Malaysia boasts a rich cultural heritage, astonishing beauty, a myriad of endemic species of plants and animals, and tantalizingly delicious culinary delights. Malaysia is a multicultural nation comprised mainly of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups; the main cultural driving force of the country is Islam, although there are sizable minorities of Christians and Hindus, which provide a refreshing juxtaposition. HAPPYCAR is here to help you find the best car hire Malaysia has to offer so you can take full advantage of this vibrant country. We check the prices of international and local providers so that you don’t have to check each website to provide you with the best deals on a car hire to make your money go further on a rental car that fits your specific needs. You have the options of choosing car size, pick up location and type of insurance to ensure you get the best deal on a great car hire!
General Information
Malaysia consists of thirteen states and three federal territories, and has a total landmass of 205,000 square miles. Malaysia is spread out over Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo to the east, separated by the South China Sea. Approximately 10,000 years ago, the aboriginal Malays, the Orang Asli, began moving down the peninsula from a possible starting point in southwestern China. In the 16th century, the port city Melaka, which was experiencing great prosperity and wealth, attracted the attention of Portuguese explorers. The Portuguese were followed by the Dutch in 1641, who, at the height of their power, had no problem driving out the Portuguese. During the early 20th century, the British, who by this point controlled parts of Malaysia, brought in Chinese and Indians, which dramatically changed the racial make-up of the country. Malaya gained its independence from the British crown in 1957, and in 1963, the north Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak, along with Singapore, joined Malaya to create Malaysia. Singapore left the union in 1965. The Asian financial crisis of the late 1990's almost caused the collapse of the currency and the stock and property markets. Nowadays, Malaysia is the third largest economy in Southeast Asia, and enjoys a large influx of tourism.
Take advantage of your car hire in Malaysia
Malaysia can be easily explored with a Malaysia car rental, which gives you freedom of movement and a reliable mode of transportation. Start out in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, the social and economic driving force of the nation. The capital is a modern, buzzing city with air-conditioned shopping malls, designer bars, and a slew of top-class restaurants. However, Kuala Lumpur remains true to its traditional roots, which is exemplified by its traditional festivals, vibrant markets, and ubiquitous food stalls lining the streets. Merdeka Square, the heart of downtown Kuala Lumpur, is perhaps the most important place in the city; it was here that the Malayan flag was hoisted for the first time following independence. The square is surrounded by numerous important historical buildings, including: the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, currently the office of the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Culture of Malaysia; the celebrated Royal Selangor Club Complex, built as a meeting place for high-ranking members of the British colonial society; the former National History Museum; St. Mary's Anglican Cathedral, currently the Diocese of West Malaysia; the original Kuala Lumpur Railway station is also nearby, and is still operational.
A few hours’ drive south of the capital you will find the birthplace of Malay civilization, in the port city of Melaka. It features impressive historical architecture and a laid-back atmosphere, the perfect place to get away from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur. Two of the most important museums in Malacca are the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum and the Malacca Sultanate Palace Museum; the former showcases the local history of ethnic Chinese-Malays, whereas the latter, a replica of the Melaka Sultan's palace during the period of the Melaka Sultanate, focuses on the history of the region. Melaka is also famous for its great variety of old religious buildings. It features the oldest Catholic Church in Malaysia, St. Peter's Church, which was constructed in 1710 under the Dutch administration. Melaka is also home to the oldest functioning temple in Malaysia, the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, which is also Melakas grandest temple.
Book now with HAPPYCAR and take full advantage of the flexibility and freedom of a car rental Malaysia. Our quick and hassle free service provides you with a great springboard into your adventures. The HAPPYCAR team wishes you a pleasant journey!