Hello, sunshine: Peter and Elin are among the foreign visitors enjoying the festive spirit and delicious food. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
PETALING JAYA: For this Christmas, some foreign tourists have traded the frosty winter for Malaysia’s tropical heat.
From those escaping snowy landscapes to families soaking in the buzz of bustling night markets and savouring the country’s rich culinary diversity, each visitor discovered a refreshing and unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season under Malaysia’s sunny skies.
This year, sisters Natsuki Morita, 24, and Honoka Morita, 22, swapped Japan’s snowy white Christmas for Malaysia’s warm climate.
Natsuki described celebrating Christmas here as beautiful.
“Normally in Japan, we have snow and a white Christmas. This time, being in Malaysia with such hot weather feels so different,” she said when met in Kuala Lumpur on Christmas Day.
The sisters arrived on Dec 21 and began their adventure in Langkawi before returning to Kuala Lumpur.
When asked about their decision to visit Malaysia during Christmas, Natsuki said their mother “wanted to see this country.”
While they won’t be staying for the New Year, as they plan to return to Japan today, they have made the most of their visit.
Natsuki was impressed with the iconic PETRONAS Twin Towers and the vibrant Christmas decorations around the city.
“You can feel the Christmas spirit here. The lights, the decorations – everything feels festive,” she added.
“We tried nasi lemak in Langkawi and I liked it. The flavours are so rich and unique,” she said, sharing her excitement about trying Malaysia’s beloved dish.
Honoka said Malaysians are incredibly friendly and warm.
Natsuki, Honoka and their mum are among the foreign visitors enjoying the festive spirit and delicious food. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
“Communication hasn’t been an issue. Everyone is so kind,” she said.
The last item on their itinerary yesterday was visiting the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya.
For married couple Peter Heberling, 49, and Elin Heberling, 36, Christmas this year was anything but traditional.
Swapping Germany’s frosty landscapes and snow-dusted rooftops for Malaysia’s vibrant cityscapes and warm tropical weather, the couple embraced a unique festive experience.
“It’s my fourth time in Malaysia,” Peter said.
“I love the people here. They’re always friendly. There’s delicious food everywhere, and you can step outside without needing a heavy jacket.”
Elin said: “I like it here. People are so friendly and there’s so much energy. It’s always buzzing. It’s beautiful.”
Despite the contrast in climate, Elin did not feel like they missed out on the Christmas spirit.
“It’s no problem. The music is the same and the atmosphere feels festive. It’s similar to home in many ways,” she added.
“The city view is so impressive – it’s spotless, and the blend of old-town charm with modern architecture is stunning.
“The food is delicious. Last night, we explored a night market and enjoyed the vibrant street food scene,” said Elin.
The couple will celebrate New Year’s Eve here to make the most of their tropical holiday.
Geoffrey Strickland, 47, and his family from the United Kingdom, marked their first festive season here since the pandemic.
For their two-week holiday, Strickland plans to visit Taman Negara with his wife and two daughters.
“We’ll head to Langkawi to celebrate the New Year,” he said.
When asked about his children’s experience, he said: “I think they are enjoying it and are having fun.”
Strickland also expressed his admiration for Malaysia’s hospitality and culinary diversity.
“What impressed me the most is how friendly the people are and the variety of food,” he said.
