A–Z Travel Tips
A
Accommodation (see also Budgeting for Your Trip)
Book at least two months in advance during the high season (See Public Holidays) and school holidays (a week in January/February, a week in March, three weeks in June, a week in August and five weeks in November/December). Weekend and holiday surcharges usually apply. The rest of the year is low season and discounts are often available. Island accommodation off the east coast is usually closed during the northeast monsoon months (Nov to Feb/March).
Hotels. International-standard hotels can be found in the state capitals and popular holiday spots. For details, visit the Malaysian Association of Hotels website (www.hotels.org.my).
Budget rooms and chalets. These can be found in resort islands like Langkawi, Pangkor and Tioman, and along East Coast beaches like Cherating, Rantau Abang and Marang.
Guesthouses and apartments. Privately owned, breakfast is usually included and most owners also help with travel arrangements.
Homestays. In villages and longhouses, tourists stay with their host families and participate in daily activities. Check with Homestay Malaysia (www.go2homestay.com).
Resthouses. These are bungalows formerly owned by English planters and civil servants, now turned into hotels with a colonial atmosphere. You will find them in the Cameron Highlands, Taiping, Fraser’s Hill and some small towns.
Airports (see also Getting There)
The major international airports are in Sepang (Kuala Lumpur International Airport or KLIA), Selangor, Subang (the Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport), Bayan Lepas in Penang, Kuching in Sarawak, Labuan Island (an offshore financial centre off Sabah), and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. You can also fly into Malaysia via Langkawi Island and Tioman Island.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) (KUL; www.klia.com.my; tel: 03-8777 8888) is 70km (43 miles) from KL and connected to KL Sentral rail hub by the high-speed rail link ERL, a 28-minute ride for RM35. From KLIA, the first train is at 5am and last train at 1am (12.30am from KL Sentral); they run every 15–20 minutes. All-day transfers are also available by limousine or taxi. The cost varies depending on where you want to go. To KL City Centre (KLCC), the budget taxi costs from RM75, more by limo, luxury car or van. A surcharge of 50 percent applies from midnight to 6am. The Airport Coach from KLIA to KL runs from 12.30am–11pm, departing every 30 minutes for RM18 return. The journey from the city takes up to one hour even with the excellent expressway system and the vehicle travelling at the maximum 110km/h (69mph) speed limit.
Located about 2 km (about 1,2 miles) from KLIA is the new terminal KLIA2 (www.klia2.info; tel: 03-8778 5000) for budget airlines. An Express Rail Link connects KLIA to KLIA2 (customer service tel: 03-2267 8000). KLIA Express is the fastest and most convenient way of travelling from KLIA to Kuala Lumpur city centre (RM35 one way adult fare). The cheapest way to get from KLIA and KLIA2 to KL Sentral is by shuttle bus, which operate at 30-minute intervals (cost RM10 for one-way ticket and RM18 for a return ticket). There is also a coach/ERL service (www.kliaekspres.com) to KL Sentral for RM12.50 (7.20am–12.30am; every 30 minutes) or the SkyBus (tel: 16 217 6950) to KL Sentral (3am–10pm; every 30 minutes) for RM9 or to 1-Utama, a shopping centre in Petaling Jaya (5.45am–7.45pm; every 90 minutes) for RM15. Allow 75 minutes’ travelling time for these options. You can also purchase a taxi coupon at the arrival hall (generally the same cost as taxis from KLIA to KLCC).
Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SAASA) (SZB; www.subangskypark.com/terminal; tel: 03-7846 1833), 26km (16 miles) from KL, is now largely used for private charters, Berjaya Air’s flights to various resort islands and Firefly’s to domestic and regional airports. Taxis operate 7am to the last arriving flight and, depending on traffic conditions, takes 30–45 minutes to reach KLCC. Costs range from RM40 for a budget taxi to RM70 for a premier taxi and RM80 for a van.
B
Budgeting for Your Trip
Holders of the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) and Hostelling International receive discounts at selected attractions and hotels.
Flights: A flight from KL to Kuching in Sarawak or Kota Kinabalu in Sabah can cost RM300–600, depending on when you fly and how far in advance you purchase your ticket. From time to time Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia and Firefly have online promotions, offering seat prices under RM50 (before the add-ons) for domestic destinations but for specific dates of travel.
