Malaysia
Malaysia: Peninsula and Borneo’s Diverse Regions
Malaysia is divided between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia on Borneo, separated by the South China Sea. Kuala Lumpur, the capital on the peninsula, is the only Alpha-rated city, while Penang’s George Town conurbation is the second-largest metro area.
Fast facts
- Country
- Malaysia
- Region
- Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia
- Population
- Approx. 36.3 million (2026)
- Currency
- Malaysian ringgit (MYR), 1 USD ≈ 4.7 MYR (2026)
- Known for
- Tropical rainforests, diverse cultures, colonial architecture, tropical islands
Malaysia consists of two distinct regions: Peninsular Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo, separated by the South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia, home to nearly 80% of the country’s 36.3 million population, is the economic and administrative core. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, hosts the country’s main international airport (KUL) and is a hub for business and culture. The George Town conurbation in Penang and Johor Bahru near Singapore form other major urban centers. The Malaysian ringgit (MYR) is the local currency, with 1 USD roughly equaling 4.7 MYR as of 2026.
Two main regions
Peninsular Malaysia holds nearly 80% of the population, separated from East Malaysia on Borneo by the South China Sea.
Kuala Lumpur hub
KL is Malaysia's only Alpha global city and the location of the main international gateway airport (KUL).
Malaysian ringgit
Use Malaysian ringgit (MYR); as of 2026, 1 USD is about 4.7 MYR.
Book Malaysia tours, activities and tickets
Bookable Malaysia tours and tickets are live now via the partners we trust. The full editorial guide is being expanded — check back as new sections land.
Where is Malaysia?
Malaysia in context — see the neighbouring countries and the region your trip sits within. Zoom in to explore cities, regions and major roads inside the country.
Top experiences in Malaysia
A handful of the best-reviewed, instant-confirmation tours and tickets — sourced live from our partners.
Kuala Lumpur Grand Full Day Guided Tour with 25 Attractions
From Kuala Lumpur: Historical Malacca Day Tour
From Kuala Lumpur: Cameron Highlands Day Tour with Lunch
Kuala Lumpur: Batu Caves, Ramayana Caves & Kanching Falls
Semporna: 3-Day Volcanic Peaks, Reefs, and Sea Gypsies Tour
From Kuala Lumpur: City Tour with 21 Attractions
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Find a place to stay in Malaysia
Hotels, apartments and independent stays in Malaysia, sourced from the partners we use ourselves. Pricing and availability are real-time on each partner.
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