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Malaysia Year of Festivals 2015


Malaysia Year of Festivals

MyFest 2015
Find out more about MyFest
This year's theme is 'Endless Celebrations.' The calendar is jam-packed with colorful festivals and events all year long!

1.    Iban Tribes & Traditional Dance
tribe

Iban tribes are the largest ethnic group in Sarawak. They make up 30% of the Malaysia population. They are an upriver tribe from the heart of Kalimantan. During the ancient time, they were known as the fearsome warriors and famous for headhunting and piracy. While most of their practices are long gone, they still maintain some of the traditional customs.
 
The Warrior Dance is one of the traditional customs that Iban people maintain. It is performed during Gawai Kenyalang or “Hornbill Festival” in which the most fearsome headhunters and the victorious warriors are celebrated. Throughout the dance, a male warrior dancer performs dramatic jumps with an elaborate headdress and an ornate long shield in hand.
 

2.    Petronas Twin Tower
petronas

Petronas Twin Tower is currently the world’s tallest twin structure and fifth tallest skyscraper. It is 451.9m high with 88-stories and located in Kuala Lumpur. The skybridge, which is also the viewing platform, is the world’s highest two-story bridge. The tower is inspired by Tun Mahathir Moganad’s vision for Malaysia to be a global player. It features glass and steel on the outside and traditionally-inspired interior to reflect that Malaysia is moving forward while maintaining its national identity.

 

3.    Proboscis Monkeys
monkey

Proboscis monkey, also known as long-nosed monkey, is the mascot of Visit Malaysia Year in 2014. They are rare and endangered animal found in Borneo and predominantly in Sabah. They have big noses that are use to attract female mates by amplifying call and intimidating rival males. The monkey's nose symbolizes Malaysia's hope of attracting more and more tourists to visit. Having webbed feet, proboscis monkeys are able to swim. Their uniqueness represents the rich biodiversity and enchanting wildlife of Malaysia. They also live in groups in mixed diterocarp-kerangas forests, mangrove forests and lowland forests near fresh water and rivers. This offers a memorable experience for nature lovers to visit the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, and to experience Malaysia in a different way.