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Country
The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular Malaysia, with Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo.
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Geographical Location
Situated between 2º and 7º to the north of the Equator Line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsular Malaysia is Thailand and in the South, the neighbouring country of Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak lies to the north of Indonesia in Borneo, and Sarawak also shares the same borders with Brunei.
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Area
329,758 square km
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Population
26 million
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Capital
Kuala Lumpur
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People
Malays comprise 57% of the population, while Chinese, Indians, Bumiputras and other races constitute the rest of the Malaysia population.
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Language
Malay language is the official language, but English is widely spoken. Ethnic groups also have their own languages and dialects.
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Religion
Islam is the country's official religion, but other religions are widely practised.
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Government
Malaysia practises a democratic parliamentary with bicameral legislative system. The head of the country is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a rotating position between the states of the Malay Sultanate. The head of government is the Prime Minister.
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Weather
Tropical climate throughout the year. Temperature in low areas is 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Highland areas are colder with temperatures from 15°C (59° F) to 25°C (77°F). Minimum yearly rainfall is 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
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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
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Economic Profile
The manufacturing industry is the biggest sector contributing to the country's economy. This is followed by tourism and main commodities such as petroleum, oil palm, rubber and timber contributing to the country's economy.
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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, United States 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)
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Currency
The currency unit of the country is Ringgit Malaysia written as RM. The value is approximately USD1 = RM3.34. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and money exchange.
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Banking Hours
Most states: Monday - Friday: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Saturday & Sunday: Closed (Some banks and their branches open on Saturdays). Kelantan & Terengganu: Sun - Wednesday :9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Thursday :9.30 am to 4.00 pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public Holiday: Closed
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Post Office
Opens from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm 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.
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Time
Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Standard Time.
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Electricity
Voltage is 220 - 240 volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Standard plug 3 square pin and socket.
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Weight and Measurement
Malaysia follows the metric system for weight and measurement.
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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.
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Accommodation
Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation with reasonable pricing. There are five star hotels, budget hotels, youth hostels, beach chalets and apartments available.
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