Malaysia has a population of about 25 million. It is a multi-racial country whose social integration has become a model for the rest of the world. Almost 80% of the total population occupy Peninsular Malaysia. There are three main races in the country. The Malays, who are Muslims, form the majority in the country. The other two main racial groups are the Chinese, who are mostly Buddhists and the Indians, who are mainly Hindus. Other groups that make up the population include the Eurasians and the more than 50 indigenous groups from Sabah and Sarawak like the Kadazans, Dusuns, Muruts, Ibans, Orang Ulu, Melanau, Bidayuhs, Penans, just to name a few. The different races have their own traditions and customs which gives Malaysia a colourful heritage.

The important festivals of each race is a public holiday in the country (so there are a lot of public holidays here!) and celebrated by all regardless of race and beliefs.

In terms of dressing, most Malaysians, regardless of their race, wear Western clothes. However, during special occasions and festivals, many will don traditional costumes complete with their elaborate accessories.
The lifestyle here is progressively becoming more and more modern with great exposure to the western culture. There are some native families who speak mainly English within their household. Many Malaysian youngsters do enjoy their night-outings to discos and bars, be it weekdays or weekends. And the scene may not be very much different from that of nightspots in other countries. In Kuala Lumpur especially, road traffic, work ethics and common ambitions do not stray too far away from what is happening in the Western world now.

But it is interesting to note the communicative easiness between contemporary and the devout Malaysian youth. It is a common sight in Malaysia to find girls whose hair and upper torsos are covered. This piece of head covering is called tudung in the Malay Language, literally means "to cover". This is compulsory for Muslim women, but with a democratic government, they are given the freedom of choice.

For most Malaysian youth, family life is an important component that completes their daily lives. Despite their busy climb on the corporate ladder, the ambitious still has a stronghold on family values. Often, the juggle in prioritising is limited to family or work.


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