 Malaysia
is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in South-East Asia. Several
decades of sustained economic growth and political stability have made it one of the most
buoyant and wealthy countries in the region, and although political power (Malay) and
economic clout (Chinese) are still traditionally divided along racial lines, Malaysia has
moved towards a pluralist culture based on a vibrant and interesting fusion of Malay,
Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs. Most
visitors to Malaysia stick to the Peninsula, where the insane headlong rush of Kuala
Lumpur is offset by the colonially soothing Cameron Highlands Hill Station or the
hedonistic torpor of Langkawi. Far fewer make it to Sarawak or Sabah, on the island of
East Malaysia, with their spectacular wildlife, longhouses and the awe-inspiring Mt
Kinabalu.
Full country name:
Federation of Malaysia
Area: 329,750 sq km (204,445 sq mi)
Population: 22 million
Capital city: Kuala Lumpur (pop 1.2 million)
People: 50% Malay, 33% Chinese, 9% Indian, plus indigenous tribes such as Orang
Asli and Iban
Language: Bahasa Malaysia, English, Chinese dialects, Tamil, indigenous dialects
Religion: 52% Muslim, 17% Buddhist, 12% Taoist, 8% Christian, 8% Hindu, 2% tribal
Government: Parliamentary monarchy
Head of state: King: Tuanku Salehuddin Abdul Aziz Shah ibni al-Marhum Hisamuddin
Alam Shah
Prime Minister: Dr Mahathir Mohamad
GDP: US$99
billion
GDP per head: US$4530
Annual growth: 2%
Inflation: 4%
Major products/industries: Tin, rubber, palm oil, timber, oil, textiles,
electronics
 Major trading partners:
Singapore, Japan, USA |
