10 Historical Places in Malaysia That Reveal the Nation’s Rich History

Apart from being popular as a tropical vacation destination, Malaysia is well-known for its historical significance. There is a fascinating amalgam of beaches, verdant landscapes, and ethnicities. The cultural legacy of Malaysia is spread throughout the country. Some of these historical sites are just temples, while others are a bit more intriguing. Even though you may have thought Malaysia was mostly known for its gorgeous beaches and jungles, there is so much more to see if you venture off the beaten path. If you have a Malaysia visa or are planning a trip there soon, you should put these historical sites on your itinerary so that you may learn more about Malaysia in-depth.

Here is the list of 10 Historical Places in Malaysia

1. Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia devoted to Goddess Mariamman, the manifestation of Goddess Parvati, is situated in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown neighbourhood. The Raja Gopuram Tower at the entryway with more than 200 idols sculpted on it will take your breath away. It is brilliantly crafted and sculpted in the Dravidian style. With colourful murals and alfresco adorning its façade and interior, it is one of the most picturesque places in Kuala Lumpur to visit.

2. Malacca Sultanate Palace

image credit: perzim.gov

This heritage palace, located in Melaka City at the foot of St. Paul’s Hill, provides a glimpse into the ancient Malay Kingdom that formerly reigned in Malacca. The palace’s distinguishing characteristic is that it was constructed entirely out of carved, wooden beams without the use of screws or nails. Inside, there is a three-storey museum that displays a variety of artefacts, such as costumes, artworks, sculptures, and weaponry. The palace is a recreation of the luxurious royal palace built in the 15th century during the old Malay Empire of Sultan Mansur Shah.

3. The A’Famosa Fortress

The last standing entryway of a massive Portuguese fortress known as the Porta de Santiago, which dominated the landscape at St. Paul’s Hill back in the 16th century, is one of the most intriguing historical places in Malaysia to visit. Built in 1511, the A’Famosa Fortress is a prominent landmark in Malaysia. Today, all that survives of the majestic fortress is its last gatehouse making it one of the oldest surviving specimens of European architecture in Asia.

4. Bukit China

Bukit China, located in Malacca, is the most extensive and oldest burial ground of Malacca’s Chinese community outside of China. It is said to comprise over 12,000 tombs. The cemetery, which encompasses three hills, is also known as Chinese Hill. The spot is shrouded in woodlands, has a calm atmosphere, and provides a wonderful vista of Malacca. Locals come here to find peace and quiet away from the bustle of the city.

5. Cheng Hoon Teng

Visit Cheng Hoon Teng, Malaysia’s oldest Chinese temple, which is devoted to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. It is also known as the “Merciful Cloud Temple,” and is situated on Malacca’s Harmony Street. The temple’s architecture is appealing, with red, gold, and white tones, and its entryway and other interiors are wonderfully carved and adorned with sculptures. Buddhism and Taoism are practised at this multireligious temple.

6. St. Paul’s Church

Malacca is a prime area in Malaysia to see some authentic Portuguese architecture, one of which is the St. Paul’s Church. This church, which was constructed in 1521 and is located at the top of St. Paul’s Hill next to the A’Famosa fortress, is a part of the Malaccan Museum Complex together with other historical artefacts in the locality.

7. George Town

Penang’s capital Georgetown is renowned for its street art and historical ambience and is one of Malaysia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It was a prominent commercial hub and is renowned for its mosques, Chinese shophouses, temples, churches, and British colonial structures. A tour of the city in a single day will take you through some of the most beautiful structures, including Fort Cornwallis, St. George’s Church, Kek Lok Si, and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. Georgetown is the ideal location for a heritage trip and should surely be on your agenda if you have a Malaysia tourist visa.

8. Sultan Abdul Samad Building

This landmark attraction, located near Independence Square in Jalan Raja, is one of the most photographed historical places in Kuala Lumpur. Its 19th-century heritage architecture along with its grand clock tower and copper domes are a sight to behold on a city tour.

9. St. Michael’s and All Angels Church

St Michael’s Church in Sabah, Borneo, is considered to be the region’s oldest stone church. It is a standout feature of the Sandakan Heritage Trails and is situated in Sandakan City. This church is one of the few buildings that survived World War II without being damaged, even though Sandakan was on the brink of destruction. The church is notable for its brick exteriors and stunning stained glass windows, known as the “Window Of Remembrance And The Friendships Windows,” which were presented by Australian prisoners of war to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

10. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

The historic Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Constructed in the years 1910 -1917, the train station is significantly influenced by Mughal and British colonial architecture and was created by the famous British architect Arthur Benison Hubback. On a tour of Kuala Lumpur’s cityscape, the station is among the historical structures you should visit.