Malaysia is a prime location for sports enthusiasts and spectators. The country hosts a number of international sports events including Formula 1, motorcycling, cycling, power boat racing and golf. Other sports such as hockey, badminton, squash and football are also very popular. Sports facilities are in abundance throughout the country. Malaysia is also a very popular location for sailing and watersports, and is home to some of the best diving locations in the world

For the adventurous, there are many opportunities to engage in activities such as wild water rafting, jungle trekking and mountain climbing, particularly in East Malaysia. For luxury and pampering, there are numerous five star resorts and spas throughout the country.

International artists including singers, bands, dancers and theatre groups visit Kuala Lumpur regularly, and KL is also home to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. There are state of the art movie cinemas in all major towns showing the latest blockbusters.

For those wishing to meet and socialize with other expatriates there are many expatriate associations, particularly in Kuala Lumpur.

Last but certainly not least, expatriates can participate in the many festivals of Malaysia's main ethnic groups including Hari Raya Puasa, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas. Depending on which festival is underway and which part of the country you are in, the colourful celebrations may include traditional dancing, singing, kite flying and other activities - and of course eating! ''Open houses" or "rumah terbuka" are an important Malaysian tradition whereby everyone is invited to visit and share in the celebrations whatever their religion or ethnic group. In the cities there are usually official celebrations to which the public are invited.