Accommodation. Prices generally start from RM30 a night in budget places (air-conditioning, with a shared bath) to RM130 for a mid-range en-suite double room and RM450 for high-end establishments.
Meals. Food in Malaysia is relatively inexpensive, and, apart from high-end restaurants, you can eat well on a very modest budget. A three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant costs RM30–90.
Museum/attraction entry fees. Nominal admission charges of under RM5 may apply for national and state museums. Private museums charge a higher fee of RM10–20. Entrance to most galleries is free. Zoos and bird parks have higher entry charges, ranging from RM20–45.
C
Camping
There is no organised network for campers but camping is a good and cheap option in Malaysia. If you have your own camping gear, campsites with basic facilities such as cooking areas and bathrooms are available within the major nature parks. Charges for park entrance and a hiking permit apply, generally from RM5–30. Some popular camping sites are found at:
Bako National Park, Sarawak: National Parks Booking Office, Visitors Information Centre, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak; tel: 082-248 088; www.sarawakforestry.com/htm/snp-np.html.
Endau-Rompin National Park, Johor: Johor National Parks Corporation, Level 1, Bangunan Dato’ Mohamad Salleh Perang, Kota Iskandar, 79575 Nusajaya, Johor; tel: 07-266 1301; www.johorparks.blogspot.com/p/promotions.
Taman Negara, Pahang: Mutiara Taman Negara, Kuala Tahan, 27000 Jerantut, Pahang; tel: 09-266 3500; www.mutiarahotels.com.
Car Hire (see also Driving)
Several car hire companies have counters at most airports, including: KLIA, Penang, Ipoh, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Bintulu, Miri and Langkawi.
Rates range from RM120–1,000 per day, depending on the make and engine capacity of the car, and whether it is the peak season. Major credit cards are accepted and you are required to leave a refundable deposit. The car will usually be delivered with a full tank of petrol and must be filled up before you hand it back. You need either an international driving licence or a valid licence from your own country (valid for at least one year). In most cases, drivers must be over 21 years of age.
Avis Car Rental: Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur, Main Lobby, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur; tel: 1800-882 847; www.avis.com.my.
Extra Rent-A-Car: 2nd Floor, Beverley Hotel, Jalan Kemajuan, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah; tel: 088-218 160; www.e-erac-online.com.
Kasina Rent-a-Car: 195 Block G, Mukim 12, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Sungai Tiram, Bayan Lepas, 11900 Penang; tel: 04-644 1842; www.kasina.com.my.
Orix Car Rental: Lot 8, Ground Floor, The Federal Hotel Kuala Lumpur, 35 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur; tel: 03-9284 7799, www.orixauto.com.my.
Sime Darby Rent A Car: Lot 2 Ground Floor, Kompleks Antarabangsa, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur; tel: 03-2148 6433; www.simedarbycarrental.com.
Climate
Malaysia is a tropical country, and the heat and humidity can take its toll on the unsuspecting, especially if you have just departed from a country in the midst of winter. Daily lowland temperatures range from 22–35°C (72–95°F). Rainfall averages 250cm (98in) annually. Nights can be cool.
Monsoon rains bring heavy showers. The northeast monsoon lasts from November until February; most affected are the east coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang, and parts of Sabah. Some parts of the country may become isolated during the monsoon, but this is usually only temporary.
It is not advisable to swim in the sea or travel in small boats off the east coast during the northeast monsoon. Other than that, the seas in Malaysia are generally for swimming, sailing and water sports.
Clothing (see also Religion)
Since the climate is hot, humid and wet, you should wear thin, light-coloured, loose clothing, preferably made of cotton. At the hill resorts, a sweater will suffice to keep you warm but bring warmer clothing and even gloves if you are visiting Gunung Mulu or Kinabalu.
Malaysians dress in a relaxed manner, even at fancy restaurants. At a formal occasion, a suit and tie or a long-sleeved batik shirt will do. However, sandals and slippers are too casual for restaurants and clubs. At the beach, anything goes except for topless or nude sunbathing.
Crime and Safety (see also Emergencies and Police)
Malaysia used to be generally safe, but as in any other country, some basic rules apply. Petty theft occurs in tourist areas, pickpocketing in crowded shopping centres and on trains during peak hours and some consular warnings point to a high rate of credit card fraud and snatch thieves.
