Contents
- Traveling to Malaysia
- Traveling in Malaysia
- Destinations in Paradise
- General Travel Info
- Rules and Regulations
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Below you will find further details about Malaysia as a travel destination, her diverse
localities, currency, immigration, etc. More details about each state as well as Malaysia's
environmental reserves and policies can also be found in the Interactive section. |
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By
Air |
Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier, currently flies to 95
destinations worldwide.
Many other international airlines offer flights to Malaysia, most of which land at the
Subang Kuala Lumpur International Airport, located a few kilometers to the west of Kuala
Lumpur. As air traffic to and from Malaysia is estimated to grow between almost seven per
cent a year over the next decade, a new airport has been constructed at
Sepang, Selangor.
The new KL International Airport has one one of the most sophisticated passenger
facilities in the region and went into service in early 1998.
Other International airlines that offer flights to Malaysia are Aeroflot, Air France, Air
India, Air Lanka, Air Mauritius, Air New Zealand, Air Vietnam, Alia/Royal Jordanian
Airlines, Balkan-Bulgarian Airlines, Bangladesh Biman, Cathay Pacific Airways, China
Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Eva Air, Garuda Indonesia, Iran Air, Japan Airlines,
Kampuchea Airlines, Koran Airlines, Lufthansa, Pakistan Airlines, Phillipine Airlines,
Qantas Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Royal Dutch Airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines,
Sempati Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Thai International, and Uzbekistan Airlines. |
By
Rail |
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad
(KTM),
or Malayan Railways, connects to both Singapore and Bangkok.
The trip from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur takes 7 to 10 hours; from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur
is about two days. |
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By
Bus
or
Car |
Buses from the Ban San terminus in Singapore travel to many
different points on peninsular Malaysia; buses from Bangkok or Haadyai in Thailand travel
to both the West and East coasts of Malaysia as well as to Kuala Lumpur.
Entering Malaysia by rental car is not difficult from either Thailand or Singapore, and
the North-South highway makes travel along the west coast quite convenient (10-12 hours
from Singapore to the Thai border). |
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By
Air |
There are a growing number of domestic airlines serving
popular tourist destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Terengganu, Pulau
Tioman, Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Pangkor, Taman
Negara, Kuantan, Ipoh, Penag, Malacca and Pulau
Langkawi.
These Airlines include Pelangu Air, Berjaya Air and Mofaz Air. |
By
Rail |
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad
(KTM) or Malayan Railways has an impressive rail network
that stretches from north to south and east to west in Peninsular Malaysia. KTM offers a
number of special deals for tourists.
The KTM Railpass offers all the benefits of first-class travel at economy rates.
Railpass holders are allowed unlimited travel on any passenger train in Malaysia and
Singapore for the duration of the railpass. The price for adults is US$55 for 10 days and
US$120 for 30 days. For children between 4 and 12 years old, the Railpass is US$28 (10
days) and US$60 (30 days).
For only US$32, youths (not Malaysians or Singaporeans) below the age of 30 holding the
ISIC, YIEE Card, or Youth Hostel Card receive unlimited travel on KTM for 7 days. The
Eurotrain Explorer Pass-Malaysia is valid for second or economy class travel on all KTM
services in Peninsular Malaysia (including Singapore).
A luxury train service, the Eastern and Oriental Express, which is modeled after the
renowned Orient Express, is also available. The 41-hour round-trip journey from Singapore
to Bangkok and back again passes through Kuala Lumpur as well as some of Malaysia's most
beautiful regions.
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By
Bus |
Buses are the most popular form of transport in Malaysia. Air-conditioned express buses
and non-air-conditioned regional buses are available from Kuala Lumpur to many other towns
in Peninsular Malaysia.
Buses plying within towns and cities charge fares
according to the distance covered. The
exceptions are the mini buses in Kuala Lumpur. They charge a standard fare to any
destination within their routes.
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By
Car |
Limousine service is available from the airport to hotels in the city. To hire one,
please enquire at the taxi counter.
Interstate taxis are an inexpensive and rapid means of travel from one state to another.
The taxi stand in Kuala Lumpur is located on the level 2 of the Pudu Raya Bus Terminal.
Fares for interstate taxis are fixed. Meters are generally not used by these taxis, so you
should be sure to negotiate a fare before the journey.
City taxis are metered. In Kuala Rumpus taxis are easily recognizable by their yellow
and black colour or the new red and white colour.
Taxi fares are calculated according to meters. The flagged down fare is RM 1.50 for the
first two kilometers and 10 sen for every 200m there after.
