Overview
Malaysia is a country located in Southeast Asia, known for its unique geographic split into two distinct regions separated by the South China Sea. As a federal constitutional monarchy, the nation is composed of 13 states and three federal territories, blending traditional governance with a modern federal system.
Geography and Borders
Malaysia's territory is divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia, situated on Mainland Southeast Asia, and East Malaysia, located on the island of Borneo. This division gives the country a diverse set of international neighbors and borders.
- Peninsular Malaysia shares a land and maritime border with Thailand, along with maritime borders with Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
- East Malaysia shares land borders with Brunei and Indonesia, as well as maritime borders with the Philippines and Vietnam.
Capital Cities and Governance
Uniquely, Malaysia operates with two distinct capital cities, each serving a different function within the federal government structure.
- Kuala Lumpur serves as the national capital and the country's largest city. It is also the seat of the legislative branch of the federal government.
- Putrajaya functions as the federal administrative capital, housing the seat of both the executive and judicial branches of the government.
Population and Demographics
Malaysia is home to a population exceeding 34 million people. This places the nation as the 43rd-most populous country in the world, reflecting a significant and diverse populace spread across its peninsular and Bornean territories.