If you are a victim of crime, make a report at the nearest Tourist Police (see Emergencies, hotline tel: 03-2149 6590) or police station (tel: 999 from a fixed line or 112 from mobile telephone) and contact your embassy or consulate if you have lost your passport.
Due to the ongoing increase in international terrorism acts, many foreign affairs offices advise against all but essential travels to all islands off the coast of eastern Sabah from Kudat to Tawau, including (but not limited to) Lankayan, Mabul, Pom Pom, Kapalai, Litigan, Sipadan and Mataking. There is also a threat of kidnapping and criminality on the eastern coast of Sabah and in particular the islands close to the Sulu Archipelago in the southern Philippines. You should also take great care in the town of Sandakan and along the coastal area south to Tawau and in areas east of Lahad Datu and around Semporna.
Piracy in South East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. There have been a number of attacks against ships in and around Malaysian waters, particularly in the Strait of Malacca and the waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines. Keep up to date with developments and follow the advice of your tour operator and the local authorities. Do not forget about taking out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
D
Disabled Travellers
Basic disabled-friendly facilities, like extra-wide parking bays, wheelchair ramps and toilets, can be found in major hotels, malls, theatres, fast-food chains and some government buildings in the bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur. The Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system in Kuala Lumpur are also disabled-friendly. But in general, Malaysia falls short on accommodating people with disabilities. Urban streets are uneven and sometimes potholed and difficult to navigate, while ramps are not that common. Taxis will usually not transport people in wheelchairs or will apply additional charges.
Driving (see also Transport)
In Malaysia, driving is on the left – a legacy of British colonialism – and the wearing of seat belts is compulsory. Road signs are in Malay, but in Kuala Lumpur, major tourist destinations are also in English.
The highway code is of the universal type, with distances and speed limits in kilometres. The speed limit varies with the road conditions: it ranges from 90 to 110 km/h (56–68 mph) on highways and from 30 to 80 km/h (18–50 mph) in urban areas and town limits. It is illegal to use mobile phones while driving.
Roads are generally of good quality, and the North–South Expressway, which links Singapore to Thailand, is of international standard, though you have to pay a toll to use it. Rental car companies usually provide you with an emergency contact number should your car break down. Failing that, the Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) has a prompt breakdown service for members (tel: 1300 226 226).
E
Electricity
The voltage is 220–240 volts throughout Malaysia. Electricity is widely available except in remote areas and some islands, where generators are used.
Note: You will find square three-pin plugs, while some old hotels use two-pin plugs. A universal adapter is handy.
Embassies and Consulates
Unless otherwise noted, all are in Kuala Lumpur.
Australia. 6 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng; tel: 03-2146 5555; www.malaysia.highcommission.gov.au.
Canada. 17th Floor, Menara Tan & Tan, 207 Jalan Tun Razak; tel: 03-2718 3333; www.canadainternational.gc.ca.
Ireland. Ireland House, The Amp Walk, 218 Jalan Ampang; tel: 03-2161 2963; www.embassyofireland.my.
New Zealand. 21st Floor, Menara IMC, 8 Jalan Sultan Ismail; tel: 03-2078 2533; www.nzembassy.com.
South Africa. Suite 22.01, Menara HLA, 3 Jalan Kia Peng; tel: 03-2170 2400; www.sahighcomkl.com.my/za.
UK. 185 Jalan Ampang; tel: 03-2170 2200; www.ukinmalaysia.fco.gov.uk.
US. 376 Jalan Tun Razak; tel: 03-2168 5000; malaysia.usembassy.gov.
Emergencies (see also Crime and Safety)
Dial 999 (112 from mobile phone) if you need to contact the police or ambulance services, or 994 for the fire and rescue services.
You’ll find Tourist Police in Kuala Lumpur (109 Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur; tel: 03-2163 3657; open 24 hours); Penang (Penang Port Commission, 10500 Penang; tel: 04-261 2211; open Mon–Fri 8am–5pm); Melaka (tel: 06-281 4803; Lot 71, Jalan Laksamana, 75000 Melaka; open 24 hours; opposite the Post Office), emergencies tel: 06-285 1999; Kota Kinabalu (Sabah Contingent Police Headquarters, Jalan Pahlawan, Kepayan, 88560 Kota Kinabalu; tel: 088-450 222; open Mon–Fri 8am–5pm; opposite the Penang Bazaar) and Kuching (Sarawak Contingent Police Headquarters, Jalan Badruddin, 93400 Kuching; tel: 082-250 522; open daily 8am–midnight; a 15-minute walk southwest of Sarawak Museum).
