Malaysia truly Asia
Malaysia is a fascinating tropical paradise located in the heart of Southeast Asia. Malaysia boasts some of the world's most beautiful white sandy beaches, emerald islands, crystal clean waters, ancient rainforest, and exotic national parks. Malaysia is a vibrant and exciting country with a fascinating fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures and customs. Here you will be able to experience not one but a diversity of Asian cultures in a single destination, a phenomenon all Malaysians take pride in. From our people, our food, sights and sounds, Malaysia is indeed the unique melting pot of Asia. Welcome to Malaysia.
Welcome to Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur, home to a population of 1.5 million people is a City of delightful contrasts and one of the most vibrant cities in Asia. Visitors will be greeted by the stunning Petronas Twin Towers, a world-renowned icon of the country. The numerous pre-war heritage buildings reflect Kuala Lumpur’s rich past and stand in charming juxtaposition to the modern ambience. Lush greenery and well-manicured parks lend a refreshing garden appeal to the city.
With its colourful potpourri of races and cultures, KL, as the city is popularly known, is a kaleidoscope of fascinating sights and sounds. Immerse yourself in its abundance of attractions – exciting theme parks, world-class sporting events, dazzling cultural performances and entertaining nightlife.
English is widely spoken here and visitors can go on organised tours or explore the capital at their own pace. The city boasts a comprehensive transportation network that makes your sightseeing experience pleasant and hassle-free. Enjoy your visit to this modern metropolis.
For more information, visit http://www.tourism.gov.my
Malaysia’s Economy
A market-oriented economy, supportive government policies and a large local business community that is ready to do business with international corporations have made Malaysia a highly competitive manufacturing and export base. Malaysia is strategically positioned as the gateway into the ASEAN market, which has a combined population of more than 560 million people. Among the advantages that Malaysia offers is its proximity to two emerging economic powerhouses – India in the West and China in the East – with populations of 1.1 billion and 1.3 billion respectively.
Multinational corporations from more than 40 countries have invested in over 5,000 companies in Malaysia’s manufacturing and related services sectors, encouraged by the country's pro-business environment. Malaysia today is one of the world's top locations for offshore manufacturing and service-based operations. Many of the existing foreign companies have also continued to show their confidence in the country's potentials as an investment location through their numerous expansions and diversifications over the years, particularly in high technology projects.
In 2007, the Malaysian economy enjoyed an increase in economic strength with a growth of 6.3% (2006: 5.9%). Robust domestic demand driven by strong private consumption and investment activities was the main engine of growth. GDP is projected to expand between 5% - 6% in 2008. Inflation is expected to average between 2.5% - 3% in 2008, while fiscal deficit is expected to decline 3.1% (2007: 3.2%) of GDP.
The top 10 foreign investors in Malaysia in 2007 are:
1. Japan
2. Germany
3. Iran
4. USA
5. Singapore
6. India
7. China
8. Netherlands
9. Australia
10. Korea, Rep.
Domestic demand is expected to remain resilient, providing strong support to the economy to maintain its steady GDP growth of between 5% - 6% in 2008 (2007: 6.3%). The robust expansion of domestic demand and increasingly diversified export markets are expected to play a major role in sustaining growth. Private investment activity would remain strong in 2008 and also benefit from measures implemented to further improve the business environment, including a reduction in the corporate tax rate. Private and public investments would continue to support growth in facilitating the intensification of projects implemented under the Ninth Malaysian Plan (9MP) and the economic corridors.