1979
| Currency Rate to USD | 2.2 |
| GDP Per Capita (USD) | 1679.9 |
| Population (millions) | 12.6 |
| Nasi Lemak Price | 95 cents |
| Teh Tarik Price | 47 cents |
| Urban Population Percentage | 33.8% |
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 the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA)
The Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA) was formally incorporated in 1965 through the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (Incorporation) Act, initially as the Federal Industrial Development Authority (FIDA), to centralize and promote industrial development in post-independence Malaysia.
Death of Sultan Yahya Petra, 6th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia
Sultan Yahya Petra ibni Almarhum Sultan Ibrahim, the 6th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia and Sultan of Kelantan, died on 29 March 1979 at the age of 61 from an apparent heart attack, marking a significant transition in the nation's rotational monarchy during a period of political and economic challenges.
Election of Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang as the 7th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia
The election of Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang as the 7th Yang di-Pertuan Agong in 1979 exemplified Malaysia's rotational monarchy system, marking a significant moment in the nation's post-independence governance and symbolizing continuity for the Pahang royal lineage.
Opening of Matsushita Electric Industrial Factories in Shah Alam, Selangor
In April 1979, Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. opened its factories in Shah Alam, Selangor, signifying a major step in Malaysia's industrialization efforts and the influx of Japanese foreign direct investment into the electronics sector.
Launch of Colour Television Broadcasts by RTM2
On 7 May 1979, RTM2 launched colour television broadcasts, marking a key advancement in Malaysia's broadcasting history following the initial colour introduction on TV1 and enhancing national communication and entertainment.
Establishment of Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (ASNB)
The establishment of Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (ASNB) on 22 May 1979 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) represented a key initiative under Malaysia's New Economic Policy (NEP) to promote economic inclusion, particularly for the Bumiputera community, by providing accessible unit trust funds for ordinary citizens.
Establishment of Sekolah Menengah Sains Sultan Mahmud
On September 5, 1979, Sekolah Menengah Sains Sultan Mahmud (SESMA) was officially opened by Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah in Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia, solidifying its role as a premier science-focused residential secondary school amid national educational reforms.
Death of Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah of Terengganu
Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah, the 16th Sultan of Terengganu and former Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, died on 20 September 1979 at age 72 after suffering two heart attacks.
Opening of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway and Genting Sempah Tunnel
The official opening of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway and Genting Sempah Tunnel in September 1979 represented a major milestone in Malaysia's infrastructure development, enhancing connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and the east coast while supporting economic growth and national integration.
