The People

Malaysia was originally inhabited by native aboriginal peoples known collectively as the Orang Asli, which means 'original people'. They migrated from South-West China 10,000 years ago. Although Malays make up the biggest proportion of the population, Malaysia today is a multiracial country. In Sarawak alone, there are 25 different indigenous groups known as the Dayaks, each with its own history and customs.

Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, but many Malaysians speak more than one language depending on their cultural background. Because Malaysia was a British colony English is widely spoken, particularly in the business world.

Click here to find out about the main religions in Malaysia

The Economy

In the past, Malaysia relied on primary industries for its main source of income.

In addition to rubber and tin, half the world's supply of palm oil, a raw material used in food products and soap, comes from Malaysia's plantations, and the forests of Sabah and Sarawak are still one of the world's major sources of tropical timber. However, as Malaysia industrialises, primary products are being replaced by manufactured goods as the country's main exports. The manufacture of electronic goods has become Malaysia's biggest growth area. By improving their own skills and expertise, Malaysian companies are able to develop their own technologies and products rather than put together components that are made elsewhere.

Click here to find out how the export of electronic goods has boomed in recent years:

Unequal Development

The benefits of Malaysia's industrialisation are not shared out equally across the country. Much of the growth in electronics companies is concentrated in major urban centres like Kuala Lumpur and Georgetown on Penang island. These pockets of prosperity attract migrants in search of work from other parts of the country, and from abroad. In contrast, the state of Sarawak has very little manufacturing industry, and relies on the sale of timber for half its income.

 

To find out how Malaysia's economic development varies from state to state, click here to see a map of the average annual GDP per person for each of the thirteen states of Malaysia.