The Morita sisters, Natsuki (24) and Honoka (22), along with their mother, are visiting Malaysia for the first time, embracing the festive atmosphere during their trip.
PETALING JAYA: On Wednesday (Dec 25), travellers have chosen Malaysia's tropical warmth over frosty winter traditions.
From snowy landscapes to bustling night markets, visitors found unique ways to enjoy the holiday season.
Sisters Natsuki, 24, and Honoka Morita, 22, swapped Japan's snowy Christmas for Malaysia's festive season, with Natsuki described celebrating Christmas in Malaysia 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.
The sisters arrived in Malaysia on Dec 21 and began their adventure in Langkawi. They returned to Kuala Lumpur shortly after. Natsuki said their mother wanted to visit Malaysia.
"I think she wanted to see this country," she added.
While they won't stay for New Year, they’ve made the most of their visit and Natsuki said that the Petronas Twin Towers and the city’s decorations impressed her.
"You can feel the Christmas spirit here. The lights, the decorations—everything feels festive,” she added, saying that she loved trying Malaysia's nasi lemak.
Married couple Peter Heberling, 49, and Elin Heberling, 36 love the atmosphere feels festive in Malaysia.
"We tried nasi lemak in Langkawi, and I liked it. The flavours are so rich and unique."
Honoka - visiting Malaysia for the first time - said that she loved the friendliness of the people.
"Communication hasn’t been an issue; everyone is so kind," she said and added that they planned to visit the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya before ending their holiday.
Similarly, for Peter Heberling, 49, and Elin Heberling, 36, Christmas was anything but traditional this year.
They swapped Germany's frosty landscapes for Malaysia’s vibrant cityscapes and warm weather.
“It’s my fourth time in Malaysia. I love the people here—they’re always friendly," said Peter.
"There’s delicious food everywhere, and you can step outside without needing a heavy jacket,” he added.
Elin echoed his sentiments, saying; “I like it here. People are so friendly, and there’s so much energy—it’s always buzzing. It’s beautiful.”
Despite the climate change, Elin felt they didn't miss 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.”
Geoffrey and his family enjoyed Christmas holiday time in Malaysia.
The couple added that they have also enjoyed local culture and cuisine.
“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," she said.
"Last night, we explored a night market and enjoyed the vibrant street food scene,” Elin added.
With plans to stay in Malaysia for a week, they will celebrate New Year’s Eve here.
Peter summed up their experience: “Malaysia is a place where you can always feel welcome, enjoy great food, and appreciate the warmth of both the weather and the people.”
For the Heberlings, Malaysia has been the perfect festive escape.
Meanwhile, 47-year-old Geoffrey Strickland from the United Kingdom also spent this Christmas in Malaysia with his family; this is their first holiday abroad since the pandemic.
Reflecting on their two-week holiday, Strickland shared plans to visit Taman Negara with his wife and two daughters.
“We'll head to Langkawi to celebrate the New Year,” he said.
The Morita sisters, Natsuki (24) and Honoka (22), along with their mother, are visiting Malaysia for the first time, embracing the festive atmosphere during their trip.
When asked about his children’s experience, he said, “I think they enjoy it, and they have fun.”
Strickland added that he admired Malaysia's hospitality and culinary diversity.
“So far, what impresses me most during our visit to Malaysia is how friendly people are and the variety of all the food. Everything from the roti to the dim sum has been fantastic," he said.
For their Christmas meal, Geoffrey and his family enjoyed a traditional gathering with roast lamb and beef, blending familiar flavours with the warmth of a Malaysian holiday setting.
