Welcome To Malaysia : Selamat Datang Ke Malaysia

Langkawi Hotels - Adding to the Prosperity

2008-11-22T20:57:00.000-08:00

One of the many beautiful Islands, Langkawi in Malaysia is a tourist paradise. The beautiful beaches complemented by the ancient rain forests with exotic plants are the main attractions of this place. A big crowd of visitors can be seen roaming and enjoying on the sun-drenched beaches over here everyday. All sorts of recreational activities and water sports are available for the entertainment of tourists. And the availability of numerous comfortable accommodations adds even more to the prominence of this small yet comprehensive Island.

One of the most important aspects (accommodation) of traveling is completely fulfilled by arrangements on this Island. Besides several recreational activities and water sports and natural prosperity, staying at the destination is one of the main concerns of visitors. Langkawi is a place that will never disappoint you in this regard. Although the Island is small, there is no lack of finest hotels and resorts.

Langkawi Hotels are in no way inferior to many other world class hotels. They are rich in all sorts of modern amenities and provide wonderful services. These excellent accommodations undoubtedly enhance the splendor of Langkawi Island. Their role in attracting more and more visitors from all across the globe cannot be ruled out. Each of the hotels offers complete relaxation. And it is not that they all are out of your budget. You can easily get the accommodation that suits to your budget. Datai Hotel, Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort, Eagle Bay hotel constitute the list of beautiful hotels on the Island.

For more information on Malaysia visit: http://www.stayresmalaysia.com

Langkawi Holiday is a Memorable Experience!

2008-11-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

If you are unable to make a decision about your next holiday trip, do not worry, I have a solution for you. Enjoy a memorable Langkawi Holiday. The Langkawi Island is situated on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia. The place features vast paddy fields, rural villages, caves, rolling mountains and ancient rainforests. You will also find an unending path of sandy beaches to relax.

Features of the island:

The islands have a lot of legends and myths associated with it. You will find a number of legends regarding romance, gigantic birds, warriors, and fairy princesses related to this mysterious island. The beauty of these islands is perhaps the best in the entire Southeast Asia.

Historical evidences:

Ideally the island is 500 million old. It has a lot of unique features. In the island, you can traverse through a number of caves which have stalagmites and stalactites. The crystal clear water around the island makes it an ideal place to organize water sports and other recreational activities. Divers also consider the Langkawi's islands to be the best place for diving.

Places to visit:

During your Langkawi Holiday visit the attractive places of the island:

• Kuah town: In Malay language 'Kuah' means gravy. It is the busiest spot on the island. Basically, Kuah town is best to make duty free shopping.
• Mat Cincang Mountain: Mat Cincang Mountain is a 700m high mountain. This mountain is best for those who are interested in trekking. You can enjoy marvelous views of nature and trekking from this mountain.
• Sungay Kilim : Sungay Kilim is a nature park. It occupies a space of 100kmsq. The park has fascinating features and a lively surrounding. It boasts to have the rarest species of birds. You will find Brahminy kites, giant sea eagles and hornbills at this place.
• Never avoid the Langkawi cable car, to explore the entire island and the huge number of sandbars and islets surrounding it.
• Waterfalls: Do not miss the marvelous view of the fabulous waterfalls, Durian Perangin and Telaga Tujuh

Langkawi Island has a group of 99 tropical islands. The islands are about 30 km from Kuala Perils and 51 km from Kuala Kehda situated on the mainland. The main island amongst the 99 island is named as Paulau Langkawi.

So, do not waste time, hurry and book your Langkawi accommodation and the tickets for your next trip immediately. Have a nice Langkawi Holiday.

Enjoy a memorable Langkawi Holiday. The Langkawi Island is situated on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia

Visit Malaysia - Kelantan, Cradle of Malay Culture

2008-11-22T20:53:00.000-08:00

The east coast state of Kelantan is charming destination with colourful traditions, interesting pastimes and superb handicrafts. Watch captivating activities such as top-spinning, giant kite-flying or woodcarving. The batik and songket fabrics produced by cottage industries here are among the best in the country. Its laid-back atmosphere, rustic charms and friendly locals add to Kelantan's appeal.

