five years and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister.
Climate
Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures in the lowlands range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). The highlands are cooler, where temperatures range between 15°C (59° F) to 25°C (77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
Major Holidays
New Year's Day Hari Raya Aidiladha* Federal Territory Day ** Chinese New Year* Awal Muharam* Birthday of Prophet Muhammad* Labour Day* Wesak Day* King's Birthday* National Day* Deepavali# Hari Raya Aidilfitri* Christmas*
Note: (*) - National holidays (**) - Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur & Labuan only (#) - Except Labuan & Sarawak
Economic Profile
Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are other major contributors to the economy.
Distance to Malaysia
London, United Kingdom to Kuala Lumpur : 6,557 miles (10,552 km)
Paris, France to Kuala Lumpur 6,483 miles (10,432 km)
Rome, Italy to Kuala Lumpur : 6,038 miles (9,716 km)
Stockholm, Sweden to Kuala Lumpur : 5,812 miles (9,353 km)
Berlin, Germany to Kuala Lumpur : 5,979 miles (9,622 km)
Madrid, Spain to Kuala Lumpur : 6,885 miles (11,079 km)
New York, USA to Kuala Lumpur : 9,400 miles (15,126 km)
Los Angeles, USA to Kuala Lumpur : 8,790 miles (14,144 km)
Vancouver, Canada to Kuala Lumpur : 7,944 miles (12,783 km)
Currency
The unit of currency is Malaysian Ringgit indicated as RM. USD1 is roughly equivalent to RM3.20. Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers.
Banking Hours
Most states: Mon - Fri: 9.30am to 4.30pm. Sat & Sun: Closed (Selected banks and branches are open on Sat). Kelantan & Terengganu: Sun - Wed :9.30am to 4.30pm. Thurs :9.30am to 4.00pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public Holiday: Closed
Post Offices
Open from 8.30am to 6.00pm daily except the first Saturday of each month, Sundays and public holidays.
In Kelantan and Terengganu post offices operate during the same hours but are closed on Fridays and public holidays.
Time
Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.
Electricity
Voltage is 220 - 240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second.
Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.
Weights and Measures
Malaysia follows the metric system in weights and measures.
Telephones
Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or pre-paid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with card phone facilities or at any Telekom office.
Accommodation
Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. Six-star, medium range, budget hotels, youth hostels, beach chalets and timeshare apartments are just some of the types of accommodation available. Privately operated motor-homes are also available for rent.
