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History Background |
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There is a strong
interlink between the country's multi-racial and multicultural make-up
and its history. Besides the local Malays and the native groups,
immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other parts of the world
have all contributed to the multiracial composition of its population.
Its interesting cultural diversity can be largely attributed to the
country's long and on-going interaction with the outside world and
colonial rule by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. Consequently,
the evolution of the country into a cultural melting pot is evident in
the unique blend of religions, socio-cultural activities and
traditions, dressing, languages and food. The country achieved
independence on August 31, 1957 as The Federation of Malaya and with
the subsequent entry of Sabah and Sarawak in 1963, Malaysia was formed |
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People |
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Malaysia is a nation of
diversity in unity where Malays, Chinese, Indians and the indigenous
people of Sabah and Sarawak live in cultural harmony. Once you have
overcome your jet-lag fatigue, step into the heart of Malaysia-the
citizens of the country. You would be pleasantly surprised at the
warmth of Malaysians. For deeply entrenched within each of the
different race is the engaging charm and traditional hospitality which
the country is renowned for. Malaysians enjoy meeting people from
other lands. So, do go right ahead and strike up a conversation. After
all, the whole point of traveling is to know other cultures. |
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Economy |
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Malaysia is one of the
most developed countries in the ASEAN region. Its economy is largely
dependent on manufacturing products such as electrical and electronic
products, textiles, as well as rubber-based products, followed by the
agricultural and mining sectors. Malaysia is also one of the world's
largest exporters of palm oil, natural rubber, tropical timber, cocoa
beans and pepper. Tourism is also a leading revenue earner.
Since Independence in 1957, it has moved away from its reliance on tin
and rubber and diversified its economy by aggressively attracting
investment, both foreign and domestic. After Singapore and Brunei, it
is the most developed country in South-East Asia, with the highest
standard of living. Malaysia's rapid increase in manufacturing has
been achieved by modernising the country's transport, communications
and energy infrastructure, developing industrial zones and offering
substantial tax breaks for investors in export-oriented industries.
The Government has promoted a relatively open, market-oriented economy
and has instituted significant reforms by dismantling many state-run
enterprises and encouraging private enterprise to undertake many of
the country's development projects. Through promoting a free market in
some areas, the Government is also an investor in the economy (usually
as a minority partner) and controls prices on some key commodities
such as fuel and rice. |
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Language |
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The National Language,
Bahasa Malaysia is established as such under Article 152 of the
Constitution, which also safeguards other languages by stipulating
that no person may be prohibited or prevented from using (except for
official purposes) or from teaching or learning any other language. As
the national language, Bahasa Malaysia has to be used for official
purposes which includes its use by federal and state governments, and
as defined by the constitutional amendment of 1971 by all authorities
(including local authorities) and statutory bodies. By the same
constitutional amendment the status of Bahasa Malaysia may not be
questioned, and any amendment to Article 152 can only be made with the
consent of the Conference of Rulers. |
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Geography |
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Malaysia is situated right
in the heart of South East Asia and is divided into two geographical
sections: Peninsular Malaysia and the East Malaysian provinces of
Sabah and Sarawak in North Borneo. The two parts are separated 650km
(403 miles) apart by the South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia's
neighbors are Thailand and Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak border
Kalimantan (the Indonesian part of Borneo) and Sarawak surrounds the
tiny enclave of Brunei. The Andaman Sea is on the West Coast of the
peninsula. The East Coast of the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak all
adjoin the South China Sea.
Peninsular Malaysia accounts for 40% of the country's landmass. There
are several mountain ranges running north- south along the backbone of
the peninsula. A wide, fertile plain trails the West Coast, while a
narrow coastal plain runs along the east. Sabah and Sarawak are
covered by dense jungles and have large river networks. These rivers
are still the main means of transportation to the natives of these two
states. Over 60% of the country is still rainforest, and there are
8000 species of flowering plants (in Peninsular Malaysia alone) which
includes 2000 tree species, 800 different orchids and 200 types of
palm, not forgetting a myriad of wildlife animals. There are also an
abundance and variety of bird populations from all over the world
that can be found in East Malaysia |
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Climate |
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Malaysia is hot and humid
all year round. With temperatures usually between 20-30°C (68-86°F);
and humidity level at 90%. The wettest season on the West Coast of
the peninsula is between September and December; on the East Coast and
in Sabah and Sarawak, it's between October and February. Rain often
comes in short, strong bursts and hides the sun but on temporarily. |
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Information
provided by
Malaysia Tourism
Promotion Board. |
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