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

Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its love of Western-style industrialisation. Gleaming glass towers of the 21st Century look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs. Malaysia boasts some of the most superb beaches, mountains and national parks in Asia.

It's hot and humid year-round with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F), even at night, and usually climbing to 30°C (86°F) or more during the day. Rain, when it comes, generally interrupts the sunshine only briefly; most of it falls in short, strong bursts. It rarely rains all day.

Region: South East Asia
Capital: Kuala Lumpur
Language: Malay
Currency: Ringgit
Land Mass: 329,8476 km2
Population: 26,909,000
Religion: Islam, Buddhism, Christian, Hindu

Malaysia Economic Factors

Malaysia Cultural Factors