DESTINATION GUIDE: MALAYSIA

Malaysia

Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia and split between the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, is a diverse destination known for its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and rich history. With a population of around 33 million, Malaysia welcomes over 26 million tourists each year, drawn by attractions like the bustling capital Kuala Lumpur, home to the iconic Petronas Towers, and the lush rainforests of Borneo, tourists can explore UNESCO-listed sites, get up close and personal with unique wildlife or discover tea plantations nestled among the mountains.

 

POPULATION: 34.6 million

PRIMARY LANGUAGE: Malay

PRIMARY CURRENCY: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Visit Malaysia’s official government website or your local Embassy for more information.

Climate

Malaysia has a tropical climate, so it’s warm and humid year-round, with two main seasons: the dry season (May to September) and the rainy season (October to April). During the dry season, it’s perfect for island hopping in Langkawi or diving in Sipadan with clear waters and sunny skies. The rainy season sees heavy but short downpours, especially on the east coast, so it’s a great time to explore cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang or visit indoor attractions and bustling night markets.

Capital Cities

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, sits in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia and is home to around 8 million people in its metropolitan area. Known for its modern skyline dominated by the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the city also boasts a blend of diverse cultures, evident in sites like the historic Batu Caves and bustling Chinatown. Visitors can explore the vibrant Bukit Bintang area for shopping and nightlife, or head to the Islamic Arts Museum for insight into the country’s heritage, making KL a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation.

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LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Malaysia is a melting pot of different ethnicities, cultures and religions, and a beautiful country to visit if you want to explore Asia further. However, there are a few key tips and tricks that will make your next holiday to Malaysia more memorable:

  • Try the Street Food – Malaysia is well-known for its food, particularly its vibrant, flavourful and delicious street food! Serving everything from Malaysian curry, Indian dishes and a selection of Chinese food. We recommend eating it while it’s hot and fresh, and sitting in the hawker centres for a truly authentic experience.
  • Pack Light Clothes – Because Malaysia is so close to the equator, you can expect the weather to be warm and humid almost all of the time. When you’re visiting the country, forego the heavy jackets and pants and instead bring light, breathable and preferably linen clothing to help keep you cool – But as a large portion of the population is Muslim, remember to keep your clothing modest.
  • Don’t Point – Malaysian people are often extremely polite and conscious of “saving face”, and one aspect of this includes avoiding pointing. If you must point, use your thumb rather than your pointer finger – and avoid raising the tone of your voice.
  • Respect the Spirits – The Malay are a very spiritual group of people, so it’s wise to respect their spirits and religious beliefs. This includes respecting the spirits that live in nature, not disrespecting those who’ve passed and not taking things home from the rainforest if you visit (as they believe spirits will follow you home!)
  • Boil Your Water – Many of the buildings and pieces of infrastructure in Malaysia are quite old, so it’s recommended to boil your water before drinking it. Hotels will generally advise you whether their water is safe to drink, but if in doubt, purchase bottled water or boil it first.

FAQ’s

When is the best season to visit Malaysia?

The best time to visit Malaysia is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is warm with less rain—ideal for beach trips, outdoor adventures, and island hopping. However, cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang are great year-round, as they offer plenty of indoor activities if you visit during the rainy season.

Where are the best places to visit in Malaysia?

Some of the best places to visit in Malaysia include Kuala Lumpur for its iconic Petronas Towers and vibrant culture, Langkawi for stunning beaches, and Penang’s George Town for its heritage architecture and street food. For nature lovers, the lush rainforests of Borneo and the scenic tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands are must-sees.

What documents do I need to enter Malaysia?

To enter Malaysia, you’ll need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity. Depending on your nationality, you may also require a visa, so check entry requirements ahead of time to ensure a smooth arrival. The most accurate information can be found on the Malaysian official government website or speak to your Travel Agent.

Is Malaysia safe to visit?

Yes, Malaysia is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in most areas. Just take usual precautions, like keeping an eye on your belongings in busy spots, and you’ll have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. If you have any doubts, we recommend checking out SmartTraveller or speaking to your Travel Agent.

Is English spoken in Malaysia?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Malaysia, especially in cities, tourist areas, and by younger generations. This makes it easy for travellers to communicate, navigate, and enjoy their visit.

Is Malaysia expensive?

Malaysia is generally affordable for travellers, offering good value for food, accommodation, and activities. While luxury options exist, you can explore comfortably on a budget, especially with reasonably priced public transport and street food. Our experienced Travel Agent team can craft you the perfect Malaysian holiday no matter your budget or travel preference, so speak to our team to book your next holiday.

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