Selamat pagi (good morning) from Malaysia, and terima kasih (thank you) for joining me on this leg of my Asian tour. As I bid farewell to this vibrant Southeast Asian nation, I’m left reflecting on the many lessons, contrasts, and inspirations I’ve gathered during my stay.

A First Impression of Efficiency


Kuala Lumpur International Airport is nothing short of iconic, efficient, impressive, and forward-thinking. For eligible countries, a contactless visa-on-arrival system eliminates the need for passport stamping or direct immigration interaction. It’s a small glimpse into a country where efficiency is a cultural norm.

Arriving for my first-ever trip to Asia, the gap between social and economic development here and much of Africa was immediately visible. Consider this: last year, KLIA handled over 57 million passengers, compared to just 6.5 million at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, a mere 11.4% of Malaysia’s traffic.


A City Built for Growth


The ride into Kuala Lumpur reveals soaring skyscrapers, extensive rail networks, and flawless highways lined with toll gates. Infrastructure here isn’t an afterthought, it’s a way of life, funded by citizens who understand the cost of progress.

I stayed at ViiA Residence by Five Senses in KL Eco City, on the 23rd floor of a 40-storey tower. The serviced apartment offered panoramic views, and the infinity pool on the 40th floor was breathtaking. High-rise living is common here, and on the outskirts, you can own a condominium for around 400,000 MYR.

A Tapestry of People and Faiths

Malaysia’s population is a rich mix: 60% Malay and other indigenous groups, 23.8% Chinese, 10% Indian, and 6.2% foreign nationals. Islam is dominant, yet Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity all have significant followings. Religious tolerance is not just spoken about, it’s lived daily.

Many Malaysians are multilingual, with Malay and English as official languages. The parliamentary system, dominated by Malay leadership since independence, has brought political stability, though not without debates on representation.

Economics: A Study in Contrasts

Malaysia, independent since 1957, has turned its palm oil, petroleum, and manufacturing sectors into global powerhouses. With just 35.5 million people, its 2024 exports hit $351 billion, making it the world’s 23rd largest exporter.

Nigeria, by contrast, with 235 million people, exported $63.1 billion last year, mostly crude oil and gas, ranking 52nd globally. Malaysia’s GDP is almost equal to Nigeria’s, despite having less than one-fifth our population. The message is clear: productivity, not just population, drives prosperity.

Icons of Ambition


From the Petronas Twin Towers to the record-breaking Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur’s skyline tells the story of ambition and achievement. In comparison, Nigeria’s tallest building, the 32-storey NECOM House, feels like a relic of stalled dreams.

Petronas, Malaysia’s state oil company, contributed nearly 27.5% of the nation’s government revenue in 2022. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s NNPCL remains mired in inefficiency, opacity, and underperformance.

Lessons in Unity


Despite historical tensions, Malaysians of all backgrounds share a strong national identity. Ethnic policies exist, often favouring indigenous Malays, but they haven’t fractured the nation’s commitment to unity and development.

In Nigeria, we often struggle with indigene–settler divides, communal clashes, and political fragmentation. Malaysia shows that diversity, if well-managed, can be a source of collective strength.


Cultural Treasures


From the Hindu splendour of Batu Caves to the glittering mosques and Buddhist temples, Malaysia’s religious and cultural sites are as diverse as its people. Kuala Lumpur’s KLCC development, bustling shopping malls, landscaped parks, and vibrant nightlife make it a city in constant motion.

And let’s not forget the food, a delicious fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences that kept my taste buds on a constant adventure.


A Farewell, For Now


My short stay in Malaysia has reinforced the transformative power of good governance, infrastructure investment, and cultural cohesion. It has also reminded me of the immense potential Nigeria holds,if we can match vision with execution.

As I board my next flight to Phuket, Thailand, I leave Malaysia inspired and hopeful that one day my beloved Nigeria will stand tall alongside nations like this, not just in dreams, but in reality.


Have you been to Malaysia? Share your experiences and thoughts ,I’d love to hear them.


Terima kasih, Malaysia. Until next time.


— Femi Oke, Betta9ja Asian Tour