Country

The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular Malaysia (or "West Malaysia") and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, namely "East Malaysia".

Geographical Location

Located between 2 and 7 degrees north of the Equator, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsular Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei.

Area

329,758 sq km

Capital

Kuala Lumpur (KL)

Language

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

Religion

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

Government

A parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system, the Head of Country is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister.

Climate

Malaysia has a tropical climate and the weather is warm all year round. Temperatures range from 21℃to 32℃ and the annual rainfall varies from 2000 mm to 2500 mm.

History and Culture

Apart from local Malays and the native groups, immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other parts of the world have all contributed to the multi-racial composition of its population. Its interesting cultural diversity can be largely attributed to the country’s long and ongoing interaction with the outside world and colonial rule by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. The evolution of the country into a cultural melting pot is evident in the unique blend of religions, socio-cultural activities, traditions, languages and food. The country achieved independence on August 31, 1957 as the Federation of Malaya and subsequently with the entry of Sabah and Sarawak in 1963, Malaysia was formed.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit, which is indicated as RM. Foreign currencies can be converted at banks and money exchange outlets.

Banking Hours

Most states: Mon-Fri: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm Sat: 9:30 am -11:30 am Closed on the first and the third Saturday of each month, Sundays and Public Holidays. Kedah, Kelantan & Terrengganu: Sat-Wed: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm Thur: 9:30 am -11:30 am Closed on Fridays and Public holidays.

Post Offices

Most states: Mon-Fri: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: 8:00 am -1:00 pm Closed on the first and the third Saturday of each month, Sundays and Public Holidays. Kedah, Kelantan & Terrengganu: Sat-Wed: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Thur: 8:00 am -1:00 pm Closed on Fridays and Public holidays.

Time

GMT(+8). There is no time difference between Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Electricity

Voltage: 220-240 volts. Three-leg plug is mostly used.

Getting There

The main gateway to Malaysia is through the new Kuala Lumpur International Airport at Sepang, which is located approximately 50 kilometres south of Kuala Lumpur. Other major international airports that serve as entry points are located in Penang, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Langkawi.

This beautiful landscaped garden is located just below the National Monument and has a collection of prize-winning sculptures by artists from the ASEAN region.

Bird Park

Located in the serene and scenic Lake Gardens, the K.L. Bird Park is the world''s largest covered bird park housing more than 3,000 birds. With its 150 species of birds worldwide, it is a must-see for birds and nature-lovers to experience nature in the heart of the city with birds perching and winging freely.

Butterfly Park

The Butterfly Park is within walking distance of the Orchid Garden and Bird Park. This colourful attraction features 6,000 butterflies from about 120 species.

Central Market

Spend a morning wandering through what was once a busy "wet market" The building was renovated in 1980's and was turned into an arts and cultural centre. It has become the place for local artists to demonstrate their skills and display their work. There are many shops and stalls which sell bric-a-brac, antiques, souvenirs, handicrafts and Asian artifacts. An open air stage serves as the regular venue for traditional and contemporary dance as well as musical concerts.

Chinatown

Jalan Petaling, also known as the Chinatown of Kuala Lumpur, is the liveliest and busiest street in the city. During the day, the shops that line both sides if the street are filled with people buying clothes, foods and other daily consumables. At night, Jalan Petaling is transformed into a pedestrian mall and vehicles are prohibited from entering the street. One can literally find almost anything in this bustling night market. The range of goods that are sold here is so comprehensive that one will survey be amazed.

Crafts Cultural Complex (Kompleks Budaya Kraf)

Kompleks Budaya Kraf (Crafts Cultural Complex) was established to promote and preserve the rich heritage of Malaysia's arts and crafts. With in this premier handicraft complex are commercial bazaars, a food court, the Craft Museum and the unique Artist Colony.

Deer Park

It occupies a hill slope leading down into a valley where tame deer roam freely, including the tiny kancil. Visitors are allowed to mingle with these friendly and adorable creatures.

Istana Negara

The Istana Negara is the official residence of His Majesty, the Yang di Pertuan Agong, The King of Malaysia. It is located on a hillock at Jalan Istana, right outside the city center. The extensive grounds is enhanced by immaculate lawns and colourful gardens. The palace is also the venue for official functions and ceremonies. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard daily, yet is not allowed to enter the palace.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station

Built in 1910, the station is yet another heritage building that reflects the influence of Moorish architecture. It was extensively renovated in 1986 to provide air-conditioned comfort and modern facilities for rail passengers.