Malaysia Traveler Guide – General Tips, Entry Requirements, Immigration etc

o     Entry Requirements
Visitors to Malaysia must be in possession of a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months beyond the period of stay. Most nations do not require visas for social or business visits. For further information, please check with the nearest Malaysian Mission or Tourism Malaysia office in your country. Alternatively browse www.imi.gov.my.

o     Immigration And Customs
Trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offence and importing large amounts of foreign currencies requires a declaration.

o     Time
Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time.

o     Tipping
Most hotels and restaurants levy a 10% service charge and 5% government sales tax on bills. Therefore, tipping is not customary. However, should you want to show your appreciation for good service, a small tip will do.

o     Shopping
All purchases are done in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). Major credit cards are accepted in most dining and retail outlets.

Hypermarkets, supermarkets and most retail outlets have fixed prices for their goods which are displayed on the products. However bargaining is acceptable at selected retail outlets. Bargaining is most common at night markets (pasar malam), or at bazaars. Make sure you strike the best bargains you can get!

Shopping centres operate from 10.00am to 10.00pm with extended hours during sale and festive seasons.

o     Dining
Most eateries operate until late night. Selected eateries are open 24 hours. Some Malaysians enjoy their meals using their fingers. Adventurous visitors can try savouring their meals with their fingers too. Otherwise, it is perfectly normal to request for cutlery.

Mealtimes in Malay villages or kampungs will be especially interesting. Villagefolk prefer to enjoy their meals while seated on a mat spread on the floor. Here too, families eat using their fingers. Before the meal, hands are washed using a kendi, a container resembling a teapot.

During feasts or kenduri, the host and other locals will say their prayers before beginning their meal. As a close-knit society, villagers will also invite guests for second or third helpings in a warm and friendly manner. Visitors can politely decline if they do not wish to.

o     Insurance
Visitors are strongly advised to obtain adequate insurance coverage before traveling to Malaysia.

o     Safety
While Malaysia is a relatively safe country; visitors are advised to take certain precautionary measures to ensure their safety. Safeguard your valuables at all times. Strap or sling your bags when on the move and walk against oncoming traffic. Keep your handbags and wallets safe and close to you especially when in crowded areas. Avoid entering dark and quiet alleys.

o     Electricity
Voltage is 220-240 volts A/C at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets.

o     Telecommunications
Malaysia is linked nationally and internationally by telephone, facsimile, telegraph, telex and via the Internet. Most hotels provide International Direct Dial (IDD) telephone services. In cities and towns, public phones are available at high-traffic areas, such as bus stations, shopping complexes and office buildings, using coins or phone cards. Phone cards come in denominations of RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50 and are available at news-stands and petrol stations.

o     Health
Malaysia is free of most contagious diseases. However, you would need a special vaccination if you are from an endemic area. Do check on health regulations with your nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission.