As cheesy as it may seem, it embraces Malaysia as not only being a phenomenal jump-off point for all of the South East Asian region, but also the demographic mix of people that live here. While numbers vary, one recent published source states that only 50% of the population are ethnically Malay. Another almost 23% are of Chinese ancestry, and another 11% are of Indian background. There are many other immigrants from other neighboring nations as well. And while Malay (technically Bahasa Melayu) is the official language of the country, most people communicate with each other in English or a hybrid of English and their language of choice.
As a predominantly Muslim country (around 60%) Malaysia is seen as more liberal with respect to different religions and there are many openly practicing Hindu and Buddhist temples, and Protestant churches alongside the mosques.
I will be living and spending most of my time in the capital and largest city of Kuala Lumpur, which I've read means "muddy confluence," but I would forgive Malaysians for downplaying that if they so choose. I am excited to explore the city, the country, and the opportunities of the entire region!
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