G
Gay and Lesbian Travellers
Homosexuality is illegal under Malaysian law. Nevertheless, gay life is tolerated throughout the country, although discretion is strongly advised, especially in popular meeting places. For further information on this subject, visit www.utopia-asia.com/tipsmala.htm.
Getting There (see also Airports)
Flying is the most common means of getting to Malaysia, with KLIA and KLIA2 (budget airline terminal) being the major gateways. The national airline, Malaysia Airlines, flies from numerous destinations around the world. Many airlines, like KLM, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific, fly to KLIA. Budget airline AirAsia also connects to the region and internationally to the Middle East, South Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Community airline Firefly also connects to Singapore and selected cities in Thailand and Indonesia. Fares are best booked online. Many people travel to Malaysia quite economically on packages or tours. You can also travel by train or coach from Thailand and Singapore.
Tours or treks into the more remote parts of the country do benefit from the assistance of a guide. Most people make arrangements in advance of their trip but if you have not done so, you can find tour companies in major destinations. Here is a selection:
Borneo Adventure (Kuching Head Office, tel: 082-245 175; www.borneoadventure.com) provides tours in Sabah and Sarawak.
Dev’s Adventure Tours (mobile tel: 019-494 9193; www.langkawi-nature.com) has eco-friendly tours of Langkawi’s culture and nature.
Green John Chan (mobile tel: 016-356 9169) offers trips to destinations steeped in nature, heritage and culture, led by a licensed nature guide.
Hook, Line and Sinker (tel: 03-7725 2551; www.hook-line-sinker.net) has sea fishing and freshwater fishing packages.
NKS Travel (tel: 03-2072 0336; www.taman-negara-nks.com) brings guests from KL to explore Taman Negara.
North Borneo Safari (tel: 089-666 196; www.northborneosafari.com) organises photo safari tours in Borneo.
Ping Anchorage Travel and Tours (tel: 09- 626 2020; www.pinganchorage.com.my) arranges domestic tours.
Riverbug (tel: 088-260 501; www.traversetours.com) has white-water kayaking trips in Sabah’s scenic Kiulu and Padas rivers.
TYK Adventure Tours (tel: 088-232 821; www.tykadventuretours.com) offers cycling and World War II tours.
H
Health and Medical Care
Every town has a government hospital and major towns and cities have private clinics and hospitals.
If you have a sensitive stomach, do be cautious when ordering food and drink from hawkers’ stalls. Though the tap water is chlorinated, drink boiled or bottled water.
Pharmacies, many of which are in department stores, close at 9.30pm. A licensed pharmacist is usually on duty weekdays from 10am–5pm.
Check with your doctor before you travel whether any vaccinations or other health precautions are recommended for your trip. If you have visited a yellow-fever-infected country recently, check the latest regulations about showing an appropriate vaccination certificate.
L
Language
Bahasa Malaysia, or Malay, is the national language. But English is widely known and used as well; there shouldn’t be any communication problems unless you are in a remote area.
Where is the … consulate? Dimanakah konsulat …?
Do you speak English Bolehkah awak bercakap bahasa Inggeris
I don’t understand. Saya tidak faham.
You’re welcome. Sama-sama.
Excuse me (I’m sorry). Maafkan saya.
How are you? Apa khabar?
Very well, thank you Sangat baik, terima kasih.
good morning selamat pagi
good evening selamat petang
good night selamat malam
goodbyeselamat tinggal
please tolong
thank you terima kasih
yes (correct) betul
no (incorrect) salah
road/street jalan/lebuh
hill bukit
church gereja
temple kuil
mosque masjid
palace istana
park taman
M
Maps
You can find free maps at hotels, tourist information centres, major airports and train stations. More detailed maps can be purchased at petrol stations and leading bookshops.
Media
Local English-language newspapers are New Straits Times, The Malay Mail, The Star and The Sun, available at all newsstands, with The Sun being free. In Sabah and Sarawak you will also find local English-language editions of New Sabah Times, New Sarawak Tribune and The Borneo Post. Juice, Vision KL, and KLue, which are some of the popular local lifestyle and entertainment magazines, have news and listings of what is happening in the cities.
Money
The official name for the monetary unit is Ringgit Malaysia (RM). One hundred sen make one Ringgit. Coins: 5, 10, 20 and 50 sen coins. Banknotes: RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50 and RM100.
Banks and currency exchange. Major credit cards can be used at most hotels, department stores and some shops. Currency can be exchanged at banks or licensed moneychangers (most licensed moneychangers close by 9.30pm if they are in shopping centres). Exchange rates vary, so shop around, but you usually get a better rate at the moneychangers.
O
Opening times
Malaysia has a dual system regarding the opening hours of government offices. In the states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah, government offices open Sun–Wed 8am–4.15pm, Thu 8am–4.30pm. Banks open Sun–Wed 9.15am–4.30pm, Thu 9.15am–4pm.
For the rest of the country, most banks are open Mon–Thu 9.30am–4.30pm, Fri 9.30am–4pm. Selected banks in shopping centres remain open on weekends or just Saturday 9.15am–12.15pm, while at airports and at KL Sentral, banks are open daily but with different opening hours. Government offices open Mon–Fri 8am–4.15pm, with lunch 12.45pm–2pm except for Friday, when it is prayer time for Muslims 12.30pm–2.45pm.
Shops open daily from 9am until 6 or 7pm, while major department stores open from 10am until 9.30 or 10pm. Most museums close at 5.30pm.
P
Police (see also Crime and Safety)
Police stations can be found in almost every city and town in Malaysia. While the policemen and women wear dark-blue uniforms, the Tourist Police wear a chequered hatband with a red-and-blue badge with the letter “I” (for information) on the breast pocket. The federal police headquarters is at Jalan Bukit Aman, Perdana Botanical Gardens, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Dial 999 for the police.
Post Offices
Post offices in Penninsular Malaysia (except Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu) operate Mon-Fri (8.30am-8pm, and on Saturday (except for the first sat of the month and public holidays) 8.30am-5pm. In Sabah and Sarawak offices operate on weekdays 8am-4.30pm and on Saturdays 8am-12.30pm. Visit www.pos.com.my for more information
Stamps are sold at post offices and hotels, but letters can be dropped into red post boxes found everywhere. Major hotels will post letters for you.
Malaysia has an express mail system (available at major post offices) called Pos Laju, which offers domestic delivery within 24 hours; other express services operate to overseas destinations.
Public Holidays
Malaysia has numerous public holidays, which vary from year to year and are as follows:
1 January New Year’s Day
January/February Chinese New Year (two days); Hindu festival of Thaipusam; Federal Territory Day (in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan)
March/April Good Friday (in Sabah and Sarawak)
1 May Labour Day
May Wesak Day, a time of prayer for Buddhists
30–31 May Kaamatan Harvest Festival in Sabah
1–2 June Gawai Harvest Festival in Sarawak
2 June King’s Birthday
31 August National Day
16 September Malaysia Day
November Hindu festival of Deepavali (except Sabah and Sarawak)
25 December Christmas Day
There are several public holidays that do not fall on a set date: the Muslim festival of Hari Raya Aidil Fitri (two days), Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday, Hari Raya Haji and Awal Muharram.
Malaysians working in urban areas traditionally return to their villages (a practice called balik kampung) to celebrate festivals like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidil Fitri and Deepavali. Try not to travel during these balik kampung periods as traffic becomes very congested.
R
Religion
You should remove your shoes on entering a mosque, or Buddhist or Hindu temple, as shoes are considered to bear the impurities of the outside world. In any case, you should not enter places of worship dressed for the beach. Muslims lend covering robes for women who are bare-shouldered or wearing shorts or skirts above the knees. Food taboos are less strictly imposed, but you should avoid ordering a pork dish when dining with Muslims or beef with Hindus. However, it is acceptable to eat in the presence of Muslims during the fasting month of Ramadan. There is no restriction on photography at places of worship, but discretion is important as some worshippers may not like being photographed.
T
Taxes
A Goods and Services Tax (GST) at a standard rate of 6 per cent is charged on all goods and services, except those specifically exempted. The tax applies to transportation, accommodation, meals, entry to museums, etc.
Telephones
Telephone cards are available, and some public phones can be used only with such cards. Coin-operated telephones still exist, but these are for local calls only. International calls can be made at major hotels or by purchasing a prepaid IDD card like iTalk at a 7-11 convenience store.
Calling Malaysia from abroad: To call a fixed-line number in Kuala Lumpur, e.g. 03-xxxx xxxx, dial the international dialling code + country code 60 + area code 3 + number. To call a Malaysian mobile number, say 012-xxx xxxx, dial the international dialling code + country code 60 + 12-xxx xxxx.
Calling locally: If you are calling from within the state, omit the area code; if you are calling another state, dial the area code first. From a Malaysian mobile number, always dial the area code.
Calling internationally: From Malaysia, dial 00 + country code + area code + number. To dial Singapore, dial the access code 02, followed by the number. As prepaid network providers have their own methods to make calls from mobile phones, refer to the booklet that came with your SIM starter pack.
Mobile phone usage: Roaming charges are often very expensive; if you plan to stay in the country longer than a week, and want to make and receive local and international calls, purchase a local or micro SIM card from Maxis, DiGi or Celcom. Starter packs cost upwards of RM8.50 and come with limited airtime credit.
Time Zones
Malaysian time is eight hours ahead of GMT, so when it is 1pm in Kuala Lumpur in July, it is 6am (BST) in London, 1am in New York, 3pm in Sydney, 5pm in Auckland and 7am in Johannesburg.
Tipping
Tipping is not encouraged, but some tourist drivers and guides may want a reward. At major restaurants and hotels, a 10 percent service charge (plus 6 percent government tax) is added.
Toilets
Public toilets are not always clean and often do not provide tissue paper; many are also in a state of disrepair. Be prepared to use squat toilets if you are not staying in Western-style establishments. Shopping complexes in KL and major towns normally charge for the use of toilets (20–30 sen; premium toilets RM2); these are much cleaner, and tissue paper is sold at the counter. Toilets at rest areas along the North–South Expressway provide paper, are free and generally clean. It is a good idea to carry packets of tissues or toilet paper with you wherever you go. Toilets (bilik air in Malay) are identified by universal icons and in Malay – perempuan (ladies) and lelaki (gentlemen).
Tourist Information (Maklumat Pelancong)
Tourism Malaysia (www.tourism.gov.my) is the main national tourism authority.
Offices of Tourism Malaysia exist in the countries listed below:
Australia. Level 2, 171 Clarence Street, Sydney, NSW 2000; tel: 02-9299 4441; www.tourismmalaysia.com.au
Canada. 1590–1111 West Georgia Street, Vancouver BC V6E 4M3; tel: 604-689 8899; www.tourismmalaysia.ca
Ireland. Embassy of Malaysia: Level 3A Shelbourne House, Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4; tel: 01-237 6242.
New Zealand. Level 10, DLA Phillips Fox Tower, 205–209, Queen Street, Auckland; tel: 09-309 6290; www.tourismmalaysia.co.nz
South Africa. 1st Floor, Building 5, Commerce Square, 39 Rivonia Road, Sandhurst, Johannesburg 2132; tel: 11-268 0292.
United Kingdom. 57 Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DU; tel: 079-307 932; www.facebook.com/pages/Tourism-Malaysia-UK/101868413183485.
US. 818 West Seventh Street, Suite 970, Los Angeles, CA 90017; tel: 213-689 9702; www.tourismmalaysiausa.com. 120 East 56th Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10022; tel: 212-745 1116; www.tourismmalaysiany.com
In Malaysia, there are several Tourist Information Offices (www.tourism.gov.my):
Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station, Lot 21, Level 2, Arrival Hall, Kuala Lumpur City Air Terminal, Stesen KL Sentral; tel: 03-2272 5823; open daily 9am—6pm. Malaysia Tourist Centre (MaTiC), 109 Jalan Ampang; tel: 03-2161 0166; open daily 8am–10pm.
Langkawi. Lot SB-2S, Satellite Building, Jetty Point Complex, Kuah; tel: 04-966 7789; open daily 9am–5pm. Langkawi International Airport; Jalan Padang Matsirat; tel: 04-955 7155; open daily 9am until last arriving flight.
Melaka. 6 Jalan Plaza, Merdeka, Jalan Merdeka; tel: 06-288 3304; open daily 9am–6pm.