There is no extra cost for air-conditioned taxis. A 50% surcharge on the fare from
midnight to 6 am is normal.
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Guided
Tours |
Sightseeing tours can be arranged through the Tourist
Information Centers or your hotel. All tours are accompanied by licensed
tour guides; tour operators are required to be licensed under the
Ministry of Culture, Arts and Tourism.
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| Trishaws |
Trishaws (bicycle rickshaws) are less a form of
transport than a leisurely mode of touring.
Although trishaws are much less prevalent these
days, they are still a popular way to tour in
Melaka, Georgetown, Kota
Bahru, and Kuala Terengganu. Be sure to negotiate the price before you get in.
A half day of sightseeing costs about RM40. |
Self-drive Tours
Roads in Malaysia are among the finest in the region. Auto touring is an excellent way to
see the country via highways that pass through spectacular scenery and roads that pass
through quaint villages.
- An international driving permit or a valid drivers license issued by your government are
required to drive in Malaysia. Rates for a car vary from RM60 to RM260 per day. Car rental
can be arranged through your hotel or directly with a car rental company.
- All international rules apply to tourists driving in the country. Minor road offences
not involving accidents are compoundable and can be settled at the nearest police station.
- Drivers on a self-drive holidays should keep in mind that traffic circulation is on the
left. At roundabouts give way to the driver on your right. Drivers and front seat
passengers are required by law to wear safety belts.
- The Automobile Association of Malaysia
(AAM) is the national motoring organisation of
Malaysia. Tourists who are members of motoring organizations affiliated to AAM are given
free reciprocal membership. Unleaded petrol can be obtained at most petrol stations.
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Motorbikes and Bicycles
Two-wheel transport is not generally available for hire in Malaysia. However, a growing
number of resort destinations do offer cycles for hire. |
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Each destination offers too many attractions to list here. However, the Interactive section features more details about each of
these and many more fascinating localities:
- Bera Lake (Recreational Destination)
is the largest freshwater swamp in Peninsular Malaysia. Bera Lake remains both a unique
and remote wetland wilderness. Surrounded by a patchwork of dry lowland dipterocarp
forests, the lake environment stretches its tentacles into islands of peat swamp forests.
- Danum Valley (Nature Lovers' Destination)
is nestled in the interior of Sabah. The Danum Valley Conservation Area is one of the last
remaining preserves of primary lowland rainforest in Asia. It provides visitors with an
unparalleled ecological experience into the wilds and wonders of ancient tropical forests.
- Johor Bahru (Shopping Destination)
is the "Southern Gateway" to Peninsular Malaysia . Outside this state capital,
along the coast, are picturesque scenes of "Kampung" and fishing villages.
- Kenyir Lake (Recreational Destination)
is the home to numerous species of freshwater fishes and exotic wildlife. Rich with
numerous types of flora and fauna, its vast boundary leads to endless discoveries and
adventures. Its picturesque landscape of natural granduer and tranquil serenity,
transforms Kenyir Lake into a perfect get-away for city dweller.
- Kuala Lumpur (Shopping Destination)
the capital of Malaysia, is called the "Garden City of Lights" by visitors.
- Kinabalu (Nature Lovers' Destination)
is the majestic centerpiece of Kinabalu Park and is also the highest mountain in
South-East Asia.
- Langkawi (Legendary Island Destination)
is a group of 99 islands with a geological history dating back 500 million odd years. The
islands contain unique rock formations and are blessed with an intriguing heritage of
myths and legends [More
Details].
- Malacca (Historical City Destination)
Fabled historic city that once stood at the crossroads of the shipping trade between East
and West.
- Pangkor: (Exotic Island Destination)
The main island of Pangkor is mainly populated by fisher folk who occupy the eastern
coastline. The island is famous for its enchanting beaches on the western coastline.
- Penang (Gourmet Destination):
"The Pearl of the Orient" is a melting pot where cultural traditions flourish
and festivals celebrated with verve.
- Sarawak (Ethnic Destination)
is a state with 24 different ethnic groups and their captivating cultures, a network of
national parks protecting unique wildlife and natural wonders as well as exciting
adventure challenges.
- Taman Negara (Nature Lovers Destination)
is one of the oldest tropical rainforests in the world. This vast natural reserve is the
habitat of countless species of flora and fauna.
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Rich in colour and contrasts, Malaysia’s multi-faceted charm provides intriguing
images that leave visitors to the country in awe.
The natural warmth of Malaysians is legendary; wherever one goes, the friendliness and
hospitality of the people would prove to be a very special experience. Malaysia is
paradise.
Its sun-drenched beaches, enchanting islands, diverse flora and fauna, forest retreats and
magnificient mountains are among the best in the region.
Many visitors have discovered Malaysia's other attractions; a shopping haven, an incentive
destination, an adventure land a business location and much more.
Blessed with eternal summer; an incredibly rich range of flora and fauna, and a diverse,
multiracial culture, Malaysia offers the visitor the delights of a tropical holiday
with all the comfort of home.
For your holiday in Malaysia, pick any of the numerous beaches and island
hideaways such as Port Dickson, Tanjung Bidara, Penang, Tanjong Jara, Langkawi and etc.
With their sun-splashed beaches, clear waters and friendly people.
Stay cool on one of the Malaysia's many hill resorts or lose yourself in Sarawak's niah
caves. |
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They are so huge that the cave alone covers an area as large as 13 soccer fields.
You can also immerse yourself in the history and culture of Melacca (where the Portuguese
and the Dutch have left their imprint) or Penang (the site of the first English base in
Malaya) or Kuching (where once the Brooke family reigned).
Historic buildings, river, safaris, snake temples, scuba diving, orang
utans, golf,
bird-watching, sailing, handicraft or just sun and surf - You'll find it all in Malaysia
which is made up of two distinct regions: Peninsula Malaysia (or west Malaysia) and the
states of Sabah and Sarawak (East Malaysia). Peninsular Malaysia lies between the southern
border of Thailand in the north, and Singapore in the south; whereas East Malaysia is
separated by the south China Sea, and located in the Northern Part of Borneo.
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Currency
The Malaysian currency is Ringgit (RM) for dollar and sen for cent. 100 cent make 1
Ringgit.
The notes are issued in denominations of RM1000, RM500, RM100, RM50, RM20, RM10, RM5, RM2
; whereas the coins are RM1, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 cent denominations. |
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Major currencies can be changed at banks or licensed money changers.
Travelers cheques and credit cards are accepted in Banks, Hotels and most shops.
Currently there are some light restrictions in place which are outlined in 'Rules and
Regulations'. |
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Business Hours |
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Banks and Offices: |
Monday to Friday 1000 am to 1500 |
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Saturday 0930 to 1130 |
Sunday Closed |
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Shops: |
Monday to Sunday 0900 to 1800 |
Credit Cards
Can be used for a wide range of goods and services in Hotels, major department stores and
restaurants. |
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Travelers Cheques
Most banks handle travelers cheques and currency exchange. Some banks do not have foreign
exchange dealings on Saturdays. Passports are needed for cashing travelers
cheques. No
commission is charged though some banks do charge a nominal fee when travelers cheques are
cashed in the currency of cheques. Visitors are advised to check the full details with the
bank first. |
Electricity
240V (50 cycles) and British-standard sockets are used throughout the country. While most
European plugs will fit the top two of the three connectors in a socket all other types of
plugs will need the use of adapters. Ask your hotel for assistance when not certain.
Water
It is generally safe to drink water straight from the tap. Bottled mineral water, however,
is readily available in shops and supermarkets |
Tourist Police
Lost your way? Need help? Look for a tourist police officer.
Tourist police officers are recognized by their checkered hat bands, dark blue shirts and
trousers, and the letter "I" (for information) on a red and blue badge on their
breast pocket. |
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Newspapers
English Language newspapers are available i.e. The New Straits Times, The Star, Business
Times, Malay Mail, Daily Express, Sabah Daily News and Sarawak Tribune.
International newspapers can be obtained at most bookshops and newsstands. Several dailies
in other languages include Utusan Melayu, Berita Harian, Nanyang Siang Pan, Sin Chew Wit
Poh and Tamil Nesan. There are also weeklies, such as the Leader and Straits Shipper. |
Radio and
Television
Radio services are in Bahasa Melayu, English, Chinese, and Tamil. There are
4 television
stations with TV 1 and TV 2 being government networks while the other two are privately
run.
Additional
stations are
available in
main
metropolitan
areas and
through
Astro, the
Malaysian satellite
operator. |
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Health Services
In the event you need medical care, there are private clinics in most towns. It is a good
idea to take out a medical insurance before you travel as Malaysia does not have
reciprocal health service agreements with other nations. For over-the-counter
prescriptions, there are pharmacies and 'Chinese medical halls' |
Public Holidays
With its multi-ethnic population, it is not surprising that almost every month sees a
different festival. Some of these are declared as Public Holidays. As festivals vary from
year to year, it is best to check the dates with the nearest Tourism Malaysia Office
before you plan your trip. |
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Etiquette
To avoid "cultural offenses," here are some tips: Remove shoes when entering
homes and places of worship. Dress neatly in a suitable attire which covers arms and legs
when visiting places of worship. Handle food with your right hand. Do not point your foot
at someone.
When giving or receiving money or gifts to / from a Malaysian, do so with your right hand.
When greeting a Muslim, offer your right hand then bring it towards you, fingertips
lightly touching your heart. This is the traditional Salam or 'greeting of acceptance'.
Hindus greet with a Namaste (in Hindi) or Vanakam (Tamil). Both palms are brought together
as in prayer at mid-chest level.
With a Chinese, you may shake hands. If you are really unsure about all the different
forms of greetings, just smile and nod your head slightly when introduced.
Immigration
Visitors to Malaysia must be in possession of valid passport/travel
documents with a minimum validity of six months beyond the period of intended stay.
In the case of a national passport not recognised by the Malaysian Government, the holder
must be in possession of a document in lieu of passport obtainable at the nearest
Malaysian Mission abroad.
The national passport must also ensure his re-entry into the country of his citizenship.
Every visitor to Malaysia has to fill in a Disembarkation Card (IMM. 26). The card has to
be handed over to the Immigration Officer on arrival together with the national passport
or other internationally recognized travel document endorsed for travel into Malaysia.
A passport/travel document is also necessary for travel between Sabah and Sarawak. Visitor
passes issued for entry into Peninsular Malaysia are not valid for entry into Sarawak. New
visit passes must be obtained on arrival at the point of entry in Sarawak.
However, subject to conditions stipulated, visit passes issued by the Immigration
Authorities in Sabah and Sarawak are valid for any part of Malaysia.
Commonwealth Citizens (except Bangladesh/India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka), British Protected
Persons or Citizens of the Republic of Ireland and Citizens of Switzerland, Netherlands,
San Marino and Liechtenstein do not need a visa to enter Malaysia.
Citizens of Albania, Austria, Algeria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Republic of Slovakia,
Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Japan, South Korea, Luxembourg, Norway,
Sweden, Italy, United States of America, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Egypt, Morocco,
North Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Tunisia do not
require a visa for a Social and Business visit not exceeding three months.
Nationals of ASEAN Countries do not require a visa for a Social and Business visit not
exceeding one month.
Citizens of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, South Yemen do not require visa for a
Social and Business visit not exceeding 14 days.
Citizens of Bulgaria, Romania and Russia do not require a visa for a Social and Business
visit not exceeding one week.
Nationals of the Republic of China, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cuba, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka,
North Korea, Nepal, Myanmar, Taiwan, Vietnam and all Certificate of Identity (CI) holders
must obtain a visa before entering Malaysia.
Citizens of nations other than those stated above (except Serbia, Montenegro and Israel)
are allowed to enter Malaysia for a Social and Business visit not exceeding one month
without having a Visa.
A visitor intending to visit any part of Malaysia is required to be in possession of only
one visa to travel direct from one part of the nation to another.
Visas are issued by Malaysian Diplomatic Missions abroad or British Consulates which
act for Malaysia in countries where no diplomatic representation of Malaysia is
established.
All visitors to Malaysia should check at the nearest Malaysian Diplomatic Mission for the
latest entry procedures and requirements.
Health Regulations
No vaccination is required for cholera and smallpox.
Clothing
As Malaysia's climate is sunny almost year round, light clothing is ideal. It is advisable
for ladies, when entering mosques and temples, to wear long sleeves and loose pants or
long skirts
Currency Restrictions
Due to the recent implications brought about
through 'the Asian Crisis' and to stop excessive currency speculations the Malaysian
government has introduced currency restrictions. These restrictions mainly consist of
daily fluctuation limits within wihich the Ringgit (Myr) is trading against other
currencies.
It is because of this regulation that the Myr is currently not anymore available through
banks in foreign countries. However, people who do possess Myr in cash are permitted to
bring with them any amount up to Myr 5,000.00. Further, everyone is required to complete a
currency declaration form upon arrival and departure. This formality is to help prevent
speculation and unsupervised movements of large amounts of cash in any currency.
However, it has to be pointed out that there is no problem to bringing large amounts in
cash with you and/or taking same money with you - as long as as above forms are
formalities are followed.
It should also be mentioned that bank transfers of any amount and in any currency are also
possible.
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