Malaysia

Malaysia (pronounced /məˈleɪʒə/ or /məˈleɪziə/) is a country in Southeast Asia that consists of thirteen states and three Federal Territories, with a total landmass of 329,847 square kilometres (127,355 sq mi).

The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, while Putrajaya is the seat of the federal government. The population stands at over 27 million.  The country is separated into two regions — Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo — by the South China Sea. Malaysia borders Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei.   The country is located near the equator and experiences a tropical climate.

Malaysia's head of state is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (a term that is similar to King), an elected monarch,  and the government is headedPrime Minister.  The government is closely modeled after the Westminster parliamentary system.

Malaysia as a unified state did not exist until 1963. Previously, the United Kingdom had established influence in colonies in the territory from the late-18th century. The western half of modern Malaysia was composed of several separate kingdoms. This group of colonies was known as British Malaya until its dissolution in 1946, when it was reorganized as the Malayan Union. Due to widespread opposition, it was reorganized again as the Federation of Malaya in 1948 and later gained independence on 31 August 1957. Singapore, Sarawak, British North Borneo and the Federation of Malaya joined to form Malaysia on 16 September 1963.  Tensions in the early years of the new union sparked an armed conflict with Indonesia, and the expulsion of Singapore on 9 August 1965.

During the late-20th century, the Southeast Asian nation experienced an economic boom and underwent rapid development. Economic growth during the 1980s and 1990s, averaging 8% from 1991 to 1997, has transformed Malaysia into a newly industrialised country. 

Because Malaysia is one of three countries that control the Strait of Malacca, international trade is integral to its economy.  At one time, it was the largest producer of tin, rubber and palm oil in the world.  Malaysia has a biodiverseflora and fauna, and is also considered one of the 18 megadiverse countries. 

Malays form the majority of the population of Malaysia. There are sizable ethnic Chinese and Indian communities as well.   The Malay language  and Islam are the official language and religion of the federation respectively.

Malaysia is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and participates in many international organisations such as the United Nations.  As a former British colony, it is also a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.  It is a member of the Developing 8 Countries.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaysia