One of the most noticeable things in Malaysia and Cameron Highlands, in particular, is the melting together of many religions. From the beautiful sounds of the call to prayer, to the colorful Hindu temples, to the ornate Buddhist temples, Malaysia has it all!
Hindu temple
While only 6% of the population in Asia are Hindu there still is a large presence in the areas we have visited so far. Maybe it is because the temples are so unique, colorful, and intriguing, but to me it seems that the percentage is far higher. While we were in Cameron, I took the opportunity to visit one of these temples. On immediate observation we saw that this temple was far less ornate than that of the Buddhists and although it was very clean we saw no other people in or around. No one praying, no one cleaning...nothing!
Chinese Buddhist temple
20% of the population are practicing Buddhists. They're mostly Chinese, and far different than our previous exposure with Buddhism in Thailand. The temples are still quite beautiful but less ornate and certainly with a Chinese influence in the architecture and writing.
Mosque
Islam is the official religion of Malaysia. 61% of the population practice Islam. There is an obvious visual presence just about everywhere you go. Just about every area has a mosque along with the beauty of the building there will also be the 5-6 times a day call to prayer blaring from the loudspeakers. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful sounds. Although I do not practice the religion, I like to look at it as a time to remind myself of the gratitude I feel. There is also plenty of typical dress from burkas and hijabs to full traditional wear, mostly on women.
Also most any place that has a bathroom also has a prayer room so that when the call to prayer does sound, there is a private and peaceful place to pray. It has been one of the more fascinating aspects to being in Malaysia!
Hindu temple
While only 6% of the population in Asia are Hindu there still is a large presence in the areas we have visited so far. Maybe it is because the temples are so unique, colorful, and intriguing, but to me it seems that the percentage is far higher. While we were in Cameron, I took the opportunity to visit one of these temples. On immediate observation we saw that this temple was far less ornate than that of the Buddhists and although it was very clean we saw no other people in or around. No one praying, no one cleaning...nothing!
Chinese Buddhist temple
20% of the population are practicing Buddhists. They're mostly Chinese, and far different than our previous exposure with Buddhism in Thailand. The temples are still quite beautiful but less ornate and certainly with a Chinese influence in the architecture and writing.
Mosque
Islam is the official religion of Malaysia. 61% of the population practice Islam. There is an obvious visual presence just about everywhere you go. Just about every area has a mosque along with the beauty of the building there will also be the 5-6 times a day call to prayer blaring from the loudspeakers. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful sounds. Although I do not practice the religion, I like to look at it as a time to remind myself of the gratitude I feel. There is also plenty of typical dress from burkas and hijabs to full traditional wear, mostly on women.
Also most any place that has a bathroom also has a prayer room so that when the call to prayer does sound, there is a private and peaceful place to pray. It has been one of the more fascinating aspects to being in Malaysia!
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