|
The name Chersonesus Aurea - meaning The Golden Peninsula - was bestowed on the Malay Peninsular by Greek astronomer
Claudius Ptolemy for a good reason. Whether one sets sail from Europe in the west or China in the east, the ship would naturally
end up at Malaysia because monsoon winds from both sides eventually
convene at Asia mainland’s southern-most tip.
And if you look at the world’s map long enough, you’d also realise that Malaysia is at the mid-point corridor
of Asia, which makes the country an epicentre of shipping route. Seafarers and traders knew about it few thousand years
ago. Being strategically located means its waters were also frequently crisscrossed by fleets of the Dutch,
English, Portugese, Chinese, Arabs, Indians and Spanish ships. Today's Malaysia is a riotous blend of languages,
food, heritage, architecture and celebrations.
And do you know that compared to the world’s rainforest, Malaysia’s is a great grandmother, dating
back to the Pleistocene Epoch 70 million years ago - far older than those in Latin America and Africa. During the Ice Ages,
Malaysia’s forest was spared from glaciers and crushing cold due to its location near the equator.
Come discover why Malaysia is Asia's best kept secret.
|
