Malaysia is the crowning gem that lies at the very end of Southeast Asia, jutting out with the Malaccan Straits to meet the islands of Indonesia and the Java Sea. This remarkable land attracts more and more nature lovers from around the world. This country has a lot to offer for everyone’s taste!
We’re going to share everything you need to know before you visit Malaysia.
Visa and entry requirements
The immigration department of Malaysia made an announcement that the digital arrival card would be compulsory for All Foreign Nationals entering the country.
Before arrival, Travelers are required to input personal information such as their name, nationality, passport details as well as arrival and departure dates on the MDAC website.
MDAC FAQ
Do I have to pay for submitting the MDAC?
-> No, It’s free.
When should I submit if arrival is on the 5th?
-> From the 3rd
Do I have to submit MDAC on every visit to Malaysia?
-> Yes
Do children have to submit the MDAC?
-> Yes
Tip 1: Traveling to Malaysia is now the same as pre pandemic there are no more Covid-19 restrictions.
Tip 2: Make sure your passport is valid for 6 months from the date you arrive check if Visa is required.
KL International Airport Tip
If you arrive at the satellite building gate C you have to take the aerotrain to the main terminal building. However, if your arrival is at gate G or H you can just walk towards immigration. Arrival is at level four take the escalator or lift to go down one level for immigration clearance.
Tip: There are no special visa or entry requirements for US or Venezuelan passport holders. If you have a US or EU passport, you’re allowed to stay up to 90 days. Just know that you do need proof of onward travel, which means a ticket out of the country within the timeframe. They will ask for that ticket when you are leaving the US, so remember that.
General things to know before visiting Malaysia:
1. The type of plugs used in Malaysia is the same as those used in the UK, not the same as in the US or Western Europe. So, try to keep a universal adapter when you are traveling in Malaysia, and it will be a lifesaver.
2. When it comes to SIM cards for your phone, you can purchase a data plan with T-Mobile, it will give you free data throughout your entire stay, and it’s pretty decent. You can buy a SIM card almost everywhere, and they are pretty affordable. When it comes to using the internet here in Malaysia, the Wi-Fi speeds have been great, true for Peninsular Malaysia and also in Borneo. The only place that wasn’t very good was in Mabul, the tiny remote island.
Do you get overcharged as a tourist?
The answer is no. You do not get overcharged as a tourist in Malaysia, and that is the best. But there are some attractions where there are Malaysian local and foreign prices, but it’s always very transparent. So it’s not like a hustle. It’s just like locals pay one thing and foreigners another, which is a great practice in our opinion. It’s always clear and very nice, very honest people in Malaysia.
How to dress as a tourist in Malaysia?
Malaysia is a Muslim country, and about 60% of the population here is Muslim, so they are conservative in dress. There are no rules that tell you what to wear, and honestly, no one seems to care. Just try to wear full pants to cover, and if you want, you can cover your shoulders too. Especially if you visit religious sites, you will be required to cover up, and that’s true for men and women. So, when you go into a mosque, men will get robes and sometimes a little hat; you definitely have to cover up.
The good news is, to enter Malaysia, there are no Covid requirements. You don’t have to show a negative Covid test nor do you have to show proof of vaccination. But when you’re in the country, there is still a common use of masks. So try to bring your mask when you are in public places or using public transportation.
Interesting facts about Malaysia
In terms of geography, there are two parts to Malaysia: Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo. Peninsular Malaysia is where Kuala Lumpur and some other major cities; Singapore is at the bottom, and Thailand is at the top. Malaysian Borneo is an island that Malaysia shares with Indonesia and Brunei. Malaysia has the top third more or less, and it’s very beautiful; that’s where you have orangutans.
Top local recommendations:
-
- Malacca City
-
- Genting Highlands
-
- Cameron Highlands
-
- Islands of Langkawi (Costa Penang)
-
- State of Sarawak in Borneo
About the language
However, Malaysia is one of those countries where English is the default second language. But also it’s not like everyone will talk to you in English. So it’s better to learn a basic Malay language to communicate. Instead of saying:
-
- Hello -> “Assalamu-alaikum,” which is the most familiar greeting.
-
- Thank you -> Terima Kasih
-
- Chicken -> Ayam
-
- Beef -> Daging lembu
-
- One -> Satu
-
- Two -> Dua
-
- Three -> Tiga
-
- Yes -> Ya
-
- No -> Tidak
-
- Please -> Tolong/Tolonglah
Money tips
The currency in Malaysia is the Ringgit, and one dollar equals around 5 Ringgit. It’s also a very stable currency, so you don’t have to worry about a lot of foreign exchange fluctuations during your vacation.
Payment Tips
Credit cards are widely accepted, even for smaller transactions, but try to stick with Visa or Mastercard. American Express is usually not a great option unless you’re going to a bigger establishment; smaller places won’t accept it.
When it comes to tipping, you’ll be relieved to know that tipping is uncommon in Malaysia, so you won’t be expected to give a tip at restaurants, taxi drivers, salons, etc.
ATM withdrawals Tip
When you do need cash, it’s easy to find ATMs around Malaysia. Also, the withdrawal limits are typically pretty high, but there are noticeable withdrawal fees and transaction fees when withdrawing cash from different ATMs.
So we definitely recommend getting a “Charles Schwab International debit card” which reimburses you for the international fees. So if you can get it, we recommend it.
Is Malaysia safe to visit?
Yes, Malaysia is a very safe place to visit. Although locals may warn you about bag snatchers and pickpockets, as per our experience and research, we never heard about that. So, all in all, Malaysia is super safe.
Is Malaysia expensive?
Absolutely not. Malaysia is very affordable for food, transport, and accommodation. Malaysian street foods are very cheap and delicious. Malaysian public transport and taxis are also cheap.
If you want to rent a car, it may cost you 30-45 dollars per day, and petrol here in Malaysia is subsidized, so gasoline or petrol only costs about two dollars per gallon. For nice hotels to stay, on average, it may cost you 20-60 dollars per day.
If you have a budget, choose the 20-30 dollar range hotels, you won’t regret it.
Malaysian food
Malaysian food is so amazing that it’s reason enough to visit this country, and there are so many awesome influences on the cuisine. So you have local Malay, Chinese, Indian and all adding their spices and flavor to the dishes.
But in general, you can think of a lot of spiced and spicy/nutty curries mixed with coconut rice, also a lot of dry noodle dishes, and their iconic soups.
Pro Tip: Getting around Malaysia by bus is the most common and generally the cheapest way to get from place to place. You can book your online tickets from easybook.com for hassle-free booking.
Did you like this article? If yes, don’t forget to press the like button and comment your opinion. We appreciate your suggestions to improve our content. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