Accommodation in the capital city, Kota Bharu, ranges from star-rated hotels to affordable rooms. In other main towns, visitors can find comfortable inns, rest houses and modest hotels. The state has a tempting variety of local delicacies. Continent food is available at major hotels while fast food can be found at main towns.

Among the popular places of interest are, Cultural Centre or locally known as Gelanggang Seni. It is a veritable showcase of the state's rich cultural heritage. You can watch an enthralling range of traditional performance such as shadow puppetry (Wayang Kulit), Malay martial arts (Silat), top-spinning (Gasing), giant kite flying (Wau Bulan) and musical performance.

Mount Stong is one of the most popular eco-adventure destinations in Kelantan. Mount Stong rises majestically at a height of 1,433m. Trek to view a diversity of flora and fauna, including Rafflesia, the world's largest flower. A highlight is the spectacular Jelawang Waterfalls, acclaimed to be the highest in Southeast Asia.

Wat Photivihan Buddhist Temple is one of tourist attraction in Kelantan. It houses a 40m long statue of reclining Buddha and believed to be the second longest in the world and the longest in Southeast Asia.

Live with a friendly local family and join their interesting pastimes. Home stays can be experienced at the villages of Renok Baru, Pantai Suri and Blok Ulu Kusial.

For more information about Malaysia, Visit http://www.mykltravelguide.mymamall.com Detailed information about Kelantan also can be found at http://www.mykltravelguide.mymamall.com/Kelantan/Kelantan.php

Petaling Street - China in Kuala Lumpur

2008-11-22T20:52:00.001-08:00

Petaling Street is in the heart if Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown area, and features an array of bargain shops and counterfeit goods. Known as Chi-Cheong-Kai in Cantonese, it is infamous for pirated clothes and accessories along with bootleg DVDs and CDs. Petaling Street however does not exclusively offer pirated products. Haggling is a common sight here, vehicular traffic is usually not allowed in this area but that does not make movement easy as the place is usually crowded with locals and tourists.

Petaling Street also has it's share of tourist attractions, Masjid Jamek, an old mosque of Moorish architecture and the Sri Mahamariamman Temple a Hindu temple that is one of KL's most famous landmarks are regular tourist destinations. The area also has a bevy of restaurants and eateries that offer food ranging from predominantly Chinese to Indian, and Malay.

Some of the major features of the Chinatown are the McDonald's that reflects the growing globalization of the area. The Army Hostel which is in fact a hotel that gives boot camp style accommodation, Hotel Malaya, Swiss Inn and the no frills Stay Orange hotel. Also near there are Chinese bookshops and a few stalls selling Hainanese chicken rice and Noodles.

The area attracts many locals and visitors in search of bargain items, including inexpensive dresses, shoes, fabrics and souvenirs, and lives up to its name of being a huge outdoor flea market. From fake Rolexes to fake Gucci bags to the sweetest papayas and pirated CDs. Petaling Street maintains much of its traditional atmosphere, particularly at night when vendors fan out their merchandise along the street.

The Grand Millennium Hotel Kuala Lumpur is about 15 km away from Petaling Street but offers access to the area through the KTM station that is just a short distance away from this Kuala Lumpur hotel

Golf Courses in Kuala Lumpur

2008-11-22T20:50:00.000-08:00

It is indeed a surprising turn of events when Malaysia entered the big business of golf courses and delivered its own brand of highly feasible, highly attractive golf courses in Kuala Lumpur. So, get on with an experience of the Asian brand of golf culture in this listing of golf courses in Kuala Lumpur.

Saujana Golf & Country Club

www.saujana.com.my

Since its opening in 1986, Saujana Golf & Country Club has hosted several distinguished events: three events of Kosaido Malaysian Ladies Open, two separate events Eisenhower Trophy and the Espirito Santo Trophy for the 2002 World Amateur Golf Team Championships. It was also the venue for the $910,000 Carlsberg Malaysia Open Golf Championship of 2001.

