AIRPORTS
Malaysia’s main international gateway is Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), located 75 km south of the capital. Destination Asia offers fast and efficient transfers from the airport to Kuala Lumpur and other resort destinations. Domestic flights from KLIA and the nearby low-cost carrier terminal (KLIA2) connect the capital to destinations such as Penang, Kota Bharu, Langkawi, Tioman, Kuching (Sarawak), and Kota Kinabalu (Sabah).

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE
To enter Malaysia, visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States do not require a visa for tourism or business visits and are granted a Social/Business Visit Pass upon arrival, allowing stays of up to three months. Travelers from other countries should consult the nearest Malaysian consulate for the latest visa requirements.

NOTE: All entry and visa information is subject to change without notice. It is the traveler’s responsibility to verify visa requirements prior to departure.

BUSINESS HOURS
Government offices operate Monday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 12:45 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:15 pm, and on Fridays from 8:00 am to 12:15 pm and 2:45 pm to 4:15 pm. Department stores and malls usually open from 10:30 am until 10:00 pm daily. In the states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah, the working week runs from Saturday to Wednesday, with the weekend on Friday and Saturday. Normal banking hours are Sunday to Wednesday from 9:15 am to 4:30 pm, and Thursday from 9:15 am to 4:00 pm.

BANKS
Banks are typically open from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Currency can be exchanged at banks and hotels, though more favorable rates are usually available at licensed moneychangers in shopping malls and commercial areas. ATMs are widely available in cities and major towns, though they may be harder to find in remote or island destinations. Maybank ATMs, found nationwide, generally accept MasterCard, Cirrus, and Visa debit cards. Cash is dispensed in Malaysian ringgit (RM), calculated at the daily international exchange rate.

CLOTHING
Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton are ideal for Malaysia’s tropical climate. While casual dress is widely accepted, covering arms and legs in the evening is advisable in rural areas to protect against mosquito bites. A lightweight raincoat is useful during the rainy season, when downpours can be sudden and heavy. If visiting highland areas like the Cameron Highlands, pack some warm layers as temperatures drop in elevated regions. When visiting religious sites, avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, or revealing attire.

CURRENCY
The currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit (RM). Banknotes are available in denominations of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, and RM100. Coins are issued in 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen (cents), with 100 sen equaling one ringgit.

CUSTOM ALLOWANCES
Travelers may bring the following items into Malaysia duty-free:

One liter of alcohol

One carton of cigarettes

Foreign currency may be brought into the country without restriction. However, amounts exceeding RM10,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared upon entry.

DOS IN MALAYSIA

Handshakes are generally acceptable; however, some Muslim women may prefer to acknowledge men with a nod and smile instead. A handshake should only be initiated by the woman.

The traditional greeting, or salam, is similar to a handshake but without a firm grip.

Always call ahead before visiting someone’s home.

Remove shoes before entering a Malaysian home or place of worship.

It is customary to offer guests drinks—typically water—and polite to accept.

Use your right hand when eating with your hands or when passing items to others.

Some mosques provide robes and headscarves for female visitors.

Ask permission before taking photographs at religious sites.

DON’TS IN MALAYSIA

Public displays of affection, such as hugging and kissing, are considered inappropriate.

Avoid sitting with your legs crossed in front of your host, especially for women.

Do not touch an adult’s head or point your feet at anyone.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—no bare shoulders, exposed legs, or revealing clothing. Skirts should fall below the knee.

Malaysians value composure; raising your voice or showing anger is considered poor form. Even in frustrating situations, remain calm and polite.

Nudity is not permitted, even on beaches. Women should wear modest swimwear, including tops.

ELECTRICITY
Malaysia uses 220–240 volts AC (50 Hz). The standard plug is the British-style three-pin square plug. Travelers should bring an appropriate adapter, though most large hotels can provide one on request.

ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
Kuala Lumpur leads the way with vibrant nightlife, offering a wide selection of stylish nightclubs and music venues—many located within major hotels. Bintang Walk is especially lively, with alfresco bars and cafés. Penang also boasts an energetic nightlife, with George Town’s Chulia Street and Love Lane offering upscale bars, restaurants, and clubs. Night markets are a popular form of evening entertainment throughout the country. Malaysia’s only legal casino is located at Genting Highlands, also known as “Fun City Above the Clouds.” Gambling outside of this government-approved venue is prohibited.

FOOD
Malaysia’s cuisine is a flavorful reflection of its multicultural society, blending Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Eurasian influences. Distinct fusion styles such as Mamak (Indian-Muslim) and Nyonya (Malay-Chinese) add further depth to its culinary landscape. A typical Malay meal centers around rice, accompanied by dishes like curries, fried chicken or fish, vegetables, and spicy condiments called sambal.

Popular Malaysian dishes include:

Satay – skewered, grilled marinated meat served with rich peanut sauce.

Ikan Bakar – grilled fish coated in chili sauce, wrapped in foil, and cooked over an open flame.

Nasi Lemak – a national favorite featuring coconut milk rice served with fried chicken, prawn crackers, dried anchovies, hard-boiled egg, and sambal.

HEALTH

No vaccinations are required unless you are traveling from or transiting through a yellow fever-infected area. Malaysia’s dense jungles are home to biting insects, leeches, parasites, and venomous snakes. If you’re planning a jungle adventure, use insect repellent, avoid walking barefoot, and take reasonable precautions to prevent bites and stings.
Private hospitals in Malaysia offer world-class medical facilities, and the country is becoming a popular destination for medical tourism. Most hotels and resorts have qualified English-speaking doctors on call who can provide treatment directly in guest rooms.

HOTEL INFORMATION

Malaysia offers excellent accommodation options for every budget. Kuala Lumpur and major beach destinations have a wide range of luxury properties, including all the major international hotel brands.
Peak travel periods for hotels in western Peninsular Malaysia are from December to February and July to September. On the East Coast, July to September is the busiest. Booking well in advance during these months is highly recommended.
Larger hotels typically offer multiple restaurants, bars, pools, and recreational facilities. Key hotel staff—such as at the front desk or in restaurants—generally speak excellent English.
At check-in, guests are required to complete a registration form and provide a credit card imprint as a guarantee for additional services. Ask the cashier to return the slip upon checkout. Make sure to collect any meal coupons (where applicable) when you receive your room key.
Standard check-in time is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 noon. If you require a late check-out, inquire with reception in advance, as extra charges may apply.

INSURANCE

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage before your trip. Proof of insurance or prepayment is typically required before any treatment is provided. Your insurance should also cover COVID-19-related medical and hospitalization expenses.

INTERNET

Malaysia is well-connected by phone and internet. Most hotels provide IDD (International Direct Dial) telephone services and Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi is also widely available in cafes and restaurants.
Local SIM card starter packs with data plans can be purchased easily from major mobile providers like Maxis, Celcom, and Digi. Communication apps like WhatsApp are commonly used across the country.

LANGUAGE

Bahasa Malaysia is the national language. Within communities, Chinese Malaysians often speak Cantonese, Mandarin, or Hokkien, while Tamil is widely spoken by the Indian population. English is widely understood and spoken throughout Malaysia.

PEOPLE

Malaysia’s greatest asset is its cultural diversity. The population includes Malay Muslims, Chinese Buddhists and Taoists, Indian Hindus, Indigenous peoples, and mixed-heritage groups such as Peranakans and Eurasians.
This rich blend of cultures stems from centuries of immigration and integration, resulting in a uniquely Malaysian identity that embraces various traditions and religions.

PROTECTING CHILDREN

We do not offer visits to orphanages and strongly discourage travelers from visiting them, even if approached by children. "Orphanage tourism" is often exploited by unethical operators and can harm children's well-being and education.
Supporting community-based and vocational training initiatives is a more sustainable and ethical way to help vulnerable children and families.
Child exploitation, including sexual exploitation, is a serious issue. It can occur in hotels, bars, or other public spaces. If you witness suspicious activity, do not confront the perpetrators directly. Instead, contact the authorities or child protection organizations immediately.

