Category:Malaysian Malay Myth and Legend

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[edit] Introduction

Malaysia is a land of fascinating sights and attractions. Rich in colour and contrasts, her multi-faceted charm provides intriguing images that leave visitors to the country in awe. The natural warmth of Malaysia is legendary, wherever on egoes, the friendliness and hospitality of the people would prove to be very special experience. Malaysia is a paradise. Its sun-drenched beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and magnificient mountains are among the best in the region. Many visitors have also discovered Malaysia's other attraction, a shopping haven, an incentive destination, an adventure land and much more. This is mostly found in Langkawi Island.

One of the most famous island in Malaysia is Langkawi Island. Langkawi Island is the main island are richly blessed with a heritage of fabolous myths and legends. As a natural paradise, the island are perhaps unmatched anywhere alse in Southeast Asia. The rustic beauty of the island is in itself a compelling attraction.

[edit] The Islands of Legends

The legendary Isle of Langkawi is located in Kedah, northwest of Peninsular Malaysia. Comprising a group of 104 islands, the biggest being Langkawi, it is a place for those seeking tranquility and refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. So powerful is its charm on visitors that many have returned to the island time and again.

But what make Langkawi so alluring are the many legends that surround it. The legend of a beautiful maiden falsely accused and condemned. The legend of valiant warriors.The legend of true love between two spiritual beings. And many others handed down from generation to generation. A popular local myth of Langkawi is a tale about a petty maiden named Mahsuri who lived some 200 years ago.

Shopping is an added attraction here since the island's port is d esignated a duty-free port. Here you can pick up just about anything - from household electrical appliances to a grand variety of world-famous designer apparel. Perfumes to sporting equipment. All at duty-free prices, which are significantly, lower than normal retail prices.

The island is also expanding as one of SouthEast Asia's premier meeting and exhibition destinations. The hosting of two successful Lima (Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibitions is a perfect example.

[edit] The Origin

Langkawi, deriving its name from the words 'helang' (eagle) and 'kawi' (old Malay term for "strong"), is a cluster of 99 islands in high tide and more than 104 islands in low tide, making it a haven for some of the world's most beautiful, marine and coral reef life.

On the islands themselves, countless, exotic species of flora and fauna make it a must for nature lovers who may wish to trek through the virgin, rain forests to discover a landscape of mysterious lakes, mountains and waterfalls. Folk-lore claims that Langkawi was the habitation of spirits, while classical Malay literature (Hikayat Merong Maha Wangsa) relates that Garuda, the famed giant eagle rested in these islands.