ABOUT PAHANG
Pahang is the third largest state in Malaysia, after Sarawak and Sabah, occupying the huge Pahang River river basin. It is bordered to the north by Kelantan, to the west by Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, to the south by Johor and to the east by Terengganu and the South China Sea.
Its state capital is Kuantan, and the royal seat is at Pekan. Other important towns include Jerantut, Kuala Lipis, Temerloh and the hill resorts of Genting Highlands, Cameron Highlands, Bukit Tinggi and Fraser's Hill.
The Arabic honorific of Pahang is Darul Makmur ("Abode of Tranquility").
The ethnic composition is roughly 1,000,000 Malay and Bumiputra, 233,000 Chinese, 68,500 Indians, 13,700 others, and 68,000 non-citizens.
GEOGRAPHY
Geographically diverse, Pahang ranges from mountainous country in its west to its coastline in the east. It adjoins the South China Sea for a distance of 208 kilometers. Terengganu and Kelantan bound the State on the north, by Perak in the west and by Selangor and Negeri Sembilan to the southwest. Johor forms the State's southern boundary. Of the total land area of the state, 48.8% is covered by forest, 23.4% is agricultural land, 16.3% is government land, 10.8% is urban and industrial land, 0.5% is Orang Asli (Aborigine) Reserve and the remaining 0.2% is mining land.
There are many choices of food in Pahang, its all entirely up to your tastebuds. An unending variety of delicacies it to be found in the cuisines of Pahang. Malay, Chinese (particularly Cantonese, Hokkien and Szechuan) and both north and south Indian foods will all stimulate the taste buds. Fine European cuisine can also be found at both coastal and hill resorts.
In between these mouth-watering meals you can snack on deliciously fresh tropical fruits. When thirsty, try a fresh coconut just plucked from the tree. SATAY are morsels of marinated meat skewered on palm leaf sticks and barbecued on an open flame. Eaten with a spicy peanut sauce, cucumber, onions and ketupat (rice boiled in woven palm leaf cases). Satay is the ‘kebab’ of the Malay world. A dish you must try!
Many of tour and travel companies provide services for visitors to Pahang. However, it is wise to check on their familiarity with certain destinations. Try to avoid engaging the first one that comes along or those that are 'specially' recommended by hotel bell hops and concierge. Most top hotels only recommend conveners with the best track record for the comfort of their guests.
These agents act as coordinators for all the traveling needs of a person or group of persons. They normally are the best local party that knows the most of the local surroundings especially the touristy destination.
The agents are normally divided into two main categories; the outbound and the inbound operators. The outbound operators are those who handles out of the country tourists and the activities includes ticketing.
All activities relating to domestic tourism are being handled by a set of travel agents specializing in all the local destinations, in Kuantan there are agents for destinations such as Beserah, Balok and Cherating Beach, Pekan and many more. In Jerantut are agents for Taman Negara and Pulau Tioman.
Travel Agencies Pulau Tioman
»
Pure Value Travel & Tours
»
Tioman Enterprise
7, Jalan Abu Bakar
86800 Mersing
Johor Darul Takzim
Tel : 607 -799 6811
Fax : 607 -799 6911
E-mail: enquiry@purevalue.com.my
Website: http://www.purevalue.com.my 212, Kampung Tekek
Pulau Tioman
86800 Mersing
Johor Darul Takzim
Tel : 011-952 856
Travel Agencies Kuantan
»
Asria Travel & Tours
»
Kosma Tourism
B-2, Jalan Bukit Sekilau
25200 Kuantan
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609-516 2351
Fax : 609-516 2344 A-73, Tingkat 2, Bangunan Kosma
Jalan Haji Abdul Aziz
25000 Kuantan
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609-552 2977
Fax : 609-513 7190
»
Cherating Getaways Travel & Tours
»
May Flower Acme Travel & Tours
Cherating Holiday Villa,
Lot 1303, Mukim Sg. Karang, 26080 Cherating, Pahang Darul Makmur.
Tel : 609 -581 9533
Fax : 609-581 9533
Airport Kuantan,
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609 -538 3490 Fax : 609 -539 7691
»
Convenience Travel & Tours
»
Saga Suasa Tour & Limousine Services
No. Tingkat Bawah,
Jalan Stadium, Taman Selamat,
Pahang Darul Makmur.
Tel : 609 -517 8755
Fax : 609 -517 8788
No. 13 & 14
Tingkat Bawah
Jalan Stadium
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609 -515 7358
Fax : 609 -515 7358
»
Hai O Tours & Travel
»
East Coast Holidays
C 632, First Floor
Jalan Dato' Lim Hoe Lek
25200 Kuantan
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609 -514 4712
Fax : 609 -514 4803 No. 9 Bangunan LKNP, Jalan Besar, 25000 Kuantan, Pahang Darul Makmur. Tel: 609 515 8992 Fax: 609 515 0992 Hotline: 6 019 911 8992 Website: www.ech.com.my Email: echsb@streamyx.com
Travel Agencies Cameron Highlands
»
Cameron Adventure
»
Cameron Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd
Trail-c/o Equatorial Hill Resort
Kea Farm
39100 Brinchang
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 605-496 1777
ext.7230/496 1778 25A, Holiday Chalet
Tanah Rata
39000 Cameron Highlands
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 605-491 1660
»
C-S Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd
»
Jade Holidays Sdn Bhd
47, Jalan Besar, 39000 Tanah Rata, Pahang
Tanah Rata
39000 Cameron Highlands
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 605-491 1200
Fax : 605-491 2390 37A & 37B, Jalan Bandar
Brinchang
39100 Cameron Highlands
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 605-491 2318
Fax : 05-491 2071
»
Strawberry Park Tours Sdn Bhd
»
Titiwangsa Tours & Travel Sdn Bhd
Lot 195-196
Tanah Rata
39000 Cameron Highlands
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 605-491 116/1174
Fax : 605-491 1949 36, Main Road 39100 Brinchang, Pahang
Brinchang
39100 Cameron Highlands
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 605-491 1452
Fax : 605-491 3452
Travel Agencies Genting Highlands
»
Cascade Tarvel & Tours Sdn Bhd
»
Ho Wah Genting Travels
5th Floor
MARA Building
Jalan Hang Jebat
50150 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603-230 2980/2981/4218
Fax : 603-230 2982 Lot S13-21 No 179,
2nd Floor, KL Plaza
No. 179, Jalan Bukit Bintang
55100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : 603-243 8833
Fax : 603-243 0268/1268
Travel Agencies Taman Negara
»
SPKG Tours Sdn Bhd
»
NKS Hotel & Travel Sdn Bhd
16, Jalan Diwangsa
Bandar Baru
27000 Jerantut
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609-266 2369 /1832
Fax : 609-266 4369
E-mail : spkg@tm.net.my Bangunan MUIP
Jalan Besar
27000 Jerantut
Pahang Darul Makmur
Tel : 609-266 4499/4488
Fax : 609-266 4801
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Tourism Kelantan
About Kelantan
:: VISIT KELANTAN
The Year to be remembered offering culture, people and food. Beauty - and the East.
The Government and people of Kelantan take this opportunity wishing all of you.
There are endless, colorful programess specially prepared for our year throughout 2010.Be here at the right time and at the right place. There a lot to explore & experience the beauty of Kelantanese cultures.
:: WELCOME TO KELANTAN
KELANTAN IS LOCATED at the north-east coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the south China Sea and covers a land area of 14,922 sq km. Its state capital, Kota Bharu, is a bustling town well connected to other major towns in Malaysia serves as the center for Kelantan's administrative and business activities. Kelantan is famed for its unique cultural diversity, white sandy beaches, waterfalls and lush tropical jungle.
The Kelantan Tourist Information Centre and State Government are keen to promote eco-tourism while maintaining the delicate ecological balance in nature. Investors have the opportunity to set-up international class hotel and beach resort, restaurant, souvenir shop, sight seeing and tour operations meet the growing needs of increasing tourist's arrival.
:: PLACE OF INTEREST
The best place to appreciate Kelantanese culture and crafts is the capital city, Kota Bharu. A bustling town famed for its ornately decorated trishaws, Kota Bharu offers numerous attractions for the visitor.
:: GELANGGANG SENI (CULTURAL CENTRE)
Located on Jalan Mahmud close to the Perdana Hotel, the cultural centre is a veritable showcase of the living heritage of Kelantan. Demonstrations of popular folk arts and pastimes are held daily. Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) shows, Silat (the Malay art of self defence) performances, Gasing (Top spinning) displays, Wau (Kite flying) and Rebana (Giant Drum) playing can all be seen at the centre. Evenings see cultural performances featuring traditional Malay music and Wayang Kulit.
*
The cultural centre is open three times a week from March to October each year. Performance times are 3.30pm to 5.50pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and 9.00pm to midnight on Wednesday and Saturday.
:: HISTORICAL ZONE
The main cultural and historical zone of Kota Bharu is situated along Jalan Hilir Kota and Jalan Sultan where many museums and heritage buildings are located. Some museums charge a nominal fee for admission.
:: ROYAL MUSEUM / ISTANA BATU
The Istana Batu (Brick/Stone Palace) was constructed in 1939 during the reign of Sultan Ismail. It houses the Royal Museum and was previously used as the venue for royal weddings and as a guest house for visiting royalty.
*
The Royal Museum now serves as a repository for the history of the Kelantan royal family and displays regalia, pictures, silverware, furniture and palace items of former Sultans. Opening times 8.30am to 4.45pm daily - except Fridays.
:: WORLD WAR TWO MEMORIAL / BANK KERAPU
Originally constructed in 1911, Bank Kerapu is now a repository for documents, pictures and military paraphernalia of the Japanese Occupation from 1941 to 1945. During the war, the building served as the headquarters of the Japanese Kempetai, the feared secret police.
:: HANDICRAFT VILLAGE & CRAFT MUSEUM
While the Craft Museum houses many fine examples of Kelantanese craftsmanship, the adjacent Handicraft Village provides visitors the chance to see just how these crafts are made. Demonstrations of traditional embroidery, songket weaving, batik printing, silver work and wood carving are carried out by skilled artisans. Their products are also in sale at the centre.
:: STATE MOSQUE
Construction of this mosque was completed during the reign of Sultan Ismail IV after almost a decade of work. Also known as the Al-Muhammadi Mosque or the 'Brick Mosque', it is the centre for Islamic missionary activities in the state.
:: ISTANA BALAI BESAR
Built by Sultan Muhammad II in 1840, the Istana Balai Besar was formerly the residence of past Sultans. However, it is now used solely as a venue for official state functions. The palace boasts a large audience hall, a throne room and a fine collection of royal regalia.
:: ISTANA JAHAR
Built in 1887 by Sultan Mohamad II for his grandson, Long Kundur, the Istana Jahar has been transformed into a museum featuring Kelantan's cultural heritage. Photographs and a great variety of artefacts bear testimony to the rich Kelantanese cultural legacy. The building itself is laced with intricate wood carvings, serving as an example of the fine craftsmanship of local artisans.
:: ISLAMIC MUSEUM
The Islamic Museum traces the history of Islam in Kelantan. Exhibits include Islamic Arts and Crafts and photographs of some of the personal belongings of Prophet Muhammad and Islamic historical sites. The museum reflects not only the importance of Islam in Kelantan but also the position of the state as a centre of Islamic learning.
:: STATE MUSEUM
The State Museum located along Jalan Hospital incorporates the State Art Gallery. The building itself was utilised as the land office from colonial times until 1990 when major renovations were carried out to convert it into a museum. The museum documents the arts, crafts and musical traditions of Kelantan. Ceramic displays testify to the early trade with China and artifacts from local archaeological sites provide evidence of the existence of the pre-historic age in Kelantan.
:: OTHER PLACES
Other interesting sites in Kota Bharu include Merdeka (Independence) Square, State Government offices and raft houses along the river banks.
The Sutan Ismail Petra Arch is a beautiful landmark in Kota Bharu. Neraby, Padang Merdeka or Merdeka Square is a historical landmark. Situated within is a World War I memorial that pays tribute to fallen war heroes. It is also the site where the body of Tok Janggut, one of the country's most famous nationalists, was hung. Originally named Padang Bank, it was renamed Padang Merdeka (Independence Square) after the country's independence in 1957.
:: FOOD IN KELANTAN
Kelantan Darul Naim is not only known with its variety of cultural but also famous with its unique food. For centuries, the originality of the taste made by the ancestors is not changed. For those who come to visit here must try these traditional food. You will not forget the taste and for sure you will dream to have it again.
:: NASI KERABU
It comes in three colors which are black, yellow and white. It is eaten with raw vegetables as well as special 'sambal ikan'. It is taken as breakfast and also for dinner.
:: NASI DAGANG
If you are in Kelantan, don't forget to try and enjoy eating 'Nasi Dagang'. It is based on red glutinous rice and it is served with fish curry and raw pickles.
:: NASI BERLAUK
This is the most Kelantanese favorite food. Simple and tasty. It is served with white rice and fish curry it is traditionally cooked.
:: NASI TUMPANG
This special dish is a combination of various rice and curry which is arranged layer in a triangular banana leaf wrapper.
:: LAKSAM
This type of food is based on rice powder and is served with white coconut milk curry. This tradititional recipe is from fish and coconut milk. When serving, it is added with leaves eaten raw or 'ulam'.
:: SOLOK LADA
The unique of this type of food is where the filling is placed inside the chilly. The filling is made from flesh coconut, fish fillet and coconut milk. This tasty food is suitable to take with nasi kerabu which is also Kelantan traditional food.
:: SAMBAL DAGING
The meat is cut into small pieces and cooked using special spice until it is truly dried. It is delicious to take by itself or served with rice.
:: GULAI DARAT
This original spice curry is prepared using meat as its main ingredient.
:: BUDU
This food is based on fish and it is made into sauce. It is taken with grilled fish or meat.
:: AYAM PERCIK
Grilled chicken with coconut milk sauce is traditionally cooked using original ingredients as heritage. It is served as a special dish for the family members or special guests.
:: JALA MAS
This is a very popular cake or 'kuih' in Kelantan. It is based on eggs and sugar and it is known as a Royal Cake. It can only be found in this state.
:: LOMPAT TIKAM
It can be prepared for daily dish or served during special occasion. This tasty food is not only attracted the locals but as well as the outsiders.
:: TEPUNG PELITA
This food is based on flour, coconut milk and sugar. It has two layers. The first layer is coconut milk and for the second layer is flour and sugar. It is put into banana leaf which has been made as its cup.
:: KETUPAT SOTONG
This tasty food is made by putting glutinous rice into the cuttlefish and it is cooked with brown sugar or known as 'gula melaka' as its sauce. It is eaten as well as other traditional 'kuih'.
:: DODOL
It has varieties of colour and taste. It also has different name from one another based on the ingredients used. It is easy to get this food in Kelantan.
:: LEMPOK
The ingredients are durian flesh and sugar. It takes a few hours to make sure the food is well cooked.
:: PULUT MANIS
This sweet dish is served as dessert. The ingredient is glutinous rice which is cooked with brown sugar.
:: PULUT BAKAR
The shape is round and it is wrapped in banana leaf. The taste is delicious and it has sweet aroma.
:: PULUT PANGGANG
The shape is oblong and it is wrapped in banana leaf. The cooked glutinous rice is salt less but the filling which is coconut flesh and fish fillet make this 'kuih' the most favorite one.
:: TAIK ITEK
Although it is quite sweet but it is delicious to eat. The ingredients are eggs, coconut milk and sugar. It has varieties of shape according to the chef.
:: BUAH TANJONG
It is sweet as well as its name. This food also known as a Royal Kelantan food.
:: PUTERI MANDI
This sweet 'kuih' is made from rice powder and taken with sweet flesh coconut.
:: AKOK
It is known as 'Akok Kelantan' because of its sweet aroma. The ingredients are eggs and 'gula melaka'.
:: VISIT KELANTAN
The Year to be remembered offering culture, people and food. Beauty - and the East.
The Government and people of Kelantan take this opportunity wishing all of you.
There are endless, colorful programess specially prepared for our year throughout 2010.Be here at the right time and at the right place. There a lot to explore & experience the beauty of Kelantanese cultures.
:: WELCOME TO KELANTAN
KELANTAN IS LOCATED at the north-east coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the south China Sea and covers a land area of 14,922 sq km. Its state capital, Kota Bharu, is a bustling town well connected to other major towns in Malaysia serves as the center for Kelantan's administrative and business activities. Kelantan is famed for its unique cultural diversity, white sandy beaches, waterfalls and lush tropical jungle.
The Kelantan Tourist Information Centre and State Government are keen to promote eco-tourism while maintaining the delicate ecological balance in nature. Investors have the opportunity to set-up international class hotel and beach resort, restaurant, souvenir shop, sight seeing and tour operations meet the growing needs of increasing tourist's arrival.
:: PLACE OF INTEREST
The best place to appreciate Kelantanese culture and crafts is the capital city, Kota Bharu. A bustling town famed for its ornately decorated trishaws, Kota Bharu offers numerous attractions for the visitor.
:: GELANGGANG SENI (CULTURAL CENTRE)
Located on Jalan Mahmud close to the Perdana Hotel, the cultural centre is a veritable showcase of the living heritage of Kelantan. Demonstrations of popular folk arts and pastimes are held daily. Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) shows, Silat (the Malay art of self defence) performances, Gasing (Top spinning) displays, Wau (Kite flying) and Rebana (Giant Drum) playing can all be seen at the centre. Evenings see cultural performances featuring traditional Malay music and Wayang Kulit.
*
The cultural centre is open three times a week from March to October each year. Performance times are 3.30pm to 5.50pm on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday and 9.00pm to midnight on Wednesday and Saturday.
:: HISTORICAL ZONE
The main cultural and historical zone of Kota Bharu is situated along Jalan Hilir Kota and Jalan Sultan where many museums and heritage buildings are located. Some museums charge a nominal fee for admission.
:: ROYAL MUSEUM / ISTANA BATU
The Istana Batu (Brick/Stone Palace) was constructed in 1939 during the reign of Sultan Ismail. It houses the Royal Museum and was previously used as the venue for royal weddings and as a guest house for visiting royalty.
*
The Royal Museum now serves as a repository for the history of the Kelantan royal family and displays regalia, pictures, silverware, furniture and palace items of former Sultans. Opening times 8.30am to 4.45pm daily - except Fridays.
:: WORLD WAR TWO MEMORIAL / BANK KERAPU
Originally constructed in 1911, Bank Kerapu is now a repository for documents, pictures and military paraphernalia of the Japanese Occupation from 1941 to 1945. During the war, the building served as the headquarters of the Japanese Kempetai, the feared secret police.
:: HANDICRAFT VILLAGE & CRAFT MUSEUM
While the Craft Museum houses many fine examples of Kelantanese craftsmanship, the adjacent Handicraft Village provides visitors the chance to see just how these crafts are made. Demonstrations of traditional embroidery, songket weaving, batik printing, silver work and wood carving are carried out by skilled artisans. Their products are also in sale at the centre.
:: STATE MOSQUE
Construction of this mosque was completed during the reign of Sultan Ismail IV after almost a decade of work. Also known as the Al-Muhammadi Mosque or the 'Brick Mosque', it is the centre for Islamic missionary activities in the state.
:: ISTANA BALAI BESAR
Built by Sultan Muhammad II in 1840, the Istana Balai Besar was formerly the residence of past Sultans. However, it is now used solely as a venue for official state functions. The palace boasts a large audience hall, a throne room and a fine collection of royal regalia.
:: ISTANA JAHAR
Built in 1887 by Sultan Mohamad II for his grandson, Long Kundur, the Istana Jahar has been transformed into a museum featuring Kelantan's cultural heritage. Photographs and a great variety of artefacts bear testimony to the rich Kelantanese cultural legacy. The building itself is laced with intricate wood carvings, serving as an example of the fine craftsmanship of local artisans.
:: ISLAMIC MUSEUM
The Islamic Museum traces the history of Islam in Kelantan. Exhibits include Islamic Arts and Crafts and photographs of some of the personal belongings of Prophet Muhammad and Islamic historical sites. The museum reflects not only the importance of Islam in Kelantan but also the position of the state as a centre of Islamic learning.
:: STATE MUSEUM
The State Museum located along Jalan Hospital incorporates the State Art Gallery. The building itself was utilised as the land office from colonial times until 1990 when major renovations were carried out to convert it into a museum. The museum documents the arts, crafts and musical traditions of Kelantan. Ceramic displays testify to the early trade with China and artifacts from local archaeological sites provide evidence of the existence of the pre-historic age in Kelantan.
:: OTHER PLACES
Other interesting sites in Kota Bharu include Merdeka (Independence) Square, State Government offices and raft houses along the river banks.
The Sutan Ismail Petra Arch is a beautiful landmark in Kota Bharu. Neraby, Padang Merdeka or Merdeka Square is a historical landmark. Situated within is a World War I memorial that pays tribute to fallen war heroes. It is also the site where the body of Tok Janggut, one of the country's most famous nationalists, was hung. Originally named Padang Bank, it was renamed Padang Merdeka (Independence Square) after the country's independence in 1957.
:: FOOD IN KELANTAN
Kelantan Darul Naim is not only known with its variety of cultural but also famous with its unique food. For centuries, the originality of the taste made by the ancestors is not changed. For those who come to visit here must try these traditional food. You will not forget the taste and for sure you will dream to have it again.
:: NASI KERABU
It comes in three colors which are black, yellow and white. It is eaten with raw vegetables as well as special 'sambal ikan'. It is taken as breakfast and also for dinner.
:: NASI DAGANG
If you are in Kelantan, don't forget to try and enjoy eating 'Nasi Dagang'. It is based on red glutinous rice and it is served with fish curry and raw pickles.
:: NASI BERLAUK
This is the most Kelantanese favorite food. Simple and tasty. It is served with white rice and fish curry it is traditionally cooked.
:: NASI TUMPANG
This special dish is a combination of various rice and curry which is arranged layer in a triangular banana leaf wrapper.
:: LAKSAM
This type of food is based on rice powder and is served with white coconut milk curry. This tradititional recipe is from fish and coconut milk. When serving, it is added with leaves eaten raw or 'ulam'.
:: SOLOK LADA
The unique of this type of food is where the filling is placed inside the chilly. The filling is made from flesh coconut, fish fillet and coconut milk. This tasty food is suitable to take with nasi kerabu which is also Kelantan traditional food.
:: SAMBAL DAGING
The meat is cut into small pieces and cooked using special spice until it is truly dried. It is delicious to take by itself or served with rice.
:: GULAI DARAT
This original spice curry is prepared using meat as its main ingredient.
:: BUDU
This food is based on fish and it is made into sauce. It is taken with grilled fish or meat.
:: AYAM PERCIK
Grilled chicken with coconut milk sauce is traditionally cooked using original ingredients as heritage. It is served as a special dish for the family members or special guests.
:: JALA MAS
This is a very popular cake or 'kuih' in Kelantan. It is based on eggs and sugar and it is known as a Royal Cake. It can only be found in this state.
:: LOMPAT TIKAM
It can be prepared for daily dish or served during special occasion. This tasty food is not only attracted the locals but as well as the outsiders.
:: TEPUNG PELITA
This food is based on flour, coconut milk and sugar. It has two layers. The first layer is coconut milk and for the second layer is flour and sugar. It is put into banana leaf which has been made as its cup.
:: KETUPAT SOTONG
This tasty food is made by putting glutinous rice into the cuttlefish and it is cooked with brown sugar or known as 'gula melaka' as its sauce. It is eaten as well as other traditional 'kuih'.
:: DODOL
It has varieties of colour and taste. It also has different name from one another based on the ingredients used. It is easy to get this food in Kelantan.
:: LEMPOK
The ingredients are durian flesh and sugar. It takes a few hours to make sure the food is well cooked.
:: PULUT MANIS
This sweet dish is served as dessert. The ingredient is glutinous rice which is cooked with brown sugar.
:: PULUT BAKAR
The shape is round and it is wrapped in banana leaf. The taste is delicious and it has sweet aroma.
:: PULUT PANGGANG
The shape is oblong and it is wrapped in banana leaf. The cooked glutinous rice is salt less but the filling which is coconut flesh and fish fillet make this 'kuih' the most favorite one.
:: TAIK ITEK
Although it is quite sweet but it is delicious to eat. The ingredients are eggs, coconut milk and sugar. It has varieties of shape according to the chef.
:: BUAH TANJONG
It is sweet as well as its name. This food also known as a Royal Kelantan food.
:: PUTERI MANDI
This sweet 'kuih' is made from rice powder and taken with sweet flesh coconut.
:: AKOK
It is known as 'Akok Kelantan' because of its sweet aroma. The ingredients are eggs and 'gula melaka'.
Tourism Terengganu
This facts about Terengganu
TERENGGANU TRADITIONAL MAGICAL
Travel along the Terengganu coast and you will surely be awed by its impressive 244km long stretches of sandy coastline, traditional Malay coastal villages, domestic animals wandering in the fields and picturesque sunrises coming below the horizon. With swaying coconut and casuarinas trees lining the white sandy beaches, amidst the gentle breeze of the calm sea are just picture perfect. Beyond Terengganu’s impressive coastline lie some of the most popular island destinations in Malaysia.
Dotting the seas are spectacular emerald islands of powdery white sands, azure waters, naturally formed coral gardens and spectacular marine lives. Inland lies lush tropical rainforests, dazzling waterfalls, flora and faunas of exotic species and other natural wonders. Arriving by plane, you will pass the tropical rainforests and circle out across the ocean before descending across the foaming surf and beaches to the airport, welcoming you to the beginning of a memorable and magical holiday! The treasures of nature, tradition and heritage awaits to explored!
With so much of nature wonder to explore, so many traditional experiences to enjoy combined with its unique heritage to uncover, with the warm and friendly people everywhere, make sure you spend plenty of time in Terengganu because you’ll never forget your time in this blessed and amazing state.
So many development is being planned by the present government. New 4-lane highway connecting all major towns, the upgraded airport, Crystal Mosque, new international class indoor and outdoor stadiums, the international yacht facilities specially built for the annual Monsoon Cup event and also the world class Endurance Cup horse riding facilities will further enhance the state’s image of a developing and vibrant state.
With 2008 has been declared ‘Visit Terengganu Year’, spectacular events and activities are being planned to give honoured guests the time of their lives.
GEOGRAPHY
Terengganu is located along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. To the north lies the Kelantan state, and to the south, Pahang. Terengganu covers around 12,995 square kilometers and comprises seven districts: Besut, Setiu, Kuala Terengganu, Hulu Terengganu, Marang, Dungun, and Kemaman.
Kuala Terengganu the state capital, is located on the banks of the Terengganu River which flows down from Lake Kenyir to the South China Sea. It features a blend of old and modern buildings and appears to have stood still in time, moving at a slow and relaxed pace. Good accommodation can be found to suit all tastes is this developing yet vibrant town.
RHU HENTIAN ISLANDS
Perhaps Perhentian Island, Redang Island and some other pulau are too famous and ‘over heated’ to many people, Rhu Hentian Island which is only 15 nautical miles from offshore Kuala Besut is not known to most people. It is indeed a new discovered and developing island in the tourism industry in East Coast.
Because it is so close to the mainland, Rhu Hentian Island is accessible through Kuala Besut 20 to 30 minutes by boat. The island is not resident at the moment. This no doubt is an added value advantage for holiday seekers. The ecology system on the island and the marine life remain unspoiled due to this reason
HOW TO GET HERE
To go to Kuala Besut Jetty:
To get to Kuala Besut, you can arrive in Kelantan or Kuala Terengganu. If you come from Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to Jerteh then another to Kuala Besut, or a direct bus to Kuala Besut. The journey will take nearly one and half hour.
Alternately you can choose to start from Kota Bharu. You can either take a taxi ride or take a bus (leaves every 30 minutes) to Pasir Puteh and then another bus to Besut. On the whole, the journey by taxi will take about one hour from Kota Bahru to Besut.
There are direct buses from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut which take about 9 hours.
To go to Rhu Hentian Island:
Journey to the islands takes about 30 to 45 minutes by speed boat and one and half hours by slow boat. There are a number of boat operators in Kuala Besut offering boat services to Perhentian Island. The return boat ticket cost RM60.00 per person for speed boat and RM40.00 per person for slow boat. Because it is so close to the mainland, Rhu Hentian Island is accessible through Kuala Besut 20 to 30 minutes by boat.
WHERE TO STAY
1. Rhu Hentian Resort
2. Primula Coral View
3. Nan Hotel
4. Samudera Hotel
5. Yaudin Guest House Holiday & Tours Sdn.Bhd
WHERE TO EAT
1. Rhu Hentian Resort
2. Primula Coral View
3. Nan Hotel
4. Samudera Hotel
5. Yaudin Guest House Holiday & Tours Sdn.Bh
TERENGGANU TRADITIONAL MAGICAL
Travel along the Terengganu coast and you will surely be awed by its impressive 244km long stretches of sandy coastline, traditional Malay coastal villages, domestic animals wandering in the fields and picturesque sunrises coming below the horizon. With swaying coconut and casuarinas trees lining the white sandy beaches, amidst the gentle breeze of the calm sea are just picture perfect. Beyond Terengganu’s impressive coastline lie some of the most popular island destinations in Malaysia.
Dotting the seas are spectacular emerald islands of powdery white sands, azure waters, naturally formed coral gardens and spectacular marine lives. Inland lies lush tropical rainforests, dazzling waterfalls, flora and faunas of exotic species and other natural wonders. Arriving by plane, you will pass the tropical rainforests and circle out across the ocean before descending across the foaming surf and beaches to the airport, welcoming you to the beginning of a memorable and magical holiday! The treasures of nature, tradition and heritage awaits to explored!
With so much of nature wonder to explore, so many traditional experiences to enjoy combined with its unique heritage to uncover, with the warm and friendly people everywhere, make sure you spend plenty of time in Terengganu because you’ll never forget your time in this blessed and amazing state.
So many development is being planned by the present government. New 4-lane highway connecting all major towns, the upgraded airport, Crystal Mosque, new international class indoor and outdoor stadiums, the international yacht facilities specially built for the annual Monsoon Cup event and also the world class Endurance Cup horse riding facilities will further enhance the state’s image of a developing and vibrant state.
With 2008 has been declared ‘Visit Terengganu Year’, spectacular events and activities are being planned to give honoured guests the time of their lives.
GEOGRAPHY
Terengganu is located along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. To the north lies the Kelantan state, and to the south, Pahang. Terengganu covers around 12,995 square kilometers and comprises seven districts: Besut, Setiu, Kuala Terengganu, Hulu Terengganu, Marang, Dungun, and Kemaman.
Kuala Terengganu the state capital, is located on the banks of the Terengganu River which flows down from Lake Kenyir to the South China Sea. It features a blend of old and modern buildings and appears to have stood still in time, moving at a slow and relaxed pace. Good accommodation can be found to suit all tastes is this developing yet vibrant town.
RHU HENTIAN ISLANDS
Perhaps Perhentian Island, Redang Island and some other pulau are too famous and ‘over heated’ to many people, Rhu Hentian Island which is only 15 nautical miles from offshore Kuala Besut is not known to most people. It is indeed a new discovered and developing island in the tourism industry in East Coast.
Because it is so close to the mainland, Rhu Hentian Island is accessible through Kuala Besut 20 to 30 minutes by boat. The island is not resident at the moment. This no doubt is an added value advantage for holiday seekers. The ecology system on the island and the marine life remain unspoiled due to this reason
HOW TO GET HERE
To go to Kuala Besut Jetty:
To get to Kuala Besut, you can arrive in Kelantan or Kuala Terengganu. If you come from Kuala Terengganu, take a bus or taxi to Jerteh then another to Kuala Besut, or a direct bus to Kuala Besut. The journey will take nearly one and half hour.
Alternately you can choose to start from Kota Bharu. You can either take a taxi ride or take a bus (leaves every 30 minutes) to Pasir Puteh and then another bus to Besut. On the whole, the journey by taxi will take about one hour from Kota Bahru to Besut.
There are direct buses from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut which take about 9 hours.
To go to Rhu Hentian Island:
Journey to the islands takes about 30 to 45 minutes by speed boat and one and half hours by slow boat. There are a number of boat operators in Kuala Besut offering boat services to Perhentian Island. The return boat ticket cost RM60.00 per person for speed boat and RM40.00 per person for slow boat. Because it is so close to the mainland, Rhu Hentian Island is accessible through Kuala Besut 20 to 30 minutes by boat.
WHERE TO STAY
1. Rhu Hentian Resort
2. Primula Coral View
3. Nan Hotel
4. Samudera Hotel
5. Yaudin Guest House Holiday & Tours Sdn.Bhd
WHERE TO EAT
1. Rhu Hentian Resort
2. Primula Coral View
3. Nan Hotel
4. Samudera Hotel
5. Yaudin Guest House Holiday & Tours Sdn.Bh
Facts you need to know about Malaysia
Here about Malaysia Malaysia | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| |||||
| Motto: "Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu" "Unity Is Strength" [1] | |||||
| Anthem: Negaraku (My Country) | |||||
 | |||||
| Capital | Kuala Lumpur[a] Putrajaya (administrative centre) 3°08′N 101°42′E / 3.133°N 101.7°E | ||||
| Largest city | Kuala Lumpur | ||||
| Official language(s) | Malay[b] | ||||
| Ethnic groups | 54% Malay 25% Chinese 7.5% Indian 11.8% other Bumiputera 1.7% other | ||||
| Demonym | Malaysian | ||||
| Government | Federal constitutional elective monarchy and Parliamentary democracy | ||||
| - | Yang di-Pertuan Agong | Mizan Zainal Abidin | |||
| - | Prime Minister | Najib Tun Razak | |||
| - | Deputy Prime Minister | Muhyiddin Yassin | |||
| Independence | |||||
| - | From the United Kingdom (Malaya only) | 31 August 1957 | |||
| - | Federation (with Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore[c] | 16 September 1963 | |||
| Area | |||||
| - | Total | 329,845 km2 (66th) 127,354 sq mi | |||
| - | Water (%) | 0.3 | |||
| Population | |||||
| - | 2009 estimate | 28,310,000[2] (43rd) | |||
| - | 2000 census | 24,821,286 | |||
| - | Density | 85.8/km2 (114th) 222.3/sq mi | |||
| GDP (PPP) | 2009 estimate | ||||
| - | Total | $382.257 billion[3] | |||
| - | Per capita | $13,769[3] | |||
| GDP (nominal) | 2009 estimate | ||||
| - | Total | $191.463 billion[3] | |||
| - | Per capita | $6,896[3] | |||
| Gini (2004) | 40.3 | ||||
| HDI (2007) | ▲ 0.829[4] (high) (66th) | ||||
| Currency | Ringgit (RM) (MYR) | ||||
| Time zone | MST (UTC+8) | ||||
| - | Summer (DST) | not observed (UTC+8) | |||
| Date formats | dd-mm-yyyy | ||||
| Drives on the | Left | ||||
| Internet TLD | .my | ||||
| Calling code | +60 | ||||
| ^ a. Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and is home to the legislative branch of the Federal government. Putrajaya is the primary seat of the federal government where the executive and judicial branches are located. ^ b. The current terminology as per government policy is Bahasa Malaysia (literally Malaysian language)[5] but legislation continues to refer to the official language as Bahasa Melayu (literally Malay language). English may continue to be used for some official purposes under the National Language Act 1967. ^ c. Singapore became an independent country on 9 August 1965. | |||||
Malaysia (pronounced 
i /məˈleɪʒə/ mə-LAY-zhə or i //məˈleɪziə// mə-LAY-zee-ə) is a constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia. It consists of thirteen states and three federal territories and has a total landmass of 329,845 square kilometres (127,354 sq mi).[6][7] The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, while Putrajaya is the seat of the federal government. The population stands at over 28 million.[2]
The country is separated by the South China Sea into two regions, Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo (also known as East Malaysia).[7] Malaysia borders Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei.[7] It is near the equator and has a tropical climate.[7]
Malaysia's head of state is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,[8] an elected monarch, and the head of government is the Prime Minister.[9][10] The government is closely modelled on the Westminster parliamentary system.[11]
Malaysia has a biodiverse range of flora and fauna, and is considered one of the 17 megadiverse countries.[12]
Etymology
The name Malaysia was adopted in 1963 when the Federation of Malaya, Singapore, North Borneo and Sarawak formed a 14-state federation.[13] However the name itself had been vaguely used to refer to areas in Southeast Asia prior to that. A map published in 1914 in Chicago has the word Malaysia printed on it referring to certain territories within the Malay Archipelago.[14] Politicians in the Philippines once contemplated naming their state "Malaysia", but in 1963 Malaysia adopted the name first.[15] At the time of the 1963 federation, other names were considered: among them was Langkasuka, after the historic kingdom located at the upper section of the Malay Peninsula in the first millennium of the common era.[16]
In 1850 the English ethnologist George Samuel Windsor Earl, writing in the Journal of the Indian Archipelago and Eastern Asia, proposed naming the islands of Indonesia as Melayunesia or Indunesia. He favoured the former[17] for the colonial reference.
Following his 1826 expedition in Oceania, the French Navigator Jules Dumont d'Urville invented the terms Malaisia, Micronesia and Melanesia, distinguishing these Pacific cultures and island groups from Polynesia. In 1831, he proposed these terms to The Société de Géographie (Paris, France), the world's oldest geographical society. For the name Malaisia, Dumont d'Urville had in mind a region including present day Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. At that time, it was thought that the inhabitants of this region could be designated by the encompassing term "Malay".
In a strict sense, however, the Malays are the people who speak the Malay language and live on the east coast of Sumatra, the Riau Islands, the Malay Peninsula and the coastline of the island of Borneo.
The Treaty of 1824 between the English and the Dutch resulted in a division of the Malay world. The term "Malaysian" is used to refer to Malaysia as a state, while the word "Malay" refers to the language, culture, and ethnicity, and thus covers a larger area. The term "Malay world", therefore, refers to the geographical area inhabited by the Malays.[18]
The word Melayu itself is said to be the origin of the Melayu Kingdom, a classical kingdom that existed between the 7th and the 13th century and was established around present-day Dharmasraya on Sumatera. It was founded by the society around the Batanghari river and the gold traders from the Minangkabau hinterland.[19] The continental part of the country bore the name Malaya (without the "-si-") until 1963, when it federated with the territories of Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore on the northern part of the island of Borneo.[20][21]
Government and politics
Main article: Politics of Malaysia
Malaysia is a federal constitutional elective monarchy. The federal head of state of Malaysia is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, commonly referred to as the King of Malaysia. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is elected to a five-year term among the nine hereditary Sultans of the Malay states; the other four states, which have titular Governors, do not participate in the selection.[22]
The system of government in Malaysia is closely modelled on that of the Westminster parliamentary system, a legacy of British colonial rule. Since independence in 1957, Malaysia has been governed by a multi-party coalition known as the Barisan Nasional (formerly known as the Alliance Party).[23]
Legislative power is divided between federal and state legislatures. The bicameral parliament consists of the lower house, the House of Representatives or Dewan Rakyat (literally the "Chamber of the People") and the upper house, the Senate or Dewan Negara (literally the "Chamber of the Nation").[24][25][25] The 222-member House of Representatives are elected from single-member constituencies that are defined based on population for a maximum term of five years. All 70 Senators sit for three-year terms; 26 are elected by the 13 state assemblies, two representing the federal territory of Kuala Lumpur, one each from federal territories of Labuan and Putrajaya, and 40 are appointed by the king.
Besides the Parliament at the federal level, each state has a unicameral state legislative chamber (Malay: Dewan Undangan Negeri) whose members are elected from single-member constituencies. Parliamentary elections are held at least once every five years, with the last general election being in March 2008.[23] Registered voters of age 21 and above may vote for the members of the House of Representatives and, in most of the states, for the state legislative chamber as well. Voting is not compulsory.[26]
Executive power is vested in the cabinet led by the prime minister; the Malaysian constitution stipulates that the prime minister must be a member of the lower house of parliament who, in the opinion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, commands a majority in parliament.[27] The cabinet is chosen from among members of both houses of Parliament and is responsible to that body.[28]
State governments are led by Chief Ministers (Menteri Besar in Malay states or Ketua Menteri in states without hereditary rulers), who are state assembly members from the majority party in the Dewan Undangan Negeri. In each of the states with a hereditary ruler, the Chief Minister is required to be a Malay-Muslim, although this rule is subject to the rulers' discretion.
Foreign relations and armed forces
Main articles: Foreign relations of Malaysia and Malaysian Armed Forces
Malaysia is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and participates in many international organisations such as the United Nations.[29][30] As a former British colony, it is also a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.[31] It is a member of the Developing 8 Countries.[32] Malaysia has diplomatic relations with many countries[specify] but does not recognise the State of Israel. As such, no traveller with a Malaysian passport can enter Israel.
Malaysian defence requirements are assigned to the Malaysian Armed Forces (Angkatan Tentera Malaysia-ATM). The armed forces has three branches, the Royal Malaysian Navy (Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia-TLDM), Malaysian Army (Tentera Darat Malaysia-TD), and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia-TUDM). The Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia operates both American and Russian made fighter aircraft.
Administrative divisions
Main articles: States of Malaysia and Districts of Malaysia
Administratively, Malaysia consists of 13 states (11 in peninsular Malaysia and 2 in Malaysian Borneo) and 3 federal territories. Each state is further divided into districts (daerah or jajahan in Kelantan) and a subdivision of a district is called mukim. As Malaysia is a federation, the governance of the country is divided between the federal and the state governments.
Name | Capital | Pop. | Area (km²) | Population Density | Human Development Index (HDI) | Largest Metropolitan | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur | Kuala Lumpur | 1,810,000 | 243 | 7449 | 0.868 | Klang Valley | 8,063,000 |
 Federal Territory of Labuan | Victoria | 90,000 | 92 | 978 | – | – | – |
 Federal Territory of Putrajaya | Putrajaya | 65,000 | 46 | 1413 | – | – | – |
 Johor | Johor Bahru | 3,385,000 | 19,984 | 169 | 0.805 | Johor Bahru | 1,800,000 |
 Kedah | Alor Setar | 2,000,000 | 9,426 | 213 | 0.741 | Alor Setar | 600,000 |
 Kelantan | Kota Bharu | 1,635,000 | 14,922 | 110 | 0.728 | Kota Bharu | 577,300 |
 Malacca | Malacca Town | 770,000 | 1,650 | 467 | 0.810 | Malacca Town | 455,300 |
 Negeri Sembilan | Seremban | 1,014,000 | 6,645 | 153 | 0.801 | Seremban | 419,500 |
 Pahang | Kuantan | 1,543,000 | 35,964 | 43 | 0.776 | Kuantan | 607,800 |
 Perak | Ipoh | 2,393,000 | 21,006 | 114 | 0.790 | Ipoh | 814,000 |
 Perlis | Kangar | 241,000 | 810 | 298 | 0.785 | Kangar | 50,000 |
 Penang | George Town | 1,578,000 | 1,046 | 1509 | 0.851 | Penang | 2,200,000 |
 Sabah | Kota Kinabalu | 3,203,000 | 76,115 | 42 | 0.735 | Kota Kinabalu | 900,000 |
 Selangor | Shah Alam | 5,180,000 | 7,956 | 650 | 0.907 | Klang Valley | 8,063,000 |
 Sarawak | Kuching | 2,504,000 | 124,450 | 20 | 0.763 | Kuching | 658,600 |
 Terengganu | Kuala Terengganu | 1,121,000 | 12,955 | 87 | 0.813 | Kuala Terengganu | 396,400 |
Geography
Main article: Geography of Malaysia
Malaysia is the 43rd most populated country and the 66th largest country by total land area in the world, with a population of about 28 million and a land area of over 320,000 km2 respectively. It is comparable in population to Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, and is roughly similar in size to Norway and Vietnam.
The two distinct parts of Malaysia, separated from each other by the South China Sea, share a largely similar landscape in that both West and East Malaysia feature coastal plains rising to often densely forested hills and mountains, the highest of which is Mount Kinabalu at 4,095.2 metres (13,436 ft) on the island of Borneo. East Malaysia, like most of the island of Borneo, was traditionally covered with Borneo lowland rain forests although much has been cleared, with wildlife retreating to the upland rain forests inland. The local climate is equatorial and characterised by the annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to February) monsoons.
Tanjung Piai, located in the southern state of Johor, is the southernmost tip of continental Asia.[33][34] The Strait of Malacca, lying between Sumatra and Peninsular Malaysia, is arguably the most important shipping lane in the world.[35]
Kuala Lumpur is the official capital and largest city of Malaysia. Putrajaya is the federal administrative capital. Although many executive and judicial branches of the federal government have moved there (to ease growing congestion within Kuala Lumpur), Kuala Lumpur is still recognised as the legislative capital of Malaysia since it houses the seat of the Parliament of Malaysia. It is also the main commercial and financial centre of the country.
Other major cities include George Town, Ipoh, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Miri, Alor Star, Malacca Town, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Bharu, Kuantan and Petaling Jaya.Natural resources
Malaysia is well endowed with natural resources in areas such as agriculture, forestry and minerals. In terms of agriculture, Malaysia is one of the top exporters of natural rubber and palm oil, which, together with sawn logs and sawn timber, cocoa, pepper, pineapples and tobacco, dominate the growth of the sector. Palm oil is also a major generator of foreign exchange.
Logging only began to make a substantial contribution to the economy during the 19th century. Today, an estimated 59% of Malaysia remains forested. The rapid expansion of the timber industry, particularly after the 1960s, has brought about a serious erosion problem in the country's forest resources. However, in line with the Government's commitment to protect the environment and the ecological system, forestry resources are being managed on a sustainable basis and accordingly the rate of tree felling has been on the decline.
In addition, substantial areas are being silviculturally treated and reforestation of degraded forestland is being carried out. The Malaysian government provides plans for the enrichment of some 312.30 square kilometers (120.5 sq mi) of land with rattan under natural forest conditions and in rubber plantations as an inter crop. To further enrich forest resources, fast-growing timber species such as meranti tembaga, merawan and sesenduk are also being planted. At the same time, the cultivation of high-value trees like teak and other trees for pulp and paper is also encouraged. Rubber, once the mainstay of the Malaysian economy, has been largely replaced by oil palm as Malaysia's leading agricultural export.
Tin and petroleum are the two main mineral resources of major significance to the Malaysian economy. Malaysia was, at one time, the world's largest producer of tin prior to the collapse of the tin market in the early 1980s. In the 19th and 20th centuries, tin played a predominant role in the Malaysian economy. In 1972 petroleum and natural gas took over from tin as the mainstay of the mineral extraction sector. Meanwhile, the contribution by tin has declined. Petroleum and natural gas discoveries in oil fields off Sabah, Sarawak and Terengganu have contributed much to the Malaysian economy. Other minerals of some importance or significance include copper, bauxite, iron-ore and coal together with industrial minerals like clay, kaolin, silica, limestone, barite, phosphates and dimension stones such as granite as well as marble blocks and slabs. Small quantities of gold are produced.
In 2004, a minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Mustapa Mohamed, revealed that Malaysia's oil reserves stood at 4.84 billion barrels (769,000,000 m3) while natural gas reserves increased to 89 trillion cubic feet (2,500 km3). This was an increase of 7.2%.[citation needed] As of January 2009, Malaysia has proven oil reserves of up to 4 billion barrels.[36] In January 2008, the Malaysian natural gas reserves holds up to 14.67 billion barrels of oil equivalent.[37]
The government estimates that, at current production rates, Malaysia will be able to produce oil for up to 18 years and gas for 35 years. In 2004, Malaysia is ranked 24th in terms of world oil reserves and 13th for gas. 56% of the oil reserves exist in the Peninsula, while 19% exist in East Malaysia. The government collects oil royalties of which 5% are passed to the states and the remainder retained by the federal government.[citation needed]
Economy
Main article: Economy of Malaysia
Southeast Asia has been a centre of trade for centuries. International trade, facilitated by the adjacent Strait of Malacca shipping route, [38] and manufacturing [39] are both key sectors of the country's economy.
In the 17th century, porcelain and spices were found in several Malay states and were actively traded. Later, as the British started to take over as administrators of Malaya, rubber and palm oil trees were introduced for commercial purposes. Over time, Malaysia became the world's largest producer of tin, rubber, and palm oil.[40] These three commodities, along with other raw materials, firmly set Malaysia's economic tempo well into the mid-20th century.
Instead of relying on the local Malays as a source of labour, the British brought in Chinese and Indians to work in the mines and plantations and provide professional expertise. Although many of them returned to their respective home countries after their agreed tenure ended, some remained in Malaysia and settled permanently.
As Malaya moved towards independence, the government began implementing economic five-year plans, beginning with the First Malayan Five Year Plan in 1955. Upon the establishment of Malaysia, the plans were re-titled and renumbered, beginning with the First Malaysia Plan in 1965.
In the 1970s, Malaysia began to imitate the four Asian Tiger economies (Republic of Korea (South Korea), Republic of China (Taiwan), then British Crown Colony of Hong Kong and the Republic of Singapore) and committed itself to a transition from being reliant on mining and agriculture to an economy that depends more on manufacturing. With Japanese investment, heavy industries flourished and in a matter of years, Malaysian exports became the country's primary growth engine[citation needed]. Malaysia consistently achieved more than 7% GDP growth along with low inflation in the 1980s and the 1990s.[41]
During the same period, the government tried to eradicate poverty with the controversial New Economic Policy (NEP), after the 13 May Incident of racial rioting in 1969.[42] Its main objective was the elimination of the association of race with economic function, and the first five-year plan to begin implementing the NEP was the Second Malaysia Plan. The success or failure of the NEP is the subject of much debate, although it was officially retired in 1990 and replaced by the National Development Policy (NDP). Recently much debate has surfaced once again concerning the results and relevance of the NEP. Some have argued that the NEP has indeed successfully created a Middle/Upper Class of Malay businesspeople and professionals. Despite some improvement in the economic power of Malays in general, the Malaysian government maintains a policy of discrimination that favours ethnic Malays over other races—including preferential treatment in employment, education, scholarships, business, access to cheaper housing and assisted savings. This special treatment has sparked envy and resentment amongst non-Malays.[43]
The ethnic Chinese control of the locally owned sector of the country's economy, meanwhile, has been ceded largely in favour of the bumiputra/Malays in many essential or strategic industries such as petroleum retailing, transportation, agriculture and automobile manufacturing. The rapid economic boom led to a variety of supply problems, however. Labour shortages soon resulted in an influx of millions of foreign workers, many illegal. Cash-rich PLCs and consortia of banks eager to benefit from increased and rapid development began large infrastructure projects. This all ended when the Asian Financial Crisis hit in the fall of 1997, delivering a massive shock to Malaysia's economy.
As with other countries affected by the crisis, there was speculative short-selling of the Malaysian currency, the ringgit. Foreign direct investment fell at an alarming rate and, as capital flowed out of the country, the value of the ringgit dropped from MYR 2.50 per USD to, at one point, MYR 4.80 per USD. The Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange's composite index plummeted from approximately 1300 points to around 400 points in a matter of weeks. After the controversial sacking of finance minister Anwar Ibrahim, a National Economic Action Council was formed to deal with the monetary crisis. Bank Negara imposed capital controls and pegged the Malaysian ringgit at 3.80 to the US dollar. Malaysia refused economic aid packages from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, surprising many analysts.
In March 2005, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) published a paper on the sources and pace of Malaysia's recovery, written by Jomo K.S. of the applied economics department, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. The paper concluded that the controls imposed by Malaysia's government neither hurt nor helped recovery. The chief factor was an increase in electronics components exports, which was caused by a large increase in the demand for components in the United States, which was caused, in turn, by a fear of the effects of the arrival of the year 2000 (Y2K) upon older computers and other digital devices.
However, the post Y2K slump of 2001 did not affect Malaysia as much as other countries. This may have been clearer evidence that there are other causes and effects that can be more properly attributable for recovery. One possibility is that the currency speculators had run out of finance after failing in their attack on the Hong Kong dollar in August 1998 and after the Russian ruble collapsed. (See George Soros)
Regardless of cause and effect claims, rejuvenation of the economy also coincided with massive government spending and budget deficits in the years that followed the crisis. Later, Malaysia enjoyed faster economic recovery compared to its neighbours. The country has recovered to the levels of the pre-crisis era – as an example, the KLCI Composite Index hit an all time high of 1,386 on 20 June 2007 which is approximately 100 points higher than the pre-crisis record of 1,275 in 1993.
While the pace of development today is not as rapid, it is seen to be more sustainable. Although the controls and economic housekeeping may or may not have been the principal reasons for recovery, there is no doubt that the banking sector has become more resilient to external shocks. The current account has also settled into a structural surplus, providing a cushion to capital flight. Asset prices are generally back to their pre-crisis heights, despite the effects of the global financial crisis. Malaysia is also the world's largest Islamic banking and financial centre.
The fixed exchange rate was abandoned in July 21, 2005 in favour of a managed floating system within an hour of China announcing the same move.[44] In the same week, the ringgit strengthened a percent against various major currencies and was expected to appreciate further. As of December 2005, however, expectations of further appreciation were muted as capital flight exceeded USD 10 billion.[44] According to Bank Negara's published figures, Malaysia's foreign exchange reserves increased steadily since the initial capital flight, from USD75.2 billion as at 15 July 2005 (just before the peg was removed) to peak at USD125.7 billion as at 31 July 2008, a few months before the global credit crisis that started in September 2008. As at 29 May 2009, the reserves stood at USD88.3 billion.
In September 2005, Sir Howard J. Davies, director of the London School of Economics, at a meeting in Kuala Lumpur, cautioned Malaysian officials that if they want a flexible capital market, they will have to lift the ban on short-selling put into effect during the crisis. In March 2006, Malaysia removed the ban on short selling.[45] It is interesting to note that some of the measures taken by the Malaysian government in response to the Asian crisis, such as the ban on short selling, were swiftly adopted by the very countries that had previously been critical of the Malaysian response.
Malaysia is also one of the region's leading education and healthcare providers. Malaysia is recognised as a newly industrialised country.[46] In 2008, GDP per capita (PPP) of Malaysia stands at US$14,215, ranking it 48th in the world, and 2nd in Southeast Asia (after Singapore).
Transportation and energy
Main articles: Transport in Malaysia and Energy policy of Malaysia
Transportation in Malaysia started to develop during its phase of British colonial rule. Today Malaysia has one of the finest transportation networks in Asia. Malaysia's road network is among the finest in Asia, covering 63,445 km. The main highway of the country covers a distance over 800 km, reaching the Thai border from Singapore. The network of roads in Peninsular Malaysia is of high quality, however, the road system in Sabah and Sarawak is not as developed as the other parts of the country. Malaysia also has six world class international airports. The official airline of Malaysia is Malaysia Airlines, providing international and domestic air service and there are also two more carriers offering domestic and regional flights. The railway system of the country is state-run, but covers only West Malaysia. The railway network covers a total distance of 1798 km. Another mode of transport which is extremely popular in Malaysia, within the cities, is Light Rail Transit. It is a boon to the crowded cities of the country as it reduces the traffic load, and is safe, comfortable and reliable.
Malaysia currently has approximately 13 gigawatts (GW) of electric generation capacity, of which 84% is thermal and 16% is hydroelectric. In 2000, Malaysia generated around 63 billion kilowatthours of electricity. The Malaysian government expects that investment of $9.7 billion will be required in the electric utility sector through 2010. Much of that amount will be for coal-fired plants, as the Malaysian government is promoting a shift away from the country's heavy reliance on natural gas for electric power generation. In recent developments, Tenaga Nasional Bhd, the main state-owned utility, began in 1999 to divest some of its power generation units. Eventually, Malaysia expects to achieve a fully competitive power market, with generation, transmission, and distribution decoupled, but reform is still at an early stage and the exact process of the transition to a competitive market has not been decided. The issue is still under study, and many observers have voiced caution in light of the experiences of other deregulated utility systems.
Tourism
Main article: Tourism in Malaysia
See also: Tourism Malaysia
In an effort to diversify the economy and make Malaysia’s economy less dependent on exports the government has pushed to increase tourism in Malaysia. As a result tourism has become Malaysia’s third largest source of income from foreign exchange.[47] The majority of Malaysia's tourists come from its bordering country, Singapore. In 1999, Malaysia launched a worldwide marketing campaign called “Malaysia, Truly Asia” which was largely successful in bringing in over 7.4 million tourists.[48] The extra revenue recently generated by tourism helped the country’s economy during the economic crisis of 2008. However, it is mainly Malaysia’s heavy government regulation of the economy which enabled it to be barely affected by the recent 2008 global economic crisis.[49] In recent years tourism has been threatened by the negative effects of the growing industrial economy. Due to the large amounts of air and water pollution along with deforestation, tourism has decreased in affected areas.[50] On 20 May, 1987, the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism (MOCAT) was established and TDC moved to this new ministry. TDC existed from 1972 to 1992, when it became the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB), through the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board Act, 1992.
Tourism Malaysia has grown, with its focus on promoting Malaysia at the domestic and international levels. It aims to market Malaysia as a premier destination of excellence in the region. Its vision is to make the tourism industry a prime contributor to the socio-economic development of the nation. The growth of world tourism, and Malaysia's potential as a tourism destination, has contributed to the change and focus in the country's tourism sector. It has helped generate substantial foreign exchange earnings and employment. Tourism Malaysia now has 34 overseas and 11 marketing representative offices.
Science and technology
Spaceflight program
Main article: Angkasawan program
See also: Malaysian National Space Agency
In 2001 MNSA started a plan for scientific development in collaboration with JAXA. In early 2006, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor and three other finalists were selected for the Angkasawan spaceflight program. This program came about when Russia agreed to transport one Malaysian to the International Space Station as part of a multi-billion dollar purchase of 18 Russian Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter jets by the Royal Malaysian Air Force.
Military engineering
The rejection of requests for weapons and technologies from abroad, arms sanctions and massive rearmament of the Asian countries prompted Malaysia to develop a broad-based, indigenous arms industry. The Malaysian Armed Forces relies heavily on local military technology and high-tech weapons systems designed and manufactured by foreign countries.
Health sciences
Malaysia has an advanced infrastructure of medical and pharmaceutical research and bioengineering capabilities. Biotechnology, biomedical, and clinical research account for over half of the country's scientific publications, and the industrial sector has used this extensive knowledge to develop pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and treatment therapies.
Demographics
Main article: Demographics of Malaysia
Malaysia's population comprises many ethnic groups, with the Malays making up the majority at 50.4%; and other bumiputra at 11%[51] of the population. By constitutional definition, Malays are Muslims who practice Malay customs (adat) and culture. Therefore, technically, a Muslim of any race who practices Malay customs and culture can be considered a Malay and allocated privilleged status in the form of the Bumiputra rights stipulated in the constitution.
Many Malay families today have their ancestries traced to Javanese, Bugis, and Minang sailors who originated in Indonesia, during the 17th to early 20th century. Bumiputra status is also accorded to certain non-Malay indigenous peoples, including ethnic Thais, Khmers, Chams and the natives of Sabah and Sarawak. Non-Malay bumiputra make up more than half of Sarawak's population (of which 30% are Ibans), and close to 60% of Sabah's population (of which 18% are Kadazan-Dusuns, and 17% are Bajaus).[51] There also exist aboriginal groups in much smaller numbers on the peninsula, where they are collectively known as Orang Asli.
23.7% of the population are Malaysians of Chinese descent, while Malaysians of Indian descent comprise 7.1% of the population.[51] While Peranakan ("straits-born") Chinese and Indian families have resided in Malaysia since as far back as 15th century Melaka, the majority of Malaysia's Chinese and Indian populations are descended from migrants who arrived during the colonial period. Indians began migrating to Malaysia in the early 19th century.[52] The majority of the Indian community are Tamils but various other groups are also present, including Telugus, Malayalis, Punjabis, Sindhis, Bengalis and Gujaratis.
Europeans and Middle Easterners, who first arrived during the colonial period, assimilated through inter-marriage into the Christian and Muslim communities respectively. Most Eurasian Malaysians trace their ancestry to British, Dutch or Portuguese colonists, and there is a strong Kristang community in Melaka.
The Nepali population numbers little over 600 and lives in Rawang, Selangor. Originally brought by the British as bodyguards and security personnel, they come from the Rana, Chettri, Rai and Gurung clans. Other minorities include Filipinos and Burmese. A small number of ethnic Vietnamese from Cambodia and Vietnam settled in Malaysia as Vietnam War refugees.
The population distribution is highly uneven, with some 20 million residents concentrated on the Malay Peninsula, while East Malaysia has about 7 million people. Due to the rise in labour intensive industries, Malaysia has 10% to 20% foreign workers, the exact figure being uncertain due in part to the large number of illegal workers. There are a million legal foreign workers and perhaps another million unauthorised foreigners. The state of Sabah alone had nearly 25% of its 2.7 million population listed as illegal foreign workers in the last census. Sabah NGOs estimate that out of the 3 million population, 2 million are illegal immigrants.[53]
Additionally, according to the World Refugee Survey 2008, published by the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, Malaysia hosts a population of refugees and asylum seekers numbering approximately 155,700. Of this population, approximately 70,500 refugees and asylum seekers are from the Philippines, 69,700 from Burma, and 21,800 from Indonesia.[54] The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants named Malaysia as one of the Ten Worst Places for Refugees on account of the country's discriminatory practices toward refugees. Malaysian officials are reported to have turned deportees directly over to human smugglers in 2007, and Malaysia employs RELA, a volunteer militia, to enforce its immigration law.[54]
| | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City | State | Population | City | State | Population | |||
| 1 | Kuala Lumpur | Federal Territory | 1,809,699 |  Kuala Lumpur  Subang Jaya | 8 | Shah Alam | Selangor | 617,149 |
| 2 | Subang Jaya | Selangor | 1,321,672 | 9 | Kota Kinabalu | Sabah | 579,304 | |
| 3 | Klang | Selangor | 1,055,207 | 10 | Kota Bharu | Kelantan | 577,301 | |
| 4 | Johor Bahru | Johor | 895 509 | 11 | Petaling Jaya | Selangor | 543,415 | |
| 5 | Ampang Jaya | Selangor | 756,309 | 12 | Tebrau | Johor | 525,351 | |
| 6 | Ipoh | Perak | 710,798 | 13 | Cheras, Selangor | Selangor | 515,961 | |
| 7 | Kuching | Sarawak | 658,562 | 14 | Sandakan | Sabah | 479,121 | |
Religion
Main article: Religion in Malaysia
Further information: Islam in Malaysia, Buddhism in Malaysia, Christianity in Malaysia, Hinduism in Malaysia, and Sikhism In Malaysia
Islam is the largest and official religion of Malaysia, though it is a multi-religious society. According to the Population and Housing Census 2000 figures, approximately 60.4 percent of the population practised Islam; 19.2 percent Buddhism; 9.1 percent Christianity; 6.3 percent Hinduism; and 2.6 percent practise Confucianism, Taoism and other traditional Chinese religions. The remainder was accounted for by other faiths, including animism, folk religion, and Sikhism while 0.9% either reported having no religion or did not provide any information.[55][56]
All ethnic Malays are considered Muslim by Article 160 of the Constitution of Malaysia.[57] Most Malaysian Chinese follow a combination of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and ancestor-worship but, when pressed to specify their religion, will identify themselves as Buddhists. Statistics from the 2000 Census indicate that 75.9% of Malaysia's ethnic Chinese identify as Buddhist, with significant numbers of adherents following Taoism (10.6%) and Christianity (9.6%), along with small Hui-Muslim populations in areas like Penang.[56]
The majority of Malaysian Indians follow Hinduism (84.5%), with a significant minority identifying as Christians (7.7%), Muslims (3.8%) and over 150,000 Sikhs. Christianity is the predominant religion of the non-Malay Bumiputra community (50.1%) with an additional 36.3% identifying as Muslims and 7.3% follow folk religion.[56] In addition to Christian missionaries from overseas, there are ongoing efforts by the government and NGOs to convert the animist communities to Islam, especially amongst the peninsular tribes who are not entitled to bumiputra status.
The Malaysian constitution guarantees religious freedom. Muslims are obliged to follow the decisions of Syariah courts in matters concerning their religion. The Islamic judges are expected to follow the Shafi`i legal school of Islam, which is the main madh'hab of Malaysia.[58] The jurisdiction of Shariah courts is limited only to Muslims in matters such as marriage, inheritance, apostasy, religious conversion, and custody among others. No other criminal or civil offences are under the jurisdiction of the Syariah courts, which have a similar hierarchy to the Civil Courts. Despite being the supreme courts of the land, the Civil Courts (including the Federal Court) in principle cannot overrule any decision made by the Syariah Courts, as ratified by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in the late 1980's.
Islamic religiosity
In all probability, Islam was first brought to Malaysia around the 13th century by Indian traders in the area of the straits of Malacca.[59] Since then the religion has become the predominant religion of the country and is recognised as the state's official religion. Despite the recognition of Islam as the state religion, the first 4 prime ministers have stressed that Malaysia could function as a secular state. This has had a profound impact on Malaysia.
Many factors have contributed to the establishment of a stricter form of Islam, which previously was plural with much influence from Hinduism and animist customs. Attributed to the Iranian Islamic Revolution of 1979, religious observance among Muslims soared significantly in the 80's and 90's in tandem with many Muslim-majority countries across the globe. The Islamic headscarf has since been ubiquitous. Another aspect of growing Islamic conservatism is Tun Dr Mahathir and Anwar Ibrahim's Islamic policies which have further fuelled the Islamisation process. Sectarianism in Malaysia has given Islamic identity a boost in this multi-religious and seemingly plural Malaysia. Many ethnic Chinese have become irreligious despite the surge of Christianity. Agnostics and atheists are widespread in this community though rarely disclosed.
Regulation of sexual activities among the Muslim population is strict, with laws prohibiting unmarried couples from occupying a secluded area or a confined space, to prevent suspicion of acts considered immoral.[60] Western concerts are also increasingly curtailed by 'puritans' who view these in negative light, claiming such concerts are contrary to "Asian norms", although met with substantial resistance, concerts bans are rarely seen in other Muslim nations worldwide.
Education
Main article: Education in Malaysia
Education in Malaysia is monitored by the federal government Ministry of Education.[61]
Most Malaysian children start schooling between the ages of three to six, in kindergarten. Most kindergartens are run privately, but there are a few government-run kindergartens.
[edit] Primary education
Children begin primary schooling at the age of seven for a period of six years. There are two major types of government operated or assisted primary schools. The vernacular schools (Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan) use either Chinese or Tamil as the language of teaching. Before progressing to the secondary level of education, pupils in Year 6 are required to sit for the Primary School Achievement Test (Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah, UPSR). A programme called First Level Assessment (Penilaian Tahap Satu, PTS) was used to measure the ability of bright pupils, and to allow them to move from Year 3 to 5, skipping Year 4.[62] However, this programme was abolished in 2001.
Secondary education
Secondary education in Malaysia is conducted in secondary schools (Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan) for five years. National secondary schools use Malay as the main language of instruction. The only exceptions are Mathematics and Science and languages other than Malay, however this was only implemented in 2003, prior to which all non-language subjects were taught in Malay. At the end of Form Three, which is the third year, students are evaluated in the Lower Secondary Assessment (Penilaian Menengah Rendah, PMR).
In the final year of secondary education (Form Five), students sit the Malaysian Certificate of Education (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia, SPM) examination, which is equivalent to the former British Ordinary or 'O' Levels. The oldest school in Malaysia is Penang Free School, which is also the oldest school in South East Asia. The government has decided to abandon the use of English in teaching maths and science and revert to Bahasa Malaysia, starting in 2012.[63]
Malaysian national secondary schools are sub-divided into several types: National Secondary School (Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan), Religious Secondary School (Sekolah Menengah Agama), National-Type Secondary School (Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan) (also referred to as Mission Schools), Technical Schools (Sekolah Menengah Teknik), Residential Schools and MARA Junior Science College (Maktab Rendah Sains MARA).
There are also 60 Chinese Independent High Schools in Malaysia, where most subjects are taught in Chinese. Chinese Independent High Schools are monitored and standardised by the United Chinese School Committees' Association of Malaysia (UCSCAM, more commonly referred to by its Chinese name, Dong Zong 董总), however, unlike government schools, every independent school is free to make its own decisions. Studying in independent schools takes 6 years to complete, divided into Junior Level (3 years) and Senior Level (3 years). Students will sit a standardised test conducted by UCSCAM, which is known as the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) in Junior Middle 3 (equivalent to PMR) and Senior Middle 3 (equivalent to A level). A number of independent schools conduct classes in Malay and English in addition to Chinese, enabling the students to sit the PMR and SPM additionally.
Tertiary education
See also: List of universities in Malaysia
Before the introduction of the matriculation system, students aiming to enter public universities had to complete an additional 18 months of secondary schooling in Form Six and sit the Malaysian Higher School Certificate (Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia, STPM); equivalent to the British Advanced or 'A' levels. Since the introduction of the matriculation programme as an alternative to STPM in 1999, students who completed the 12-month programme in matriculation colleges (kolej matrikulasi in Malay) can enrol in local universities. However, in the matriculation system, only 10% of the places are open to non-Bumiputra students while the rest are reserved for Bumiputra students.
There are a number of public universities established in Malaysia. Private universities are also gaining a reputation for international quality education and students from all over the world attend these universities. In addition, four reputable international universities have set up their branch campuses in Malaysia since 1998. A branch campus can be seen as an ‘offshore campus’ of the foreign university, which offers the same courses and awards as the main campus. Both local and international students can acquire these identical foreign qualifications in Malaysia at a lower fee. The foreign university branch campuses in Malaysia are: Monash University Malaysia Campus, Curtin University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus and University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus.
Students also have the option of enrolling in private tertiary institutions after secondary studies. Most institutions have educational links with overseas universities especially in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, allowing students to spend a portion of their course duration abroad as well as getting overseas qualifications. One such example is SEGi University College which partnered with University of Abertay Dundee.[64]
International schools
In addition to the Malaysian National Curriculum, Malaysia has many international schools. International schools offer students the opportunity to study the curriculum of another country. These schools mainly cater to the growing expatriate population in the country. International schools include: the Australian International School, Malaysia (Australian curriculum), the Alice Smith School (British Curriculum), elc International school](British Curriculum), Fairview International School (British Curriculum), The Garden International School (British Curriculum), Lodge International School (British Curriculum), the International School of Kuala Lumpur (International Baccalaureate and American Curriculum), Mutiara International Grammar School (British Curriculum), the Japanese School of Kuala Lumpur (Japanese Curriculum), Sri Utama International School, the Chinese Taipei School, Kuala Lumpur and the Chinese Taipei School, Penang (Taiwanese Curriculum), The International School of Penang (International Baccalaureate and British Curriculum), Lycée Français de Kuala Lumpur (French Curriculum), and the Horizon International Turkish School[65] amongst others.
Healthcare
Further information: List of hospitals in Malaysia and Healthcare in Malaysia
The Malaysian government places importance on the expansion and development of health care, putting 5% of the government social sector development budget into public health care—an increase of more than 47% over the previous figure. This has meant an overall increase of more than RM 2 billion. With a rising and aging population, the Government wishes to improve in many areas including the refurbishment of existing hospitals, building and equipping new hospitals, expansion of the number of polyclinics, and improvements in training and expansion of telehealth. Over the last couple of years, the Malaysian Health Ministry has increased its efforts to overhaul the system and attract more foreign investment.
The country generally has an efficient and widespread system of health care. It implements a universal healthcare system, which co-exists with the private healthcare system. Infant mortality rate – a standard in determining the overall efficiency of healthcare – in 2005 was 10, comparing favourably with the United States and western Europe. Life expectancy at birth in 2005 was 74 years.
The Malaysian health care system requires doctors to perform a compulsory three years service with public hospitals to ensure that the manpower in these hospitals is maintained. Recently foreign doctors have also been encouraged to take up employment in Malaysia. There is still, however, a significant shortage in the medical workforce, especially of highly trained specialists; thus, certain medical care and treatment are available only in large cities. Recent efforts to bring many facilities to other towns have been hampered by lack of expertise to run the available equipment.
The majority of private hospitals are in urban areas and, unlike many of the public hospitals, are equipped with the latest diagnostic and imaging facilities. Private hospitals have not generally been seen as an ideal investment—it has often taken up to ten years before companies have seen any profits. However, the situation has now changed and companies are now exploring this area again, corresponding with the increased number of foreigners entering Malaysia for medical care and the recent government focus on developing the health tourism industry.[66]
Citizenship
Main article: Malaysian citizenship
Most Malaysians are granted citizenship by lex soli.[67] Citizenship in the states of Sabah and Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo are distinct from citizenship in Peninsular Malaysia for immigration purposes. Every citizen is issued a biometric smart chip identity card, known as MyKad, at the age of 12, and must carry the card at all times.[68]
Culture
Main article: Culture of Malaysia
Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multicultural and multilingual society. Figures from 2007 show the population consisting of 62% Bumiputeras (including indigenous people), 24% Chinese, 8% Indians, with other minorities along with foreigners (mostly semi-skilled workers).[69] Ethnic tensions have been evident in recent months in parallel with the rising temperature of the political scenario in the country.[70]
The Malays, who form the largest community, play a dominant role politically and are included in a grouping identified as bumiputra. Their native language is Malay (Bahasa Malaysia), which is the national language of the country.[71] Malays of Minang, Bugis or Javanese origin may additionally speak their ancestral tongue. However, English is also widely spoken in major towns and cities across the country.
In the past, Malays wrote in Pallava or using the Sanskrit-based alphabet of Kawi. Indian Muslims later introduced Jawi, an Arabic-based script, which became popular after the 15th century. Until then reading and writing were mostly the preserve of scholars and nobility, while most Malay commoners were illiterate. Jawi was taught along with Islam, allowing the script to spread through all social classes. Nevertheless, Kawi remained in use by the upper-class well into the 15th century. The Romanised script was introduced during the colonial period and, over time, it came to replace both Sanskrit and Jawi. This was largely due to the influence of the European education system, wherein children were taught the English alphabet as it was perceived to be easier to learn.[citation needed]
Whilst Malays are defined by the constitution as Muslim, Malay culture shows strong influences from Hinduism, Buddhism and animism. Since the Islamisation movement of the 1980s and 90s, these aspects are often neglected or banned altogether. Because any Malay-speaking Muslim is entitled to bumiputra privileges, many non-Malay Muslims have adopted the Malay language, customs and attire in the last few decades. This is particularly the case with Indian Muslims from the peninsula and the Kadayan of Borneo.
The largest indigenous tribe is the Iban of Sarawak, who number over 600,000. Some Iban still live in traditional long houses along the Rajang and Lupar rivers and their tributaries, although many have moved to the cities. The Bidayuhs, numbering around 170,000, are concentrated in the southwestern part of Sarawak. The largest indigenous tribe in Sabah is the Kadazan. They are largely Christian subsistence farmers. The 140,000 Orang Asli, or aboriginal peoples, comprise a number of different ethnic communities living in peninsular Malaysia. Many tribes, both on the peninsula and in Borneo, were traditionally nomadic or semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers, including the Punan, Penan and Senoi. However, their ancestral land and hunting grounds are commonly reclaimed by the state, usually forcing the tribes to sedentarise and settle in longhouses or modern bungalows.
The Chinese community in Malaysia speak a variety of Chinese dialects including Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese, Hakka, and Teochew. A large majority of Chinese in Malaysia, especially those from the larger cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, Ipoh, Klang and Penang speak decent English as well. There has also been an increasing number of the present generation Chinese who consider English as their first language. The Chinese have historically been dominant in the Malaysian business and commerce community.
The Indians in Malaysia are mainly Tamils from southern India whose native language is Tamil. There are also other Indian communities which are Telugu-, Malayalam- or Hindi-speaking, living mainly in the larger towns on the west coast of the peninsula. Many middle to upper middle class Indians in Malaysia speak English as a first language. A Tamil Muslim community of 200,000 also thrives as an independent subcultural group. Most Indians originally migrated from India as traders, teachers or other skilled workers. A large number were also part of the migrations from India forced by the British during colonial times, to work in the plantation industry.[72][73] Punjabis were originally brought in as police, guards and soldiers.
A small number of Eurasians, of mixed Portuguese and Malay descent, speak a Portuguese-based creole, called Papiá Kristang. There are also Eurasians of mixed Filipino and Spanish descent, mostly in Sabah. Descended from immigrants from the Philippines, some speak Chavacano, the only Spanish-based creole language in Asia.
Of the remaining minorities, Malaysian Siamese, Khmers, Chams and Burmese live mostly in the northern peninsular states of Perlis, Kedah, Penang, Perak, Kelantan and Terengganu. Along with the Malays, they were historically paddy or dry rice farmers. In addition to speaking their mother tongue and the national language, most are fluent in a northern dialect of Malay. Some of the younger generation living in urban areas have taken to learning Hokkien, especially in the Chinese majority state of Penang.
Traditional Malay music and performing arts appear to have originated in the Kelantan-Pattani region with influences from India, China, Thailand and Indonesia. The music is based largely around the gendang (drum), but includes other percussion instruments (some made of shells): the rebab (a bowed string instrument), the serunai (a double-reed oboe-like instrument), the seruling (flute), and trumpets. The country has a strong tradition of dance and dance dramas. Most of the older Malayan-Thai performing arts have declined in popularity due to their Hindu-Buddhist origin, most notably mak yong. Since the Islamisation period, the arts and tourism ministry have focused on newer dances of Portuguese, Middle Eastern, or Mughal origin. In recent years, dikir barat has grown in popularity, and the government has begun to promote it as a national cultural icon.[74]
Malaysia shares some forms of art with neighbouring Indonesia, including wayang kulit (shadow puppet theatre), silat (a stylised martial art), craft techniques such as weaving and metallurgy.[citation needed]
Languages
The Malay language is the official national language of Malaysia. English was, for a protracted period, the de facto, administrative language of Malaysia, though its status was rescinded later. Despite that, the English language remains an important second language regnant among the urban population and hence the upper echelon of society. Malaysian English is a form of English used and spoken in Malaysia. Another form of English, known as Manglish or Street English, a portmanteau of the word Malay and English is also widely spoken. Tamil is widespread within the Indian community, while the Chinese Malaysians speak a total of more than six dialects alongside Mandarin. The Dayaks who constitute the majority population of Malaysian Borneo have their own distinctive languages, Iban and Kadazandusun. This diversity of languages is reflective of Malaysia's plurality.
Holidays
Main article: Public holidays in Malaysia
Malaysians observe a number of holidays and festivities throughout the year. Some holidays are federally gazetted public holidays and some are public holidays observed by individual states. Other festivals are observed by particular ethnic or religion groups, but are not public holidays.
The most celebrated holiday is the "Hari Kebangsaan" (Independence Day), otherwise known as "Merdeka" (Freedom), on 31 August commemorating the independence of the Federation of Malaya in 1957, while Malaysia Day is only celebrated in the state of Sabah on 16 September to commemorate the formation of Malaysia in 1963. Hari Merdeka, as well as Labour Day (1 May), the King's birthday (first Saturday of June) and some other festivals are public holidays.
Muslims in Malaysia celebrate Muslim holidays. The most celebrated festival, Hari Raya Puasa (also called Hari Raya Aidilfitri) is the Malay translation of Eid al-Fitr. It is generally a festival honoured by the Muslims worldwide marking the end of Ramadan, the fasting month. The sight of the new moon determines the end of Ramadan. This determines the new month, therefore the end of the fasting month. In addition to Hari Raya Puasa, they also celebrate Hari Raya Haji (also called Hari Raya Aidiladha, the translation of Eid ul-Adha), Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year) and Maulidur Rasul (Birthday of the Prophet).
Malaysian Chinese typically celebrate the same festivals observed by Chinese around the world. Chinese New Year is the most celebrated among the festivals, lasting for fifteen days and ending with Chap Goh Mei (十五瞑). The Vietnamese new year, or Tết, falls on the same day. Other festivals celebrated by Chinese are the Qingming Festival, the Dragon Boat Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Malaysian Buddhists celebrate Vesak or Wesak, the day of Buddha's birth.
Hindus in Malaysia celebrate Diwali/Deepavali, the festival of light, while Thaipusam is a celebration in which pilgrims from all over the country flock to Batu Caves.
Punjabi Malaysians celebrate the Sikh new year or Baisakhi. Because it falls during the month of Vaisakh, the occasion is more commonly known as the Vaisakhi festival. Other Indian and Indochinese communities observe their new year celebrations at around the same time, such as Pohela Boishakh of the Bengalis and Songkran (water festival) of the Thais. Thai Malaysians in the northern states also celebrate Loy Kratong.
Malaysia's Christian community celebrates most of the holidays observed by Christians elsewhere, most notably Christmas and Easter. Good Friday, however, is only a public holiday in the two Bornean states. East Malaysians also celebrate the harvest festivals of Gawai in Sarawak and Kaamatan in Sabah.
Despite most of the festivals being identified with a particular ethnic or religious group, all Malaysians celebrate the festivities together, regardless of their background. The term Kongsi Raya (which means "sharing the celebration" in Malay) was coined for years when Hari Raya Puasa and Chinese New Year because of the similarity between the word kongsi and the Chinese New Year greeting of Gong xi fa cai. Similarly, the portmanteau Deepa Raya was coined when Hari Raya Puasa and Deepavali coincided.
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