Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, is a diverse country known for its mix of vibrant cities, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches. From the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur to the pristine islands of Langkawi and the cultural heritage of Penang, Malaysia offers travelers a rich and varied experience.
Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit Malaysia depends on the region you plan to visit. The west coast experiences the best weather from November to April, while the east coast is ideal from March to October. However, Malaysia’s climate is generally hot and humid year-round, with occasional rain showers.
Average Temperature By Month
January: 27°C (81°F)
February: 28°C (82°F)
March: 28°C (82°F)
April: 28°C (82°F)
May: 28°C (82°F)
June: 28°C (82°F)
July: 27°C (81°F)
August: 27°C (81°F)
September: 27°C (81°F)
October: 27°C (81°F)
November: 27°C (81°F)
December: 27°C (81°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
Malaysia Time (MYT), UTC+8.
Currency:
The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
Language:
Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas, hotels, and tourist attractions.
Airport:
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) in Kuala Lumpur is the main international airport in Malaysia, serving as the primary entry point for international travelers.
How To Get Around
Public Transport: Malaysia has an extensive network of buses, trains, and monorails, especially in major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The KTM Komuter and LRT/MRT systems are convenient for traveling within cities.
Taxis/Grab: Taxis are available in cities and tourist areas, but it’s advisable to use ride-hailing apps like Grab for more reliable and transparent pricing.
Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Malaysia, particularly if you plan to visit remote areas or rural attractions. Roads are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be congested in urban areas.
Domestic Flights: Domestic flights are available for traveling between major cities and regions, offering a convenient option for long-distance travel.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 27°C (81°F)
February: 28°C (82°F)
March: 28°C (82°F)
April: 28°C (82°F)
May: 28°C (82°F)
June: 28°C (82°F)
July: 27°C (81°F)
August: 27°C (81°F)
September: 27°C (81°F)
October: 27°C (81°F)
November: 27°C (81°F)
December: 27°C (81°F)
Plugs:
Malaysia uses Type G electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable for secure internet browsing, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
Malaysia is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to exercise standard precautions, such as safeguarding belongings and staying aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards:
Credit card acceptance in Malaysia is widespread, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and UnionPay. Contactless payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also becoming increasingly common.
Debit Cards:
Debit cards are widely used in Malaysia for everyday transactions, including shopping and ATM withdrawals. Most banks issue debit cards that can be used domestically and internationally. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
ATMs:
ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas throughout Malaysia, allowing you to withdraw Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Most ATMs accept international cards, but it’s advisable to use ATMs located inside banks or major shopping centers for security. Some ATMs may have withdrawal limits, so plan accordingly.
Currency Exchange:
The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). It’s recommended to exchange your currency to Malaysian Ringgit upon arrival in Malaysia. You can exchange major foreign currencies at banks, currency exchange booths, and some hotels. US dollars and euros are widely accepted for exchange.
Banks:
Major banks in Malaysia include:
- Maybank (Malayan Banking Berhad): The largest bank in Malaysia, Maybank offers a wide range of banking services including savings accounts, loans, and foreign exchange.
- CIMB Bank: Another prominent bank in Malaysia, CIMB Bank provides various banking products and services for individuals and businesses.
Traveler’s Checks:
Traveler’s checks are becoming less common worldwide, and their usage is limited in Malaysia. It’s recommended to carry cash or use credit/debit cards for transactions. However, some banks may still offer services for cashing traveler’s checks, albeit with a fee.
Tips for Banking in Malaysia:
- Notify your bank before traveling to Malaysia to inform them of your travel plans and avoid any issues with card usage abroad.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, and be cautious when using ATMs, especially in secluded areas or at night.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry small denominations of Malaysian Ringgit for smaller purchases, as change may be limited.
By understanding the banking system in Malaysia, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
Malaysia
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Malaysia. Some areas have increased risk.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[60] (3) 2168-5000; US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, 376 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; KLACS@state.gov; https://my.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
60
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 999; Fire: 994; Police: 999
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Malaysia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, and COVID-19.
Climate
Tropical; annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to February) monsoons
Currency (Code)
Ringgits (MYR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
240 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): G
Major Languages
Bahasa Malaysia, English, Chinese, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Panjabi, Thai; note: Malaysia has 134 living languages
Major Religions
Muslim 61.3%, Buddhist 19.8%, Christian 9.2%, Hindu 6.3%, Confucianism, Taoism, other traditional Chinese religions 1.3%
Time Difference
UTC+8 (13 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Kuala Lumpur (includes Petronas Towers, Bukit Bintang, National Museum); North Borneo Railway; Semenggoh Nature Reserve; Batu Caves; Kek Lok Si Temple; Malacca City; Manukan Island; Lenggong Valley; Sarawak Cultural Village
Major Sports
Soccer, badminton, tenpin bowling, field hockey, tennis
Cultural Practices
Nod or give a slight bow when greeting a women or an older person. Introduce high-ranking people and older people first.
Tipping Guidelines
Malaysia has a non-tipping culture. You are welcome to leave change in a tip jar, but you are not expected to tip.
Souvenirs
Hand-woven embroidered silk/cotton cloth, batik sarongs, pewter items; precious silver bowls, jewelry boxes, and betel nut sets; woven-bamboo and various fiber-woven baskets, bowls, and mats
Traditional Cuisine
Nasi Lemak — rice soaked in coconut cream overnight and cooked with pandan leaves, lemon grass, ginger, and other spices; usually served with a hard-boiled egg, fried anchovies, sambal paste, and roasted peanuts
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
