Malaysia is your passport to fun!

MANILA, Philippines - Malaysia has always been filled with many exciting offerings and events — from gastronomic delights, to amazing shopping deals, and natural treasures. It has rapidly become a popular destination and a favorite among Filipinos because of its multi-culturalism, which makes Malaysia home to a harmonious blend of cultures and traditions, and colorful festivals as well.

Malaysia continues to wow visitors with celebrations lined up throughout the year:

• 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival (until Aug. 31). Get everything from designer labels, home décor items, computer peripherals to electrical appliances at irresistible prices. For information, visit www.tourism.gov.my.

• Malaysia Year-end Sale (Nov. 15 to Jan. 1, 2012). The Year-end Sale offers great discounts, bargains and promotions. For details, visit www.shopmalaysia.my.

 • Malaysia International lGourmet Festival (Oct. 1 to 31). The best fine-dining establishments in Malaysia will serve special Festival Menus at attractive prices for the month of October. Foodies can enjoy participating restos’ once-in-a-year signature menus, exciting promos such as booking discounts and room night offers, as well as avail of the MIGF Gourmet Tours. Visit www.migf.com.

• Christmas (Dec. 25). The Christmas spirit is made merrier with Malaysia’s tropical weather and friendly people. Restaurants, bistros, shopping malls, and hotels offer great promotions. Check out www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my

‘Malaysia International Gourmet Festival lets you savor one-in-a-year signature menus from participating restos, and avail of the gourmet tours.

• Kuala Lumpur Festival (July 1 to 31). The Kuala Lumpur Festival features a colorful lineup of activities and performances. Launched in 2006, the event has united Malaysians from all walks of life through the spirit of creativity and solidarity. Visit http://www.klfestival.org.my/eng/index.html.

• Contemporary Arts Tourism Festival (ongoing until Sept. 30). The event gives an insight into Malaysia’s fascinating contemporary art scene and showcases both the established and up-and-coming names in the industry. Visit www.tourism.gov.my.

• Putrajaya Floria (ongoing until July 17)

Watch floral exhibitions and ornately decorated floats at Putrajaya and witness the city transform into an enclave of beautiful flowers. Visit www.ppj.gov.my.

• Malaysia National Day (Aug. 31)

Be enthralled by the parades, fireworks displays and concerts held to commemorate Malaysia’s National Day. Join in the festivities and share the joy as people from all walks of life come together as one. Visit www.tourism.gov.my.

• Music, Arts, and Style International Festival (MASIF) (Sept. 16)

Touted as the “Fusion of Cultures,” MASIF will be a celebration of the diverse music, arts and styles in Malaysia. Visit http://www.masifestival.com. 

• Ipoh Open International Run (July 18)

Catch the action as nearly 1,200 participants race across Ipoh town. Contestants hail from various countries such as Thailand, Nigeria, United States, Singapore, Indonesia, and many more. Visit http://www.ipohrun.com/.

• Port Dickson International Triathlon (July 23 to 24)

Catch the live action as athletes compete in a test of endurance and stamina. Challenges include swimming, cycling, and running. Don’t miss this chance to be at Port Dickson, the most popular beach on the west coast of the peninsula. Visit http://www.triathlonmalaysia.com/index.php.

• Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (Oct. 21 to 23)

Witness the world’s best riders like Valentino Rossi and Casey Stoner in action at the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix. The Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix, held at Sepang International Circuit, is the biggest motorcycling event in Southeast Asia, with Malaysia being the only host country in the region. Visit www.sepangcircuit.com.my 

• Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon (Oct. 22 to 23)

Dubbed as “The World’s Toughest Mountain Race,” this race is a true challenge to the human endurance. The average climber takes two days to climb the mountain but participants of the race can make it in less than three hours up and down Mt. Kinabalu (4095.2m), with a total distance of 21-km. for all Men, Women and Men’s Veteran categories. The Climbathon is part of the Sky Runners World Series Circuit for the ninth consecutive year and is the only race in the circuit held outside Europe. The Sky Runner World Series is regulated and coordinated by the Europe-based Federation for Sport at Altitude (FSA). Visit www.sabahtourism.com.

If you’re planning a trip to Malaysia, visit “Tara na sa Malaysia!” travel fair at the Main Atrium of SM Mall of Asia from July 15 to 17. The event is organized by Tourism Malaysia.

For inquiries, visit www.tourism malaysia.gov.my.