10 fun and interesting Malaysia facts

1. A Southeast Asian Country Made Up of Two Distinct Regions

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country made up of two distinct regions: Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. Peninsular Malaysia is located on the Malay Peninsula and is bordered by Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south. Malaysian Borneo is located on the island of Borneo and is bordered by Brunei and Indonesia. The country's capital, Kuala Lumpur, is one of three federal territories in Malaysia. It is located in the southwest of Peninsular Malaysia and is home to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world.

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2. A Country of Diversity

Malaysia is a country of approximately 30 million people, with a population that is largely comprised of Indian (70%) and Chinese (20%) ethnicities. The life expectancy of men in Malaysia is 71 years, while women can expect to live 74 years on average. This is a testament to the country's commitment to providing its citizens with a high quality of life.

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3. A Unique Country in Southeast Asia

Malaysia is a unique country in Southeast Asia, as it is a federal constitutional elective monarchy. This means that the country is governed by a constitutional monarchy, with a hereditary monarch as head of state, and a democratically elected government. The current monarch is Sultan Muhammad V, who was elected in 2016. The government is headed by the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the monarch from among the members of the House of Representatives. Malaysia is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural nation, with a population of over 32 million people.

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4. 65,877 km of highways!

Malaysia is a country with an impressive infrastructure, boasting an incredible 65,877 km of highways - that's more than the circumference of the Earth at 40,075 km! This vast network of roads allows for easy access to the country's many attractions, from the bustling cities of Kuala Lumpur and Penang to the stunning beaches of Langkawi and the lush rainforests of Borneo. With such an extensive network of highways, it's no wonder Malaysia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia.

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5. Kuala Lumpur Tower: The World's Tallest Building

Standing at an impressive 421 meters, the Kuala Lumpur Tower is the fourth tallest tower in the world and the tallest building in Southeast Asia. Located in the heart of Malaysia's capital city, the tower is a prominent landmark and a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the city skyline and beyond. It features an observation deck, a revolving restaurant, and a rooftop amphitheater, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Malaysia.

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6. Malaysia's Independence Day

Every year on August 31st, Malaysians come together to celebrate Hari Merdeka, or Independence Day. This national holiday marks the day in 1957 when Malaysia declared its independence from the United Kingdom, and is a time for Malaysians to reflect on their nation's history and celebrate its freedom. Festivities include parades, fireworks, and traditional Malaysian music and dance performances. The day is also marked by the raising of the Malaysian flag, and the singing of the national anthem.

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7. A Paradise for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Malaysia is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of species. With 600 species of birds, 200 species of mammals, 140 species of snakes and 60 species of lizards, the country is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. In addition, Malaysia is home to over 14,500 species of flowering plants and trees, including the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, which is found only in Sabah. With such a diverse range of species, Malaysia is a must-visit destination for any wildlife lover.

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8. Malaysia's Sports Lovers

Malaysia is a country that loves its sports, with soccer, field hockey, badminton, bowls, squash, martial arts, tennis, horse riding, skate boarding and sailing all popular pastimes. Whether it's a competitive game of badminton or a leisurely sail on the open seas, Malaysians have plenty of options when it comes to sports and recreation. Martial arts, such as Muay Thai and Silat, are also widely practiced, while horse riding and skate boarding are becoming increasingly popular among the younger generations.

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9. Tin-Mining in Malaysia's Wang Kelian Cave

The small village of Wang Kelian in Perlis, Malaysia is the only place in the world where large-scale cave tin-mining was conducted. This unique mining method was used to extract tin ore from the caves, which were then processed and sold to tin smelters. The tin-mining industry in Wang Kelian was an important part of the local economy for many years, providing employment and income for the villagers. Although the industry has since declined, the village remains a reminder of the unique mining history of Malaysia.

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10. Malaysia's Sarawak Chamber is the Largest Cave Chamber in the World

The Sarawak Chamber in Malaysia's Hunung Mulu National Park is an impressive sight to behold - it is the largest cave chamber in the world, with a size so vast that it can comfortably fit a Boeing 747-200 aircraft! This incredible natural wonder is a must-see for any traveler to Malaysia, and is sure to leave a lasting impression.