What Are People From Malaysia Called?

Southeast Asia, Malaysia

The demonym for people from Malaysia is:

Malaysian

Pronunciation:

/məˈleɪʒən/

Ends in -ian — see how this suffix works

Malaysia population density 2010b
Image via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

About Malaysia

Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia, divided into two regions: Peninsular Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. Its capital city is Kuala Lumpur, a modern metropolis known for landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers. Malaysia is a multi-ethnic and multicultural society, where Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous communities shape its language, festivals, and cuisine. The country is a major producer of palm oil, rubber, and electronics, which have long supported its economy. Its landscapes include ancient tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, and highland tea plantations. Visitors enjoy diverse cuisine ranging from spicy curries to hawker street food, making Malaysia a popular destination for culture, nature, and urban exploration. Its warm climate and friendly locals make it a welcoming destination year-round.

Quick Facts about Malaysia
Population:
34,308,525 (2024 est.)
Country:
Malaysia
Region:
Southeast Asia

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Malaysians live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

Highly detailed, stunning visuals

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Etymology of the Malaysia Demonym

From 'Malay', the dominant ethnic group. The suffix '-sia' means 'land' in Sanskrit.

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