Malaysia

Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colorful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socializing. As a people, Malaysians are 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

Situated in Southeast Asia, Malaysia, with an area of 329,750 sq km, consists of two noncontiguous areas: Peninsular Malaysia (formerly West Malaysia), on the Asian mainland, and the states of Sarawak and Sabah, known together as East Malaysia. 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 neighbor is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are north of Indonesia in Borneo while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei.Malaysia claims several atolls of the Spratly Island group in the South China Sea. The claim, in a region where oil is suspected, is disputed by China, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is located in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia. The climate of Malaysia is extremely pleasant all through the year. It remains tropical from April to October. This is definitely the best time to visit Malaysia.

People

The total population of Malaysia amounted to 27.17 million. Malays who make up about 57% of the population are the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest. Thus, creating a whole new culture, as it led to a great combination of arts, belief and tradition of both Chinese and Malaysian Population.

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.

Language

Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the official language, but English is widely spoken. Ethnic groups also have their own languages and dialects. Other common languages are Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin, Hokkien, Hakka, Hainan and Foochow), Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Punjabi and Thai. Since 2002, the medium of instruction for science and mathematics subjects in higher education is English.

Weather

Tropical climate 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. The months of

Electricity

Voltage is 220 - 240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second.
Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.

Time

Malaysia, a lovely country located in the southeastern part of Asia, has its own time zone resembling any other country in the world. Foreigners, traveling to the mystic lands, often wonder as to what would be the time in Malaysia, comparing it with their native countries' time. So, telling you about Malaysia's time, Malaysia Standard Time (MST) is followed by the country's time zone. The MST is 8 hours ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Standard Time.

Kuala Lumpur

Penang

Penang, the Pearl of the Orient, is a fascinating fusion of the East and West. The state embraces modernity while retaining its traditions and old world charm, which are reflected in its harmonious multiracial populace and well-preserved heritage buildings. Long regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, it also entices visitors with its beautiful coasts and scrumptious cuisines.

Comprising the island of Penang and Seberang Perai, its seat of government is located in the bustling city of Georgetown. Travellers can select their accommodation from among various well-appointed hotels, five-star resorts and budget inns located throughout the state.

Melaka

Melaka is known for its historical prominence and its cultural appeal. In the 16th century, Melaka enjoyed a reputation as the foremost maritime trading centre in the region. So coveted was Melaka by the European powers that it was ruled successively by the Portuguese, Dutch and the

British until the Federation of Malaya was formed on 31st August 1957. It is the place where those who are hunting for treasures of the past will be rewarded if they look deep into its quaint shops for curios and antiques. The rich multi-cultural heritage of Melaka’s people is reflected in their unique customs and traditions, food, festivals, dances, buildings and lifestyles. Melaka cuisine is well-known for its lively flavours and aromas. The city’s many restaurants, cafes, food courts, pubs and fast food restaurants offer a range of culinary options. There is accommodation in these states to suit all tastes and budgets. Major hotels are located in the main towns. Budget accommodation, hostels and bed and breakfast inns are also available.

Sabah

Situated in Malaysian Borneo, Sabah has lush tropical rainforests and stunning tropical islands teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The 32 ethnic groups here make it a land of colourful and intriguing cultures. Kota Kinabalu is Sabah’s vibrant capital and gateway to eco-adventures such as diving, river cruising, mountain climbing, white-water rafting and caving.

Sabah has a wide range of accommodation to suit any preference and budget. Several well-appointed beach resorts are located close to the capital city. Budget accommodation is widely available. Enjoy the wide variety of cuisine, from local delights to Continental fare.

All the above information are extracted from http://www.tourism.gov.my