Destination:
Malaysia

Overview

'Selamat Datang' is the traditional Malaysian greeting that welcomes visitors to this vibrant and exotic country. Ethnically diverse cultures share the same lush landscape and create a fusion of cultural styles, cooking and religions that is distinctly Malaysian. Festivals throughout the year mark the Malay, Chinese and Indian holidays, as well as those of the indigenous Orang Asli and the tribes of Sabah and Sarawak.

Malaysia is a country with two distinct parts. Peninsula Malaysia constitutes the long fringe of land, extending down from Asia, which borders Thailand and Singapore. The South China Sea separates the mainland from the less populated East Malaysian provinces of Sabah and Sarawak. The dense jungles of Sabah and Sarawak support abundant plant and wildlife and Mt Kinabalu in Sabah stakes its claim as the highest peak in South East Asia.

It is the Peninsula that seems to attract the most visitors, probably because of the diversity it offers in the way of people, activities and climates. The highland regions offer cool relief from the clinging humidity of the mainland, while Langkawi is the popular choice for sand and surf enthusiasts. The east coast, particularly the northern Kelantan province, offers the chance for an interesting cultural exploration of traditional Malay life. The city of Kota Bharu and its surrounds is possibly the most fascinating part of the peninsula, and the least visited, with a remote beauty and rich culture. The west coast is favoured for historical interest, and is where Malaysia's capital city, Kuala Lumpur is to be found, the icon of Asian prosperity and the meeting point for expats and city slickers who enjoy the energy of urban life. The city is a powerful mesh of tradition and technology, vying for equal status.

Basics

Electricity
Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used.

Language
Bahasa Melayu is the national language, but English is widely spoken and is the language of business. Cantonese, Hokkien and Hakka are spoken by the Malaysias Chinese population and Tamil, Malayalam and Hindi among the Indian population.

Health
Some tropical illnesses are prevalent in Malaysia and travellers should seek medical advice regarding any recommended vaccinations before travelling. Hepatitis A and B are common, as is dengue fever, which has no vaccination or immunisation. There has been an increase in cases of dengue fever since January 2005. Malaria risks are isolated to the inland regions; the exception is Sabah, where there is an all-year risk. Visitors should stick to bottled water and avoid uncooked meat, fish and vegetables, unpeeled fruit, ice and salads. A further health hazard in Malaysia is smoke haze and air pollution, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, which has the worst air quality in Asia with very high Benzene pollution levels. This could aggravate cardiac or respiratory problems. The hospitals in Kuala Lumpur and other cities are of a high standard. Medical insurance is recommended. Travellers older than one year coming from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Tipping
Although tipping is not customary in Malaysia, the more expensive hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to their bills and further gratuity is unnecessary. All hotel rooms are subject to a 5% government tax, though many cheaper hotels quote a price inclusive of this tax.

Safety
Malaysia shares with the rest of South East Asia a threat from terrorism, including places frequented by Westerners. The US State Department updated its warning in November 2003 and stressed extra caution in the troubled eastern Malaysia state of Sabah, where the risk of kidnapping is high. Terrorists are believed to be planning to kidnap foreign tourists from the islands and coastal areas of Eastern Sabah and boats travelling to dive sites and between the islands are possible targets. Tourists wishing to visit the resorts and islands in the state should stick to larger resorts and exercise extreme caution. Visitors should be aware that street crime such as bag snatching, pick-pocketing and scams are a problem.

Customs
Malaysia is largely Muslim and therefore Islamic customs should be respected, especially during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking in public should be avoided, as it is forbidden by Islamic law. Dress, particularly for women, should be conservative, and arms and legs should be covered when visiting places of worship. It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship. When eating or exchanging money, the right hand is used. Homosexuality is illegal.

Business
Those looking to do business in Malaysia are strongly urged to research some of the cultural complexities of the country, which is home to 19 million people, of divergent ethnic groups. Although the Malaysian business world has largely succeeded in establishing a unified ethos for itself, it is important to understand that you might deal with people from different ethnic groups (Malay, Chinese and Indian being the most common) - and that your expectations and conduct might need to adjust accordingly, depending on who you're doing business with at the time. The defining characteristic of business culture in Malaysia is respect for, and deference to authority. Moreover, authority figures are viewed as such, less because of the powerful positions they hold, and more because they possess the skills, wisdom and temperament to foster harmony and cooperation within their organisation. The Malaysian style of management, it follows, is less goal-driven, and more holistic, than in some western cultures - with managers taking a personal interest in the well-being of their employees. Business etiquette in Malaysia is marked by sensitivity and diplomacy. The golden rule is neverto cause another to 'lose face' in professional company - the wilful, or even careless, humiliation of even a subordinate, is considered anathema in the Malaysian business world. Business meetings in Malaysia usually convene on-time, but can be subject to a lot of 'small talk' and personal digressions. Don't get impatient - this is seen as an important function of meetings in Malaysia, where the agenda is not always as important as the relationships between people that meetings serve to develop. Business cards are usually exchanged upon meeting new associates. Give and receive cards in your right hand, supported by the left, and never fold or put away a card without looking at it first. Be sure to have your details printed in Chinese on the reverse side of your card while in Malaysia. The dress code for business in Malaysia is typically western, with smart, formal clothes being worn. Men generally wear white shirts and ties (jackets to be worn to meetings); while women - since Malaysia is home to a large Muslim population - should dress more conservatively than they might be used to doing at home. English is widely spoken in Malaysia, and commonly used in most businesses. Business hours are generally Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.

