New Delhi: Malaysia’s Independence Day, also called National Day or ‘Hari Merdeka’ in Malay, is a significant national holiday observed on August 31. This day commemorates the Malayan Declaration of Independence, which took place on August 31, 1957. It holds a special place in the hearts of Malaysians as it marks the official independence from the British colonial administration. The significance of this day is enshrined in Article 160 of the Constitution of Malaysia. On this occasion, let us find out lesser-known facts about this Southeast Asian country.
Malaysia
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Malaysia is a great tourist destination with a mix of culture, traditions, and natural beauty. The tagline “Malaysia Truly Asia” shows what Malaysia offers travellers and sparks curiosity about exploring a country with much to offer beyond one’s comfort zone.
Oldest Sultanate in the World
The Kedah Sultanate, founded in 1136, is the earliest sultanate on the Malay Peninsula and is believed to be the oldest in the world. Initially linked to Hinduism, it later became an Islamic sultanate. Malaysia now comprises nine sultans and four states, led by Yang DiPertua Negeri (the name of the Governor in Malaysia).
Had changed name
The country that created the cartoon Upin & Ipin was originally named Aurea Chersonesus, meaning ‘golden peninsula’. The Greco-Roman geographer Ptolemy gave it this name around 150 AD.
Unique National Anthem
Malaysia’s national anthem is Negaraku (My Country). It was adapted from the song “I Shall Return” by Anne Shelton and chosen from the song “Sultanate of Perak”, which was a modification of the French song “La Rosalie.” King Abdulah was instrumental in the selection of the Malaysian national anthem.
Eight-Time Zone Adjustment
The neighbouring country has experienced time zone adjustments eight times: in 1932, 1941, 1942, 1945, and 1982. On January 1, 1982, Tun Dr Mahathir agreed to the final adjustments. On the same day, Singapore also took similar action.
Monarchy
Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy divided into 13 regions: Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor, Pulau Pinang, and Terengganu. The three federal territories include Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan.
Tallest Petronas Towers
The Petronas Towers in Malaysia were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004, with a height of 451.9 meters. The sky bridge on the 41st and 42nd floors connects the two towers and is 170 meters above ground level.
The majority of the population is Muslim
Most Malaysians, around 61.3 per cent of the population, adhere to Islam. They practice worship and celebrate religious days, including Ramadan and Eid al-Adha.
Former British Colony
England colonised Malaysia from 1786 to 1957, leading to a struggle for territory with the Dutch.
It has the oldest tropical forest
Malaysia’s National Park is estimated to be around 130 million years old. The government requires special permission to visit this oldest tropical rainforest in the world. It is the habitat of Malaysian tigers and other rare animals, offering an unforgettable tourist experience.
Longest Toll Road
Malaysia has 66,000 toll roads, the longest toll road network in the world. Additionally, the Putrajaya area is home to the world’s largest roundabout, with a diameter of 3.5 km.
Largest Cave Chamber
The Sarawak Cave Chamber in Gunung Mulu National Park on Borneo’s Island is the largest cave chamber in the world. It’s spacious enough to accommodate 40 Boeing 747s without their wings overlapping.
Two cities are UNESCO Cities
Melaka and George Town are historic cities that have developed over 500 years of trading and cultural exchanges between East and West in the Straits of Malacca. The towns have a multicultural heritage influenced by Asia and Europe, with unique architectural and cultural characteristics.
Independence Day, also known as National Day (Hari Kebangsaan), marks the Federation of Malaya’s independence from the British Empire on August 31, 1957. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