Penang. Level 56, Komtar, Penang; tel: 04-264 3494; open Mon–Fri 8am–5pm, closed for lunch 1pm–2pm.
Sabah. Lot 1-0-7, Tingat Bawah, Blok 1, Lorong Api-Api 1, Api-Api Centre, 88200 Kota Kinabalu; tel: 08-821 1732; open daily 8am–11pm.
Sarawak. Parcel 297-2-1, Level 2, Riverbank Suite, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching; tel: 08-224 6575/775; open Mon–Fri 8am–5pm. It also has a counter at the Kuching International Airport, Level 1; open daily 9am–10pm.
Terengganu. Tingat Bawah &Satu, Pusat Niaga Paya Keladi, Jalan Kampung Daik, Kuala Terengganu, tel: 09-630 9433.
Transport (see also Driving)
By train. The Malaysian Railway is based in KL Sentral and offers an efficient rail service with reasonable fares across the country and to Thailand and Singapore. A railway line links Gemas to Tumpat in the northeastern state of Kelantan. In Sabah, a railway line links Kota Kinabalu to Tenom. The Kuala Lumpur-to-Singapore service is often fully booked. There is also an electric train service connecting Ipoh to KL Sentral. MYrapid runs KL’s Light Rail Transit and the Monorail and riders pay by tokens for a single journey or pass cards for multiple travel.
Electric Train Service: tel: 1-300 88 5862 (8.30am–9.30pm) or tel: 03-2267 1200 (7am–10pm); www.ets-train.com.my.
Malaysian Railway: tel: 03-2267 1200; www.ktmb.com.my; book at https://intranet.ktmb.com.my/e-ticket/login.aspx.
MyRapid: tel: 03-7885 2585; www.myrapid.com.my; LRT open Mon–Sat 6am–midnight, Sun and public holidays 6am–11.30pm; Monorail open 6am–11.50pm.
By bus. Buses ply the main towns. There are several companies, and tickets can be purchased at the generally very busy bus stations or online. It is best to book a day ahead. Mini-bus services are also available between popular destinations, and the fares are quite reasonable (RM10–30).
First Coach: tel: 03-2287 3311; www.firstcoach.com.my; departs daily to Singapore 7.30am–8.30pm; every 2 hours.
Plusliner: infoline tel: 03- 90 581 582; www.plusliner.com.my; departs daily 6.30am–midnight, hours vary according to destinations.
Transnasional: tel: 1300-888 582, infoline tel: 03- 90 581 582; www.transnasional.com.my; departs daily to Penang 9am–11.59am; every 1–2 hours; hours vary according to destinations.
By plane. Malaysia Airlines, Berjaya Air, AirAsia and Firefly operate an extensive network of domestic flights to all major towns in Malaysia. MASwings services remote places in Sabah and Sarawak.
AirAsia: tel: 03-2171 9222; www.airasia.com.
Berjaya Air: tel: 03-7847 1338 ext. 204; www.berjaya-air.com.
Firefly: tel: 03-7845 4543; www.fireflyz.com.my.
Malaysia Airlines: tel: 03-7843 3000; www.malaysiaairlines.com.
MASwings: tel: (outside Malaysia) 03-7843 3000; (within Malaysia) tel: 1300 88 3000; www.maswings.com.my.
By boat. Regular ferry services are still in operation; the below are some of the most frequent. Note that trips can be cancelled or delayed if the weather is bad.Avoid travelling on vessels that are clearly overloaded or in poor condition and ensure that life jackets are available as some passenger boats have sunk due to overloading and poor maintenance.
Mersing–Tioman Island (105 minutes): Bluewater Express; tel: 07-799 3155; departure time is subject to external factors contact the office directly for details via email: info@tiomanferry.com; RM125 return.
Lumut–Pangkor Island (15–20 minutes): Mesra Ferry and Duta Pangkor Ferry; tel: 05-685 1046; departs daily 7am–8.30pm, every 30 minutes from 8.15am; from RM10 to RM19 return.
From Kuala Perlis (45 minutes), Kuala Kedah (1.5 hours), Penang (3 hours) to Langkawi: Langkawi Ferry Services; www.langkawi-ferry.com. Kuala Perlis: tel: 04-985 2690; runs daily 7am and 7pm; RM18 one-way. Kuala Kedah: tel: 04-762 6295; runs daily 7am and 7pm; RM23 one-way. Penang: tel: 04-264 2088; runs daily at 8.15am via Payar Island and 8.30am; RM60 one-way.
