Malaysia is home to a remarkably diverse population, comprising more than 300 distinct ethnic and sub-ethnic groups, according to data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). This extensive diversity is documented in the Ethnic Code used for the 2020 Census, underscoring the country’s multifaceted demographic landscape ahead of Malaysia Day.

Preliminary population estimates for 2026 indicate that Malaysia’s total population stands at approximately 34.3 million. Malays constitute the majority at 58.4%, followed by the Chinese community at 22%. Other Bumiputra groups account for 12.3%, Indians make up 6.5%, and other ethnic groups represent 0.8% of the population.

The greatest ethnic diversity is found among the Bumiputra communities of Sabah, which include more than 170 sub-groups within 15 recognized sub-ethnicities. Among these, the Kadazandusun, Murut, Bajau, and Orang Sungai sub-ethnicities feature prominently. The Orang Sungai, in particular, include multiple sub-groups such as Abai Sungai, Dewara, and Labuk.

Following Sabah, the Bumiputra groups of Sarawak display significant diversity with more than 90 sub-groups derived from sub-ethnicities including the Bidayuh, Iban, Kayan, and Kenyah. The Kenyah sub-ethnicity is noted for its internal variety, comprising some 30 sub-groups like Badeng, Jamok, and Lepo’ Long Wat.

In Peninsular Malaysia, the indigenous Orang Asli populations are classified into three main sub-ethnic groups: Melayu Proto, Negrito, and Senoi. These groups collectively encompass 18 sub-groups, examples of which include the Mah Meri and Semai communities.

This rich ethnic composition reflects Malaysia’s longstanding history as a multi-ethnic society, with diverse cultural heritages spanning the Malay Peninsula as well as the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. These varied communities contribute to the country’s cultural fabric and are officially recognised in national demographic records.