1978

Currency Rate to USD | 2.4 |
GDP Per Capita (USD) | 1326.9 |
Population (millions) | 12.3 |
Nasi Lemak Price | 90 cents |
Teh Tarik Price | 44 cents |
Urban Population Percentage | 33.2% |
New Economic Policy Era
After racial riots in 1969, the government launched the NEP to reduce poverty and economic disparity, especially among Malays and indigenous folks.
Cold War
After WWII, the world splits into blocs—capitalist West led by U.S., communist East led by USSR. People everywhere feel the pressure: fear of nuclear annihilation, propaganda, ideological influence in media and education, proxy wars in Asia, Africa and Latin America.
Establishment of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB)
The establishment of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) on 17 March 1978 represented a key initiative under Malaysia's New Economic Policy, aimed at increasing Bumiputera participation in the economy through accessible investment opportunities and collective wealth-building.
1978 Malaysian General Election
The 1978 Malaysian general election, held from 8 to 22 July, saw the Barisan Nasional coalition secure a strong victory with 130 of 154 parliamentary seats, consolidating Prime Minister Hussein Onn's leadership after the Kelantan Emergency and amid rising opposition voices.

Malaysia at the 1978 Asian Games
Malaysia competed in the 1978 Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, securing six medals, including a bronze in field hockey, and finishing 12th in the medal table, highlighting the nation's growing presence in regional sports.

Shah Alam Becomes the Capital of Selangor
On 7 December 1978, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah proclaimed Shah Alam as the new capital of Selangor, marking a significant administrative shift after Kuala Lumpur became a Federal Territory in 1974.

Introduction of Colour Television by Radio Televisyen Malaysia
The introduction of colour television by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) on 28 December 1978 marked a pivotal technological milestone in Malaysia's broadcasting history, transforming the nation's visual media landscape and aligning with broader modernization efforts.