Malaysian Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

Malaysia is a country in South-East Asia, divided between the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo. Its population is made up of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous peoples. Many Malaysians have studied in Britain, and Birmingham's universities have welcomed generations of Malaysian students.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 1,040 people living in the city had been born in Malaysia; and 252 Birmingham residents described their ethnic group as Malaysian. Many Malaysians record their ethnic group as Chinese or Indian, so the number of Malaysian-born residents gives a better picture of the community.

Working for Birmingham

Malaysian graduates of Birmingham's universities have gone on to careers in medicine, engineering, law, accountancy and finance, both in Britain and at home. Malaysian doctors, nurses and pharmacists work in the NHS, and Malaysian restaurants serving nasi lemak and laksa have found a loyal following in the city.

Every community that has settled in Birmingham has helped to shape it. Newcomers have filled gaps in the workforce, opened shops and restaurants, and raised children who have gone on to become the city's doctors, teachers, engineers and entrepreneurs. The Malaysian community is part of that tradition of hard work and ambition, and of the city's own motto: Forward.

Culture and community life

Malaysia's many cultures mean many celebrations: Hari Raya at the end of Ramadan, Chinese New Year and Deepavali are all marked, often with open houses where friends of every background are welcome. Malaysian student societies organise popular food festivals and cultural nights.

Birmingham's strength lies in its variety, and the Malaysian community is a welcome part of it. As the city continues to grow and change, that contribution will remain part of the story of a place that has always looked forward.