Malaysia

ASEAN Member Country since July 1967

Capital: Kuala Lumpur
Head of State: DYMM Al Wathiqu Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Ibni Almarhum Al-Sultan Mahmud Al-Muktafi Billah Shah
Head of Government: Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi
Languages: Melayu, English, Chinese, Tamil
Area (sq. km): 330,257
Population: 26,127,700
GDP (USD): 130.8 billion (2006 estimate)

Malaysia is a country of diverse landscapes, from intensely beautiful islands and mountains to lush forests and jungles in between. Visitors can wander around the well-preserved architecture of old colonial towns like Melaka, explore the thick jungles of Sarawak, or treat themselves to food courts around the country stocked with scrumptious multi-ethnic dishes.

Malaysia achieved merdeka (independence) in 1957, and during its early years the young nation showed tremendous resolve by overcoming an internal Communist uprising and inter-racial tensions. From these tough beginnings, the country has forged a more tolerant multiracial society exemplified by the coexistence of mosques, churches and temples all across the country. Distinct identities have not been lost however, as visitors will be struck by the communal lifestyle of the tribes in Malaysian Borneo. These people still live in jungle longhouses and their reputation for hospitality continues to be a source of great pride.

Malaysia’s capital is Kuala Lumpur, a city of both trees and skyscrapers. From its beginnings as a tin-mining town, KL today is both a hub of commerce and a symbol of Malaysia’s multiculturalism. Many international businesses have established themselves here, with projects like the Multimedia Supercorridor to attract high-technology investment and catapault Malaysia into the information age. Meanwhile, Chinatown and Little India provide a glimpse of Malaysia’s rich multi-ethnic makeup, where visitors can catch glimpses of the country’s diverse heritage.

Venturing out to Malaysian Borneo treats visitors to vast array of experiences. These include exploring Kuching, the charming waterfront capital of Sarawak; sailing up the Batang Rejang to stay in picturesque longhouses, and exploring the highland towns and national parks in Sarawaks’ mountainous interior. Malaysia is truly a land where history and modernity exist in a soothing and captivating package.