Gifts from the world
Thousands of gifts from presidents and kings.
Balou46 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Balou46 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Balou46 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Balou46 — CC BY-SA 4.0
A one-of-a-kind museum displaying thousands of gifts received by former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and his wife from presidents, kings and governments around the world during his long tenure, in a building in traditional Malay style among the forests of north-east Langkawi. The exhibits are astonishingly varied: luxury and racing cars, models and objects of crystal, porcelain and silver, carpets, traditional weapons and paintings, and gifts from many Arab and Muslim countries in which Arab visitors will recognise the arts of home. It is also an illustrated record of Malaysia's ties with the world in those decades. Entry for foreign visitors is about ten ringgit per adult and four per child aged six to twelve, with a small photography fee. It opens daily from nine to five, and closes on Mondays and on both Eids. It is near the Kilim Geoforest Park, so the two fit into half a day. An hour or two is enough; the museum is air-conditioned, comfortable in the midday heat and suited to families.
Thousands of gifts from presidents and kings.
Luxury and racing cars.
Arts from Arab and Muslim countries.
Kilim, Air Hangat, north-east Langkawi
Yes: it is unlike the usual history museums, families enjoy it, and the fee is token. Pair it with the mangrove trip at nearby Kilim.