Butterworth (mainland)–Penang Island (10–15 minutes): Penang Port Ferry; tel: 04-310 2377; runs daily 6am–9pm; RM1.40 per passenger RM7.70 per car).
Marang–Kapas Island (15 minutes): Suria Link Boat Services; mobile tel: 019-983 9454; departs daily 9am–5pm every two hours except Friday no departure at 1pm; RM25 return.
Kota Kinabalu–Labuan Island (3 hours): Labuan International Ferry Terminal (LIFT) services KK, Limbang, Lawas and Brunei; tel: 08-758 1006; twice daily from KK usually Mon–Fri 8am and 1.30pm, call to confirm departure; RM34 one-way.
Local transport. Taxis, mostly air-conditioned, are readily available and fares are metered, though in some places, like Penang, cabbies do not use the meter. In such places, negotiate the fare before boarding. In cities, taxis can be found at taxi stands or flagged down anywhere. The blue-coloured premier taxis, although plusher inside, are double the rate of a budget taxi. Flag fall for the latter is RM3, and every 115m (377ft) is 10 sen while a premium taxi’s flag fall is RM4 and every 200m (656ft) is 20 sen. In Kuala Terengganu, Kota Bharu, George Town in Penang and Melaka, trishaws are a popular mode of transport for tourists and make for good photos. Rides within town limits range from RM3–30, depending on the distance.
Taxis (24 hours)
Ipoh 05-2411 753
Johor Comfort Radio Taxi, 07-332 2852
KL Public Cab, tel: 03-6259 2020; www.publiccab.com; Sunlight Taxi, tel: 03-9057 5757; www.sunlighttaxi.com.
Kuching tel: 082-48 0000 or 016 898 2283
Langkawi airport tel: 04-955 1800, Kuah Town tel: 04-966 5249
Melaka tel: 06-334 6262
Penang CT Radio Taxi Service, tel: 04-229 9467; Super Radio Taxi, tel: 04-281 8766
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Visas and Entry Requirements
To enter Malaysia, you need a passport valid for at least six months at the time of entry, with a valid visa, if required. Although Sabah and Sarawak are part of Malaysia, you need a passport to enter these East Malaysian states even if you are travelling from within the country.
Visa requirements. British, Irish and most Commonwealth citizens do not need a visa. Holders of US passports, for example, can enter Malaysia for three months without a visa. Always check the Immigration Department website (www.imi.gov.my) for details about formalities and visa requirements as conditions may change from time to time.
Warning: The trafficking of illegal drugs is a serious offence in Malaysia, and the penalty is death.
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Websites and Internet Access
News: www.thestar.com.my (The Star newspaper)
www.theborneopost.com (The Borneo Post newspaper, with a focus on Sabah and Sarawak)
www.klangvalley4locals.com.my (Klang Valley guide)
www.sarawaktourism.com (Sarawak Tourism Board)
www.sabahtourism.com (Sabah Tourism Board)
Travel: www.seat61.com/Malaysia.htm (Information about rail travel in Malaysia)
www.myrapid.com.my (Public transport portal in KL and Penang)
www.met.gov.my (Tourist destination weather forecast; click on ‘Amaran Cuaca’ for English)
Cybercafés with broadband internet can be found in most tourist areas (with rates as low as RM3 per hour) but you can get wireless broadband (Wi-fi) free in cafés with the purchase of products. Some hotels provide complimentary Wi-fi either in the reception lobby or in the guest rooms; others charge for it. Most major airports, like KLIA and KLIA2, provide free Wi-fi as well. Prepaid internet starter packs are also available from major telecommunications providers such as Maxis, DiGi (RM10 for 5 days) and Celcom, starting from RM100.
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Youth Hostels
Hostelling International-Malaysia partners selected hotels to provide member accommodation in KL, Pulau Pangkor, Penang, Langkawi, Taman Negara, Melaka and Johor. Contact Hostelling International-Malaysia, 1–7 Block B, Impian Kota Apartment, Jalan Manau, off Jalan Kampung Attap, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, tel: 03- 2273 6870; www.hi-malaysia.org.my. YMCAs can be found in Kuala Lumpur, George Town and Ipoh.