Malaysia is one of the rapidly growing
economies in the world which is located in the heart of South-East Asia and
comprises of two parts namely Peninsular Malaysia, bordering with Thailand
in the North and Singapore in the South; and East Malaysia, with the states
of Sarawak and Sabah sharing the island of Borneo, with Indonesia.
Malaysia is one of the most pleasant and peaceful countries to visit in
South-East Asia. Malaysian society stands on a lively and interesting fusion
of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs. Malaysia is a
land of fascinating sights and attractions. Rich in colour and contrasts,
her multi-faceted charm provides intriguing images that leave visitors to
the country in awe. The natural warmth of Malaysians is legendary; wherever
one goes, the friendliness and hospitality of the people would prove to be a
very special experience. Malaysia is paradise blessed with sun-drenched
beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and
magnificent mountains. A land of many colours is a popular holiday
destination.
Fact File
Official name : The Federation Of Malaysia
Government : Constitutional Monarchy
Nationality : Malaysian
Capital city : Kuala Lumpur
Ethnic Group : 50% Malay, 33% Chinese, 9% Indian, plus indigenous
tribes such as Orang Asli and Iban
Location : Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of
the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia and the South China Sea, south of
Vietnam
Continent
: Asia
Currency : Malaysia Ringgit (RM); 1 RM = 11.454 Indian Rupee =
0.2632 US $ = 0.2173 Euro (subject to change)
Population : 23 million
Languages : English, Tamil, Chinese, Malay
Religion : 52% Muslim, 17% Buddhist, 12% Taoist, 8% Christian, 8%
Hindu, 2% tribal
Area : 329,750 sq km
Famous for : Tropical rainforests, iydillic beaches
Major cities : Kuala Lumpur, Genting, Langkawi, Penang
Neighbouring countries : Indonesia
Clothing : Lightweight, washable, casual clothes are the order of
the day in Malaysia - cotton or cotton-rich/synthetic mix (preferably the
former) are recommended. A light sweater is a good idea for cooler evenings
Major events : Hari Raya Puasa,. Hari Raya Haji. Chinese New Year
Thaipusam Kota Belud Tamu Besar
Things to Buy : designer collections, elegant footwear, exclusive
watches, optical items, and quality fabrics. Electrical appliances,
electronic equipment, computers, and cameras
Things to do : Shopping, sightseeing
Cuisine : Malay, Chinese and Indian
Visa Permit
The applicant should have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the
date of entry into Malaysia; one visa application form; (photocopy allowed);
two passport-size recent photographs; confirmed onward/ return air ticket
with travel itinerary; onward visa; a typed covering letter from the
applicant and foreign exchange endorsement on the passport are mandatory.
Visa is valid for 90 days and more upto one year and stay issued is at the
discretion of the Immigration Authorities at entry. Processing time is three
working days.
Culture
Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim and conservative country, and observance
of local customs and behaviour is appreciated. Modesty of dress in public
places is expected. For formal or semi-formal occasions men can go for a
long-sleeved batik shirt. Outside beach resorts women should not wear
dresses or very short skirts or shorts. Topless sunbathing is not acceptable
at the beach or poolside. Check the required dress code before entering any
place of religious worship. While visiting a Malaysian home it is customary
to remove footwear. When trekking one must take care of the wildlife and
environment. The Malays are warm, friendly but often shy. Expression of
anger or impatience are frowned upon by both Malays and Chinese.
When
to Go
One should avoid the November to January rainy season on Peninsula
Malaysia's east coast. The time to see turtles on the east coast is between
May and September.
Climate
Close to the Equator, Malaysia occupies two distinct regions: Peninsular
Malaysia, extending from the Thai frontier to the border of Singapore; and
the States of Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo's northern coast.
At lower altitudes the weather is normally warm, humid and sunny
year-round, with temperatures hovering around 32°C by day and 22°C
at night. The seasons follow the monsoon winds. Rainfall is erratic in
nature as it comes in quick, heavy downpours, followed by sunshine within
the hour.
On the west coast of the Peninsula the rainfall is from September to
December. On the east coast and in Sabah/Sarawak the monsoon rains normally
occur between October and February. At higher altitudes (in hill-stations,
for example) temperatures are much lower, with averages of 23°C by day
and 10°C by night.
Getting There
By Air : Malaysia's main international airport is at Sepang, 50km
(31mi) south of KL. Tourists either fly into Sepang or arrive overland from
Thailand or Singapore. Penang also has international flights, and Kuching in
Sarawak and Tawau in Sabah have flights to/from Kalimantan.
By Road : There are five road border crossings between Malaysia and
Thailand (two on the west coast, one in the centre and two on the east
coast). There is also a west-coast rail link.
By Sea : To get to/from Singapore, you can cross the causeway at
Johor Bahru, catch a ferry or take the train. There are three ferry services
between Malaysia and Indonesia (Penang-Medan, Melaka-Dumai and, in East
Malaysia, Tawau-Tarakan).
Getting Around
By
Air : Malaysian Airline System (MAS) is the main domestic airline
providing service to both the peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak.
By Road : Peninsular Malaysia has a fast, economical and widespread
bus system, and this is generally the best way to get around. Minibuses
cover the main routes. Buses ply Sarawak's major trunk road, but hardly
anywhere else.
Local taxis in Malaysia are metered.
Long-distance taxis and rental cars are also available.
By Trains : There are basically only two lines: one linking
Singapore to Thailand via KL and Butterworth, and the other branching off at
Gemas and heading northeast to Kota Bharu.
Major Attractions
Kuala Lumpur : This ancient city has grown to a modern, bustling
city of almost two million people, is the focal point of new Malaysia. The
city's bustling streets, its modern office towers, and its cosmopolitan air
project reflect an unbounded spirit of progress and symbolize Malaysia's
leap into a bright future. The city brings together Malaysia's past and
present, its many constituent cultures, and even its remarkable natural
treasures, allowing first-time visitors an invaluable opportunity to see
Malaysia as a whole before setting off to explore its parts.
The botanical and bird parks of the Lake Gardens provide a glimpse of the
unspoiled beauty and variety of Malaysia's plants and animals. The vibrant
Central Market, the National Museum, music, crafts, and cultural practices
from Kelantan to Sarawak can be explored and experienced in the city.
Cameron Highlands : The centre of Peninsular Malaysia, comprises a
series of hill stations at altitudes between 1500-1800m (4920-5904ft). This
fertile area is the centre of Malaysia's tea industry and it's the place
where locals and visitors come to escape the heat of the plains.
Georgetown - Penang Island : This is one of the country's premier
resort areas which is 285 sq km (177 sq mi) in area and is located off
Peninsula Malaysia's northwestern coast.
Penang Island is marked also because of the vibrant city of Georgetown on
the island's northeastern coast which has more Chinese flavour than either
Singapore or Hong Kong.
