Interesting Facts About Malaysia and Its People
Malaysia’s Contentious Relationship with Brad Pitt
In 2002, Malaysia’s deputy information minister banned the airing of a Brad Pitt advertisement in the country because he believed the actor’s good looks made Malaysian men feel inferior. The official suggested that Toyota, which was planning to advertise in Malaysia, should use native men instead.
The Disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370
On March 8, 2014, Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 disappeared from radar while flying from Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia to Beijing Capital International Airport. Despite extensive search efforts, no trace of the plane or its 227 passengers and crew has ever been found.
The Controversial “Zoolander” Movie
The 2001 movie “Zoolander,” featuring Ben Stiller, was banned in Malaysia and Brunei due to its portrayal of extreme poverty levels and dependence on sweatshops. The authorities didn’t appreciate the negative attention towards their countries.
Muslim Astronaut and Ramadan
In 2007, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor became the first Malaysian astronaut. However, his mission coincided with Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting and prayer. He eventually chose to postpone his fasting until after returning from space.
The Banned “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers”
Malaysia banned the popular kids’ action show “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” due to concerns over the name “Morphin,” which was considered taboo.
Petronas Towers: Once the Tallest Buildings in the World
Malaysia’s Petronas Towers were the world’s tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004. Despite being surpassed by Taipei 101 and the Burj Khalifa, they remain the second tallest twin skyscrapers globally.
Tunku Ismail’s Hulk Hands
In 2015, Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail wore giant Hulk Hands to mock religious hardliners who required him to wear gloves before shaking hands with women. His gesture was seen as a bold statement against conservative beliefs.
The Largest Cave in the World: Sarawak Chamber
Sarawak Chamber, located in Gunung Mulu National Park, is the largest cave by area. It ranks second in volume only behind China’s Miao Room. The cave measures 600 meters long by 435 meters wide and 115 meters high.
Mount Kinabalu: Malaysia’s Tallest Mountain
Standing at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and the fourth tallest in Southeast Asia. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Record-Breaking Malaysian Mother
In 1999, a Malaysian woman set the record for giving birth to nine children (nonuplets), though tragically, all of them passed away.
Malaysia: The Name That Got Away
Modern-day Malaysia is named after the country that “won” the race to claim the name in 1962. Filipino politicians had proposed changing their country’s name to Malaysia, but Malaysia beat them to it.
The Design of Malaysia’s National Flag
Malaysia’s national flag was designed by Mohamed Hamzah, a 29-year-old architect who beat out other competitors to create the iconic design.
Borneo: The Third Largest Island in the World
Borneo, a part of Malaysia, is the third largest island globally. It is also shared among Brunei and Indonesia.
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s Capital City
Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is the country’s administrative, economic, and academic center.
The National Currency: Ringgit
Malaysia’s national currency, the Ringgit, translates to “jagged” in the Malay language. It was named after Spanish silver dollars with serrated edges used in the country during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Malaysian Malay: Malaysia’s Official Language
Malaysian Malay is the official and national language of Malaysia, spoken by over 31 million people. English is used as a secondary language.
