About Malaysia. Truly Asia.

To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia. A bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions where Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony.

Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomically 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.

For more information on Malaysia, please visit www.malaysia.gov.my or Tourism Malaysia at www.tourism.gov.my.

Malaysia: The Ideal Destination

Malaysia is a peaceful country inhabited by a friendly, multi-ethnic people with English as its most widely spoken language. Other major languages include Malay, Chinese and Indian. It is politically stable and blessed with many natural resources. Combines with high-technology manufacturing, R&D and ICT services centres, Malaysia has created a most stable environment for direct foreign investment and business dealings. It is strategically located in the heart of Southeast Asia, one of the world's fastest growing regions, with easy access to China and India, the fastest-growing Asia markets.

With its world-class infrastructure facilities and innovative programs, Malaysia is the ideal destination to host the CSM-ACE 2010. Malaysia has hosted a variety of other world-class events such as the Commonwealth Games, Formula One, NAM Summit, and the United Nations Global Alliance Summit.

Malaysia with all its appeal and world-class facilities, not only is the ideal destination for CSM-ACE 2010 but also presents an enriching experience with our unique multi-cultural attractions to all delegates.

Geographic Location Situated between 2º and 7º to the North of the Equator line, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. In the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia lies Thailand, and in the south, neighbouring Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak are bounded by Indonesia while Sarawak also shares borders with Brunei.
Area 329,758 square km
Population 27.17 million
Capital City Kuala Lumpur
People Malays comprise 57% of the population, while the Chinese, Indian and Bumiputeras and other races make up the rest of the country's population.
Language (Bahasa Melayu) Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also converse in the various languages and dialects.
Religion Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions are widely practised.
Time Standard Malaysia time is eight hours ahead of GMT.
Weather The country experiences tropical weather all year round. Temperatures are from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). During November, scattered rain showers will offer a welcome respite from the humidity. Rain showers seldom last for more than a couple of hours leaving a fresh and crisp air.
Electricity Voltage is 220 - 240 Volt AC at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3- pin square plugs and socket.
Currency The Malaysian Ringgit (RM) is the official currency in Malaysia. Foreign currencies and traveller’s cheques can be converted at banks or authorized money changers throughout the country. Malaysia accepts all major credit cards.
Business Hours Banks are opened Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 16:00 and selected banks are opened on Saturday. In general shops open from 10:30 till 21:30 in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas.