Welcome to Malaysia!

Malaysia is one of the most diverse, most prosperous and safest countries in Asia. It is divided in two regions: Peninsular Malaysia (or West Malaysia), and Malaysian Borneo (or East Malaysia). These regions are separated by the South China Sea. Discover Malaysia focuses mainly on peninsular Malaysia but also contains a great deal of information about Malaysian Borneo (for an in-depth look at Malaysian Borneo see our sister site www.discoverborneo.com).

Malaysia’s diversity is both natural and man-made. It is one of the 17 “megadiverse” countries of the world. This group of countries, which includes Brazil and India, harbor the majority of the Earth's species and are therefore considered extremely biodiverse. This biodiversity is mirrored in the Malaysian population, with ethnic Malays, Indians, Chinese and a huge variety of indigenous groups. Indeed, by conservative estimates there are at least 82 different ethnic groups living side by side in Malaysia.

Much of the beauty of Malaysia is in its diversity. Not only is Malaysia is a colourful fusion of races and cultures, but within and across East and West Malaysia are an impressive variety of microcosms ranging from the high tech of Kuala Lumpur to the rural villages of Sarawak, the granite peaks and jungles of Sabah, and the calm, powdery beaches of the Perhentian Islands. And did we mention the food? Malaysia offers one of the best and most varied gastronomical experiences in the world.

Cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Georgetown (Penang) and Malacca, are modern and thriving. However, they each manage to remain authentic and unique, thanks to the importance of local culture and traditions. In places like Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu, nightlife is also booming with plenty of pubs, night clubs, concerts, parties and music festivals for the locals and tourists alike.

Malaysia is on the verge of something special, moving steadily towards developed nation status yet retaining its own unique identity, she is becoming more attractive to visitors each year. As you are about to discover, Malaysia is a country full of wonderful surprises.