Malaysia Emergency Child Hotline: 15999

Childline Malaysia: www.mctf.org.my

Learn more at: https://thinkchildsafe.org

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Many religious festivals in Malaysia follow the lunar calendar, so their dates vary each year.
Key celebrations include:

Chinese New Year (Jan–Feb): Celebrated with firecrackers, red envelopes (hong bao), and mandarin oranges.

Gawai Festival (June): Celebrated in Sarawak by the Iban and Bidayuh after the rice harvest.

San Pedro Fiesta (June): In Melaka, Portuguese communities honor the patron saint of fishermen with boat decorations.
Please note that tourist sites may close without notice during public holidays. Our Destination Asia guides will keep you informed.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Peninsular Malaysia has an efficient public bus network, with separate stations for local and long-distance routes.
Driving is relatively easy with well-maintained roads and good signage, though drivers should watch out for motorcyclists and stray animals.
Malaysia’s rail network includes two main lines:

West Coast Line: From Singapore through Kuala Lumpur to Thailand.

East Coast Line (Jungle Railway): Cutting through the interior of Peninsular Malaysia.
Taxis are metered in most cities, and heritage areas like George Town offer rickshaws—ideal for exploring narrow streets.

RELIGION

Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, practiced by approximately 61% of the population. However, freedom of religion is enshrined in the constitution and is widely respected.
Major celebrations of other faiths—such as Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali—are national holidays.
Malaysia’s Chinese community practices a blend of Buddhism, Taoism, and traditional Chinese beliefs, while Hinduism is primarily practiced by the Indian population.

SAFETY

Violent crime against foreigners is rare, but petty theft can occur. Be especially cautious in less touristy areas.
Always keep personal belongings close, avoid leaving valuables unattended, and use hotel safes for storing expensive items.

SHOPPING

Malaysia is a shopper’s paradise. Kuala Lumpur alone has over 20 major shopping malls, particularly in the Bukit Bintang area (Golden Triangle).
From global fashion brands and electronics to traditional Malay clothing and handcrafted baskets, shopping options are endless.
For modern retail experiences, head to Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Langkawi. For traditional handicrafts, visit Malacca or the East Coast.
Duty-free shopping is available on Langkawi, Tioman, and Labuan Islands.

STREET STALLS

Malaysia’s street markets—also called “wet markets”—are vibrant and full of local flavor. They offer fresh produce, meats, spices, and basic cooking ingredients. For the freshest selection, visit early in the morning.
For souvenirs, consider buying batik, pottery, hand-painted tiles, dolls, brassware, and t-shirts.

TELEPHONE

Most hotels offer IDD services. However, a more economical option is to purchase a local SIM card with data from providers like Maxis, Celcom, or Digi.
These packs are affordable and widely available. Communication apps like WhatsApp are heavily used for messaging and calls.

TIME ZONE

Malaysia is in the GMT +8 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time.

TIPPING

Tipping is not customary but is appreciated for good service. For hotel staff, such as porters, a tip is recommended.
For tour guides and drivers, tipping depends on your satisfaction and can range from RM10 to RM50 per service.

WATER

Tap water in Kuala Lumpur is technically potable, but locals usually boil it before drinking.
Hotels provide complimentary bottled water, and ice cubes in hotels and restaurants are generally safe. Avoid ice from street vendors.
Convenience stores are open 24/7 and sell bottled water and a variety of soft drinks.

WEATHER

Malaysia has a tropical climate with high humidity and average temperatures around 30°C (86°F) year-round.
The rainy season primarily affects the east coast, northeast Sabah, and western Sarawak from November to February.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Emergency Services: Call 999

DISCLAIMER

This information was accurate at the time of publication and is subject to change without notice. We are not responsible for the content of external websites. By using this site, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and that GoAsia Travel is not liable for any damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to correct errors, inaccuracies, or omissions and to update information at any time without prior notice.