Been There Ornament – Malaysia

Strangely enough, Been There Ornament Malaysia was released later than ornaments for some of its cities.

Malaysia’s history is shaped by ancient Malay kingdoms, centuries of maritime trade, and waves of cultural influence from China, India, the Middle East, and Europe. Over time, these interactions formed a vibrant nation where diverse traditions coexist naturally. From the early sultanates to British rule and finally independence in 1957, Malaysia has grown into a country celebrated for harmony, cultural pride, and rapid modern development.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Johor

Another package from Malaysia arrived! Inside, there is a brand new Been There Ornament Johor.

Johor state’s history as the southernmost state of Peninsular Malaysia dates back centuries to the Johor Sultanate, established in 1528 after the fall of Malacca. The modern state took shape under Sultan Abu Bakar in the late 19th century, who modernized administration and infrastructure while maintaining the sultanate’s sovereignty. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of major shipping routes and sharing a border with Singapore, Johor has evolved into Malaysia’s industrial powerhouse and agricultural heartland while preserving its rich royal heritage and cultural traditions.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Hong Kong

Been There Ornament Hong Kong joins other mini mugs in my collection.

Hong Kong began as a small fishing and farming community before becoming a British colony in 1842 after the First Opium War. Over the next century, it transformed into a major trading port and one of the most important gateways between East and West. In 1997 sovereignty returned to China under the “one country, two systems” framework, which allowed Hong Kong to keep its own legal and economic structures.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Malacca

Been There Ornament Malacca is an ornament for a city also known as Melaka, that has a long and layered history that stretches back to the 1400s when it rose as a powerful Malay sultanate and one of Southeast Asia’s busiest trading ports. Its strategic position drew the attention of foreign powers, leading to centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British control. Each era left behind architecture, cuisine, and traditions that still shape the city today. Because of this mix, Malacca is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Malaysia’s most historically rich destinations.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Kuala Lumpur

Been There Ornament Kuala Lumpur is yet another addition to my collection from Asia. There are still quite a few releases from this series to review!

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, began as a small tin-mining settlement in the 1850s. Over time, it grew into a bustling hub of commerce and culture, attracting people from across the country and beyond. Today, it’s the political, financial, and cultural heart of Malaysia, blending colonial architecture with modern skyscrapers. The city’s skyline and heritage reflect its diverse past and rapid development, making it one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant capitals.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Perlis

The Been There Ornament Perlis is a mini version of the mug we reviewed earlier. I’m lucky to have this in my collection, thanks to a friend who travels frequently across Asia.

Perlis, the smallest state in Malaysia, may be compact in size, but it is rich in history and natural beauty. Located in the far north of Peninsular Malaysia, it shares a border with Thailand and has long served as a vital trading route between the two nations. Historically known as part of the ancient Kingdom of Kedah, Perlis became a separate state in the early 19th century and developed its own distinct cultural identity.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Penang

I’m getting closer to completing my collection of mini mugs with this beautiful Been There Ornament Penang that I got from a friend!

Penang, often called the “Pearl of the Orient,” is a small island with a big story to tell. You can even see the image of the island itself on the front of the mug, shaped like a green gem off Malaysia’s northwest coast. Its modern history began in 1786 when Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company established a trading post here.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Sabah

Yet another mini mug from Malaysia! The Been There Ornament Sabah is designed using the blue color palette. This is possibly to reflect the state’s serene coastal beauty and the symbolic meanings of peace, unity, and strength found in the shades of blue on Sabah’s flag. The string of the ornament is also blue.

Sabah, known as the “Land Below the Wind,” sits on the northern tip of Borneo and carries a history as diverse as its landscapes. Long before colonial times, the region was home to several indigenous groups, including the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, and Bajau peoples, each with distinct languages and traditions.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Melbourne

Similar to other Australian ornaments, the Been There Ornament Melbourne comes in a set of two, together with the country ornament. See the photo of the box below.

Melbourne began as a small settlement on the Yarra River in 1835, built by ambitious settlers looking for opportunity. The discovery of gold in the 1850s transformed it into one of the richest cities in the world. Victorian architecture, grand boulevards, and public gardens soon gave it a European charm that still defines its streets.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Phnom Penh

Been There Ornament Phnom Penh comes in a custom box, together with the Cambodia ornament (see the photo below).

Phnom Penh was founded in the 15th century when King Ponhea Yat made it the capital of Cambodia. Resting at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, the city has always thrived on trade and culture. It later became a key center during the French colonial era, which left a lasting mark on its architecture. The city went through dark years in the 1970s but has since risen with remarkable strength.… Read more

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