The name Malaia is a beautiful and unique choice for a baby girl, pronounced as mah-LIE-uh. Its origins are somewhat ambiguous, but it is often associated with the name Malaya, which means "free" in Tagalog, the language of the Philippines. Malaia carries connotations of independence and freedom, making it a powerful name for a strong and spirited individual. Over the years, Malaia has seen varying levels of popularity in the United States, with its highest occurrence in recent years being 40 newborns named Malaia in 2021. Despite its relatively rare usage—ranked at 4177th place in 2023—it remains an enchanting option for parents seeking something distinctive yet meaningful for their daughter.