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Malaysia, a multi-ethnic country in Southeast Asia, is a destination where you can enjoy both modern cities and beautiful natural environments. A relatively short flight from many parts of Asia, its popular tourist spots include Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Penang, and Langkawi. If you're planning a trip to Malaysia, it's important to familiarize yourself with some basic information first.

8 Essential Things to Know Before Your Malaysia Trip

Basic Information about Malaysia

Time Difference

• Malaysia is 1 hour behind South Korea.
• Example: If it's 10 AM in Korea, it's 9 AM in Malaysia. (Malaysia Standard Time is GMT+8)

Weather

• Malaysia has a tropical climate, making it hot and humid year-round.
• The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), so pack summer clothes.
• Climate can vary by region, so it's a good idea to check the weather for the specific cities you'll be visiting.

Voltage

• The standard voltage in Malaysia is 230V / 50Hz.
• They use the Type G socket (the 3-pin British plug).
• While devices from countries using 220V can be used without a transformer, you will need a universal travel adapter.

Visa Policy

• Holders of many passports, including those from South Korea, the US, and the UK, can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
• However, you may be asked to show proof of an outbound flight ticket upon entry, so it's best to have it ready.
• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Currency and Exchange Rates

The official currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR, RM). It can be confusing if you're not familiar with the denominations, so it's helpful to learn the basics beforehand.

Types of Malaysian Currency

The Malaysian Ringgit (RM) consists of banknotes and coins.

• Banknotes: RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, RM100

  

  Malaysian Banknotes

  
  
• Coins: 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen

  

  Malaysian Coins

  
  

It's a good idea to carry smaller denominations like RM10 to RM50, as smaller shops or street vendors may not have change for large notes (RM100).

While RM1 notes are common, coins are more frequently used in some areas.

Exchange Rate & Methods

The exchange rate fluctuates, but it's generally around 1 USD ≈ 4.70 MYR. Knowing a quick way to calculate the conversion can be very convenient.

Quick Calculation Tip: To get a rough idea, you can think of RM100 as being a little over $20.

Example: RM50 ≈ $10.60, RM10 ≈ $2.10

How to Exchange Currency in Malaysia

• Exchanging from Your Home Country
  • It's often difficult to get a good rate for MYR outside of Malaysia.
  • A highly recommended method is to exchange your home currency for US Dollars (USD) and then exchange the USD for Ringgit upon arrival in Malaysia.
• Using Local Money Changers in Malaysia
  • Airport money changers offer poor rates. It's better to exchange in the city.
  • Money changers in major shopping malls or areas like Central Market (Pasar Seni) in Kuala Lumpur generally offer competitive rates.
• Withdrawing from an ATM
  • You can withdraw Ringgit from local ATMs using international cards (Visa, Mastercard).
  • However, fees vary by bank, so it's wise to check the fees before making a withdrawal.
• Using a Travel Wallet Card (e.g., Wise, Revolut)
• These cards allow you to top up and pay in local currency, often without exchange fees.
• They usually offer better exchange rates than traditional cards and allow for ATM withdrawals.

Average Flight Prices & Duration

Malaysia is a relatively accessible destination, with a flight time of around 5-6 hours from East Asian hubs. Ticket prices vary depending on the season, airline, and class, so booking at the right time is key.

Flight Times to Major Cities

Destination	Average Flight Time	Layover Status
Kuala Lumpur	Approx. 6 hours	Direct flights available
Kota Kinabalu	Approx. 5.5 hours	Direct flights available
Penang	Approx. 6.5 hours	Mostly connecting
Langkawi	Approx. 7 hours	Mostly connecting
Johor Bahru	Approx. 7 hours	Mostly connecting

Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Kota Kinabalu (BKI) are the most convenient destinations with many direct flights.

For places like Penang, Langkawi, and Johor Bahru, connecting flights are common, usually involving a layover in Kuala Lumpur for a domestic transfer.

Average Flight Prices

Ticket prices vary significantly between the peak season (summer, year-end holidays) and the off-season (spring, autumn), and also depend on the airline.

