The mix of cultures is evident in Malaysian food. The Chinese-Malay "Nonya" food, sits next to Indian food and traditional Chinese fare. Malay food stalls serve up local favorites including roti canai, an Indian-style flatbread, and spicy soup called Laksa.
Whether in a fancy food court in one of the many upscale shopping malls or on the street, food is abundant, cheap and a real way of life for Malaysians, who are eager to share their love of local cuisine.
Despite this warm and welcoming attitude, Malaysia is also a moderate-conservative country with strict state control over media and tough censorship laws. Print media must renew their licenses annually, and the government can suspend or take away publishing permits if they feel the need to do so.
Several female pop stars have had to cancel their performances in Malaysia on account of their clothing or shows that were deemed immoral. Beyonce and Kesha are two such performers who have made headlines in recent years, both having had to ditch tours to Malaysia due to cultural and religious sensitivities.