Population – 25.2 million, Area – 329,750 sq km (127,317 sq miles), Currency – Ringgit (MYR; symbol RM) = 100 sen, Flight times – From London to Kuala Lumpur is 12 hours 30 minutes; from New York is 20 hours 20 minutes, Cities – Kuala Lumpur (capital), Busan (or Pusan), Taegu, Incheon, Time Zone – GMT+8, Weather – Tropical and humid without extremely high temperatures, Languages – Bahasa Melayu is the national and official language, English is widely spoken, other languages such as Chinese (Cantonese and Hokkien), Iban and Tamil are spoken by minorities, Religion – Islam (official religion), Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, Confucianism, Hindu and animist, Electricity - 220-240 volts AC, 50Hz; square three-pin plugs are generally used.

Malaysia is a country with two distinct parts. Peninsula Malaysia constitutes the long fringe of land, extending down from Asia, which borders Thailand and Singapore. The South China Sea separates the mainland from the less populated East Malaysian provinces of Sabah and Sarawak. The dense jungles of Sabah and Sarawak support abundant plant and wildlife and Mt Kinabalu in Sabah stakes its claim as the highest peak in South East Asia.

It is the Peninsula that seems to attract the most visitors, probably because of the diversity it offers in the way of people, activities and climates. The highland regions offer cool relief from the clinging humidity of the mainland, while Langkawi is the popular choice for sand and surf enthusiasts. The east coast, particularly the northern Kelantan province, offers the chance for an interesting cultural exploration of traditional Malay life. The city of Kota Bharu and its surrounds is possibly the most fascinating part of the peninsula, and the least visited, with a remote beauty and rich culture. The west coast is favoured for historical interest, and is where Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur is to be found, the icon of Asian prosperity and the meeting point for expats and city slickers who enjoy the energy of urban life. The city is a powerful mesh of tradition and technology, vying for equal status.

Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves. One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs. Malaysia is a destination known for its combination of eclectic cultures, natural wonders and scenic getaways.

Bahasa Melayu is the national language, but English is widely spoken and is the language of business. Cantonese, Hokkien and Hakka are spoken by the Malaysias Chinese population and Tamil, Malayalam and Hindi among the Indian population.

Medical expertise in Malaysia ranks among the best in the world and most private hospitals in the country have internationally recognized quality and standards. These include the MS ISO9002 or accreditation by the Malaysian Medical Society for Quality of Health (MSQH). All private medical centres must be approved, certified and licensed by the Ministry of Health.

Malaysia’s growing reputation as a preferred health and medical destination sees it welcoming visitors from around the world seeking both, critical health services as well as cosmetic and remedial care.

Medical charges and hospitalization costs here are very competitive compared to those in many developed countries.

Another reason to consider Malaysia is the wide choice of state-of-the-art private medical centres available. These establishments are well-equipped and staffed to serve the healthcare needs of people from all over the world. Medical specialists in the country are highly qualified professionals, and supported by well-trained para-medical staff and sophisticated medical equipment. All medical staff speak English fluently.

Malaysia is the 43rd most populated country and the 66th largest country by total land area in the world, with a population of about 27 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, along with the U.S. state of New Mexico.

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. The local climate is equatorial and characterised by the annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to February) monsoons.

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.

Culture

The culture of Malaysia has arisen from the mingling of the traditions of the various peoples who have been settling on its shores and in its hills for centuries with those of indigenous Malays. Religious traditions sit in harmony with modern technological advances, and the Buddhist and Hindu minorities coexist peacefully alongside the Muslim majority. This has made Malaysia a country rich with living religious history: ancient temples and festivals from across a full range of beliefs are still maintained alongside the metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, allowing visitors to the country to experience an unparalleled cross-section of Asian culture.

Malaysians aren't shy about celebrating their heritage, and you'll find the streets of its cities and villages transformed into carnivals overnight in observance of festivals and holidays ranging from Chinese New Year (Chap Goh Meh) to the Hindu festival of Thaipusam. Lanterns, parades and holiday dishes ensure that no day in Malaysia is like any other. Odds are your visit will coincide with a variety of cultural events - get ready to experience Asian culture as never before!

