Sunday, August 3, 2008

MALAYSIA

There is a strong interlink between the country's multi-racial and multicultural make-up and its history. Besides the local Malays and the native groups, immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other parts of the world have all contributed to the multiracial composition of its population.
Its interesting cultural diversity can be largely attributed to the country's long and on-going interaction with the outside world and colonial rule by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. Consequently, the evolution of the country into a cultural melting pot is evident in the unique blend of religions, socio-cultural activities and traditions, dressing, languages and food. The country achieved independence on August 31, 1957 as The Federation of Malaya and with the subsequent entry of Sabah and Sarawak in 1963, Malaysia was formed
Malaysia is a nation of diversity in unity where Malays, Chinese, Indians and the indigenous people of Sabah and Sarawak live in cultural harmony. Once you have overcome your jet-lag fatigue, step into the heart of Malaysia-the citizens of the country. You would be pleasantly surprised at the warmth of Malaysians. For deeply entrenched within each of the different race is the engaging charm and traditional hospitality which the country is renowned for. Malaysians enjoy meeting people from other lands. So, do go right ahead and strike up a conversation.
The National Language, Bahasa Malaysia is established as such under Article 152 of the Constitution, which also safeguards other languages by stipulating that no person may be prohibited or prevented from using (except for official purposes) or from teaching or learning any other language. As the national language, Bahasa Malaysia has to be used for official purposes which includes its use by federal and state governments, and as defined by the constitutional amendment of 1971 by all authorities (including local authorities) and statutory bodies. By the same constitutional amendment the status of Bahasa Malaysia may not be questioned, and any amendment to Article 152 can only be made with the consent of the Conference of Rulers.
All of the world's major religions have substantial representation in Malaysia, the main adherents of each largely reflecting the multi-ethnic character of the population. The variety of religions found in Malaysia is a direct reflection of the diversity of races living there. Although Islam is the state religion of Malaysia, freedom of religion is guaranteed. The Malays are almost all Muslims. The Chinese embrace an eclectic brew of Taoism, Buddhism and ancestor worship, though some are Christians. Although Christianity has made no great inroads into Peninsular Malaysia it has had a much greater impact upon East Malaysia, where many indigenous people have converted to Christianity , although others still follow their animist traditions.

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