Revolutionize Your Travel Experience: Racing, Hiking, and Golfing in Malaysia

Reported by Chen Tzu-yin / Taipei

When thinking of Malaysia, many envision pristine island beaches, blue skies, and urban Kuala Lumpur filled with shopping and sightseeing. But few realize that Malaysia is also a paradise for sports tourism.


▲ Malaysia is also a haven for golf. (Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia)

Renowned as a golfer’s paradise, Malaysia has 207 golf courses located in highlands, on islands, within tropical rainforests, or in city centers. Each course offers its own distinctive character, with many designed by famous golfers. The country attracts numerous Taiwanese golf enthusiasts every year who come to test their true skills, conquer challenging obstacles, and overcome tough weather and terrain conditions. This year’s LPGA Malaysia Women’s Open will take place from October 10 to 13 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, featuring four days of intense competition. World-class players will gather not only to compete for the $2 million prize purse, but also for world No. 1 Jin Young Ko to face challenges from Stacy Lewis, Chella Choi, Shin Ji-yai, and others. Former world No. 1 Yani Tseng, who finished as runner-up in 2011, will also be back seeking better results and reclaiming her winning form.

 
▲ Feel the heart-pounding thrill of speeds up to 320 km/h live. (Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia)

Beyond golf, Malaysia is also home to one of Asia’s premier racetracks. The Sepang International Circuit, completed in 1998, is a rare high-speed circuit globally. In addition to several high-speed corners, it features two straights stretching 800 meters, where speeds can exceed 320 km/h, allowing drivers to push the pedal to the metal and unleash every bit of engine power. This year’s MotoGP Malaysia will roar into action from October 11 to 13. As racers speed past fans, the thunderous sonic boom reverberates through the banana-leaf-shaped roof and hits your eardrums. Even with your eyes closed, you can feel the immense power of the engines delivering an unparalleled adrenaline rush—this is a high-speed thrill you can only truly experience live.


▲ Mount Kinabalu is a ultimate challenge for many mountaineers. (Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia)

In recent years, marathon running has become increasingly popular in Taiwan, with various types of races held almost weekly and loved by the general public. Many local marathon enthusiasts also travel abroad to compete with runners from around the world and push their own limits. The Mount Kinabalu Race Series in Malaysia is the perfect testing ground for them. Certified by the International Skyrunning Federation, the Mount Kinabalu Race is also a special event in the World Mountain Running Championships. This year’s event will officially kick off on October 19–20. Organizers have invited top Taiwanese athletes to scale Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, which stands at 4,095 meters above sea level. Over the 33-kilometer course, participants will traverse a mix of asphalt roads, forest trails, and rocky paths. They must contend with altitude and air pressure changes while maintaining peak physical condition. For those who love self-challenge and exploring their potential, the Mount Kinabalu Race is the ultimate choice to reach new heights.

[Travel Information]
● Population: Approximately 29 million
● Climate: Tropical rainforest climate
● Visa: No visa required for stays up to 15 days
● Time Difference: No time difference
● Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 Malaysian Ringgit = 10 Taiwanese Dollars