Malaysia
Malaysia is the home of satay, the tallest twin buildings in the world and thriving flora and fauna populations. It is also the home of a distinctive multicultural society: mostly Malay, then Chinese, Indian and indigenous people. Though Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken on the street. Partly because of multiculturalism, and partly due to the effect of harbouring high-tech computer industry, it isn't easy to get to the heart of traditional Malaysian life.

But before you erupt into fits of tears, it must be said that few visitors really seem to care, especially once they've stretched out on some of Malaysia's fine beaches, or explored perfect, unspoilt jungle in the National Parks, or enjoyed a tantalizing meal in Kuala Lumpur's energetic Chinatown. Historical relics of colonialism by Portugal, the Netherlands and Great Britain only add to Malaysia's charm. And a well-developed tourism industry means you will be able to enjoy all of Malaysia's highlights in ease and comfort.
Be it the oldest rainforest, tropical islands with crystal blue waters, culture, shopping or just plain Malaysian gastronomical delight, there is something in Malaysia to suit everyone's taste.
Events and Festivals
Chinese Lunar New Year – Chinese make up about a quarter of the total population and in honour of the Chinese New Year, Malaysia has declared the first two days as public holidays. The next New Year is on 3 February 2011, when the Year of the Rabbit commences.
Mid-Autumn Festival – Alternatively known as the Moon Festival, Lantern Festival or Mooncake Festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the full moon day (15th day) of the eighth month of the Chinese calendar – usually in September. In 2010, it falls on 22 September.
Hari Raya Aidil Fitri (Eid ul-Fitr) – This Muslim festival marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan and is celebrated by 60% of the population. The first two days are public holidays, and most people take extra days off to spend time with family and visit relatives and friends. It will occur next on 10 September 2010.
Thaipusam – This annual Hindu festival commemorates the birthday of Lord Murugan. Over a million devotees and visitors throng Batu Caves on this eventful celebration, every year. In 2011, it will occur on 18 January.
Deepavali (or Diwali) – A significant Hindu festival also known as the Festival of Lights, celebrating the victory of good over evil. For 2010, this festival falls on 5 November.
Kaamatan – A harvest festival celebrated by the Kadazan people of Sabah on 30 and 31 May each year.
Gawai Dayak – A thanksgiving day marking good harvest, held on 1 June yearly in Sarawak. Indigenous people, particularly the Iban and Bidayuh, in their colourful costumes make ceremonial offerings of traditional delicacies and tuak (home-made rice wine) to the gods of rice and prosperity.
Weather
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical country on the equator, Malaysia experiences an all-year hot and humid weather. Average daytime temperature for most lowlands range from 30 °C to 34 °C. Nights are faily cool at between 21 °C and 24 °C.
The mean monthly relative humidity is high at about 70 to 90%. During the driest months of January and February in the peninsula, the mean daily minimum can be as low as 42%. The mean daily maximum, however, is always between 94 and 100%.
Monsoon Seasons
During its peak in November and December, the northeast monsoon (November to March) often floods the east coast of the peninsula and can cause flash floods on the west coast. Travel related activities on the east coast islands are closed at this time until the northeast monsoon season ended in March.
The southwest monsoon (May to September) however, is milder because much of the rain brought in by the south-westerly winds from the Indian ocean have hit Sumatra in Indonesia before it reaches the peninsula.
Published 20th May 2010
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