description Malaysia Overview
Malaysia is a Southeast Asian federation of 13 states and three federal territories. It achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1957 as the Federation of Malaya, with the current federation formed in 1963. The country is a constitutional monarchy with a rotating kingship among nine Malay states, paired with a parliamentary democracy. Malaysia's population is ethnically diverse, comprising Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous groups.
Kuala Lumpur, the largest city, is home to the Petronas Twin Towers, which were the world's tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004.
insights Ranking position
Malaysia ranks #116 of 255 in the Civilization ranking, behind Ukraine, ahead of Phoenician civilization.
help Malaysia FAQ
When did Malaysia gain independence from Britain?
Malaysia achieved independence from the United Kingdom on August 31, 1957, as the Federation of Malaya. The current federation known as Malaysia was formed in 1963 when Malaya federated with Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore, though Singapore later separated in 1965.
How does Malaysia's rotating monarchy system work?
Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy with a unique rotating kingship where the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is elected from among the nine hereditary rulers of the Malay states. The position rotates every five years, making Malaysia one of the few countries with an elective monarchy.
How many states and federal territories make up Malaysia?
Malaysia is a federation of 13 states and three federal territories. The states span two distinct geographical regions separated by the South China Sea: Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo.
What is the capital of Malaysia and where is the federal government located?
The capital of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, the country's largest city and one of its three federal territories. However, the federal government's administrative center was moved to Putrajaya, a planned city and separate federal territory, in 1999.
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