Malaysia is a federation of 13 states, 11 states in Peninsular Malaysia, 2 states in East Malaysia and Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya. Its multiracial community has enriched a wealth of culture, traditions and custome. Its three major races, the Malays, Chinese and Indians together with the ethnic traditions of the Kadazan, Dusun, Iban make up the delightful multicultural fabric of Malaysia.

Capital City: Kuala Lumpur

Administrative capital: Putrajaya

Area: 329,758 sq km

Population: 26 million (est. 2006)

Nominal GDP (RM Billion): 542.8 (est. 2006)

Per capita income: USD: 5,145/PPP: 11,000 (est. 2006)

Language:

Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the official language but English is widely spoken, especially in business.

Religion:

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

Climate:

Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21⁰C to 32⁰C with cooler temperatures in hill resorts. Annual rainfall varies from 2,000 mm to 2,500 mm.

Time:

Eight hours ahead of GMT (GMT +8) and 16 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time.

Tipping:

Most hotels and restaurant levy a 10% service charge and 5% government sales tax on bills and tipping is not customary. However, should you to show your appreciation for good services, a small tip will suffice.

Shopping:

All purchase are done in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). Major credit cards are accepted in most dining and retail outlets. Hypermarkets, supermarkets and most retail outlets have fixed prices for their goods, which are displayed on the products. However, bargaining is acceptable at selected retail outlets and is most common at night markets (pasar malam), or at bazaars. Shopping centers operate from 10.00 am to 10.00 pm with extended hours during sales and festive seasons.

Dining:

Most eateries operate until late night. However, selected eateries are open 24 hours. Most Malaysians enjoy their meals using their fingers and adventurous visitors may choose to do so. However, it is perfectly normal to request for cutlery.

Insurance:

Like travelling to other places, visitors are generally advised to obtain adequate insurance coverage before traveling. So is Malaysia.

Getting There:

The state-of-the-art Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is the main gateway into the country. The newly-opened Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) is situated 20km from the main terminal building.

Getting Around:

The country has a well-developed and efficient and public transportation system served by buses, taxis and trains. In Kuala Lumpur, the Putra and STAR Light rail Transit (LRT), KL Monorail and KTM Komuter trains provide regular and hassle-free accessibility within the city as well as to several outlying towns. The KL Sentral Station, situated 1.5 km from the city center, is a modern transportation. Car rental agencies can be found in most cities around the country.