This August, in celebration of the country’s Merdeka Day, TLC ( Astro channel 707) takes viewers on a journey through Malaysian culture, history, food and festivals with the  Negaraku Special, beginning Aug 3  to Aug 31.

The dedicated Malaysian line-up features 10 programmes in Now Boarding: Malaysia, which airs every Friday at 9pm and repeats every Saturday at 8am, Sunday at 1pm and Friday at 3pm. Premiering episodes of Passage to Malaysia will also air on Aug 21 and Aug 28 at 10pm.

From the laid-back fishing villages of Terengganu and Kelantan to the bustling capital city Kuala Lumpur, explore the many facets of Malaysian lifestyle and traditions this August in Now Boarding: Malaysia of the Negaraku Special with TLC’s most loved hosts including Ian Wright, Janet Hsieh, Anthony Bourdain, Samantha Brown, Anita Kapoor, Bobby Chinn, Jamie Aditya and K.F. Seetoh as personal travel guides.

Each episode profiles the respective television personality’s outrageous adventures as they traverse the country, seeking out the authentic Malaysian experience, while providing travel tips and unique insights to the country.

In the premiering episodes of Passage to Malaysia, travel and lifestyle host Denise Keller hits the road to explore the culinary cultures of East Malaysian states Sabah and Sarawak. It’s a feast of flavours as Keller learns more about Asia’s staple food, rice, the pepper farms and fish markets, and takes a bite into the Melanau people’s “Tree of Life”.

Keller also explores Malaysia’s leading contemporary artists from a perspective beyond the galleries and exhibitions — through the prism of imagination.

What is it about the country that continues to inspire its people so greatly? In her travels through country, canvas and cuisine, Keller will uncover the answers with engaging subjects and stunning scenes from the heart, and soul of Malaysia.