The largest ethnic groups in Malaysia are the Malays, Chinese and Indians. In Sabah and Sarawak, there are a myriad of indigenous ethnic groups with their own unique culture and heritage.

Today, the Malays, Malaysia's largest ethnic group, make up more than 50% of the population. In Malaysia, the term Malay refers to a person who practices Islam and Malay traditions, speaks the Malay language and whose ancestors are Malays. Their conversion to Islam from Hinduism and Theravada Buddhism began in the 1400s, largely influenced by the decision of the royal court of Melaka. The Malays are known for their gentle mannerisms and rich arts heritage.

The second largest ethnic group, the Malaysian Chinese form about 25% of the population. Mostly descendants of Chinese immigrants during the 19th century, the Chinese are known for their diligence and keen business sense. The three sub-groups who speak a different dialect of the Chinese language are the Hokkien who live predominantly on the northern island of Penang; the Cantonese who live predominantly in the capital city Kuala Lumpur; and the Mandarin-speaking group who live predominantly in the southern state of Johor.

The smallest of three main ethnic groups, the Malaysian Indians form about 10% of the population. Most are descendants of Tamil-speaking South Indian immigrants who came to the country during the British colonial rule. Lured by the prospect of breaking out of the Indian caste system, they came to Malaysia to build a better life. Predominantly Hindus, they brought with them their colourful culture such as ornate temples, spicy cuisine and exquisite sarees.

The busiest and most popular city, Kuala Lumpur (the “Garden City of Lights”) which is also the capital of Malaysia. It ranges from its various heritage buildings and monuments to its gardens and parks. Shopping havens can also be found in Chinatown, Little India, Central bazaars and the many luxurious shopping malls.

The Cameron Highlands comprise a series of hill stations, that is the centre of Malaysia's tea industry and it's the place where locals and visitors come to escape the heat of the plains.

Attractions include jungle walks, waterfalls, tours of tea plantations and beautiful gardens. The cool weather tempts visitors to exertions like golf, tennis, and long walks.

Pahang is home to Tasik Bera, the largest natural freshwater lake in Peninsular Malaysia. Another lake, Tasik Kenyir in Terengganu is the largest manmade lake in South-east Asia.

Malaysia has an incredible number of almost 200 golf courses. Because of the diverse landscape, there are golf courses in the cool highlands, by the beach, nestled in the lush jungle or surrounded by gleaming skyscrapers. These beautiful courses offer the latest in luxury amenities.

Many islands adorn the coastline of Malaysia, and offer tourists, opportunities of island hopping, snorkelling, deep sea diving, adventure sports besides the lively Chinese culture, great shopping and even better food.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)

The airport is located in Sepang, 31 miles (50km) south of Kuala Lumpur.

An Aerotrain provides a free service between terminals.

The Express Rail Link train provides the fast transportation to the city centre. The KLIA Express and the KLIA Transit links the airport to Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral - City Air Terminal) and vice-versa. At the City Air Terminal departing passengers have the option of checking-in their luggage, receive their boarding passes and proceed in the train to the Airport for the Immigration and clearance. Travel time between KL Sentral to the airport is 28 minutes on the KLIA Express and 37 minutes on the KLIA Transit. Pre paid Taxis are also available. Hotels do make arrangements to pick up guests.

Airport facilities include lounges/travel clubs, left luggage, disabled and nursery/baby changing facilities; banks, bureaux de change and ATMs; restaurants and bars, post office, pharmacy; and duty-free shops.

Penang International Airport (PEN)

Penang Airport is located four miles (6km) north of Bayan Baru.

There are bus services but most visitors choose to go by taxis, which are available outside the terminal.

Airport Facilities include lounges/travel clubs, banks, bureaux de change, a tourist help desk, shops and restaurants.