Embedded Files
Looking for something to impress your Social Studies (SS) teachers?
Well, here are some fun facts that you can toss about in your SS class when you are pressed for an answer about ASEAN?
Brunei has the largest residential palace in the world.
Brunei has the largest residential palace in the world.
It is no surprise that Istana Nurul Iman is the residential palace of the Brunei king and his family. However, do you know how big it is? It has (take a deep breath) … 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a mosque, a garage housing 110 cars, five swimming pools and super enormous banquet hall! Clearly, it is the most iconic architecture of the largest residential palace in the world.
Cambodia has the largest religious monument on Earth.
Cambodia has the largest religious monument on Earth.
If you have not heard of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, then you must be living under a rock. This religious temple, dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu God, was built in the 12th century by Khmer King Suryavarman II. Standing at a grandeur height of 162.6 hectares, it is the largest religious monument on Earth.
Indonesia has the most islands in the world.
Indonesia has the most islands in the world.
This fact, that Indonesia has the greatest number of islands in the world, may not be a surprise to some of you. (If it is, it’s time you pay attention during Geography class.) But do you know that this nation has 17,508 islands? In fact, there are so many that some are not even named… yet.
Malaysia used to be called the Peninsula of Gold.
Malaysia used to be called the Peninsula of Gold.
What do you think Malaysia used to be called (before it was called Malaysia)? Greco-Roman and Geographer Ptolemy (a famous person) gave the name ‘Aurea Chersonesus’, which means Peninsula of Gold. Check out the pronunciation and impress your friends and teachers!
Singapore has the 5th highest life expectancy in the world.
Singapore has the 5th highest life expectancy in the world.
The average life expectancy in Singapore is …. (drumroll)… is at 83.7 years, and it’s the highest in Southeast Asia. No. This does not mean everyone gets to live till 83 years old. The number is just an average (go back and revise your Math concept.) With advanced medical facilities and constant reminders from the government to stay healthy and keep fit, we should plan to lead more purposeful and meaningful lives!
Thailand has 40 000 Buddhist temples.
Thailand has 40 000 Buddhist temples.
Often referred to as ‘The Land of a Thousand Smiles’, Thailand boasts of over 40 000 Buddhis temples around the country. Perhaps this is no wonder, because Buddhism is the national religion of Thailand.
Vietnam is the world’s second largest exporter of coffee.
Vietnam is the world’s second largest exporter of coffee.
Vietnam currently holds the position as the second-largest coffee producer in the world after Brazil. For those caffeine addicts and Starbucks lovers, listen up! It’s time to really support ASEAN produce (they are our neighbours after all). The quality may be a tad different for picky tastebuds, ah, but they are certainly improving this area with Arabica coffee and possible Bourbon and Typica… (drool).
Have a fun fact that you would like to include in the next issue?
👉 Share them with us at: https://tinyurl.com/woodsarelitcontest
Contest
Contest
Can you name all of the 10 ASEAN countries?
Take part in our contest here! The classes with the most number of correct entries stand to win attractive prizes!
Page updated
Report abuse