1.
The Malay Peninsula was labeled by Ptolemy, the Hellenistic Egyptian geographer, and astronomer, on his early map. What name did he give it?
Correct Answer
C. Aurea Chersonesus
Explanation
Ptolemy labeled the Malay Peninsula as "Aurea Chersonesus" on his early map. This name translates to "Golden Peninsula" in Latin, indicating the significance and value of the region.
2.
Ptolemy called the important straits along the Malay Peninsular “Sinus Sabaricus”. What is the modern name?
Correct Answer
B. The Straits of Malacca
Explanation
Ptolemy referred to the important straits along the Malay Peninsula as "Sinus Sabaricus". The modern name for these straits is "The Straits of Malacca".
3.
Westerners arrived in Malaya early in the 16th century. Malacca, a trading port then, was captured and colonized in 1511. Of what nationality were the first European colonists?
Correct Answer
C. Portuguese
Explanation
The correct answer is Portuguese because the passage states that Malacca, a trading port in Malaya, was captured and colonized in 1511. This suggests that the first European colonists were from Portugal, as they were the ones who captured and colonized the region during that time period.
4.
This sultanate controlled the maritime trade passing along the southern edge of the Malay Peninsular in the 15th century before being captured by the Western colonizers. It slowly declined after that.
Correct Answer
B. Malaccan Sultanate
Explanation
The Malaccan Sultanate controlled the maritime trade passing along the southern edge of the Malay Peninsular in the 15th century before being captured by the Western colonizers. After being captured, the sultanate slowly declined.
5.
A treaty in 1824 divided the Malay Archipelago into two spheres of influence, which in turn gave rise to separate nations of Indonesia and Malaysia. What is the treaty called?
Correct Answer
D. Anglo-Dutch Treaty
Explanation
The correct answer is Anglo-Dutch Treaty. The Anglo-Dutch Treaty, also known as the Treaty of London, was signed in 1824. This treaty divided the Malay Archipelago into two spheres of influence, with the British gaining control over the region that would later become Malaysia, and the Dutch gaining control over the region that would later become Indonesia. This division ultimately led to the separate nations of Indonesia and Malaysia.
6.
How did Malaya gain independence from the British in 1957?
Correct Answer
C. Local democratic elections, local government and eventual independence
Explanation
Malaya gained independence from the British in 1957 through a process involving local democratic elections, the establishment of a local government, and eventual independence. This suggests that the people of Malaya were able to participate in the political process and exercise their right to self-governance through democratic means. Over time, this led to the gradual transfer of power from the British colonial authorities to the local government, ultimately resulting in the independence of Malaya.
7.
What of these states and/or territories were added to what was then Malaya to form Malaysia in 1963?
Correct Answer
A. All of these
Explanation
All of these states and/or territories, including Sarawak, Sabah (British North Borneo), and Singapore, were added to what was then Malaya to form Malaysia in 1963.
8.
The King of Malaysia is known in Malaysia as:
Correct Answer
D. The Yang Di Pertuan Agong
Explanation
The correct answer is "The Yang Di Pertuan Agong." In Malaysia, the King is known by this title.
9.
Kuala Lumpur has been the capital since independence. Its name has a meaning in Malay. “Kuala” means confluence of rivers (it also means estuary). What does “Lumpur” denote?
Correct Answer
C. Mud
Explanation
The word "Lumpur" in Malay denotes mud. This is significant because Kuala Lumpur, as the capital of Malaysia, was built at the confluence of two rivers. The area was known for its muddy terrain, which is reflected in the name of the city.
10.
What nation’s flag does the Malaysian flag design resembles most closely?
Correct Answer
A. United States
Explanation
The Malaysian flag design resembles the flag of the United States most closely. Both flags have a similar horizontal stripe design with red and white stripes. Additionally, both flags feature a blue canton in the top left corner, although the Malaysian flag has a crescent and star symbol in its canton while the American flag has stars.
11.
