Do you want to learn more about Malaysia? Good choice!
Below we’ve outlined some key topics to help answer some questions you may have about Malaysia.
Economy of Malaysia
One word to describe Malaysia’s economy is “Booming!” In a recent 2013 article by the Financial Times, the paper mentioned that Malaysia’s stock market has been among the best performers in the world. In 2010, Malaysia had the 30th largest economy in the world, and the third largest in South East Asia with an estimated GDP (Gross Domestic Product) of $387 billion (USD).
If you are going to live in Malaysia, it is important to understand the economy of this country, which includes its banking system and its currency.
Read more about Malaysia’s Economy.
Government and Legal System in Malaysia
Political and economic stability is a primary consideration of the Malaysian government, which is why Malaysia has enjoyed a stable political and economic climate for decades. The rule of law prevails and it is not in the interests of government or private sector leaders to allow any disruption to the generally peaceful atmosphere that the country enjoys. Malaysia has had a good record of maintaining law and stability and is one of the safest countries in this part of the world to live and work.
Read more about Malaysia’s Government and Legal System.
History of Malaysia
Malaysia’s recorded history dates back to the first century BC. Located strategically at the crossroads between the East and West, Peninsular Malaysia had attracted early travelers from different parts of the world.
Fast forward to August 31, 1957 at 9:00am, Tunku Abdul Rahman (who became the first Prime Minister) read the Proclamation of Independence and declared that the Malay States of Malaya “with God’s blessing, shall forever be a sovereign democratic and independent state…” Freedom had been won peacefully. In 1963 Malaya, Singapore, Sabah and Sarawak joined hands to form Malaysia (but Singapore seceded in 1965).
Read more about Malaysia’s History.
National Language of Malaysia
Take a walk down a busy street, or listen attentively to the people around you in restaurants and shopping malls. Chances are you might feel a little overwhelmed by the various different languages and dialects you hear in Malaysia. The languages in Malaysia are the result of the many races residing here.
Read more about Malaysia’s National Language.
Public Holidays in Malaysia
Malaysia is a multicultural country with three main races; the Malays, Chinese and Indians. There are also other indigenous groups, primarily residing in East Malaysia, meaning Sabah and Sarawak. And because of all these cultures, Malaysians and expats who live here get to enjoy various public holidays.
Read more about Public Holidays in Malaysia
Religion and Festivals of Malaysia
The official religion of Malaysia is Islam and it is practised by the majority of Malays, and a portion of the Indian community. Under the constitution, other races are free to profess and practice any religion in an atmosphere of acceptance and tolerance. The other main religions include Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism and Christianity.
Read more about Malaysia’s Religion and Festivals.
Social Etiquette in Malaysia
When interacting with Malaysians, bear in mind that it is a multicultural country, so practices vary between the different cultural groups. It will help your integration into Malaysian culture to recognise and respect the diverse cultural and religious customs.
Below we outline some guidelines to help you avoid offence, but do use your judgement and observation skills when deciding how to proceed.
Read more about Social Etiquette in Malaysia
Society and Culture in Malaysia
Malaysia is a multi-racial country whose social integration has become a model for the rest of the world. There are three main races in the country; the Malays, the Chinese and the Indians. Other groups that make up the population include the Eurasians and the more than 50 indigenous groups from Sabah and Sarawak like the Kadazans, Dusuns, Muruts, Ibans, Orang Ulu, Melanau, Bidayuhs, Penans, just to name a few. The different races have their own traditions and customs which give Malaysia a colourful heritage.
The lifestyle here is progressively becoming more and more modern with great exposure to the western culture.
Read more about Society and Culture in Malaysia
Transport in Malaysia
Malaysia has a well-developed air and sea connections. It is also accessible by road and rail through Thailand and Singapore on the Peninsula. More than 25 major airlines service the international airports throughout the nation. Port Klang and Penang in the Straits of Malacca link the country to the rest of the world by sea.
Read more about Transport in Malaysia
Weather, Climate, and Geography in Malaysia
Malaysia is hot, but not the hottest of countries and since most homes, cars and shopping areas are air-conditioned, it’s easy to escape the worst of it.
The country is made up of two regions: Peninsular Malaysia which lies between Thailand and Singapore, and East Malaysia across the South China Sea on the island of Borneo. Geographically, East Malaysia is rugged, with a series of mountain ranges encompassing the interior regions of both Sabah and Sarawak.
Read more about Malaysia’s Weather, Climate and Geography.
InvestKL
Tasked by the Malaysian government to attract and facilitate large global multinationals to set up their regional business, innovation, and talent hubs in Greater Kuala Lumpur and strategically grow their business in Asia, InvestKL works with other government ministries, entities, and agencies to formulate attractive fiscal packages and help corporations identify business opportunities while strengthening their competitiveness regionally and globally.
Read more about InvestKL here.