Communications
The international access code for Malaysia is +60. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)3 for Kuala Lumpur, (0)4 for Penang. International Direct Dial is available throughout the country, but the service can be erratic. Hotels can add a hefty surcharge to their telephone bills; it is best to check before making international calls. Coin and card-operated public phones are widespread, and phone cards can be purchased at the airport, petrol stations and newsagents. Cards are not transferable between phone companies: Uniphone and Telekom phone boxes are the most common. Mobile networks cover most of the country; the local mobile phone operators use GSM networks, which are compatible with most international phones. Internet cafes are widely available in tourist areas.

Duty Free
Travellers to Malaysia do not have to pay customs duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 225g tobacco; 1 litre wine, spirits or malt liquor; cosmetic products to the value of RM 200; up to three new items of clothing and one pair of footwear; one portable electrical or battery-operated appliance for personal hygiene; food preparations to the value of RM 75; souvenirs and gifts to the value of RM 200 (with the exception of goods from Langkawi and Labuan, to the value of RM 500). Prohibited items include goods from Haiti, counterfeit money and illegal drugs.

Currency

The Malaysian Ringit (MYR), also referred to as the Malaysian Dollar, is divided into 100 sen. Malaysian banks charge in the region of US$2-3 for foreign exchange transactions. Moneychangers are generally quicker to deal with and do not charge commission; their rates however are variable. Pounds or dollars are the easiest to exchange. Travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks and some hotels. All major credit cards are accepted at upmarket hotels, shops and restaurants. ATMs are widely available.

MYR 1 =

US$ 0.32

£ 0.21

C$ 0.32

A$ 0.31

R 2.69

EUR 0.25

NZ$ 0.40

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Health

Health Overview
Some tropical illnesses are prevalent in Malaysia and travellers should seek medical advice regarding any recommended vaccinations before travelling. Hepatitis A and B are common, as is dengue fever, which has no vaccination or immunisation. There has been an increase in cases of dengue fever since January 2005. Malaria risks are isolated to the inland regions; the exception is Sabah, where there is an all-year risk. Visitors should stick to bottled water and avoid uncooked meat, fish and vegetables, unpeeled fruit, ice and salads. A further health hazard in Malaysia is smoke haze and air pollution, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, which has the worst air quality in Asia with very high Benzene pollution levels. This could aggravate cardiac or respiratory problems. The hospitals in Kuala Lumpur and other cities are of a high standard. Medical insurance is recommended. Travellers older than one year coming from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Visa

Americans


UK nationals


Canadians


Australians


South Africans


Irish nationals


New Zealanders

Passport/Visa Note
Foreign passengers to Malaysia are required to hold sufficient funds (at least USD 500) to cover their expenses while in the country, and return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. If passengers are not in possession of a return/onward ticket, they will be requested to purchase one. Note that admission will be refused to foreign ladies in an advanced stage of pregnancy (six months or more), except if they are in transit, for a maximum period of 72 hours (no extensions allowed). Also note that foreign nationals who have previously worked in Malaysia, and whose previous work visa is endorsed "COM", will not be allowed to return to Malaysia to work for six months. If they intend to return for a social visit, they will be subject to an interview on arrival, and will not always be guaranteed entry. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Malaysia, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Contacts

Malaysia Tourism
Malaysian Tourist Office, Kuala Lumpur: +60 (0)3 2615 8188 or www.tourism.gov.my

Foreign Embassies in Malaysia

Malaysia Embassies

Regions and Cities

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the bustling capital city of Malaysia and its showpiece of prosperity and grandeur. Kuala Lumpur means 'muddy estuary', a name coined by the original tin prospectors who arrived at the confluence of the Kelang and Gombak rivers in 1860. Kuala Lumpur has progressed considerably since then as can be witnessed in the reflections of the glittering skyscrapers elegantly rising between the well-preserved colonial buildings of yesteryear.

This blend of old and new worlds, interspersed with the diverse influences of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultural lifestyles, makes for a fascinating exploration of the city's streets. An orientation of Kuala Lumpur is best begun from Merdeka Square, the heart of the city. To the southeast of the square is the modern business centre and the bustling streets of Chinatown. The picturesque National Mosque (Masjid Negara) and impressive Railway Station can be located to the south and beyond them to the west is the city's green belt. The tranquil and lush Lake Gardens provides some respite from the frenetic activity of the city. The National Museum (Muzim Negara), the National Monument and the Malaysian Parliament are also found on this stretch.

