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About Malaysia
Malaysia Truly Asia
In the heart of Asia lies a land of many cultures, wonders and attractions. It's a bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions where Malays, Indians, Chinese and many other people live together in peace and harmony. It is also a land of fascinating extremes, where towering skyscrapers look down upon primitive longhouses.
Blessed with natural wonders galore, it is perfect for a memorable eco-holiday. With some of the best beaches and diving spots in the world, it is ideal for island getaways. Experience Asia in Malaysia.
Malaysia is a bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religious where Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other people live together in peace and harmony.The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are myriad of indigenous ethic groups with their own unique culture and heritage.
More Information on Malaysia can be found at:
http://www.tourism.gov.my/
http://www.virtualmalaysia.com/
http://www.visitmalaysia.com/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/south_east_asia/malaysia/
http://allmalaysia.info/
Islands and Beaches in Malaysia
Malaysia is famous for its beautiful islands and beaches. To explore more on islands and beaches in Malaysia, check out at: Islands of Malaysia; or view some video clips at Virtual Malaysia.
Quick Facts
Country
The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
Geographical Location
Located between 2º and 7º 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
Population: 25 million
Capital: Kuala Lumpur
People
Malays who make up about 57% of the population are the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest.
Language
Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also speak various languages and dialects.
Government
Parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system. The Head of State is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister.
Climate
Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
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 other major contributors to the economy.
The Host Cities
Tropical Garden City of Lights – Kuala Lumpur
The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, lies midway along the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur represents the heartbeat of Malaysia, serving as its cultural, commercial and transportation centre.
Better known as KL to the locals, the city is a heady mix of history and culture intertwined with mushrooming skyscrapers and office towers. Kuala Lumpur is the best example of a city that has managed to preserve the best of its cultural heritage, city landscape and environment with modern conveniences to offer a wholly unique experience to visitors.
With a population of over 1.3 million, Kuala Lumpur is by far the largest city in Malaysia. Malays, Chinese and Indians comprise the main races among others in this multicultural backdrop. This ethnic diversity has shaped the city over the years and is clearly seen in the various cultural customs and religious beliefs, as well as languages, cuisines and architecture.Currency
The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit indicated as RM which is equivalent to 100 sen. Those who want to know the exchange rate of today may refer to the following site:
->GO TO ONLINE CURRENCY CONVERTER
Malaysian banks are efficient and typically charge around US$2-3 for foreign exchange transactions. Moneychangers do not charge a commission but their rates vary, so make sure you know the current rate before approaching one. You generally get a better rate for cash at a moneychanger than a bank. In addition, moneychangers are normally quicker and easier to deal with.
All major credit cards are accepted at up market hotels, shops and restaurants. If you have a credit card with a personal identification number (PIN) attached, you can obtain cash advances from ATMs. Banks in Malaysia are linked to international banking networks, which allow you to withdraw money from overseas savings accounts through ATMs. Please check with your local bank at home to see if you can withdraw money from your home account while in Malaysia.
The more expensive hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to their bills. All hotel rooms are subject to a 5% government tax, though many cheaper hotels quote a price inclusive of this tax. Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. Bargaining is commonplace in markets and in many tourist shops.
Citizens of most countries are given a 3-month visa free visit to Malaysia. Countries from the former Eastern Block are usually given a 7-day visa free visit however citizens of some countries are required to get visa. For more detailed information, please contact your local Malaysian Embassy (in your home country).
Medical
Pharmacies and medical practitioners are available throughout the country. However, if you require specific prescriptions or medication, please visit your local physician before making your journey. The University has its own medical clinic on campus. Its opening time follows office hours. For more information on health issues, please visit from your local physician.
Weather
Malaysia is hot and humid all year. The country has only two distinct weather patterns, hot and wet. In April, the weather is generally hot and humid with mid-day temperatures at 35 degree Celcius and night temperature at 25 degree Celcius.
It is, however, best to avoid the November to January rainy season on Peninsula Malaysia's east coast if you want to enjoy the beaches. The time to see turtles on the east coast is between May and September. However, less rain is expected at the conference venue in April.
Electricity Supply
The electricity supply in Malaysia is 220-240volts a.c. at 50 Hz. Wall plugs and standard power source use the standard BS1363 three-pin plug.
International Calls
To make international calls on public telephones, we recommend you use telephone cards. This can be found at many hotel lobbies and shopping complexes. Hotels normally include a surcharge of 150% of the normal Telecoms rates and can be very expensive. The international dialing code is "00" followed by the respective country code.
Shopping Centres
Suria KLCC
Suria KLCC is Malaysia's premier shopping destination located at Kuala Lumpur's prestigious commercial address, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). It offers an array of goods and services to please and pamper the needs of shoppers; from fashion, entertainment, arts & culture to local delicacies and international gourmets.
Set in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle, Suria KLCC is surrounded by hotels, office buildings, a scenic park and dancing fountains, promising hours of leisurely pleasure.
http://www.suriaklcc.com.my/
Midvalley Megamall
Welcome to Malaysia's one of the largest malls in Malaysia.
Come discover a larger than life shopping experience. Stroll through 5km of shopping, leisure and dining choices. With more than 430 shops on five and a half floors. A mind-bogging selection for all!
www.midvalley.com.my
