Malaysia is home to a diverse population, with the Malays being the largest ethnic group in the country. Malays have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, sports, entertainment, and literature. Here are ten famous Malays who have left a lasting impact on Malaysian society:
- Tun Abdul Razak Hussein: The second Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein played a crucial role in the nation’s development and modernization efforts.
- Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad: Serving as Malaysia’s fourth and seventh Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad is known for his leadership and efforts to transform Malaysia into an Asian economic powerhouse.
- Datuk Lee Chong Wei: A former professional badminton player, Lee Chong Wei is widely regarded as one of the greatest badminton players of all time. He has won numerous tournaments and brought pride to Malaysia.
- Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah: The wife of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah is a highly respected figure in Malaysia. She is known for her advocacy of women’s rights and healthcare initiatives.
- Tan Sri Dr. Zeti Akhtar Aziz: She became the Governor of Malaysia’s central bank, Bank Negara Malaysia, in 2000. Tan Sri Dr. Zeti Akhtar Aziz is known for her strong leadership skills and contributions to financial stability.
- Tunku Abdul Rahman: Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman is regarded as the father of independence. He led the nation to gain independence from British colonial rule in 1957.
- Datuk Nicol Ann David: Considered one of the greatest female squash players in history, Datuk Nicol Ann David dominated the sport for many years and brought recognition to Malaysia on the international stage.
- Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman: Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman served as Malaysia’s first Deputy Prime Minister and was known for his role in the negotiation for the release of Singapore from Malaysia in 1965.
- Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz: A prominent politician and former Minister of International Trade and Industry, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz is known for her strong leadership and contributions to Malaysia’s economic development.
- Tan Sri Tony Fernandes: The co-founder of AirAsia, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes revolutionized travel in Malaysia by making flights affordable for all Malaysians, contributing to the growth of tourism in the country.
Most Famous Malays Celebrities
Famous celebrities from Malays roots have made a significant impact in various fields, including film, music, sports, and fashion. Their talent, determination, and unique cultural background have propelled them to achieve international recognition and success. Here is a list of some notable celebrities from Malays roots:
- Tan Sri P. Ramlee: Considered one of Malaysia’s greatest entertainers, P. Ramlee was a multi-talented artist, known for his acting, directing, and songwriting. He starred in numerous films during the 1950s to 1970s and composed iconic songs that are still loved today. His contributions to the Malaysian entertainment industry remain unparalleled.
- Fasha Sandha: Fasha Sandha is a popular Malaysian actress and model of Malay-South Korean descent. She gained prominence for her roles in various television dramas and has won several awards for her performances. Fasha’s beauty, charm, and acting skills have made her one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry.
- Amber Chia: Amber Chia is a successful Malaysian supermodel of Chinese-Malay heritage. She gained international recognition after winning the Ford Models’ Supermodel of the World competition in 2004. Amber has since worked with renowned fashion designers and appeared in prestigious catwalk shows and fashion magazines worldwide.
- Mahathir Mohamad: Although primarily known as a politician, Mahathir Mohamad, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia, is also of Malay descent. He served as Malaysia’s Prime Minister for a total of 22 years, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the country’s history. Mahathir’s leadership and contributions earned him respect and admiration both locally and internationally.
- Michele Gumabao: Michele Gumabao is a Filipina volleyball player and beauty queen who has Malay roots. She represented the Philippines in the Miss Globe 2018 pageant and was crowned as the winner. Michele is also an accomplished athlete, having played for the national volleyball team and won several championships in the sport.
Presented above is a compilation of esteemed celebrities with Malays heritage, showcasing their diverse backgrounds and outstanding achievements. If you crave a deeper understanding of the latest updates on celebrity news and noteworthy figures from various spheres, you are encouraged to explore further resources available to you. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of renowned personalities and stay informed about the current happenings in the celebrity realm.
Ethnic Factsheet: The Malays People
| Region | Population | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Total | Percentage | Rank | |
| Malaysia | 19,523,000 | 50.1% | 1st |
| Brunei | 1,000,000 | 67% | 2nd |
| Singapore | 500,000 | 13.4% | 3rd |
| Indonesia | 20,000,000 | 7.5% | 4th |
| Thailand | 2,500,000 | 3.9% | 5th |
References to the Malays Ethnic Group
Here are some references to dig deeper about the Malays ethnic:
- Wikipedia: Malays (ethnic group) – Provides a comprehensive overview of the Malays ethnic group, including their history, culture, language, religion, and more.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Malay – Offers a detailed exploration of the Malays, covering their origins, customs, political history, economic activities, and more.
- ASEAN Vocational English: Malaysian Culture – Malay Customs and Traditions – Focuses on the cultural aspects of the Malays, providing insights into their customs, traditions, festivals, clothing, and etiquette.
- Facts and Details: Malays in Malaysia – Explores the Malays’ role in Malaysia’s society, including their political dominance, social structure, educational challenges, and economic activities.
- JSTOR: Ethnicity and Democracy: The Case of Malays in Malaysia – Presents an academic perspective on the Malays’ political and social dynamics in Malaysia, discussing issues of ethnicity, democracy, and national identity.
As we continue to celebrate diversity and embrace the richness of different cultures, let us honor and draw inspiration from these remarkable individuals who have shaped our world. Thank you for joining us on this captivating journey.
