Country Facts
In Malaysia, tall high-rises contrast with tribal village houses, beaches and islands stand removed from protected forests, and though it has some of the remotest tribes in the world, it is one of Asia's more prosperous nations. Malaysia's steady progress towards modernization, a blend of cultures, Chinese, Malay and Indian and the diversity of flora and fauna, make this progressive nation one of the most colourful and unique in Asia. To get under Malay skin read 'Lord Jim' by Joseph Conrad, watch the documentary 'Guardians of the Forest', and listen to the sound of traditional drums called Malay gendang.
- Capital: Kuala Lumpur
- Official Languages: Bahasa Melayu
- Government: Constitutional monarchy
- Currency: Ringgit
- Time Zone: +8:00 GMT (2½ hrs ahead of India)
- Telephone Calling Code: 0060
When To Go
Best time to visit: May to September (dry season). The average temperature in Malaysia is 27.5°C with the average high being 33°C from February through June and the average lowest being 22°C in January, February, July, September and December.
What To Do
Malaysia offers a culinary delight for every gourmand. From Indian curries and Chinese buffets to Malaysian cuisine and Western food, the influence of all the cultures can be seen in every street and restaurant.
What to eat and drink
- Nasi lemak: Coconut rice served with fried anchovies, peanuts, sliced cucumber, hard boiled eggs, and a spicy chili paste known as sambal
- Ayam percik: Grilled chicken with spicy sauce
- Nasi kandar: Rice or biryani served with chicken, fish, beef, or mutton curry, pickle and papad
- Durian: fruit, delicious, but stinky
- Air kelapa: coconut water
- Tuak: Borneo rice wine
- Highlands tea
Shopping
Tea, tribal handicrafts, herbs, souvenirs, arts and handicrafts, local snacks, t-shirts, CDs, books, carpets, antiques.
