First time in Malaysia: practical tips

Malaysia is one of the easiest countries in Southeast Asia to travel in. English is widely spoken, transport is good and the food is cheap and great. Still, a few things are worth knowing before you land.

Before you go

• Entry rules. Many nationalities get visa-free entry for short visits, but the rules depend on your passport. Check the official Immigration Department of Malaysia site, and check whether you need to fill in the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online before arriving.
• Plugs. Malaysia uses the three-pin UK-style plug (Type G), 240V.
• Travel insurance. Get it. Private hospitals are good but not cheap for visitors.

Money

• The currency is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR, RM).
• Cards work in malls, hotels and most restaurants. Hawker stalls, markets and small shops often want cash or a QR payment.
• ATMs are everywhere. Licensed money changers in malls usually give better rates than the airport.
• Tipping isn’t expected. Many restaurants add a service charge to the bill.

Getting around

• Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app for cars and food delivery. Set it up before you arrive.
• In Kuala Lumpur, the LRT, MRT and monorail cover most places you’ll want to go.
• Touch ’n Go is the local transit card and e-wallet, useful for trains, buses and toll roads.
• For longer trips, the ETS train runs along the west coast, and domestic flights are cheap if booked early.
• If you drive, Malaysians drive on the left.

Phone and internet

Buy a local prepaid SIM or eSIM at the airport or any convenience store. You’ll need your passport to register it. Data is cheap, and coverage is good in towns and along main roads.

What to wear

• It’s hot and humid all year, so pack light, breathable clothes.
• Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country. Beachwear is fine at the beach but not in town.
• For mosques and temples, cover shoulders and knees. Many mosques lend robes and headscarves to visitors.
• Bring a light jacket for over-cold air-conditioned malls, buses and cinemas, and for the highlands.

Food and water

• Eat at busy stalls, where the food turns over fast.
• Drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water.
• Ask for “kurang manis” (less sweet) if you find the drinks too sugary. They usually are.
• Halal food is everywhere. Non-halal places (especially Chinese restaurants serving pork) are clearly labelled or obvious.

A few useful Malay words

Where to start

New to Malaysia? A classic first trip is Kuala Lumpur plus one or two of these: Penang for food, Melaka for history, Cameron Highlands for cool air, or Langkawi for a beach break.