Welcome to Malaysia 😊

Malaysia is a fantastic vacation spot located in Southeast Asia. It's a vibrant, multicultural country that's full of amazing sights and sounds! From the bustling cities to the beautiful beaches, there's so much to see and do here that you'll never want to leave.

One of the best things about Malaysia is the food. There are so many delicious dishes to try, including spicy curries, rich noodles, and savory rice dishes. And if you're a fan of street food, then you're in for a real treat! In Malaysia, you can find a huge variety of snacks and sweets sold by friendly vendors all over the place.

Another great thing about Malaysia is its natural beauty. There are stunning rainforests filled with exotic animals, as well as picturesque rivers and lakes that are perfect for boating or swimming. And let's not forget about the beaches! Malaysia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.

If you're interested in culture and history, then you'll love exploring Malaysia's many museums and heritage sites. From ancient temples to modern art galleries, there's something for everyone here.

So why not plan a trip to Malaysia today? It's an amazing destination that has something to offer for everyone!

Quick Facts About Malaysia

Currency: Ringgit (MYR)
Population: Approximately 32 million.
Languages: Malay, English, Chinese, Tamil

Money and Finances

The currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), which is divided into 100 sen. Coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen, while notes come in denominations of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, and RM100.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Malaysia, especially in urban areas. They are increasingly accepting foreign debit and credit cards, but it's always recommended to have cash on hand in case of any issues.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Malaysia, but Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted. AMEX is not as widely accepted, so it's best to have alternative payment methods if you plan to use an AMEX card.

Internet and Phones

Malaysia has a well-developed internet infrastructure with an average download speed of 30 Mbps and an upload speed of 25 Mbps. However, there have been reports of government censorship and restrictions on certain websites.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several telco companies operating in Malaysia, including Maxis, Celcom, and Digi. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around RM50 per month. SIM cards are widely available and there are no significant compatibility issues.

Dialling to Malaysia

To call Malaysia from another country, dial +60 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes used within Malaysia include 03 for Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, 04 for Penang, 06 for Malacca and Negeri Sembilan, among others.

Transport Around Malaysia

Air Travel

Malaysia has several major airports, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Penang International Airport, and Kota Kinabalu International Airport.

Train Travel

Malaysia has an inter-city train network operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB). A train journey from Kuala Lumpur to Penang takes approximately 5-6 hours and costs around RM35-45.

Metro / Local Trains

Kuala Lumpur has a comprehensive metro system, known as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) with several lines covering major parts of the city.

Buses

Malaysia has a well-developed bus network, with several major bus companies operating inter-city routes. A bus journey from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru takes approximately 4-5 hours and costs around RM25-35.

Rideshare

Grab is a popular rideshare company operating in Malaysia. The average fare for a 10km trip is around RM8-10.

Driving by Car

Driving is relatively easy in Malaysia, but traffic can be congested during peak hours. The speed limit on most highways is 110 km/h and Malaysia drives on the left side of the road.

Local Customs

In Malaysia, it is customary to greet others with a handshake or a nod. Tipping is not a common practice, but it is appreciated in restaurants and for other services. A 10% service charge may be included in bills. When speaking with strangers, it is polite to ask about their family and health before discussing business matters. Men and women usually address each other using titles such as 'Encik' for Mr. and 'Puan' for Mrs. or Miss.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Malaysia has a public healthcare system that provides basic and comprehensive medical services at affordable rates. The cost for a visit to the doctor is approximately MYR 20-30 (USD 5-7). Private healthcare is also available in major cities, but costs can vary widely. It is recommended to have travel insurance before visiting Malaysia to cover any potential medical emergencies.

COVID Situation

Malaysia implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including mandatory mask-wearing and movement restrictions. As of August 2021, the country is experiencing a surge in cases, with a daily average of over 20,000 new infections. Vaccinations are available for the general public and are highly encouraged for those eligible.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in Malaysia include dengue fever, malaria, and foodborne illnesses such as typhoid and hepatitis A. Mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent throughout the year, and travelers should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites. It is also recommended to only drink bottled or boiled water and avoid street food to reduce the risk of food poisoning.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is legal in Malaysia for non-Muslims, but subject to some restrictions and regulations. The legal age to consume alcohol is 21 years old.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use and possession are illegal in Malaysia, with strict penalties including imprisonment and even the death penalty for trafficking certain drugs.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country and has conservative views towards pre-marital relationships. Sex outside of marriage is illegal under Sharia law and can result in imprisonment, fines, and even caning.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

LGBTQ rights are not protected by law in Malaysia and same-sex relationships are illegal and punishable with imprisonment, fines, and even caning.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership is highly restricted in Malaysia, and only licensed individuals are allowed to possess firearms. Owning an unregistered firearm can result in harsh penalties.