Discover Malaysia
A beautiful Southeast Asian country known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, modern cities, and warm hospitality. Experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
Malaysia at a Glance
Quick facts about this fascinating country in Southeast Asia
Capital
Kuala Lumpur
Putrajaya (Administrative)
Population
33+ Million
Multicultural Society
Languages
Bahasa Malaysia
English widely spoken
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit
MYR (RM)
Geography & Location
Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, divided into two distinct regions separated by the South China Sea
Peninsular Malaysia
- Shares border with Thailand to the north
- Singapore to the south via causeway
- 11 states including Kuala Lumpur
- More developed urban areas
East Malaysia (Borneo)
- Comprises Sabah and Sarawak states
- Shares island with Indonesia and Brunei
- Rich in rainforests and wildlife
- Indigenous tribal communities
Total Area
Malaysia covers approximately 330,803 square kilometers (127,724 square miles)
Highest Peak
Mount Kinabalu (4,095m)
Coastline
4,675 km of beaches
Rainforests
130 million years old
Climate & Weather
Malaysia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round
Temperature
25-35°C
Consistent warm weather throughout the year
Rainfall
High
Monsoon seasons with tropical afternoon showers
Humidity
70-90%
Humid climate with occasional breezy days
Monsoon Seasons
Southwest Monsoon
May to September
Affects west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and western Sarawak
Northeast Monsoon
November to March
Affects east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak
Best Time to Visit: December to February (dry season in most areas) or June to August (school holidays, but busier tourist season)
People & Culture
Malaysia is a multicultural society with diverse ethnic groups living in harmony
Malay
~69%
Indigenous people and the largest ethnic group, predominantly Muslim
Chinese
~23%
Descendants of Chinese immigrants, practice Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity
Indian
~7%
Mainly Tamil descendants, practice Hinduism, Islam, Christianity
Cultural Diversity
Religious Harmony
- Islam is the official religion
- Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity practiced freely
- Multiple religious festivals celebrated
- Mosques, temples, churches coexist peacefully
Food Culture
- Nasi Lemak - National dish
- Roti Canai, Satay, Char Kway Teow
- Fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian cuisines
- Street food and hawker centers popular
Currency & Economy
Malaysia has a diverse economy and uses the Malaysian Ringgit as its official currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
- Symbol: RM
- Subdivided into 100 sen
- Banknotes: RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, RM100
- Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 sen
- Credit cards widely accepted in cities
Economy Overview
- Upper-middle-income country
- Electronics manufacturing hub
- Major palm oil producer
- Tourism important sector
- Financial center of Southeast Asia
Money Exchange Tips
Where to Exchange
Banks, licensed money changers, hotels (hotels usually offer lower rates)
ATMs
Widely available, accept international cards, usually best exchange rates
Credit Cards
Accepted at hotels, restaurants, malls; less common at small shops
Brief History
Malaysia has a rich history shaped by trade, colonial rule, and its journey to independence
Early Kingdoms & Trade
Ancient Malay kingdoms flourished through maritime trade. The Malacca Sultanate (1400-1511) became a major trading hub connecting East and West, spreading Islam throughout the region.
Colonial Era
Portuguese conquered Malacca (1511), followed by Dutch (1641) and British (1824). British influence grew through the Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States, bringing rubber and tin mining industries. Japanese occupation during WWII (1941-1945) sparked independence movements.
Independence (Merdeka)
Malaya gained independence from British rule on August 31, 1957. Tunku Abdul Rahman became the first Prime Minister. The Federation of Malaya was formed with 11 states.
Formation of Malaysia
Malaya merged with Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak to form Malaysia on September 16, 1963. Singapore left the federation in 1965 to become an independent nation. The modern Malaysia we know today consists of 13 states and 3 federal territories.
Modern Malaysia
Transformed from agriculture-based economy to industrial and services-oriented nation. Development accelerated under Vision 2020 policy. Today, Malaysia is a multicultural democracy, constitutional monarchy, and emerging economy with modern infrastructure and growing technology sector.
Government & Politics
Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy
Constitutional Monarchy
- Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) - Head of State
- Elected by Conference of Rulers every 5 years
- Nine hereditary Malay state rulers
- Supreme Commander of Armed Forces
Parliamentary System
- Prime Minister - Head of Government
- Bicameral Parliament: Dewan Rakyat & Dewan Negara
- Multi-party system with regular elections
- 13 states with own constitutions and governments
Federal Structure
Malaysia consists of 13 states and 3 federal territories. Each state has its own government headed by a Chief Minister (Menteri Besar or Chief Minister), except for states with monarchs where the ruler plays a ceremonial role.
13 States
Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Terengganu
3 Federal Territories
Kuala Lumpur (Capital), Putrajaya (Administrative), Labuan (Financial hub)
Ready to Visit Malaysia?
Apply for your Malaysia eVisa today and experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Malaysia Truly Asia