About Malaysia
To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia. A bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions, where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony.
Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socializing. Malaysians are well known to be very laid back, warm and friendly.
Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.
One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs.
For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.
Country
The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsula Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
Geographical Location
Located between 2º and 7º north of the Equator, Peninsula Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsula Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are north of Indonesia in Borneo while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei.
Weather
The climate is tropical with warm weather all year round. Temperatures in the lowlands range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). The highlands are cooler, where temperatures range between 15°C (59° F) to 25°C (77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
Government
Malaysia is governed by a Parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system. The Head of State is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position that is awarded to a different State Monarch every five years and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister.
Main Holidays
New Year*,Hari Raya Aidiladha*, Federal Territory Day**, Chinese New Year*, Awal Muharam*, Maulidur Rasul*,Labour Day*, Wesak Day*,DYMM Yang DiPertuan Agong's Birthday*, National Day* Deepavali# Hari Raya Aidilfitri* Christmas*
Note: (*) - National Holiday (**) - Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur & Labuan only (#) - Except Labuan & Sarawak
Economic Profile
Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber, and timber are other major contributors to the economy.
Distances to Malaysia
| From | Distance | Travel time |
|---|---|---|
| London, United Kingdom | 6,557 miles (10,552 km) | 13 hours |
| Paris, France | 6,483 miles (10,432 km) | 13 hours |
| Rome, Italy | 6,038 miles (9,716 km) | 12 hours |
| Stockholm, Sweden | 5,812 miles (9,353 km) | 12 hours |
| Berlin, Germany | 5,979 miles (9,622 km) | 12 hours |
| Madrid, Spain | 6,885 miles (11,079 km) | 14 hours |
| New York, United States | 9,400 miles (15,126 km) | 19 hours |
| Los Angeles, USA | 8,790 miles (14,144 km) | 18 hours |
| Vancouver, Canada | 7,944 miles (12,783 km) | 16 hours |
| Sydney, Australia | 4,108 miles (6612 km) | 8 hours |
Currency
The currency unit of the country is Ringgit Malaysia written as RM. The value is approximately USD1 = RM3.50. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and money exchange.
Banking Hours
Most states: Monday - Friday: 09:30 to 16:30. Saturday and Sunday: Closed (Some banks and their branches open on Saturdays).
Kelantan & Terengganu: Sun - Wednesday: 09:30 to 16:30. Thursday: 09:30 to 16:00. Friday/Saturday*/Public Holidays: Closed
Post Office
Opens from 08:30 to 18:00 daily, except on the first Saturday of each month, Sundays and public holidays. In Kelantan and Terengganu post offices operates during the same time, but are closed on Fridays and public holidays.
Time
UTC+8.
Electricity
Voltage is 220 - 240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second.
Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.
Weight and Measurement
Malaysia follows the metric system for weight and measurement.
Telephone
Local calls can be made using public telephones with shillings or prepaid cards. International calls can also be made using phone cards or at any Telekom office