It is because Saujana Golf & Country Club possesses two spectacular golf courses The Palm and the Bunga Raya that it got so much accolade by golf critics, including the Asian Golf Monthly 2005 The Best Championship Course in Asia for Palm Course and the 69th spot on the Top 100 Best Courses outside the USA for the Bunga Raya Course by Golf Digest 2005 Survey.

Bukit Jambul Golf & Country Resort

Undulating terrain and fresh greenery provides plenty of aesthetics for the Bukit Jambul Golf & Country Resort, but yet no one can ignore the challenges that are subtlety expressed by the scenic beauty of the place. It even has fruit trees that can be enjoyed by the golfers, an interesting bonus that only adds to its deserving ranking among the best golf courses in Kuala Lumpur. Even the opening hole can be rightfully bear the index rating of one.

Bukit Unggul Country Club

Golf courses are also nature walks, benefiting mind and body. While most golf course do take you to nature, Bukit Unggul Country Club takes you one step closer still. Because this course is one fine example of how a golf course can be carve out of nature’s bosom without really changing anything. The effect? Challenges in their most natural and accepted setting. Waterfalls, natural elevated greens, copses of trees, just naturally perfect.

Glenmarie Golf & Country Club

The Glenmarie Golf & Country Club’s approach for the TPC at Sawgrass the “Island Green” or the 17th hole may be more accepted than TPC’s but that’s not what made the Glenmarie spectacular. A water course, the Glenmarie features plenty of water hazards and water carries remeinscient to the 17th hole. Glenmarie is also vast, plus coupled with those water traps it can definitely pose real challenges even to veteran golfers.

Milos Pesic is an avid golfer and owner of the most comprehensive Golf Information Pages. Visit now to find out all you wanted to know about golf, golf equipment, tips, resorts and much more.

Shopping Paradise in Kuala Lumpur

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"Jalan Ampang", located near the the "Petronas Twin Towers" which is world's second tallest structure, is one of the most famous and dazzling shopping destinations of the city. It is situated in the Golden Triangle area of the city which is reputed for its shopping malls, which attracts a large number of local and foreign tourists everyday. This is an immense commercial area where small as well as big shopping malls can be found addressing diverse areas of customer needs.Ampang point, Great Eastern mall and City Square are some of the leading shopping malls in this area.

There are plenty of restaurants and nightclubs situated in this area in order to satisfy all sorts of needs of the tourists. Moreover in Jalan Ampang there is an outstanding collection of mouthwatering cuisines at many eateries and restaurants located in the area. Another unique fact of this fascinating shopping area is that anyone is able to fulfill their needs with the variety of merchandises that suit to any taste and budget. Also the annual sale, which is called The Shopping Carnival, held in October and November in Jalan Ampang and around is an opportune time for people to pick up great bargains.

On the other way, there are many embassies located along Jalan Ampang, such as the British, French, Chinese, Irish and Thai embassies. The American embassy is also located in Ampang at the corner of Jalan Tun Razak and Jalan U Thant. And not only shopping and entertainment, but also Jalan Ampang considers even health care of its visitors also. In consequence, there are four major hospitals with all necessary facilities such as, Ampang Putri Hospital, Pantai Hospital Pandan Indah, Hospital Ampang, and Gleneagle Hospital. Also this wonderful shopping land is surrounded by many attractions such as flower gardens with marvelous views and many ideal destinations for eco-tourists to fulfill there research purposes also.

If you are planning for a shopping sphere in Kuala Lumpur its best to choose accommodation at Kuala Lumpur hotel with convenient access to many of these shopping malls such as Citrus Hotel KL.

