Travel Report: Malaysia (8 May - 10 May 2026)

Reported by: Yang Xueqin (BA2 student)
This report documents a three-day visit to Malaysia from 8 to 10 May 2026, during which I engaged in both Dharma activities and cultural exploration across two cities - Alor Setar and Penang.

8 May - Alor Setar
The trip began in Alor Setar, where I was warmly welcomed by a group of Buddhist laypeople. Their hospitality was generous and sincere.
In the morning, we sat together and listened to a Dharma talk. Afterwards, the hosts prepared a wonderful lunch featuring a variety of local dishes, giving me a good taste of the regional cuisine.

In the afternoon, they kindly took me to visit the Museum Kota Kuala Kedah, a historical fort museum situated at the mouth of the Kedah River. It was an interesting glimpse into the history of the region.

On the way back, we stopped to enjoy cendol - a traditional cold sweet dessert made with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup. It was a refreshing treat in the hot weather, and a perfect way to end a pleasant day.

9 May - Penang (Georgetown)
This day was spent in Penang, guided by Sister Ping Ling from Than Hsiang Temple. She picked me up from the temple at around 11:00 a.m. and we drove into Georgetown together. Along the way, she pointed out the various sights and shared stories about the area.

We visited Goddess of Mercy Temple (Kuan Yin Teng), one of the oldest and most well-known Chinese temples in Penang. We also stopped to see the famous bicycle street mural - perhaps the most recognisable piece of street art in Penang, beloved by visitors from around the world.

Passing by a Nyonya restaurant, Sister Ping Ling gave me a brief introduction to Peranakan (Nyonya) cuisine - a unique culinary tradition that blends Chinese and Malay influences, born from the Straits Chinese community.

Around 1:00 p.m., we met up with Sister Ping Ling's friends - Sister Beng Choo and Sister Julie. Together, the four of us went to a well-known Indian restaurant in Little India. It was my first time dining at an Indian restaurant, and I am glad to say that all four of us were very satisfied with the food.

After lunch, Sister Ping Ling recommended a famous cendol stall in Penang. There was a long queue of people waiting - a clear sign of how popular and well-loved this dessert spot is.

At around 3:30 p.m., they brought me to Dewan Sri Pinang (Penang State Hall) to attend a comedy show - VITAL STATS by Douglas Lim. It was a unique and memorable experience. Through his humour, I caught interesting glimpses of Malaysian political life, social issues, and everyday culture.

10 May - One-Day Eight Precepts Retreat at Than Hsiang Temple
On this day, I participated in the one-day-and-one-night Eight Precepts (Uposatha) retreat held at Than Hsiang Temple in Penang. This was my second time joining this particular retreat at Than Hsiang Temple.
Together with fellow practitioners, we engaged in prostrations, chanting, and Buddha recitation throughout the day. It was a precious and wholesome occasion - a reminder of the value of practising together in community, and a cause for great rejoicing.

Reflection
This three-day trip to Malaysia was rich in both Dharma and culture. From the warmth of the hosts in Alor Setar, to the guided exploration of Georgetown's streets and heritage, to the stillness of the retreat - each day offered something meaningful and nourishing.
I am deeply grateful to International Buddhist College and all those who made this journey possible, especially Sister Ping Ling, Sister Beng Choo, Sister Julie, and the kind hosts in Alor Setar.