Malaysia Quiz – Test Your Knowledge of Asia’s Hidden Gem!

Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and is unique because it is divided among three countries: Malaysia (states of Sabah and Sarawak), Indonesia (called Kalimantan), and Brunei. It is known for its rich biodiversity, tropical rainforests, and endangered wildlife like orangutans.

Malaysia’s three major ethnic groups are the Malays (the majority and political core), Chinese, and Indians. The Japanese population is very small and does not form a significant ethnic group in the country.

Malaysia's monarch is known as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong or King, elected every 5 years from among the nine hereditary Sultans. The position is largely ceremonial, while the Prime Minister is the executive head.

Bahasa Malaysia (literally "Malaysian language") is the official language of the country and is widely spoken across ethnic groups. English is also commonly used in business and education, but Malay is the language of government and national identity.

On September 16, 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was formed, uniting Malaya, North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore (which left in 1965). This date is celebrated as Malaysia Day.

The Strait of Malacca separates Peninsular Malaysia from Indonesia's Sumatra island. It is one of the world’s busiest maritime routes, strategically vital for international trade and shipping, and has historical importance in the spice trade.

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s largest city and was the national capital until administrative functions were moved to Putrajaya in the late 1990s. However, it remains the official capital by constitution, the royal capital, and the country’s main hub for business, culture, and entertainment. It is home to iconic landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers and Merdeka Square.

Sarawak, along with Sabah, is one of two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo. It is known for its rainforests, diverse indigenous cultures, and the Rajang River—Malaysia's longest river. Its capital is Kuching.

The Rajang River in Sarawak is Malaysia’s longest river, stretching over 560 km. It plays a vital role in transportation, trade, and the ecosystem of inland Borneo.

Nasi Lemak is considered Malaysia’s national dish. It consists of coconut milk rice served with spicy sambal, fried anchovies, boiled egg, cucumber, and peanuts, and often includes extras like chicken or beef rendang.

Malaysia’s Parliament consists of two houses: the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives) and Dewan Negara (Senate). The Dewan Rakyat members are elected and hold legislative power, making laws and scrutinizing the government.

Malaysia’s official national motto is “Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu,” which translates to “Unity is Strength.” It reflects the country’s diverse population and the importance of racial harmony and cooperation.

Johor Bahru is located in southern Peninsular Malaysia and lies just across the strait from Singapore. It serves as a vital commercial and industrial center and a key crossing point between the two countries.

The Malaysian currency is known as the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). The word "ringgit" means "jagged" in Malay, referring to the serrated edges of early Spanish silver dollars once used in the region. The ringgit was formerly known as the Malaysian dollar before being renamed in 1975.

Mount Kinabalu, at 4,095 meters, is the tallest mountain in Southeast Asia (excluding Papua). Located in Sabah, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a hotspot for biodiversity, drawing climbers and nature lovers.

George Town, the capital of Penang, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 for its well-preserved colonial architecture, multicultural heritage, and historical urban landscape dating back to British rule.

Malaysia Airlines is the national carrier, founded in 1947. It operates international and domestic flights and has been a member of the Oneworld alliance. Despite past tragedies, it remains a key player in the aviation sector.

Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, as outlined in Article 3 of the Malaysian Constitution. While Islam is given a special status, the country guarantees freedom of religion for all. Approximately 60% of Malaysians are Muslims, primarily of the Sunni branch.

Terengganu, on the east coast, has rich petroleum and natural gas resources. It is also one of the more conservative Islamic states, governed at times by the Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS), emphasizing sharia-based policies.

Malaysia and Singapore are connected via the Johor-Singapore Causeway, which facilitates trade, travel, and daily commuting between Johor Bahru and Singapore.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, similar to the UK. It consists of 13 states and 3 federal territories, and has a unique rotational monarchy system where the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) is elected every 5 years from among the nine hereditary rulers of the Malay states.

The Petronas Twin Towers, standing at 452 meters, were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 and remain the tallest twin towers globally. They are an iconic symbol of modern Malaysia and house offices, a skybridge, and a science discovery center.

On August 31, 1957, the Federation of Malaya (now Peninsular Malaysia) gained independence from Britain. The first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, declared independence at Merdeka Stadium. Malaysia was later formed in 1963 with the inclusion of Sabah, Sarawak, and briefly, Singapore.

The Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, known locally as the Bunga Raya, was declared the national flower in 1960. It symbolizes courage, vitality, and unity. Its five petals represent the five Rukun Negara (national principles).

Malaysia follows Malaysia Standard Time (MST), which is UTC+8. Despite its geography suggesting UTC+7 would be more natural, Malaysia unified its time zone with East Malaysia (Sabah & Sarawak) in 1981 for national consistency.