Malaysia Travel Guide
What you need to know about travelling in Malaysia
Why Travel to Malaysia?
Malaysia is an absolutely beautiful country in Southeast Asia, well-known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, diverse culture, and mouthwatering cuisine! This travel guide and tips will inform you on what you need to know about travelling in Malaysia.
Quick Travel Facts: Malaysia
- Language
- Common: Malay, English
- Others: Mandarin, Chinese Dialects (Hokkien, Cantonese, Hakka, etc.), Tamil, Iban and other minority languages
- Currency
- Malaysian Ringgit (MYR/RM)
- Religion
- Majority: Islam
- Minority: Christianity, Buddhism, Taosim, Hinduism, Sikhism etc.
- Capital City
- Time Zone
- UTC+8
- Climate
- Tropical (25ºC-35ºC)
- Best time to visit: March-October (lower rainfall)
- Apps
- Grab
Fly to Malaysia ✈️
If you’re planning to visit Malaysia, make sure to book your flight in advance to get the best deals. Choose a reputable airline and check the baggage allowance and restrictions before packing. Also, make sure to arrive at the airport on time to avoid any last-minute rush.
Popular Airlines Flying to Malaysia:
- Malaysia Airlines
- Air Asia
- Batik Air Malaysia
Getting around in Malaysia 🚈
Where to stay in Malaysia 🏡
Malaysia has many accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals.
Places to Visit in Malaysia 🏝️
Malaysia has many beautiful destinations, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Malacca, Langkawi, and Borneo. My recommendations:
- City & Nightlife: Kuala Lumpur
- Culture & Heritage: Penang, Melaka
- Islands: Perhentian Islands, Redang Island, Tioman Island, Langkawi
- Ecotourism, Nature & Ethnic Cultures: Sarawak (Kuching, Mulu National Park), Sabah (Kota Kinabalu, Kundasang, Sandakan, Semporna)
- Outdoor Adventure: Kuala Kubu Baru, Gopeng
- Food tours: Ipoh, Penang, Kuching, Kota Bharu, Johor
Food and Drink in Malaysia 🍛
Malaysia is known for its delicious food, a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. My personal favourites and recommendations:
- Malay food: Nasi Lemak, Satay, Ikan Bakar, Soto, Lontong, Lemang, Nasi Kerabu, Nasi Dagang, Nasi Ulam, Ayam Percik, Keropok Lekor, Pisang Goreng, Laksa (different styles from different states)
- Chinese food: Penang – Char kueh teow, Prawn Noodles, White curry noodles, Yam rice; Ipoh: Chicken rice, Curry noodles, Kampar noodles, Salt baked chicken; Central (Klang Valley) – Bak Kut Teh, Fried Hokkien Mee, Cantonese fried kueh teow, steamed fish head, Wanton noodles; Melaka: Chicken rice, Satay celup; Johor: Fried oyster, Kueh Teow Kia
- Indian food: Banana leaf rice, Roti Canai, Tosai, Briyani, Masala tea, Kacang Putih / Muruku
- Nyonya food: Nyonya kuih, Nyonya Laksa, Nyonya dishes (Pongteh, Asam Pedas, Cili Garam fish, etc.)
- Local fruits: Durian! , Rambutan, Mangosteen, Mango, Soursop, Ciku, Langsat, Pisang Emas (local banana), Jambu air (rose apple), Jambu batu (guava), Cempedak/Nangka (Jackfruit)
- Desserts: ABC (mixed shaved ice), Cendol, Taufufa (Beancurd), Bubur Cha Cha (Sweet Potato, Yam in Coconut Milk), Honeydew Sago
Feel free to approach the locals and ask them to recommend their favourites!
You can also find a wide array of food choices worldwide, especially in Kuala Lumpur—authentic Middle Eastern, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Chinese cuisines are easily found.
Water: While tap water is generally treated, it’s always best to take precautions. It is advisable to pre-boil the water before drinking or opt for bottled water sources to ensure your safety.
Key Phrases 🗣️
Knowing some vital local phrases can help you navigate, communicate, and interact with locals when travelling in Malaysia. Here are some common phrases used in Malaysia:
- Terima kasih: thank you
- Apa khabar: how are you?
- Tapau: takeaway
- Jom: let’s or let’s go
- Walao/Walao-eh/Walao-wei: Oh my gosh!
- Ang Mo/Guai Lou/Mat Salleh: Caucasians
- Cincai: anything/whatever
Culture & Etiquette 🤝
Malaysia is a multicultural country with a diverse population, so respecting local customs and traditions is essential. You should dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering. Using your right hand for eating and greeting people is also customary, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Safety & Security 🚨
Malaysia is generally a safe country, but it is always essential to take precautions when travelling. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas, so be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close. Natural disasters such as flooding and landslides can occur during the monsoon season (November to February), so stay informed about weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities.
Tips and Recommendations 📝
When packing for Malaysia, it’s a good idea to bring lightweight, breathable clothing as the weather is typically hot and humid. Remember to bring sunscreen and insect repellent as well. English is widely spoken in Malaysia, but learning some basic phrases in Malay can be helpful. Finally, try the local cuisine, a delicious blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavours.
