A short trip to the Langkawi resort island

Written/Compiled by Li Xinyi | Source/MOOK Editorial Department

Langkawi Island covers an area of approximately 328 square kilometers, with a population of about 60,000. Around 90% of the residents are Malay, while Chinese and Indian communities make up 7% and 3% respectively. Since Malays, who practice Islam, do not eat pork, the island does not raise pigs, nor import pork. In the past, Langkawi was designated as a Malay reserve area and was restricted from development. It may also have been affected by the curse of Mahsuri, resulting in relatively slow infrastructure growth. However, thanks to its beautiful beaches and nearby coral reefs, it still attracts many top-tier resorts, with around 1.8 million tourists from around the world visiting each year.

The word "Lang" in Langkawi means "eagle" in Malay (helang), and "kawi" means "reddish-brown". Therefore, the large red eagle standing in the square near the pier represents Langkawi. This reddish-brown eagle cost 1.1 million Malaysian Ringgit (approximately 350,000 USD) to build, stands about 12.6 meters tall from head to toe, and has a wingspan of 21.6 meters. It is primarily constructed with steel-reinforced concrete and covered with fiberglass. The reddish-brown feathers on the eagle are made of individually attached copper sheets, showcasing fine craftsmanship. Its head is white, the nostrils are sky blue, and its gaze is sharp and vivid.

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This sizable exhibition hall houses gifts received by Malaysia’s fourth Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, and his wife during their 22-year tenure (1981–2003) from various countries around the world. “Perdana” in Malay means “the most important”, which is an honorific title for the Prime Minister. Before becoming Prime Minister, Mahathir worked as a doctor in Kedah and served as the Medical Officer of Health in Langkawi. Therefore, before retiring, he planned to spend his later years in Langkawi, which is why this exhibition hall was located here. The building combines a Malay-style exterior with a Moorish-style ceiling. It currently houses over 4,000 exhibits, including porcelain, rare artworks, and even motorcycles and race cars—definitely worth a visit.

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This cable car, officially opened in 2001, offers the best panoramic views of Langkawi Island. The cable car ascends from Oriental Village up to Gunung Mat Cincang. At 708 meters above sea level, Mat Cincang is the second highest peak on Langkawi Island. Geologists once discovered seashell fossils while hiking here. Research revealed that Mat Cincang is actually an ancient underwater mountain range, leading to the estimation that Langkawi landmass is about 540 million years old.

Upon reaching the summit of Mat Cincang, the sweeping island views are laid out before you. From this vantage point, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Langkawi Island. To the north, you can see the small islands of Thailand’s Andaman Sea, with undulating mountain ranges stretching majestically and refreshing sea breezes blowing gently, creating a truly uplifting experience.

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After the filming of the movie “Anna and the King”, according to the agreement with the production crew, the Langkawi government opened this summer palace as a tourist attraction. However, temporary structures may not withstand the constant erosion of sea waves and winds. Within just a few years of opening, 2 million Malaysian Ringgit had already been spent on maintenance. Even so, a seaside pavilion originally extending into the sea could not be preserved, leaving only two main buildings available for visits today. The main structure of the Summer Palace is 95% wooden, designed in the style of Thai architecture. The furniture and furnishings inside were purchased by the film crew in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and transported here. The two vermilion-colored buildings include one that served as the King’s throne hall for receiving officials in the drama, where you can see the royal throne and a display of King Mongkut’s golden silk attire. The other building was Anna’s room.

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