| TRAVEL TIPS |
| History and Culture: |
There is a strong interlink between the country’s multi-racial and multicultural make-up and its history. Besides the local Malays and the native tribes, the immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other countries have all contributed to the multiracial composition of its population. Its interesting cultural diversity can be largely attributed to the country’s long and on-going interaction with the outside world and colonial rule by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. Consequently, the evolution of the country into a cultural melting pot is evident in the unique blend of religions, socio-cultural activities and traditions, dressing, languages and food. |
| Entry Requirements: |
Visitors to Malaysia must be in possession of a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended visiting period. Most nationalities do not require visas for social or business visits.
Citizens from the following countries are required to have a visa to visit Malaysia : North Korea, Cuba, Vietnam and the People's Republic of China. Nationals other than those stated will receive a visa upon arrival or are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month. However, it is recommended that visa enquiries are made at the Malaysian embassy or Malaysian consulate closest to you, as regulations are subject to change. More immigration and Visa info. Also check www.imi.gov.my for updated information. |
| When to go: |
From March to October. The climate is tropical, with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm and the rainy season is from November to March. Check out the climate. Try to avoid public and school holidays. |
| Where to stay: |
Accommodation ranges from five star hotels to delightful wooden beach chalets. |
| Language: |
Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken and understood. |
| Currency: |
The Malaysian currency unit is Ringgit (RM) and sen, where 100 sens equals one Ringgit. Most establishments accept major travelers’ cheques and credit cards. US$ 1 is roughly RM 3.40 (Check currency exchange for up-to-date exchange rates). Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers.
Visitors are not permitted to take more than RM 1000 in Malaysian currency out of the country and no more in foreign currency than was brought in. |
| Time: |
Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time. |
| Electricity: |
Malaysian electricity voltage is on a 240 volt 50-cycle system and uses a UK-style three-pin plug. European two-pin plugs can be used with a simple plastic adaptor, freely available. |
| Religion: |
The official religion of Malaysia is Islam but there is freedom of worship. |
| Water: |
Tap water is safe for drinking in Malaysia, provided that it is boiled first. Hotels usually provide bottled water for guests in their rooms. |
| Eating out: |
Local food is usually hot and spicy. Before you eat specifically ask the waiter not to give you any spicy food. |
| Telephones: |
Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or pre-paid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with card phone facilities or at any Telekom offices or other telecomunication providers. |
| Driving: |
Visitors will need an international driving licence. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and it is advisable to observe the speed limits, which are generally 50km/h in the city or residential areas and 80km/h or 110km/h on the highway and expressway. |
| Anti-drug law: |
Visitors to Malaysia are advised that the trafficking of drugs in the country is an offence punishable by the death penalty. |
| Health: |
The only vaccination requirements are yellow fever for those from infected areas. Cholera, smallpox and malaria have largely been eliminated. |
| Before you go: |
- Make sure you make copies of important documents.
- Confirm your reservation with your travel agent.
- Take with you important telephone numbers like your local travel agent and embassy.
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| Useful words: |
Basic English to Malay dictionary. |
| More info: |
Contact us. |