This island was founded by Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company in 1786. It was named Prince of Wales Island. It is now a state within Malaysia. What is its modern name?
Correct Answer
D. Penang
Explanation
Penang is the correct answer because it was founded by Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company in 1786 and was originally named Price of Wales Island. It is now a state within Malaysia. Singapore, Klang, and Langkawi are not applicable as they are separate entities and not the modern name of this island.
12.
Apart from the Federal Territory, this is the smallest state within Malaysia. It once paid tribute to the King of Siam (Thailand), who carved the state out of another state. It is also the northernmost. Which is it?
Correct Answer
C. Perlis
Explanation
Perlis is the correct answer because it is the smallest state within Malaysia, excluding the Federal Territory. It used to pay tribute to the King of Siam (Thailand) and was carved out of another state. Additionally, Perlis is the northernmost state in Malaysia.
13.
This state was known to the mariners of old as Kallah or Queda. It is known as the "the Rice Bowl" of Malaysia. The state has produced two Malaysian Prime Ministers.
Correct Answer
B. Kedah
Explanation
Kedah is the correct answer because it is referred to as the "the Rice Bowl" of Malaysia, indicating that it is a major producer of rice. Additionally, the statement mentions that the state has produced two Malaysian Prime Ministers, further supporting the answer.
14.
The name of this state in English means "Silver". It is the first state to accept a British Resident. It is the main source for Malaysia's tin exports. One of its sultans was deported to Seychelles island in the mid-eighteenth century by the British.
Correct Answer
A. Perak
Explanation
Perak is the correct answer because it is the state that means "Silver" in English. It was the first state in Malaysia to accept a British Resident. Perak is also known for being the main source of tin exports for Malaysia. Additionally, one of its sultans was deported to Seychelles island by the British in the mid-eighteenth century.
15.
This state is considered the most industrialized in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur was once its capital. One of its famous British Residents is Frank Sweetenham.
Correct Answer
D. Selangor
Explanation
Selangor is considered the most industrialized state in Malaysia. It was once the capital of Malaysia, and Kuala Lumpur is located within Selangor. Frank Sweetenham, a famous British Resident, was associated with Selangor.
16.
This state was once known as British North Borneo. Its capital is Kota Kinabalu which was formerly known as Jesselton.
Correct Answer
B. Sabah
Explanation
Sabah is the correct answer because it was once known as British North Borneo and its capital, Kota Kinabalu, was formerly known as Jesselton. Sarawak, Pahang, and Johore are not relevant to the given information.
17.
This is the southernmost state in Malaysia. During World War II, the Japanese launched their invasion of Singapore across the straits which also carries the state's name.
Correct Answer
B. Johore
Explanation
During World War II, the Japanese launched their invasion of Singapore from the southernmost state in Malaysia. This indicates that the state is located near Singapore and shares a border with it. The state mentioned in the question that fits this description is Johore. Therefore, Johore is the correct answer.
18.
It was once ruled by a white rajah. It is also on Borneo Island. It is the largest state in Malaysia.
Correct Answer
A. Sarawak
Explanation
Sarawak is the correct answer because it meets all the given criteria. It was ruled by a white rajah in the past, it is located on Borneo Island, and it is the largest state in Malaysia.
19.
The Japanese began their invasion of Malaya from this state's capital on 6th December 1941.
Correct Answer
D. Kelantan
Explanation
The Japanese invasion of Malaya began from the state of Kelantan's capital on 6th December 1941.
20.
This is the only state established after independence. Its name in English means 'Federal Territory'. It is the home of both Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.
Correct Answer
C. Wilayah Persekutuan
Explanation
Wilayah Persekutuan is the correct answer because it is the only state that was established after independence. Its name in English means 'Federal Territory', which accurately describes its status as a separate administrative division. Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, which are mentioned in the question, are both located within Wilayah Persekutuan.
21.
What are the three main ethnicities in Malaysia?
