Malaysia – the country, where yesterday meets today and tomorrow - spreads on the Malay Peninsula in south-east Asia and the area also includes Sabah and Sarawak states that are located on the northern part of Borneo island. The Federation of Malaysia with its capital Kuala Lumpur covers an area of about 329 750 km2. The population is created mainly by Malays, with the minorities of Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups with Islam as the official religion. The national language is Bahasa Melayu (Malay), but English is also widely spoken. Malaysia is typical by the tropical climate all year around, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 32°C. In the mountains, the temperatures are cooler. Most of the Malaysia is covered by forests, with a mountain range running the length of the peninsula.

History

The history of Malaysia dates to ancient times, when first inhabitants came from the China and settled the area. During the history, the territory was an important crossroad where Chinese, Indian, Arab and Malay merchants traded their precious goods in Melaka – the cultural centre. Since the 16th century, Malaysia has been influenced by the European culture of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonizers. Since 1963, Malaysia became an independent state. In September 1963, Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah, and initially Singapore united to form Malaysia, a country whose mixture of society and customs derives from its rich heritage from four of the world's major cultures - Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Western.

Culture

Malaysia is a country of extreme contrasts. During the course of history, Malaysia has evolved into a mosaic of cultures. Everything, from Malaysian people, to the traditions, arts or architecture reflects this colourful heritage. Malaysia's multi-cultural and multi-ethnical essence is most expressively exhibited in the diverse music, exotic dance arts or handcrafts. As a nation, Malaysians are very warm and friendly people with a strong sense of community. This is mirrored in the traditional pastimes and games. A glamorous cocktail of traditions and modernity is also reflected in the architecture with traces of Asia’s many styles and religions. Thank to its multiculturalism, Malaysia is not only a gastronomic paradise with the unique culinary spectrum, it is also a home of many colourful festivals.

Transportation

Malaysia is easily accessible from the major cities in the region and the rest of the world. The country is served by a first-class transportation system and there are always possibilities to get to even remote areas. Various options are accessible and usually it only depends on your convenience and affordability.

Shopping

The official currency of Malaysia is ringgit, sometimes called as the Malaysian dollar. If you love shopping, Malaysia is the exactly the right place, because shopping here is an adventure of discovery. It is a major shopping destination in Southeast Asia with a vast bulk of luxury malls, sidewalk stalls, bazaars, and night markets (pasar malam) with very friendly prices. The things that are unique Malaysia are handicrafts of local origin, such as silver, pewter or brass items, pottery, rattan or batik fabrics.

Nature

Malaysia is a country full of wonders, eclectic cultures and natural marvels. Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture and it is certainly a heaven for those liking adventure and for nature lovers. Almost three-fifths of Malaysia's territory is covered by tropical rainforests which are home to a variety of exotic and rare fauna and flora. Wonderful waterfalls, lakes and rivers, covert caves, celestial mountains, seas and coral reefs together with scenic islands will satisfy each individual desire.

Summary

For the truly Asian experience, for blithesome adventures in the jungle, for an enchanting urban experience or for the perfect island getaway – you should visit this paradise on the earth. To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia ...