Malaysia: Overview

A flavoursome culture fusion - from high-tech to no-tech.

Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in southeast Asia. It's buoyant and wealthy, and has moved towards a pluralist culture based on a vibrant and interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs.

Malaysia's love of Western-style industrialisation is abundantly clear in its big cities. Aside from the gleaming glass towers of the 21st Century, though, Malaysia boasts some of the most superb beaches, mountains and national parks in Asia.

Travel Warning: Don't Go to Eastern Sabah

The islands and coastal areas of Eastern Sabah are considered very dangerous for foreigners, who are at high risk of being kidnapped by terrorist groups.

severity: High-level alert

Fast Facts

Country Full Name

Federation of Malaysia

Population

23,000,000

Currency

Name: Malaysian Ringgit
Code: MYR
Symbol: RM

Electrical Plugs

British-style plug with two flat blades and one flat grounding blade
240V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Malay

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +8 

Country Dialing Code

+60

Weights & Measures

Metric

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

  • Malaysia
    Post by: connieq, 13 Jan 05
    3 Replies
    Last reply: 1288 days ago
  • Malaysia
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    3 Replies
    Last reply: 214 days ago
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    10 Replies
    Last reply: 98 days ago
  • Welcome to Malaysia
    Post by: haryzat, 17 Apr 07
    5 Replies
    Last reply: 464 days ago
  • Surfing in Malaysia
    Post by: Britt415, 02 Jun 07
    4 Replies
    Last reply: 418 days ago

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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

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