Malaysia Fast Facts

Country
The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsula Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.

Area
329,758 sq km

Population
26 million

Capital
Kuala Lumpur

People
Malays who make up about 57% of the population are 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.

Religion
Islam is the official religion but all other religions are freely practised.

Currency
The unit of currency is Malaysian Ringgit indicated as RM. USD1 is roughly equivalent to RM3.70. Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers.

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.

Telephones
Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or pre-paid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with card phone facilities or at any Telekom office.

DO's & DONT's
Malaysia is generally a laid back and relaxed place. However, we do have our own customs and visitors should try to observe these practices when they arrive. Some common courtesies and customs are as follows:

• Although handshakes are generally acceptable for both men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge introductions to gentlemen by merely nodding and smiling. A handshake should only be initiated by ladies. The traditional greeting or salam resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend's outstretched hands, and then brings his hands to his chest to mean, "I greet you from my heart". The visitor should reciprocate the salam.
• It is polite to call before visiting a home.
• Shoes must always be removed when entering a Malaysian home.
• Drinks are generally offered to guests. It is polite to accept.
• The right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or giving and receiving objects.
• The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with four fingers folded under is the preferred usage.
• Shoes must be removed when entering places of worship such as mosques and temples. Some mosques provide robes and scarves for female visitors. Taking photographs at places of worship is usually permitted but always ask permission beforehand.
• Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia. The country's large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.