Selangor is the most developed state in Malaysia – home to the sophisticated Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the renowned Sepang International Racing Circuit as well as containing Kuala Lumpur, the economic hub of Malaysia, and Putrajaya, the country’s administrative capital, within its boundaries.
With a population exceeding 4 million, Selangor is propelled by urban growth and commercialisation, evident in the large numbers of shopping centres, business complexes and industrial areas. Hence, Selangor is the richest state in Malaysia.
Selangor first started out as a territory under the Malaccan Sultanate. Then once Malacca fell to the Portuguese and then the Dutch, the Bugis people from Sulawesi came and settled in Selangor.
In the late 18th century, Selangor’s economy boomed as a result of the growing tin industry and demand for rubber. A large population of Chinese immigrants arrived but were entrenched in a civil war, disrupting the precious mining and rubber trade. The British took the opportunity to seize control of the state, restored order and prospered Selangor. After the war, it became part of Malaysia on Independence Day.
Today, Selangor is a modern state equipped with the latest facilities and infrastructure. Citizens from across Malaysia flock to Selangor (and Kuala Lumpur) to work and start businesses.
Yet, amidst the soaring buildings and burgeoning population, Selangor still has some attractions for the international visitor. There are tracts of rainforest still intact and some cultural sights to admire.