Hill Resorts

Located along the main mountain range of Peninsula Malaysia are several resorts perched in the hills that offer a respite from the heat and humidity and a refreshing break from city life. Popular with tourists and locals alike, the hill resorts each have their own revitalizing charm and offer a range of activities, accommodation and attractions.

The Cameron Highlands is the largest and most refined of the hill resorts. Its cool climate is favourable for crops and it is known as Malaysia's 'Green Bowl', supplying the country with a variety of fruit and vegetables. The most developed resort is Genting Highlands, a popular respite from Kuala Lumpur over weekends, and packed with entertainment options. In contrast, Fraser's Hill offers the peace and tranquillity of its natural surroundings and is the region's smallest resort, while Bukit Larut is the least visited and therefore the least developed. It preserves more of the ambience of a traditional colonial hill station, with its modest accommodation and quiet atmosphere.

The Islands

As well as a plethora of beautiful beaches in Malaysia, the country also boasts a host of offshore tropical islands that are rated as some of the most beautiful in the world. Idyllic white sandy beaches, palm trees, clear waters and an underwater heaven for divers and snorkellers - these are the archetypal images of paradise that beckon and enchant thousands of visitors each year.

The unblemished beauty and peacefulness of the Malaysian islands are famous worldwide, from the well-known islands of Langkawi to tiny specks off the coast such as Perhentian Kecil. The Langkawi archipelago has become an internationally renowned resort destination, irresistible for its ancient lakes and forests, waterfalls, fauna and flora, and wonderful beaches. Pantai Tengah and Pantai Cenang are Langkawi's main resorts with good facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere. Lovely sandy beaches and crystal clear seas surround the Perhentian Islands, with wonderful coral gardens and a vast array of marine life. Off the east coast, the most impressive island is Tioman, offering a wide variety of activities on and off the water and a holiday suited to those tired of commercialised resorts.

Ideally suited to those looking for a relaxing holiday with good facilities and a slow pace of life, the islands of Malaysia are a great destination. Beautiful beaches, lazy days in the sunshine and golden sunsets will be the lasting impressions of any visit.

Sabah

Evocatively named, 'Land below the wind', Sabah is situated at the northeast corner of Borneo, below the typhoon belt in East Malaysia. Most visitors to Sabah are lured by the natural splendor of the state and the unique experience of its national parks. The rugged landscape is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with some of the highest mountains in Malaysia to climb, and one of the richest and least spoilt underwater ecosystems in the world to dive in. Other extreme sports like paragliding and skydiving are adding to Sabah's growing reputation as an adventure destination.

Its spectacular environment boasts one of the largest rainforests in the world and the highest mountain peak in South East Asia, Mt Kinabalu, stands at 13,500 feet (4,101m) within Kinabalu Park. The park is the most visited and has been declared a World Heritage Site in recognition of its incredible variety. A popular trek is the two-day summit trail. Sabah's diversity extends to the indigenous people of the area that comprise 31 different groups speaking more than 50 indigenous languages. These ethnic differences form a rich culture of music, dance and handicrafts that are unique to the region.

Sabah is an expensive travel destination with the only real 'budget' accommodation located at Kinabalu National Park and Poring Hot Springs. Direct flights to Sabah are routed to the capital, Kota Kinabalu. Sabah is losing ground in tourism as ongoing conflict and violence against foreigners keeps many away.

Sarawak

Described as Asia's best kept secret, Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia, and also its richest and most varied. It is situated on the island of Borneo, and along with Sabah, makes up East Malaysia, which is separated from Peninsula Malaysia by the South China Sea.

Like her neighbour, Sarawak is equally celebrated for its natural beauty and diversity. This diversity extends to its rich cultural heritage and its preservation of traditional lifestyles. Sarawak's numerous Dayak tribes still live in longhouses - these are whole village populations living in one structure, with separate rooms opening on to a communal veranda. This communal spirit is extended to visitors who are invited to stay overnight.

Sarawak's natural wonders can best be experienced in its national parks, ancient rainforest and wildlife centres, where intriguing species of fauna and flora, caves and untouched coral reefs can be found; the clear waters off the coast afford an exceptional diving experience.

Kuching is Sarawak's capital, an interesting city and good base from which to explore the national parks. Its rich historical past can be seen in a variety of museums, including the Sarawak Museum, or outside the city at Damai visitors can get to grips with the cultural heritage at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Gateway to the north east, the resort city of Miri is fast becoming state's most popular tourist destination, and is renowned as an adventure city. It boasts a wide range of accommodation options, good beaches, a lively nightlife and is within reach of several national parks and natural attractions, as well as some of the best diving in Borneo.