Key Facts

GDP (ppp) per CAPITA

$15,200 (2008 est.)

Inflation Rate

5.4% (2008 est.)

Population

25,715,819 (July 2009 est.)

Country Risk Ratings

A2

Ease of Doing Business

20/181

Global Competitiveness

5.04/134

Country Map

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gE Network

There are 173 members in the
gE Network for this country.

Malaysia : Introduction

During the late 18th and 19th centuries, Great Britain established colonies and protectorates in the area of current Malaysia; these were occupied by Japan from 1942 to 1945. In 1948, the British-ruled territories on the Malay Peninsula formed the Federation of Malaya, which became independent in 1957. Malaysia was formed in 1963 when the former British colonies of Singapore and the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak on the northern coast of Borneo joined the Federation. The first several years of the country's history were marred by a Communist insurgency, Indonesian confrontation with Malaysia, Philippine claims to Sabah, and Singapore's secession from the Federation in 1965. During the 22-year term of Prime Minister MAHATHIR bin Mohamad (1981-2003), Malaysia was successful in diversifying its economy from dependence on exports of raw materials to expansion in manufacturing, services, and tourism.

Malaysia: Bank Negara Malaysia

The functions of the Bank emphasize promoting economic growth and a high level of employment, maintaining price stability and a reasonable balance in the country's international payments position, and eradicating poverty and restructuring society.

Malaysia: Bursa Malaysia

Malaysia: Department of Statistics

The official statistical organization of the Malaysian government provides a rich set of information about the country, its people and economy through a variety of news releases, reports, key facts and figures, and other summary documents. Provided both in English and in Malay.

Sources:
CIA World Factbook (September 2009)
U.S. Dept. of State Country Background Notes (October 2009)