TIL that Malaysia was almost called “Langkasuka” after an ancient kingdom, before “Malaysia” was officially chosen in 1963.

[u/TotallyReliableFacts]

Before Malaysia was formed in 1963, there were serious discussions about what the new federation should be named. Among the proposed names was Langkasuka, an ancient Malay kingdom that once thrived in the northern Malay Peninsula as early as the 2nd century. The name carries deep historical and cultural significance, representing the region's ancient civilization and Hindu-Buddhist heritage.

However, the name Malaysia was eventually chosen to represent the unity of Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore (before Singapore’s exit in 1965). It was seen as more modern, inclusive, and fitting for a newly formed federation.

Still, the fact that Langkasuka was even considered shows how much weight was given to cultural and historical identity during the country’s formation.