2008-05-06T05:22:00.000-07:00

Cuti-Cuti Malaysia

Welcome To Malaysia

2008-05-04T05:46:00.000-07:00

Malaysia Arts and Crafts - Wau, a Malay Traditions

Have you ever wonder what is that symbol emblazoned on the tail of all Malaysian airplanes flown by Malaysia Airlines System (MAS)? Although for most people, it is nothing more than just an emblem, it has a huge significance for each and every Malaysian that makes them proud. Known as 'wau', it is one of the oldest traditional games in the Malay culture. Dancing in the azure sky, a wau or kite is accompanied by a hummer, which produces various buzzing and purring sounds when soaring upon the wind. There are something mystical about the way this kite defies gravity by swaying and climbing slowly up the sky.

Kites are flown after the rice harvesting season is over. People are happy and free to pursue pastimes. A Malay kite combines the best of skilled workmanship, dazzling colours and decoration. It exhibits the creativity of the Malays and their talented craftsmanship in fashioning a unique art form that has the highest possible level of aesthetics. A Malay kite is not a schoolboy's toy as it normally measures 1.5 metres by 1.7 metres. It is called wau because the shape of its wing is similar to an Arabic letter that is pronounced as "wow". It has also been postulated that the word "wau" originated from the Dutch word "wauw" that refers to a large predator bird found in South-east Asia. When Melaka fell to the Dutch in 1641, the word was introduced to the local populace.

Wau can appear in all kind of shapes but the three main one are the famous Wau Bulan or moon kite, named for its crescent like tail shape, the Wau Jala Budi or women kite, which takes on the curves of a women, and the Wau Burung Puyuh, the barred busted quail kite. Despite their different names, these kites all share the same basic, bird-like shape, with slight variations in their wings and tail.

The history and legends associated with the Malay kite are as colourful as its designs. In ancient times, coastal inhabitants of the Malay peninsula used kites fitted with lines and hooks to fish. Kites were also flown to act as flying scarecrows while the farmers were busy in the paddy fields. In an episode of the Makyong dance, a love story culminates in a happy ending when two lovers are re-united by an unusual mean of transport. By clinging to a giant kite rendered sky-borne by monsoon winds, a Malay prince flew to his lover and landed on her enchanted castle amidst the clouds. The wau has had an even more dramatic role in battle against a foreign army. Legend has it that a Malay army was surrounded and about to surrender due to lack of food and water. One blustery night, the head warrior ordered his troops to fly a large number of kites fitted with bows. The loud droning that was created frightened the enemy forces away, which did not want to fight against what they perceived as demonic forces from the sky!

It takes about 2 days to 2 weeks of skill and patience to make a wau. The frame is made from bamboo stems, which are split into thin strips. The best species of bamboo for making kites is the thorn bamboo, which is strong yet flexible. Each frame of a kite must have a ‘head’, a ‘spine’, a ‘waist’, a ‘wing’ and a ‘tail’. After the frame is constructed, designs are traced on a tinted and shiny glazed paper and then carefully cut out and pasted on paper which is glued to the bamboo frame. The humming bow is attached to the head of the kite, which is finally decorated with tassels at the tail to produce the 'song' of the kite.

Each wau is designed according to its own set of elaborate motifs, adhering to the traditional style of artwork expected of each design. All designs must have a central flower called the ibu from which vines, leaves and flowers sprout. The vine symbolises the path of a man's life and the flowers, the women. The more meandering the vines, the more twists and turns in a man's life mean the more interesting is the person's life. In older kites, flowers were depicted from the side and back, analogous to the shy and reserved nature of women in those days, who never looked at you directly in the face. Nowadays, flowers are depicted from the front. The middle sections on the left and right sides of the wings are left devoid of patterns to provide balance with the decorated areas. This empty area is called "golden deer", and prevents the kite from being overwhelmed by a surfeit of patterns.

Apart from the patterns, choice of colours is also important in determining quality. Colours that clash or show strong contrast are frowned upon. Complementing or harmonious colours reflect on the emotional state of the kite-maker. Soft colours such as shades of blues and purples indicate that the kite-maker has a serene nature.

