Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very laid back, warm and friendly. Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs.

Country The Federation of Malaysia comprises Peninsula Malaysia and the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Geographical Location Located between 2º and 7º north of the Equator, Peninsula Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsula Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbour is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are north of Indonesia in Borneo while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei. 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.

Government Malaysia is governed by a Parliamentary democracy with a bicameral legislative system. The Head of State is the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, a position that is awarded to a different State Monarch every five years and the Head of Government is the Prime Minister.

Climate Tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Temperatures in the lowlands range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). The highlands are cooler, where temperatures range between 15°C (59° F) to 25°C (77°F). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm.

Major Holidays New Year's Day Hari Raya Aidiladha* Federal Territory Day ** Chinese New Year* Awal Muharam* Birthday of Prophet Muhammad* Labour Day* Wesak Day* King's Birthday* National Day* Deepavali# Hari Raya Aidilfitri* Christmas* Note: (*) - National holidays (**) - Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur & Labuan only (#) - Except Labuan & Sarawak

Economic Profile Manufacturing constitutes the largest single component of Malaysia's economy. Tourism and primary commodities such as petroleum, palm oil, natural rubber and timber are other major contributors to the economy.

Distance to Malaysia London, United Kingdom to Kuala Lumpur : Paris, France to Kuala Lumpur : Rome, Italy to Kuala Lumpur : Stockholm, Sweden to Kuala Lumpur : Berlin, Germany to Kuala Lumpur : Madrid, Spain to Kuala Lumpur : New York, USA to Kuala Lumpur : Los Angeles, USA to Kuala Lumpur : Vancouver, Canada to Kuala Lumpur : 6,557 miles (10,552 km) 6,483 miles (10,432 km) 6,038 miles (9,716 km) 5,812 miles (9,353 km) 5,979 miles (9,622 km) 6,885 miles (11,079 km) 9,400 miles (15,126 km) 8,790 miles (14,144 km) 7,944 miles (12,783 km)

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.

Banking Hours Most states: Mon - Fri: 9.15am to 4.30pm. Sat & Sun: Closed (Selected banks and branches are open on Sat). Kelantan & Terengganu: Sun - Wed :9.15am to 4.30pm. Thurs :9.15am to 4.00pm. Friday/Saturday*/Public Holiday: Closed

Post Offices Open from 8.30am to 5.00pm daily except the first Saturday of each month, Sundays and public holidays. In Kelantan and Terengganu post offices operate during the same hours but are closed on Fridays and public holidays.

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.

Weights and Measures Malaysia follows the metric system in weights and measures.

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.

Accommodation Malaysia has a wide range of accommodation at competitive rates. Six-star, medium range, budget hotels, youth hostels, beach chalets and timeshare apartments are just some of the types of accommodation available. Privately operated motor-homes are also available for rent. Malaysia Hotels Malaysia Hotels

For the perfect holiday full of surprises, eclectic cultures and natural wonders, the time is now, the place is Malaysia.