The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur registered a population of 1,145,342 in 1996. The population of the greater metropolitan area was estimated at more than 2 million in the mid-1990s. From 1980 to 1991 the population growth rate of the federal territory was similar to the national growth rate. In Selangor, however, the rate was about double the national rate. Much of this growth took place in the KL metropolitan area, reflecting the urban sprawl that extends outward from the federal territory. The growth also suggests heavy rates of migration from Malaysia's rural areas to KL's outer suburbs. The migration has had various consequences, including a decline in Malaysia's rice production caused by labor shortages in rural areas. In addition to Malaysia's rural poor, migrants to KL's metropolitan area have included large numbers of immigrants from nearby nations, especially Indonesia, the Philippines, and Bangladesh. These newcomers, many of whom are illegal immigrants, are a source of friction for long-term residents of Kuala Lumpur. Most of the migrants are poor, and many live in low-income areas, including squatter settlements located mostly in the suburbs. The ethnic makeup of KL's population varies from the overall national pattern, reflecting the city's origins as a Chinese settlement. Whereas ethnic Malays are in the majority nationally, ethnic Chinese constitute the predominant group in KL, although the city also has a large Malay population and a substantial ethnic Indian minority. The principal languages include Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese, and Tamil (an Indian language); English is widely used in business. Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism are the principal religions practiced by Chinese, Malays, and Indians, respectively.Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2001
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2001 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. Kuala Lumpur Information info
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