For other related articles, please visit (http://www.mycraftoutlet.com/articles.htm)

2008-05-04T05:44:00.000-07:00

The Fascinating History of Malaysian Food

Malaysia is the home of multiple ethnicities which found its roots during the colonial times where hundreds and thousands of immigrants arrived here to find an honest living in this prosperous land. The migrants’ mostly Chinese working in the tin mines and the Indians placed along the rubber estates brought along with them their cultures not forgetting rich culinary heritages. The cultures go along fine with their cooking where unusual traditional gathering usual accompanied by exotic mouth watering cuisine, that make up the Malaysian food recipes.

As time goes by these cooking somehow assimilated with the Malaysian local customs thus giving birth to a much more diverse and uniquely types of cooking not found anywhere else in the world, such as the famous ‘roti canai’, a kind of bread unlike any other bread is not made of yeast and has a uniquely oily textures, thanks to the acrobatic ways the dough is being flung around while in the process of making it. Other types of Malaysian foods which have its origin in India are the tasty ‘mee Mamak’ and ‘rojak Mamak’. The word mamak means uncle in Tamil, so the Indian muslim community locally are referred to as mamak. The ‘mee Mamak’ is different from other noodles it has thick spicy flavour that’ll leave you feeling hot in a slurp, while the ‘rojak Mamak’ a form of salad with the gravy made of finely pounded chilies surely will satisfied most vegetarian. The curries served in ‘mamak’ restaurants are definitely Indian but yet different then those found in India. To top it all these delectable dishes are eaten with ‘the tarik’ tea with milk that’s hard to make, literally we need to pour the tea between two big glasses or mugs and increasing the heights by pulling the pouring glass or mug higher and higher to achieve that distinctive foamy rich flavour and also to cool it. All these Malaysian Indian cooking are not found in India itself simply because the original recipes have been Malaysianize, improvised using locally available ingredients which is much cheaper and tastier.

The same thing can be said with the Malaysian Chinese cuisine like the ‘Yong taufu’ and ‘Su’un, the Chinese immigrants can’t find the ingredients for their original recipes from China so they decided to replace it with cheaper alternative sources commonly found in Malaysia like the ‘buah keluak’ and ‘kayu manis’. Other Malaysian local pride cooking which originated from abroad is the like of the popular ‘laksa’ which can be found almost everywhere in Malaysia and even has its own sub version in ‘laksa Johor’, ‘laksa Kedah’ and ‘laksa Penang’. ‘Laksa’ is thick rice noodles. ‘Laksa’ is served with tangy fish soup/gravy which is made from mackerel or sardine and lots of herbs and not fish at all because of the aroma of the herbs. It’s a favourite with the tourists for it is not too hot and spicy flavour.

Other Malaysian gourmets particularly the rice based which is the Malaysian staple diet can be traced to our neighbouring countries such in Indonesia and Thailand like the ‘soto’ and ‘nasi kerabu’ of Johor and Kelantan respectively. These cooking are being cook up with the influence of border communities centuries ago like in Golok when the people started to interact and barter together especially goods at the border town marketplaces.

The arrival of these Chinese and Indian migrants certainly spice up the Malaysian culinary scenes without them Malaysian cooking and Malaysian food recipes will not be as colourful and wonderful as they’re today. Nowadays Malaysian foods are a bigger attraction to the tourists just like the KLCC and the KL Tower. When they say Malaysia boasts of its rich cultural melting pot, the tourists must have meant plenty of Malaysian foods in the pots for the picking. Once the foreigners colonized our country now we managed to get back at them and colonize them at least their taste buds with our hot and spicy Malaysianize cooking which they fall deadly in love.

Rohana Ismail is a cooking enthusiast who has been preparing Secret Malaysian Recipes since her early childhood. Secret recipes that were been passed down to her through generations of ancestors. To discover the secret ingredients that goes into a traditional Malaysian dish, please visit Malaysian Food Recipe web site today!

Scuba Diving in Malaysia(Visit Malaysia)

2007-12-31T22:46:00.000-08:00

Visit Malaysia

Looking for pleasure in scuba diving?

Malaysia is definitely well known as having the top diving spots in the world! Some of the best are of course the well-known islands of Sipadan and Layang-Layang, which are in Sabah, East Malaysia. Besides these two islands, West Malaysia offers great dive sites in Perhentian Island, Redang Island, and Tioman Island.

If you're on your way to the islands, be sure to enjoy the slow boat ride, the wind blowing in your face, and the warm sea breeze! 'Here, the journey and the DESTINATION matters!'

The waters in Malaysia are warm all year round while the sun is always high in the sky, making diving extremely comfortable, relaxing and exciting! Be prepared to encounter a close-up of the most diverse marine life on the planet! Swim alongside manta rays, sea turtles and even reef sharks; or encounter large schools of trevallies, barracudas, sea horses and garden eels; or just drift along the multitudes of gorgonians and corals! Whatever you do, we know you will have fun!

At Diving Pleasures, you will find helpful and practical information and tips on SCUBA diving in Malaysian waters! We will do our best to supply you with all the necessary knowledge and facts needed when you make your way to Malaysia!

You can find out more at http://www.divingpleasures.com

http://www.divingpleasures.com

The Program "Visit Malaysia 2007" is Coming to its Culmination(Visit Malaysia)

2007-12-31T22:43:00.000-08:00

Visit Malaysia

The most successful and bright company on advancement of the country as a tourist direction “Visit Malaysia 2007” is coming to its culmination point. The list of major events that will be organized in the context of celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Malaysia Independence Day in Kuala Lumpur was published on August 6.

The prime minister of Malaysia will head the opening ceremony of celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Malaysia Independence Day on August 17, specially for this day the document that confirms the independence of Malaysia will be delivered from London.

In continuation of festive event on August 30 there will be “Ambang Merdeka” celebration during which a special performance will be organized to allow the audience to be translated to the times of strife for independence under the guidance of allied party.

A festive parade will take place in the morning of August 31, it will be headed by His Majesty Sery Paduka Baginda Yang de-Pertuan Agong. All of the high-ranking guests will wear the national costumes – “Pakaian Istiadat”. During the same day there will be the celebration of tea ceremony and everybody can take part in it, if wishes.

In the evening the major event of this year will take place on the Independence stadium in Kuala Lumpur. Thousands spectators will be able to watch what is going on there with the help of broad plasma screens. It should be noted that all the high-ranking guests will wear the national shirts made from batik – one of the national symbols of Malaysia.

The ceremony of closing of Independence Day celebration will take place on September 10, not on 16 as it was in the past, it is connected with the fact that September 16 of 2007 year appears to be the beginning of Ramadan month, that is why the celebration was transferred for September 10.

Iuri Tarabanov writes about interesting travel experiences. His Travel Reservations site is http://www.travelime.com

People

2007-01-28T07:46:00.000-08:00

DISCOVER A LAND OF INTRIGUING DIVERSITY
Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic groups have lived together in Malaysia for generations. All these cultures have influenced each other, creating a truly Malaysian culture. The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are a myriad of indigenous ethic groups with their own unique culture and heritage.

MALAY

Today, the Malays, Malaysia's largest ethnic group, make up more than 50% of the population. In Malaysia, the term Malay refers to a person who practices Islam and Malay traditions, speaks the Malay language and whose ancestors are Malays. Their conversion to Islam from Hinduism and Theravada Buddhism began in the 1400s, largely influenced by the decision of the royal court of Melaka. The Malays are known for their gentle mannerisms and rich arts heritage.

CHINESE

The second largest ethnic group, the Malaysian Chinese form about 25% of the population. Mostly descendents of Chinese immigrants during the 19th century, the Chinese are known for their diligence and keen business sense. The three sub-groups who speak a different dialect of the Chinese language are the Hokkien who lives predominantly on the northern island of Penang; the Cantonese who lives predominantly in the capital city Kuala Lumpur; and the Mandarin-speaking group who lives predominantly in the southern state of Johor.

INDIAN

The smallest of three main ethnic groups, the Malaysian Indians form about 10% of the population. Most are descendents of Tamil-speaking South Indian immigrants who came to the country during the British colonial rule. Lured by the prospect of breaking out of the Indian caste system, they came to Malaysia to build a better life. Predominantly Hindus, they brought with them their colourful culture such as ornate temples, spicy cuisine and exquisite sarees.

INDIGENOUS ETHNIC GROUPS
Orang AsliOrang Asli is a general term used for any indigenous groups that are found in Peninsular Malaysia. They are divided into three main tribal groups: Negrito, Senoi and Proto-Malay. The Negrito usually lives in the north, the Senoi in the middle and the Proto-Malay in the south. Each group or sub-group has its own language and culture. Some are fishermen, some farmers and some are semi-nomadic.

SARAWAK
Collectively known as the Dayaks, the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu are the major ethnic groups in the state of Sarawak. Dayak, which means upstream or inland, is used as a blanket term by the Islamic coastal population for over 200 tribal groups. Typically, they live in longhouses, traditional community homes that can house 20 to 100 families.

SABAH
The largest indigenous ethnic groups of Sabah's population are the Kadazan Dusun, the Bajau and the Murut.

Fact About Malaysia

2007-01-28T07:37:00.000-08:00

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.

Area

329,758 sq km

Population

26 million

Capital

Kuala Lumpur

People

Malays who make up about 57% of the population are the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest.

Language

Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also speak various languages and dialects.

Religion

Islam is the official religion but all other religions are freely practised.

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.

Climate

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.

Major Holidays

New Year's Day Hari Raya Aidiladha* Federal Territory Day ** Chinese New Year* Awal Muharam* Birthday of Prophet Muhammad* Labour Day* Wesak Day* King's Birthday* National Day* Deepavali# Hari Raya Aidilfitri* Christmas*Note: (*) - National holidays (**) - 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.

Distance to Malaysia

London, United Kingdom to Kuala Lumpur : 6,557 miles (10,552 km)Paris, France to Kuala Lumpur 6,483 miles (10,432 km)Rome, Italy to Kuala Lumpur : 6,038 miles (9,716 km)Stockholm, Sweden to Kuala Lumpur : 5,812 miles (9,353 km)Berlin, Germany to Kuala Lumpur : 5,979 miles (9,622 km)Madrid, Spain to Kuala Lumpur : 6,885 miles (11,079 km) New York, USA to Kuala Lumpur : 9,400 miles (15,126 km)Los Angeles, USA to Kuala Lumpur : 8,790 miles (14,144 km)Vancouver, Canada to Kuala Lumpur : 7,944 miles (12,783 km)

Currency

The unit of currency is Malaysian Ringgit indicated as RM. USD1 is roughly equivalent to RM3.70. Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers.

Banking Hours

Most states: Mon - Fri: 9.15am to 4.30pm. Sat & Sun: Closed (Selected banks and branches are open on Sat). Kelantan & Terengganu: Sun - Wed :9.15am to 4.30pm. Thurs :9.15am to 4.00pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public Holiday: Closed

Post Offices

Open from 8.30am to 5.00pm daily except the first Saturday of each month, Sundays and public holidays.In Kelantan and Terengganu post offices operate during the same hours but are closed on Fridays and public holidays.

Time

Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.

Electricity

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

Weights and Measures

Malaysia follows the metric system in weights and measures.
TelephonesLocal calls can be made from public phones using coins or pre-paid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with card phone facilities or at any Telekom office.

Accommodation

Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. Six-star, medium range, budget hotels, youth hostels, beach chalets and timeshare apartments are just some of the types of accommodation available. Privately operated motor-homes are also available for rent.

About Malaysia

2007-01-28T07:32:00.000-08:00

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 socialising. 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.