Malaysia is one of the most pleasant, hassle-free countries to visit in South-East Asia. Several decades of sustained economic growth and political stability have made it one of the most buoyant and wealthy countries in the region, and although political power (Malay) and economic clout (Chinese) are still traditionally divided along racial lines, Malaysia has moved towards a pluralist culture based on a vibrant and interesting fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs.

Most visitors to Malaysia stick to the Peninsula, where the insane headlong rush of Kuala Lumpur is offset by the colonially soothing Cameron Highlands Hill Station or the hedonistic torpor of Langkawi. Far fewer make it to Sarawak or Sabah, on the island of East Malaysia, with their spectacular wildlife, longhouses and the awe-inspiring Mt Kinabalu.

Warning

In April and September 2000, the Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf militants took hostages - some foreign tourists - from the islands of Sipadan and Pandanan. The guerilla group is currently being targeted by military forces in the Philippines, and there is concern that the group may strike again. Visitors are advised to be extra vigilant when traveling in eastern Sabah and to altogether avoid the islands off of Sabah's east coast, including Sipadan and Pandanan.

Full country name: Federation of Malaysia
Area: 329,750 sq km (204,445 sq mi)
Population: 22 million
Capital city: Kuala Lumpur (pop 1.2 million)
People: 50% Malay, 33% Chinese, 9% Indian, plus indigenous tribes such as Orang Asli and Iban
Language: Bahasa Malaysia, English, Chinese dialects, Tamil, indigenous dialects
Religion: 52% Muslim, 17% Buddhist, 12% Taoist, 8% Christian, 8% Hindu, 2% tribal
Government: Parliamentary monarchy
Head of state: King: Tuanku Salehuddin Abdul Aziz Shah ibni al-Marhum Hisamuddin Alam Shah
Prime Minister: Dato' Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi

GDP: US$99 billion
GDP per head: US$4530
Annual growth: 2%
Inflation: 4%
Major products/industries: Tin, rubber, palm oil, timber, oil, textiles, electronics
Major trading partners: Singapore, Japan, USA

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