Route	Average Price (Round Trip, Economy)	Major Airlines
Major Hub → Kuala Lumpur	$290 - $580	Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, various national carriers
Major Hub → Kota Kinabalu	$250 - $500	Jeju Air, Jin Air, AirAsia
Major Hub → Penang	$360 - $725	Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines (connecting)
Major Hub → Langkawi	$400 - $800	Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines (connecting)

Tip!

• When booking with LCCs (Low-Cost Carriers), always check the baggage allowance.
• During peak season (Dec-Feb, Jul-Aug), prices surge. It's best to book at least 2-3 months in advance.
• Airlines like AirAsia frequently have sales, so keep an eye out for promotional periods.

Regional Climate (Dry & Rainy Seasons)

Located near the equator, Malaysia has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity year-round. There are no distinct seasons, but the climate is generally divided into a dry season (sunny weather) and a rainy season (frequent rain).

Climate Comparison of Major Regions

Region	Dry Season	Rainy Season	Characteristics
Kuala Lumpur (West Coast)	May - Sep	Oct - Apr	Hot & humid year-round, intense squalls in rainy season.
Kota Kinabalu (Borneo)	Jan - Apr	May - Dec	Frequent but short-lived squalls.
Penang (West Coast)	Dec - Mar	Apr - Nov	Always humid and hot, but cooler near the sea.
Langkawi (West Coast)	Nov - Mar	Apr - Oct	Clear and pleasant in the dry season, heavy rain in the wet.
Malacca (West Coast)	May - Sep	Oct - Apr	Very little temperature variation throughout the year.

• Dry Season (Nov-Mar for West, Jan-Apr for East): Generally sunny with less rain, making it the best time to travel.
• Rainy Season (Apr-Oct for West, May-Dec for East): Frequent squalls (short, intense downpours) and high humidity.

City Highlights and Attractions

Malaysia is a captivating destination with diverse cultures and natural landscapes. From the modern urban vibe of the capital, Kuala Lumpur, to the beautiful beaches of Kota Kinabalu and the historic sites of Penang and Malacca, there's a travel theme for everyone.

Kuala Lumpur – The Modern Capital with Iconic Landmarks

Kuala Lumpur

Key Features

• Malaysia's economic and cultural hub.
• A city where skyscrapers coexist with traditional markets.
• Packed with diverse shopping malls and culinary delights.

Recommended Attractions

• Petronas Twin Towers: The world's tallest twin buildings.
• Batu Caves: A famous site with colorful steps and a massive Hindu shrine.
• Chinatown & Central Market: Great for souvenir shopping and street food.
• KL Tower Sky Deck: A place to enjoy stunning panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur.

Kota Kinabalu – A Paradise of Fantastic Sunsets and Marine Activities

Kota Kinabalu

Key Features

• The largest city in East Malaysia (on the island of Borneo).
• Known for one of the world's top three most beautiful sunsets.
• Offers a wide range of marine activities like snorkeling and diving.

Recommended Attractions

• Tanjung Aru Beach: The best spot to witness the magnificent sunset.
• Manukan Island & Sapi Island: For snorkeling and water sports in clear waters.
• Kinabalu National Park: Trekking routes with Southeast Asia's highest peak as a backdrop.
• Filipino Market: A market where you can enjoy local seafood and snacks.

Penang – The City of Art and Gastronomy in George Town

Penang

Key Features

• George Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• A unique atmosphere blending various cultures.
• Hailed as Malaysia's ultimate street food paradise.

Recommended Attractions

• George Town Street Art: Alleys filled with murals and photo opportunities.
• Penang Hill: Take a funicular railway to the top for cool, refreshing views.
• Kek Lok Si Temple: The largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia.
• Gurney Drive Hawker Centre: A place to taste a wide variety of Malaysian local foods.

Langkawi – A Resort Island Blending Duty-Free Shopping and Nature

Langkawi

Key Features

• One of Malaysia's premier resort islands.
• Duty-free shopping available (alcohol, chocolates, etc., are cheap).
• A harmonious blend of natural scenery and luxury resorts.

Recommended Attractions

• Langkawi Sky Bridge: A spectacular bridge that seems to float in the air.
• Mangrove Tour at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park: Explore a nature reserve by boat.
• Pantai Cenang Beach: A great beach for water sports and relaxation.
• Eagle Square (Dataran Lang): A landmark featuring a giant eagle statue.

Malacca – A City Embodying Malaysia's History and Culture

Malacca

Key Features

• Colonial-era architecture influenced by the Dutch, Portuguese, and British.
• A city with a European feel along the river.
• Home to many of Malaysia's oldest historical sites.

Recommended Attractions

• Dutch Square (Red Square): Malacca's iconic red buildings.
• St. Paul's Church: A historic European-style church.
• Jonker Street Night Market: For diverse street food and souvenir shopping.
• Malacca River Cruise: An evening tour along the canal to enjoy the city lights.

Tip!

• Malaysia's regions have distinct charms, so it's important to choose a city based on your travel goals.
  • City Travel & Shopping → Kuala Lumpur
  • Relaxation & Marine Activities → Kota Kinabalu, Langkawi
  • Food & Cultural Exploration → Penang, Malacca
• Travel between cities is convenient using domestic flights (AirAsia), long-distance buses, or trains (KTM).

Travel Packing List

To ensure a safe and convenient trip to Malaysia, it's crucial to pack the essentials. Here’s a checklist of what you need, from passports and currency to electronics and travel insurance.

Passport and Visa Check

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months (entry could be denied).

No visa required for stays up to 90 days for many nationalities.

Proof of outbound flight may be requested → Prepare your e-ticket.

• In case your passport is lost, prepare a photocopy or save a picture of it on your smartphone.
• It's also a good idea to note down the contact information of your country's embassy in Malaysia for emergencies.

Currency and Travel Wallet

Currency Exchange

• Exchange a small amount in your home country and more locally in Malaysia.
• City money changers offer better rates than those at the airport.
• Bringing new $100 USD bills to exchange for Ringgit (MYR) locally is also a good strategy.

Using a Travel Wallet

• A multi-currency card that allows you to pay without foreign transaction fees (top up via an app).
• Allows for cash withdrawals from ATMs as needed.

Carry small amounts of cash (for street vendors, taxis, small shops).
Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted.

Electronics and SIM/Roaming Options

Bring a universal travel adapter (for Type G, 3-pin plugs).

A portable power bank is essential (especially for long days of exploring).

Use a local SIM or eSIM.

• You can buy a Malaysian SIM card at the airport or in the city.
• eSIMs (virtual SIMs) can be purchased online before your trip.
• While roaming is an option, a local SIM is usually more cost-effective.

Recommended SIM brands: TuneTalk, Hotlink, Digi, Celcom (all easily available locally).

Travel Insurance

It's highly recommended to get travel insurance that includes medical coverage.

Check if it covers loss/theft (to protect expensive items like cameras, smartphones).

Save your policy number and emergency contact information after purchasing.

• Medical costs can be high, so insurance that covers emergency treatment is beneficial.
• If you lose something, you might need a Police Report for your insurance claim → Report any loss immediately.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing & Essentials

Clothing

• Year-round hot weather → lightweight summer clothes, shorts, cotton fabrics are recommended.
• Indoor air conditioning is strong → pack a cardigan or a light long-sleeved shirt.
• Modest attire is required for visiting temples/mosques → avoid revealing clothing.

Essential Items

• Sunscreen & Sunglasses (the sun is strong).
• Umbrella or Raincoat (for sudden downpours).
• Waterproof Pouch (useful for beach trips).
• Insect Repellent (mosquitoes can be common in some areas).

While Malaysia is hot year-round, indoor places like shopping malls and subways have powerful air conditioning, so an outer layer is a must!

During the rainy season, squalls are frequent, so a light raincoat or a folding umbrella is very useful.

Tipping Culture and Travel Etiquette

While Malaysia doesn't have a strong tipping culture, a small tip is appreciated in some service industries. As a multicultural country, it's important to be aware of and respect local customs and etiquette.

Tipping Culture

Restaurants & Cafes

• Most restaurants include a 'Service Charge' (10%) in the bill, so no additional tip is necessary.
• In high-end restaurants, if you received exceptional service, a tip of RM5-RM10 is a nice gesture.

Taxis & Grab

• Standard taxis use a meter, so no tip is required.
• For Grab (ride-hailing app), tipping is not necessary but can be done optionally through the app.

