General Information
Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia, boasting gleaming skyscrapers, colonial architecture, charming locals, and a myriad of natural attractions. Divided into numerous districts, its main hub is called the Golden Triangle which comprises Bukit Bintang, KLCC and Chinatown. KL is widely recognised for numerous landmarks, including Petronas Twin Towers (the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers), Petaling Street flea market, and Batu Caves, which is over 400 million years old.
Country
The Federation of Malaysia comprises of Peninsular Malaysia, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
Geographic Location
Situated between 2° and 7° to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. In the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand, and in the south, neighbouring Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares borders with Brunei.
Area
329,758 square km
Population
27.56 million
Capital City
Kuala Lumpur
People
Malays comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and other races make up the rest of the country's population.
Language
(Bahasa Melayu) Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also converse in the various languages and dialects.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions are widely practised.
Time
Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S Standard Time.
Government
Malaysia follows the bicameral legislative system, adopting a democratic parliamentary. The head of the country is the King or the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position which is changed every five years among the Malay Sultanates. The head of government is the Prime Minister.
Weather
The country experiences tropical weather year-round. Temperatures are from 21℃ (70°F) to 32℃ (90°F). Higher elevations are much colder with temperatures between 15℃ (59°F) to 25℃ (77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
Main Holidays
New Year, Hari Raya Aidiladha, Federal Territory Day, Chinese New Year, Awal Muharam, Maulidur Rasul, Labour Day, Wesak, King's Birthday, National Day, Deepavali, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Christmas.
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 major contributors to the economy.
Currency
The monetary unit of the country is Ringgit Malaysia and is written as RM. The exchange rate is valued at USD1 = RM4.20. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and money changers.
Banking Hours
Most states: Monday - Friday: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Saturday & Sunday: Closed (Some banks and its branches are opened Saturdays).
Electricity
Voltage is 220-240 Volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-pin square plugs and socket.
Measurement & Weight
Malaysia follows the metric system for weight and measurement.
Accommodation
Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. International standard hotels, medium and budget hotels, youth hostels are just some of the types of accommodation available.
