2009
| Currency Rate to USD | 3.523 |
| GDP Per Capita (USD) | 7191.43 |
| Population (millions) | 28.12 |
| Nasi Lemak Price | RM1.95 |
| Teh Tarik Price | RM1.45 |
| Urban Population Percentage | 70.2% |
Reformasi Era
For many Malaysians, Reformasi meant both frustration and hope. In 1998, when Anwar Ibrahim was sacked as Deputy Prime Minister, it wasn’t just political drama—it felt personal: people seeing corruption, cronyism, and authoritarian rule in everyday life felt exposed.
2009 Perak constitutional crisis
The 2009 Perak constitutional crisis was a pivotal political upheaval in Malaysia that tested the boundaries of the nation's constitutional framework, particularly regarding the powers of the monarchy, legislative defections, and the formation of state governments.
Launch of 1Malaysia
The launch of the 1Malaysia concept in 2009 by Prime Minister Najib Razak aimed to foster national unity and efficient governance amid ethnic divisions and political setbacks following the 2008 general election.
Najib Razak Sworn In as Prime Minister of Malaysia
Najib Abdul Razak was sworn in as Malaysia's sixth Prime Minister on 3 April 2009, succeeding Abdullah Ahmad Badawi following the Barisan Nasional coalition's electoral losses in 2008, marking a key transition aimed at stabilizing the government amid political and economic challenges.
Capture of Mas Selamat Kastari
The capture of Mas Selamat Kastari on 1 April 2009 in Skudai, Johor, Malaysia, ended a 13-month manhunt for the Jemaah Islamiyah leader, demonstrating effective regional intelligence cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.
First Confirmed Case of Influenza A(H1N1) in Malaysia
The first confirmed case of the 2009 swine flu pandemic in Malaysia was reported on 15 May 2009, marking the arrival of the novel H1N1 virus in Southeast Asia and initiating a national response to contain its spread amid global alerts.
Death of Teoh Beng Hock
Teoh Beng Hock, a 30-year-old political aide and journalist, died under controversial circumstances on 16 July 2009 while in the custody of Malaysia's Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
5th ASEAN Para Games
The 5th ASEAN Para Games, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 15 to 19 August 2009, showcased para-athletes from nine Southeast Asian nations competing in 11 sports, highlighting regional commitment to inclusive sports amid Malaysia's hosting after Laos' withdrawal.
Arrival of KD Tunku Abdul Rahman Submarine
The arrival of KD Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia's first Scorpène-class submarine, on 3 September 2009, represented a key milestone in the Royal Malaysian Navy's modernization, enhancing its underwater capabilities and maritime defense.
Launch of Lotus Racing Formula One Team
On 15 September 2009, the Lotus Racing Formula One team was officially launched in Kuala Lumpur, marking Malaysia's debut as a constructor in the sport and symbolizing national ambition under the 1Malaysia initiative.