Hotel Services

• Bellhop: Tip around RM5-RM10 for help with luggage.
• Housekeeping: Leaving about RM5 per night on the bed is a common practice.

Massages & Spas

• Tipping is not mandatory, but if you were satisfied, RM5-RM20 is appropriate.
• Luxury spas often include a service charge, so check beforehand.

In Malaysia, giving coins as a tip can be considered rude.
Using Grab is often more convenient as some taxi drivers might try to negotiate fares and ask for a tip.

Travel Etiquette in Malaysia

Malaysia is a multicultural country with Islam as its official religion, so observing basic etiquette is important.

Avoid Public Displays of Affection

• As an Islamic country, overt displays of affection (like hugging and kissing) in public should be avoided.
• Even holding hands might be viewed with discomfort in some conservative areas.

Adhere to Dress Codes at Mosques

• Revealing clothing like shorts, sleeveless tops, and short skirts are not allowed.
• Some mosques provide robes for visitors to wear.

Use Your Right Hand

• It is polite to use your right hand when giving or receiving objects and when eating.
• The left hand is traditionally considered for personal hygiene, so avoid passing things with it.

Be Mindful of Pork-Related Conversations

• Muslims do not consume pork, so it's best to be considerate and avoid recommending it.
• Many Muslims also abstain from alcohol, so it's polite not to offer it.

Do Not Touch Someone's Head

• In Malaysian culture, the head is considered a sacred part of the body, so touching someone's head (even a child's) is considered disrespectful.

Check if You Need to Remove Your Shoes

• You must remove your shoes before entering some shops, homes, and places of worship.
• If you see shoes lined up at the entrance, it's a clear sign to take yours off.

Basic Travel Phrases

While Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, English is widely spoken in Malaysia. You can easily communicate in English in tourist areas, hotels, and shopping malls. However, knowing a few simple Malay phrases can leave a great impression on the locals.

Basic Greetings

English	Malay	Pronunciation
Good morning	Selamat pagi	Se-la-mat pa-gi
Good afternoon	Selamat petang	Se-la-mat pe-tang
Hello (General)	Halo / Hai	Ha-lo / Hai
Thank you	Terima kasih	Te-ri-ma ka-sih
You're welcome	Sama-sama	Sa-ma sa-ma
Sorry	Maaf	Ma-af
It's okay	Tak apa	Tak a-pa
Yes / No	Ya / Tidak	Ya / Ti-dak

Useful Phrases at a Restaurant

English	Malay	Pronunciation
Menu, please	Boleh saya lihat menu?	Bo-leh sa-ya li-hat me-nu?
I want this	Saya mahu ini	Sa-ya ma-hu i-ni
What do you recommend?	Apa yang sedap di sini?	A-pa yang se-dap di si-ni?
No coriander, please	Tolong tanpa daun ketumbar	To-long tan-pa da-un ke-tum-bar
Delicious!	Sedap!	Se-dap!
The bill, please	Boleh saya dapat bil?	Bo-leh sa-ya da-pat bil?

Shopping & Directions

English	Malay	Pronunciation
How much is this?	Berapa harga ini?	Be-ra-pa har-ga i-ni?
Can you give a discount?	Boleh diskaun?	Bo-leh dis-kaun?
Too expensive	Mahal sangat!	Ma-hal sa-ngat!
Where is the toilet?	Di mana tandas?	Di ma-na tan-das?
I'm lost	Saya sesat	Sa-ya se-sat
Please go here (to a taxi)	Tolong pergi ke sini	To-long per-gi ke si-ni

Emergencies

English	Malay	Pronunciation
Help!	Tolong!	To-long!
Call the police	Tolong panggil polis	To-long pang-gil po-lis
Where is the hospital?	Di mana hospital?	Di ma-na hos-pi-tal?
I'm sick	Saya sakit	Sa-ya sa-kit
Where is the pharmacy?	Di mana farmasi?	Di ma-na far-ma-si?

While you can get by with English in most situations in Malaysia, using a few basic Malay words can make your interactions much warmer!

This guide covers the essential information you need before traveling to Malaysia. Popular destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Langkawi are well-loved by travelers. By familiarizing yourself with currency, climate, transportation, and tipping culture in advance, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable trip. With thorough preparation, we hope you have an unforgettable time in Malaysia!

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