GOVERNMENTAL SUPPORT

This programme is initiated, organised and launched by the Malaysian Government and is thus one that the Government will continuously seek to improve, to ensure its success.

WEATHER

The country is generally warm throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 25ºC to 32ºC in the lowlands and between 21ºC to 28ºC in the highlands. Malaysia has a humid tropical climate with an annual rainfall average of 250 centimeters (100 inches).

Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time.

Statistics can proof that Malaysia is one of the safest countries in the world; its crime rate is relatively low.

PEOPLE

Malaysia is a multiracial country of 27 million people with a delightful fusion of three of Asia's oldest civilisations- Malay, Chinese and Indians which form the majority. Minority groups including Portuguese, Dutch, Thai and Eurasians which also make up the multi-ethnic structure of the population. In East Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak) we have the indigenous traditions of the Kadazan and the Dayaks.

CULTURE & LANGUAGE

Bahasa Malaysia is the national language although English, Mandarin and Tamil are spoken by many. It is relatively easy for foreigners to communicate with Malaysians as most have a reasonable command of English.

MEDICAL FACILITIES

Malaysia has good public and private health services in all major cities and town. These establishments are well equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed with doctors, specialists and paramedical personnel trained to international standards. Most of these medical centres possess internationally recognised accreditation.

Malaysia has one of the highest standards of living in the region with all the modern infrastructure and facilities in place.

Cost of living is relatively low when compared with many other countries in the world. This is due to the Government's effort in ensuring that inflation is kept low at all times and thereby also the prices of goods and services.

RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT

The country has everything for the family, theme parks, jungle trails, sports, water sports and one of the highest numbers of golf courses.

Malaysia is a gourmet's paradise where affordable and tasty food is available all over the country. International cuisine is available here at very reasonable cost. With so many races and cultures living together in harmony, it is understandable that each race has picked up the best of each other’s food and made Malaysia into Asia’s Food Paradise.
Similarly the tropical fruits of Malaysia are unique, exotic and available in abundance practically throughout the year. It should be a real joy to savour these fruits.

SHOPPING

From high-end culture to ethnic handicrafts and the internationally acclaimed pewter ware, Malaysia has it all. Enjoy the comforts and convenience of shopping in air-conditioned malls and hypermarkets. Besides shopping, families have a choice of watching a movie, having fun at the bowling alley or enjoying the spread at the food court. Shoppers can also browse for interesting curios on display at the weekly flea markets. Join in the excitement of haggling at the night markets or pasar malam, an interesting feature of local life. The best time to enjoy fantastic discounts and special offers is during the annual mega sales.

The entire country is very well connected with up-to-date, modern road, rail, air and sea transportation systems. Public transport by buses, taxis and trains are comfortable, efficient and very affordable.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

The fine range of spas in the country provides the ideal setting for complete rejuvenation and relaxation. Malaysia has some of the finest spas in the world be it on a pristine island or right in the middle of the city centre. From traditional Malay massages, India Ayurvedic treatments and Oriental acupressure practices there is a vast backdrop of health rituals in Malaysia.

EDUCATION

Malaysia is also a place for quality education, from nursery to university. Fees are reasonable. There are international schools of repute in all major towns with English and other foreign languages as the media instruction. There are also private colleges and universities which offer twinning programmes with other internationally-recognised universities and colleges. The country is fast becoming an educational centre of excellence for the region.

RESIDENCE

There are quality residences – terrace and semidetached houses, bungalows, apartments and condominiums throughout the country. Some of the finest residences are available in tourism zones – on beaches, near jungles and near theme parks, recreational places and city centres.