Malaysia, my identity

Selamat Datang…

I am a Malaysian. A proud Malaysian. My family background is quite unique. My great-grandparents, both from dad and mom are migrants from India. They traveled to Malaysia during the British invasion. And from there on, our family tree grew and our identity stamped forever, as a Malaysian. But does my family and I consider ourselves Indian in any way? You would soon find out. Let’s keep some unfold mystery’s for later shall we? 🙂

Growing up, I’ve faced difficulties in identifying myself only as an Indian. The atmosphere and society we were brought up in was and is still uniquely diversified. Thankfully, we were very ethically and culturally drilled since birth. Mom has taught us all about being Indian, by virtue and mannerisms in respecting elders, recognizing the importance of prayers, festivals, maintaining close-knit relationships with our loved ones etc. I guess I can relate my being Indian from my mom and her virtues instilled in me 🙂 Oh… looks like the mystery(s) promised earlier, is no longer a mystery 😀 I know, I know.. My poor attempt at joke ! Well, you can’t blame me for not trying 😉

Anyways, back to the topic of my post. Anshul once suggested me to write more post on Malaysia. I shall begin with a little Malaysian history and background.

Malaysia, Truly Asia 🙂

Malaysia has come a long way since the British colonization and Japanese invasion from late 18th century. Since gaining independence on August 31st 1957, population currently stands at 25 million. Malaysia is separated by the South China Sea into two regions: Peninsular and Borneo. It is divided into 13 states and 3 federal territories. The capital city is Kuala Lumpur, which is known as “Wilayah Persekutuan” in Malay language (as in, our national mother-tongue). Our neighboring countries are Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei and Philippines. Putrajaya is the city that seats the government who constitutes the federal constituency, elective monarchy and parliamentary democracy – quite a mouthful of constituencies 😉  The head of state is our ruler, the King. Whereas, the government is headed by a Prime Minister.

Enough of politics, let’s shift the gear into economics & tourism. Malaysia is the largest producer of rubber, palm oil and tin. Apart from controlling the Straits of Malacca port for international trade, manufacturing industry has always been one of the major influences in the economical growth of Malaysia for many years now. However, the GDP growth % have been steadily declining since 2005, which I believe is not surprising at all with the current world economical turmoil. Let’s talk about tourism. There are many incredibly beautiful and breath-taking locations to visit in Malaysia. For example:

Serene and breath-taking!

Blissful

…and many other attractions namely Genting Highlands, Redang Island, beautiful rain forest preserves and religious landmarks namely, Batu Caves. I could go on and on, but let’s not utilize the image uploading capacity just for this 1 post! 😉 What the heck, I can’t resist! Let’s go absurdly gaga for more pictures 😀

Rainforest adventure!

Peace and devotion 🙂

The architecture achievements are profound. Whether modern of traditional, each architecture is maintained and preserved with Malaysian flair and history added to it. Kuala Lumpur City Center (KLCC) and KL Tower is one of many beautiful, modern and prestige architectural display in the heart of our city center. Standing majestic and tall, proudly symbolizing the utmost achievements of Malaysians, and a promise for more to come. Malacca is a historical state that once housed the majority of British colonization. There are still vivid memories lingering in the air that constantly reminds us of our histories.

Stardust...

Historical State of Malacca

Malaysia’s culture is rich in many facets. I am so lucky that I have many friends from different ethnicity and diverse background. We are all blessed by observing each others ways of life, upbringing and indulging in many religious happy celebrations. Oh, how I miss all those public holiday’s 🙂 Malaysian’s consist of major ethnicity’s such as Malays, Chinese, Sikh, and Tamil. Some of us grew up together, went to school, played, laughed, smiled, cried and work – yes, together!

I believe the motto that truly reflects our bond as one proud nation and it’s people is: ME and U equals WE, whether as a Malaysian or an Indian. I am proud.

Malaysia is also a shopper and food fanatic haven. Spicy, sweet, savory, tart, salty, sour – apart from local delicacies, one happily indulges in variety of food influences from Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore etc. What’s my favorite food? Let’s keep you folks guessing and the answer might be revealed in another post. To all foodie’s out there, here are some pictures to drool on 😉 Please do not make a mess. I repeat, no mess please !

Yummylicious!

If you are done drooling over the pictures, I shall continue.. ahem..

Industries that offers array’s of household, electronics and personal items at reasonable prices are mushrooming from time to time due to steady demand by tourist. Though I must say, the best of IT bargains can still be found in US! Sigh! That reminds me, I might need a new gadget soon *day-dreaming*.. Oopps! I am going out of topic. Rewind, rewind … Now then, you must be wondering about the climate. The peak of monsoon season usually begins from October to February, and it’s tropical throughout the rest of the months. Plan your visit’s accordingly please. Do not worry, I am not getting paid by enthusiastically encouraging the tourism industry here. However, I shall not refuse one if you insist to contribute 😀

This is me, myself and Malaysia.

Terima Kasih, Jumpa Lagi