Borneo and Beyond: Discovering the Wild Heart of Malaysia

It all began three years ago with a first time visit to Thailand. Since then, the call of the East has become something of an addiction for me. After exploring Indonesia, I found myself drawn to Malaysia—a country that truly charms you with its diversity, vibrant people, and intoxicating spirituality. But above all, it is the “green pulsing heart” of Borneo that captures the imagination of every true adventurer.

As someone who works in the fast-paced world of advertising, I often find that my curiosity is my best guide. I simply could not skip over Malaysia when I knew that the ancient rainforests of Borneo were waiting.

Wildlife Encounters in Bako National Park

One of the absolute highlights of my trip was Bako National Park in Sarawak. As Sarawak’s oldest national park, Bako is a sanctuary for some of the most unusual wildlife on the planet, most notably the proboscis monkey. These “long-nosed” primates are endemic to Borneo, and seeing them in their natural habitat is a surreal experience.

If you are planning a visit, I suggest hitting the Telok Paku or Telok Assam trails early in the morning. Watching these pot-bellied monkeys swing through the mangroves while macaques and bearded pigs forage nearby makes you realize why Southeast Asia is such an incredible destination. The biodiversity here is staggering, and the rugged coastline provides a dramatic backdrop to the dense jungle.

Living with the Iban: The “Headhunters” of Sarawak

From the coast, I traveled deep into the interior to meet the Iban tribe. Historically known and feared as the “headhunters” of Borneo, the Iban of today are a peaceful and remarkably welcoming community. I had the privilege of staying in a traditional longhouse (Rumah Panjai), a massive wooden structure built on stilts.

The social structure is fascinating; I stayed in a longhouse where 37 families lived under one single roof! Each family has their own private living quarters (bilik), but they share a long communal hallway (ruai) where the life of the village happens. We ate traditional meals like Pansoh—chicken and herbs cooked inside bamboo over an open fire—and drank Tuak (rice wine). Getting to know their heritage, their intricate tattoos, and their communal way of life was the most spiritually grounding experience of my journey.

George Town: Where Street Art Meets History

Leaving the jungle behind, I headed to George Town on Penang Island. While it has a distinctly European charm, it is important to note its history as a British colonial town (founded by Francis Light in 1786). Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site, but its modern fame comes from its thriving urban art scene.

I spent hours walking through the heat to find the iconic murals by Ernest Zacharevic. His “interactive” art—like the famous Little Children on a Bicycle—blends painted figures with real-world objects, turning the city’s walls into a living gallery. After a few days of exploring the colonial architecture and relaxing on Penang’s beaches, I finished my trip in Kuala Lumpur, which remains my favorite capital city in Asia.

Planning Your Next Adventure

Malaysia is a destination that stays with you long after the flight home. If you are starting your journey in the capital, don’t miss our comprehensive Kuala Lumpur family guide and our essential safety tips for Malaysia. Words can only capture so much; you have to see the beauty of Borneo and the streets of Penang for yourself!

Watch the Journey: Borneo and Beyond

While stories can paint a picture, some experiences are so vibrant they need to be seen to be believed. From the misty, ancient canopy of Bako National Park to the flickering hearths of an Iban longhouse and the colorful, sun-drenched streets of George Town, this short film captures the “pulsing green heart” of our Malaysian adventure.

Sit back and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Sarawak, the artistic charm of Penang, and the modern energy of Kuala Lumpur.

Watch “Borneo and Beyond” below: