Malaysia
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Study in Malaysia counseling has started for the January intake.
About Malaysia
Malaysia consists of three federal territories and 13 states. It is a federal constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia, sharing land borders with Indonesia, Brunei, and Thailand, and maritime borders with the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam.
A multicultural and multi-ethnic country, Malaysia's constitution confirms Islam as the state religion while protecting the freedom of its citizens to follow their religion of choice. Due to colonial influence, the official mechanism combines legal procedures outlined by English common law within a Westminster parliamentary system.
The head of state, known as Yang di-Pertuan Agong, is selected from the hereditary rulers of Malaysia's 13 states. The prime minister is considered the head of government.
Facts about Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur, the capital, is the sixth most visited city in the world.
- Foreign policy focuses on neutrality and maintaining peaceful relations with all countries.
- Tourism is Malaysia's third-largest source of foreign exchange revenue.
- The country has one of Asia's most developed telecommunications networks and infrastructures.
- Being born in Malaysia does not automatically grant citizenship. However, a child born to two Malaysian parents outside the country is granted automatic citizenship. Malaysia does not allow dual citizenship.
- The main ethnic groups are Malay and Bumiputra. The constitution defines Malay as Muslim, practicing traditional culture and customs.
- Hari Kebangsaan, or National Day, is celebrated on August 31, commemorating independence from British colonial rule in 1957.
Climate of Malaysia
Malaysia experiences tropical weather. It is humid due to its proximity to the South China Sea, with average temperatures between 70 and 80°F (20 and 30°C). The rainy season brings heavy rain between October and November and through February on the west and east coasts.
Language in Malaysia
The official language is Malaysian, with English as the second most spoken language. Manglish, a colloquial English influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Tamil, is also commonly heard.
Religion in Malaysia
Islam is the state religion, with nearly 60% of the population practicing the Muslim faith. Other religions include Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Confucianism. Sharia courts handle religious matters for Muslims, while public courts have jurisdiction over cases like divorce, marriage, apostasy, and inheritance.
Flag of Malaysia
- Capital: Kuala Lumpur
- Population: 32,049,700 (2017 estimate)
- Area: 329,750 km² total (328,550 km² land)