Hello evrybody
I will be visiting malaysia for a week on January, as its my first visit, and i really donno where to go, i read many articles which recommend lots of islands, but what i really need is some one who i malaysian or have been there many times to tell me where to go, Langkawi, Penang, Redang, Sabah, Malaca, Johor....xcuse my ignorance of the islands and cities, just look forward spending a nice time..i have been to Thailand-> Bangkok, Phuket, Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay and it was really wonderful, am lookiing forward a same experience, Please Help me make a decision...
Thanks all..

You should hang around in kl for the 1st and last day.In between i recommend to visit Penang and Redang island.By picking these places,you should be able to have a feel of the country and peoples.

You gotta be more specific; what do you want to do? are you comin alone/ what's your budget?

See the islands? Experience the nightlife? Jungle-trekking?

January might not be a good time to visit the East Coast islands as it is at the tail-end of the monsoon season, so redang, perhentian islands are risky 9 although cheap at off season rates)

When are you planning to come? January 25th is Thaipusam, a Hindu celebration that is a riot of color/sound/sights. best places to be during Thaipusam: Batu Caves, KL and in Penang Island.

I agree that it very much depends on what you interested are in seeing, doing and eating. I plan on visiting in Jan or Feb 2005 as well to visit family and friends.

If you are interested in relaxing on a beaches like you find in Phuket Thailand and Bali Indonesia I suggest Redang Island resorts (east coat of Malaysia), crystal clear waters & much more relaxing environment than either Langkawi or Penang (West Coast).

Second choice is to go to Tioman Island to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A third alternative (no beach) is to stay at Mutiara Pedu Lake Resort (moutain lake), is located near the southern border of Thailand, 90 kms from Alor Setar, the capital city of the northern Malaysian state of Kedah. Built on two connecting islands, the 200 Kedahan-Thai structured chalets are surrounded by the tranquil waters of the man-made Pedu Lake, which mirrors the backdrop provided by the "Pakir Terbang" mountain range. This is a remote location so don't be surprised.

I have stayed at all of these resorts and would recommend them to my friends and family. In Kuala Lumpur spoil yourself and stay a few nights at the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel outside of Kuala Lumpur.

Suggest you also pick up a copy of Lonely Planet's Malaysia Guide or visit www.lonelyplanet.com. Have used their guides for Thailand, Malayisa, South Africa, and Indonesia with not regrets. Good luck & let us know how you trip goes.