The Federation of Malaysia comprises of Peninsular Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Malaysia is a land of fascinating sights and attractions. Rich in colour and multi-faceted charm provides intriguing images that leave visitors to the country in awe. The natural warmth of Malaysians is legendary; wherever one goes, the friendliness and hospitality of the people would prove to be a very special experience. Malaysia is a paradise with sun-drenched beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and magnificient mountains are among the best in this region. Many visitors have discovered Malaysia's other attractions: a shopping haven, a versatile Meeting, Incentive, Conference & Exhibition (MICE) venue, an adventure land and much more.
GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION Located between 2º and 7º north of the Equator, Peninsular Malaysia is separated rom the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsular Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei & Borneo.
AREA 329,758 sq km
POPULATION 25 million
CAPITAL Kuala Lumpur
TIME Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.
ELECTRICITY Voltage is 220 – 240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.
NATIONAL DAY 31st August 1957
PEOPLE Malay who makes up about 57% of the population is the predominant group with Chinese, Indians and other ethnic groups making up the rest.
LANGUAGE Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national language but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also speak various languages and dialects.
WEATHER Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.
CURRENCY The unit of currency is Malaysian Ringgit indicated as RM. USD1 is equivalent to RM3.40 based on daily base rate. Major currencies can be converted at banks, money changers and at our hotel.
BUSINESS HOURS BANKING HOURS Most states: Mon – Fri: 9.30am – 4.00pm, Sat: 9.30am – 11.30am * (closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Public Holidays)
Kedah, Kelantan & Terengganu states: Sat – Wed: 9.30am – 4.00pm Thursday: 9.30am – 11.30am Friday: closed (closed on National and state public holidays)
OFFICES Most offices are opened from 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday through Friday, 9.00am to 1.00pm on Saturday.
SHOPPING Shops are generally opened from 10.00am to 10.00pm daily.
PLACES OF INTEREST * Petronas Twin Tower * National Museum * Menara Kuala Lumpur * Central Market * Chinatown, Petaling Street * Bird Park