Correct Answer
A. Chinese, Malay, Indian
Explanation
The three main ethnicities in Malaysia are Chinese, Malay, and Indian. These three groups make up the majority of the population in Malaysia and have significant cultural and historical influences in the country. The Chinese community is one of the largest ethnic groups in Malaysia, followed by the Malay community, which is the largest ethnic group. The Indian community also plays a significant role in Malaysia's cultural diversity, with a long history of migration and settlement in the country.
22.
In year 2005 what was the tallest building in Malaysia?
Correct Answer
A. Petronas Twin Towers
Explanation
The Petronas Twin Towers was the tallest building in Malaysia in 2005. Standing at a height of 452 meters, it held the title of the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004. The iconic twin towers are located in Kuala Lumpur and are known for their distinctive design and architectural beauty.
23.
When is Malaysia's Independence Day?
Correct Answer
B. August 31st
Explanation
Malaysia's Independence Day is celebrated on August 31st. This date marks the day when Malaysia gained independence from British colonial rule in 1957. It is a significant national holiday in Malaysia and is celebrated with various events and activities to commemorate the country's freedom and sovereignty.
24.
The highest mountain in Malaysia is ________.
Correct Answer
D. Mount Kinabalu
Explanation
Mount Kinabalu is the correct answer because it is the highest mountain in Malaysia. Located in the state of Sabah, it stands at an impressive height of 4,095 meters (13,435 feet) above sea level. Mount Mulu, Mount Jambul, and Mount Titiwangsa are not the highest mountains in Malaysia, making them incorrect options.
25.
Which of the following events are celebrated in Malaysia?
Correct Answer
C. All of these
Explanation
All of these events are celebrated in Malaysia. Malaysia is a multicultural country with a diverse population, including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various other ethnic groups. Christmas is celebrated by Christians, Chinese New Year is celebrated by the Chinese community, and Deepavali is celebrated by the Indian community. Malaysia recognizes and celebrates these events as part of its cultural diversity and promotes harmony among its different ethnic groups.
26.
The traditional breakfast in Malaysia consist of rice cooked in coconut milk, a spicy chili paste called sambal, peanuts, fried crispy anchovies and cool slices of cucumber. What is this dish called?
Correct Answer
C. Nasi Lemak
Explanation
Nasi Lemak is the correct answer. Nasi Lemak is a traditional Malaysian breakfast dish that consists of rice cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal (a spicy chili paste), peanuts, fried crispy anchovies, and slices of cucumber. It is a popular and flavorful dish in Malaysia.
27.
It is a kind of net-like folded pancake served with thin chicken curry. Much loved and enjoyed by young and old usually at breakfast. Do you know what it is?
Correct Answer
A. Roti Jala
Explanation
Roti Jala is a net-like folded pancake that is typically served with thin chicken curry. It is a popular dish enjoyed by people of all ages, especially for breakfast.
28.
At tea time, Malaysians love having nibbles with their cup of tea. These nibbles are called "Kuih". Among these, which is not a "kuih"?
Correct Answer
D. Kueh Teow
Explanation
Kueh Teow is not a kuih because it is a type of flat rice noodle commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore. Kuih, on the other hand, refers to a variety of traditional Malaysian snacks or desserts made from ingredients such as rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar. Karipap, Kuih Lapis, and Kuih Kochi are all examples of kuih.
29.
Although the Chinese love pork, pork is not sold in Chinese restaurants in Malaysia because it is disrespectful to Muslim patrons.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Malaysia is geographically divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. Peninsular Malaysia is located on the Malay Peninsula, while Malaysian Borneo comprises the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. These two regions are separated by the South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia shares borders with Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south, while Malaysian Borneo shares borders with Indonesia and Brunei.
30.
Malaysians enjoy cooling down with all sorts of fruit juices. Among these, which are most easily found on a hot day?
Correct Answer
D. All of these
Explanation
Malaysians enjoy cooling down with all sorts of fruit juices, and all of the options mentioned - chilled coconut water, sour sweet plum water, and fresh sugarcane juice - are easily found on a hot day.