General Information
Malaysia, a vibrant Southeast Asian country, is known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities. Experience the rich heritage, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Explore iconic landmarks, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. Perfect for business and leisure travelers alike.
Climate
Malaysia has an equatorial climate with uniform temperatures throughout the year. It has a temperature ranging from 22°C – 32°C (71.6°F – 89.6°F). Annual rainfall ranges from 2,000mm – 2,500mm.
Clothing
Casual and light dressing is recommended due to the high humidity levels at 80% throughout the year. Casual smart dressing is acceptable for most restaurants.
Currency / Credit Card
The Ringgit Malaysia (RM) is the currency for Malaysia. All major credit cards are accepted in shopping complexes and hotels while cash is required in rural areas. Licensed foreign money changers are available in all urban centres, key entry/exit points and shopping complexes.
Customs
Visitors have to go through the Customs again when travelling from Peninsular Malaysia to East Malaysia. Items such as cameras, watches, pens, portable radio-cassette players, perfume, cosmetics and lighters are duty-free in Malaysia. Visitors bringing in dutiable goods may have to pay a refundable deposit of 50% of the value for temporary importation.
Electricity
Electricity is supplied at 220-240 volts with 50 cycles AC system.
Emergency Call Numbers
For emergencies, call 999 (Police & Ambulance) or 994 (Fire). KL Tourist Police: (603) 2166 8322. Tourist Info: (603) 2693 6664.
Health
In Malaysia, health standards are ranked amongst the highest in Asia. Water in cities is safe to drink but it is best to boil before consumption. Mineral water is an alternative.
Local Area Information
Kuala Lumpur is situated midway along the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. It is approximately 35km from the coast and sits at the centre of the Peninsular’s extensive and modern transportation network. Being the largest city and the capital of the country, KL resides a population of almost two million people from all of Malaysia's ethnic groups.
Mobile Phones
Kuala Lumpur is situated midway along the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. It is approximately 35km from the coast and sits at the centre of the Peninsular’s extensive and modern transportation network. Being the largest city and the capital of the country, KL resides a population of almost two million people from all of Malaysia's ethnic groups.
Public Phones
Kuala Lumpur is situated midway along the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak rivers. It is approximately 35km from the coast and sits at the centre of the Peninsular’s extensive and modern transportation network. Being the largest city and the capital of the country, KL resides a population of almost two million people from all of Malaysia's ethnic groups.
Shopping & Business Hour
Most shops and department stores are open from 10.00 am – 10.00 pm Mondays to Sundays, and some close by 8.00 pm Sundays.
Bank & Government Office
Banks follow government office hours: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm on full days, 9:30 am – 11:00 am on half days. Closed on the first and third Saturday. In Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu, offices are open Saturday to Wednesday, and Thursday morning; closed Thursday afternoon and Friday. Other states' offices operate Monday to Friday and Saturday morning.
Taxes
Some shops add a 6% government tax while certain establishments charge 6% government tax and 10% service charge.
Traveller's Declaration Form
Travelers, both residents and non-residents, need to fill in the Travelers’ Declaration Form when carrying more than RM1,000 when leaving or entering the country. Residents leaving the country have to declare their foreign currency and Travelers’ Cheques that exceed RM10,000 whilst non-residents need not declare the amount of foreign currency brought in. Written permission is required from Bank Negara (National Bank).
Visa
Every visitor to Malaysia must possess an International passport or any recognized travel document that must have at least 6 months validity. Visitors from certain countries need to produce a visa which is normally applied for before entering the country. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if travelling from infected areas and from Yellow Fever Endemic zones, except for children below age one.
Airport
AIRPORT TAX Ticket prices will usually include a Passenger Service Charge of RM40 for international passengers or RM5 for domestic passengers. Cash in Ringgit or international credit cards are accepted. AIRPORT TRANSPORT One main gateway to Malaysia is through the new Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at Sepang located approximately 75km south of Kuala Lumpur. BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE Most airlines allow a 20kg allowance. Excess baggage charges will apply if exceeding this weight. PUBLIC BUS SERVICE Bus service is available one floor below the arrival floor. TAXIS Various taxi services such as budget taxi service, luxury taxi service, one-way limousine taxi and one-way metered taxi are available at the Airport.
Transportation
BUSES Rapid KL is the consortium which runs almost all the buses in Kuala Lumpur. Buses are fully air-conditioned. CAR RENTAL An International Driving License and a minimum age of 23 are required to rent a car in Kuala Lumpur. Cars can be hired with or without a chauffeur.RAILWAY Kuala Lumpur also offers railway services which are the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Double Tracked Electrified Commuter Trains (Komuter). To travel between Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Butterworth and Haadyai, the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) is available at the National Railway Station. Tickets must be bought two days ahead of travelling time. TAXIS Taxis are available on the street and at designated stands. Fares are subject to 50% surcharge when travelling from midnight to 6:00 a.m.