Malaysia, a vibrant Southeast Asian nation, spans the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo. With the South China Sea to the north and Kuala Lumpur as its capital, Malaysia has a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a thriving economy.
A Few Wonders of Malaysia
Here are a few popular tourist attractions in Malaysia: These attractions show Malaysia’s blend of urban excitement, natural beauty, and cultural richness.
1. Batu Caves (Kuala Lumpur): A series of limestone caves and temples, featuring impressive Hindu statues and vibrant festivals.
2. Taman Negara National Park: A lush rainforest with diverse wildlife, trekking trails, and opportunities for jungle adventures.
3. Langkawi Island: A tropical paradise with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic mangroves, perfect for relaxation and water activities. Don’t miss the iconic Eagle Square, featuring a majestic eagle statue, a symbol of the island’s name and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination!
4. Petronas Twin Towers (Kuala Lumpur): Iconic 88-story skyscraper with stunning architecture and panoramic city views.
People of Malaysia
Malaysia is home to a vibrant and diverse population, blending Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. This multiculturalism shines through in their colorful festivals, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, with Malaysians known for their resilience, creativity, and strong family ties, making the country a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity.
Traditional Dress of Malaysia
The traditional dress for women is the Baju Kurung, a loose-fitting knee-length blouse paired with a long skirt (kain). For more formal occasions, a sarong is often worn on top. For men, the traditional attire is Baju Melayu, a long-sleeved shirt worn with trousers, often accompanied by a sampin (a short sarong worn around the waist) and a tanjak (headgear).
Pulse Cultivation in Malaysia
Malaysia cultivates various types of pulses, including kacang hijau (mung bean), black beans (kacang hitam) and red kidney beans. These pulses are staples in Malaysian cuisine, but their cultivation faces challenges due to soil and climate conditions. Historically, agriculture was a dominant sector in Malaysia. However this has been gradually overtaken by the industrial sector.
Let’s try out Masak Lemar Hacang Hijau, today! Kacan Hijau translate to mung bean, and Masak Lemak, the method of cooking in coconut milk. The best part? It’s easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Masak Lemak Kacang Hijau (Mung Bean Stew)
A popular Malaysian stew that’s mild, soothing, and deliciously healthy. It’s a perfect match for a steaming plate of white rice or bread. Give it a try and see why it’s a favorite – we think you’ll love it!
You need:
100 gm mung beans (kacang hijau)
1 tablespoon oil
1 medium onion
1 tsp grated garlic
½ tbsp of grated ginger
1-2 chopped chilies
1/2 cup coconut milk
Salt to taste
Method:
- Rinse and soak mung beans in water for 6 hours or overnight.
- Peel and chop the onion, peel and grate the garlic and ginger. Finely chop the chilies.
3. Cook the mung beans with ½ tsp of salt in sufficient water, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface.
4. Continue cooking until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion for about a minute.
6. Add grated garlic and ginger, and continue cooking.
7. Stir in chili paste and cook until fragrant.
8. Then, pour in the coconut milk.
9. Add the cooked mung beans and bring the mixture to a boil.
10. Simmer until the flavors meld together, then season with salt and sugar to taste.
Pairs perfectly with steamed rice – enjoy!
Happy cooking! Stay tuned for more.
Coming up next… Pulses in Myanmar Cuisine!
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Dal On The Table 
Loved reading about pulses in Malaysian cuisine! 🌿 Such a tasty mix of tradition and nutrition.
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Thank you so much Protima! 😊 I’m glad you enjoyed learning about pulses in Malaysian cuisine. The blend of tradition, nutrition, and flavor is truly amazing! 🌟 Would love to explore more recipes together!
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I think i will try this definitely .it seems very comforting to me.. the richness of coconut milk is surely gonna enhance the taste.. simple yet tempting!😍
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I’m so glad, Stuti, that you’re excited to try it! The coconut milk really adds a richness and depth to the dish. Let me know how it turns out! 😊 Simple yet comforting recipes are often the best, aren’t they?
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The Masak Lemak Kacang Hijau recipe was especially comforting & evocative. Keep sharing these culinary gems😍
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