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A Nation of Religious Diversity
Malaysia is home to three primary ethnic groups: the Malay, Chinese, and Indian. Additionally, there are other ethnic communities such as Peranakan, Orang Asli, and Europeans (including Portuguese, Dutch, and British). Consequently, the religious landscape of this country is incredibly diverse, fostering harmony and mutual respect among its people.
Islam serves as the official religion of Malaysia, although alongside it, there are significant religious communities such as Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Taoism, and Sikhism. The federal constitution guarantees religious freedom to the Malaysian populace. Mosques (places of worship for Muslims) can be readily found across Malaysia, including within educational institutions like colleges and universities.
A Constitutional Monarchy and Federal State
The governance system closely resembles the Westminster parliamentary model, a legacy of British colonial rule. Malaysia comprises 13 states and 3 federal territories, rooted in the historical Malay kingdoms. Nine out of the eleven peninsula states still maintain their royal households, referred to as the Malay states.
The head of state is titled the King. Each state is headed by a monarch. The Malaysian King is elected for a 5-year term from among these nine monarchs. The role of the King is largely ceremonial. Executive authority is vested in the cabinet led by the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister must be a member of the lower house, appointed by the King, and enjoys majority support in parliament. The cabinet is selected from the bicameral federal parliament. The Prime Minister heads the cabinet and is also the head of government.
Each state has a unicameral legislative body called the State Legislative Assembly. States are further divided into districts, which are then subdivided into mukims equivalent to municipalities or wards. In Sabah and Sarawak, districts are grouped into divisions. These two states have significantly more autonomy compared to others, notably in their own immigration policies and control.
Milo - The National Drink
In Malaysia, Milo is versatile, served in various forms from hot and cold milk to jellies, cakes, candies, and more. This chocolate and malt-based drink is deeply ingrained in the culture of Malaysia, so much so that even if you visit a coffee shop and ask for a chocolate drink, they will serve you Milo.
Unique Culinary Delights
Thanks to its diverse cultural tapestry, Malaysia boasts a rich and unique culinary scene. Here, you can indulge in a plethora of diverse and extraordinary dishes, blending indigenous cuisine harmoniously with flavors from other nations.
According to Mytour
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourJune 29, 2023
