Over the past 9 years I have grown to love many things about Malaysia. After each visit I find myself longing for the things that make the country so distinct. I miss the sound of rain tapping on the leaves of the palm trees, the aroma of blended spices which forms the base of nasi kandar, the refreshing taste of teh ais or freshly squeezed mango juice on a hot, humid day, a drive through the rainforest or a walk through the bustling narrow lanes courtesy of its colonial heritage.

When I visited Malaysia in 2007 I anticipated that things would be even more spectacular than in the past since the government had hyped up 2007 as visit Malaysia year. Unfortunately, I was left frustrated, bewildered and even angry, perhaps for reasons some of you may not expect.