June 2
Today we visited Langkawi which is one of about 100 islands of which this is the largest of the group. It is about 60 percent jungle and has only been developed since 1987.
We arrived to a tropical downpour which stopped as we reached our first stop about 30 minutes drive from the ship at the Budaya Craft and Cultural Complex, where we were able to browse the traditional Malay handicrafts while craftspeople demonstrated their skills in kite making, silk painting and weaving.
We then moved on to the Galeria Pardana Museum – a really interesting museum created to showcase all the gifts, souvenirs and awards received by the 4th and longest serving Prime Minister of Malaysia, known as “Dr M” and his wife. It was a fascinating mix of porcelain, crystal, silver and textiles and well as weapons, plaques, musical instruments, Islamic art and paintings. The highlight for Alex was the collection of motor vehicles, including a . Unfortunately we could not take photos.
We then moved on to the Oriental Village to take the cable car up to Mt Mat Cincang, one of the island’s highest peaks at over 2,000 ft above sea level. We had great views on the way and could even see Thailand which is only 2 km away. Unfortunately clouds obscured the 360o views from the summit.
We had a great tour guide – very knowledgeable and friendly – who kept us entertained with legends of the island as well as poems and singing. Definitely a place we would love to visit again.