zoom_in Click to enlarge

Malaysia

▲ ▼

description Malaysia Overview

Malaysia is a federation in Southeast Asia consisting of Peninsular Malaysia, south of Thailand, and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, with Kuala Lumpur as its capital. It is a parliamentary democracy under an elective constitutional monarchy in which hereditary state rulers rotate as king every five years. The multicultural population of Malays, Chinese and Indians uses Malay as the national language, with Islam the religion of the federation. Extensive tropical rainforests, particularly in Borneo, support significant biodiversity, including orangutans.

help Malaysia FAQ

What currency does Malaysia use?

Malaysia uses the ringgit, abbreviated MYR. Cash is still handy at hawker stalls and markets, while cards are widely accepted in malls and hotels across Kuala Lumpur.

How does Malaysia's king work if it's an elected monarchy?

Malaysia's head of state, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, is elected every five years by and from among the nine hereditary Malay rulers. This rotating monarchy is unique in the world, with the rulers of states like Selangor, Kedah, and Johor taking turns on the throne.

How tall are the Petronas Twin Towers?

The Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur stand 452 metres tall and were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 until Taipei 101 surpassed them in 2004. They remain the tallest twin towers ever built.

What is the difference between Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo?

Malaysia consists of Peninsular Malaysia south of Thailand plus the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, separated by the South China Sea. East Malaysia is known for its rainforests, orangutans, and Mount Kinabalu, which at 4,095 metres is the country's highest peak.