Malaysia
Malaysia comprises of two regions: the Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak. It is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious federation of 13 states and 3 federal territories.
Malaysia comprises of two regions: the Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak. It is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious federation of 13 states and 3 federal territories.
Overview
Official Name
Federation of Malaysia
Capital
Kuala Lumpur
Independence Day
31 August 1957
Population, Territory and Currency
Population & total area
33,871,431 (2022 est.)
329,847 square km
Source: CIA World Factbook
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (RM)
Average price per meal: SGD 3
Demographics
Male-Female: 51.2%-48.8%
Urban population: 78.2%
Youth aged 15-24 years: 16.63%
Source: CIA World Factbook (2022)
The Flag
The Malaysian flag composes of a field of 14 alternating red and white stripes signifying the membership of the 13 states and a federal territory. The red strips reflect heroic bravery while the white illustrates purity, and blue symbolises unity of the Malaysian people. The crescent represents Islam and the 14 points of the star indicate the unity of the 14 entities.
Key Historical Events
1826-1946
Establishment of British rule under the Straits Settlements.
1942-45
Japanese occupation.
1948
Creation of the Federation of Malaya under British rule.
1957
Following years of guerilla warfare against the British, Federation of Malaya gains independence with Tunku Abdul Rahman as Prime Minister.
1963
British colonies of Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore join the Federation of Malaya, forming the Federation of Malaysia.
1965
Singapore withdraws from Malaysia, which is then reduced to 13 states.
Economic Profile
Malaysia is an upper middle-income country and has transformed itself from a producer of raw materials into a multi-sector economy. The economy achieved a commendable growth of 3.1% in 2021 having rebounded from the pandemic, and attained a GDP of RM 1.39 trillion.
SG X MY
In 2021, Malaysia was Singapore’s second largest trading partner and vice versa. Singapore’s total trade with Malaysia was SGD 128.7 billion in 2021, which accounted for 11% of Singapore’s total trade and 5% of Malaysia’s total trade.
Key Industries
Digital Economy
Malaysia’s traditional focus on consumer electronics manufacturing has anchored related functions such as computer programming and IT consultancies within the country. This has enabled the growth of Malaysia’s digital economy and bolstered digital entrepreneurships, particularly in technology start-ups. The major sub-sectors of electrical and electronic products have also boosted manufacturing output and growth.
Agriculture
Agriculture is an important sector that provides rural employment, uplifts incomes and ensures national food security. 6.3% of Malaysia’s production in the first quarter of 2022 came from the agricultural industry. Key products include palm oil, fishing and livestock.
Lifestyle & Consumer Goods
With a large middle-class and urban population, consumer-facing industries contribute significantly to Malaysia’s economy. Household consumption has rebounded following the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing a high growth rate of 6.5% in the first quarter of 2022.
Places of Interest
Petronas Twin Towers
Landmark of Kuala Lumpur
Twin skyscrapers, they remain the tallest twin towers in the world. The towers feature an Islamic-inspired architecture.
Resorts World Genting
Genting Highlands
An integrated hill resort development comprising of hotels, shopping malls, theme parks and casinos perched on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali remains a popular tourist destination.
Local Food
Bak Kuh Teh
Literally meaning ‘meat bone tea’, this dish comprises of broth made from pork ribs with herbs, garlic and spices.
Nasi Lemak
A national dish consisting of rice soaked in coconut cream then steamed with pandan leaves, served with cucumbers, peanuts, egg, anchovies and sambal sauce.
Laksa
A popular spicy noodle soup with Malay and Chinese influences. Different regions feature variations of this dish, such as assam laksa in Penang, where the broth is tamarind-based and filled with noodles, cucumber, pineapple and lemongrass.
Major Festivals
Hari Merdeka
The annual celebration of independence from the British rule on 31 August 1957. Celebrations feature a grand parade, spectacular fireworks and stage performances.
Agong’s Birthday
This festival celebrates the birthday of the King, known as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. A nationwide speech is delivered by the Agong, followed by a ceremony held at the Istana Negera in Kuala Lumpur to honour commendable citizens. A massive parade also takes place at Merdeka Square to honour the Agong.
