Malaysia Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Kuala Lumpur – Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, vibrant street food
- Penang – George Town heritage, Penang Hill, hawker food
- Langkawi – Beaches, skybridge, islands
- Borneo (Sabah/Sarawak) – Rainforest, Mount Kinabalu, wildlife
- Cameron Highlands – Tea plantations, cool climate
- Malacca – Colonial architecture, river cruise
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Malay is the official language. English, Chinese (Mandarin/Hokkien), and Tamil widely spoken. Malaysian culture is a multicultural tapestry—Malay, Chinese, Indian influences, known for its festivals and hospitality.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transport: Domestic flights, trains, buses, taxis, ride‑hailing (Grab), ferries
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
- Food: Nasi lemak, laksa, roti canai, satay, chili crab, street hawker food
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| December – February | Dry on west coast | Good for Penang/KL |
| March – May | Humidity rising, some rain | Visiting highlands |
| June – August | East coast dry | Great for Tioman |
| September – November | Monsoon west coast | Indoor activities |
Airports: Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Penang (PEN), Langkawi (LGK), Kota Kinabalu (BKI)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (MYR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | MYR 2,000 – 4,000 | Round trip region–Malaysia |
| Accommodation | MYR 200 – 600/night | Mid‑range & boutique |
| Dining | MYR 100 – 200/day | Street & restaurants |
| Transport | MYR 50 – 150/day | Domestic travel |
| Activities | MYR 200 – 500 | Tours, parks, safaris |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport & visa (eNTRI available for some)
- Light breathable clothing + light rain jacket
- Insect repellent (tropical areas)
- Power adapter (Type G/B)
- Sunscreen, reusable water bottle
20 Basic Malay Phrases
| Malay | English |
|---|---|
| Selamat pagi | Good morning |
| Terima kasih | Thank you |
| Sama‑sama | You’re welcome |
| Tolong | Please / Help |
| Ya / Tidak | Yes / No |
| Berapa harganya? | How much? |
| Di mana tandas? | Where’s the restroom? |
| Maaf | Sorry / Excuse me |
| Saya tidak faham | I don’t understand |
| Boleh saya ambil gambar? | Can I take a photo? |
| Saya dari… | I’m from… |
| Nama saya… | My name is… |
| Di mana… | Where is… |
| Air | Water |
| Makan | Eat |
| Sihat? | Are you well? |
| Selamat tinggal | Goodbye |
| Bagus | Good |
| Berhati‑hati | Be careful |
| Betul | Correct / Okay |
Health & Safety
- Generally safe; watch for petty theft in cities
- Tap water not drinkable—use bottled or filtered water
- Emergency: 999
- Malaria prophylaxis advised in rural Borneo
Festivals & Holidays
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr) – dates vary
- Chinese New Year – Jan/Feb
- Deepavali – Oct/Nov
- Malaysia Day – Sep 16
- Harvest Festival (Kaamatan/Gawai) – May/June in Borneo
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa to visit Malaysia?
Many passport holders can enter visa-free for 30–90 days. Some need eNTRI or eVisa—check Malaysia’s immigration site.
Is it safe to travel solo in Malaysia?
Yes, especially in cities. Exercise usual caution at night and avoid remote areas without guidance.
Can I use credit cards everywhere?
Credit cards are accepted in cities and tourist spots, but small eateries and rural areas often require cash.
When is the best time to visit Borneo?
March to October is drier—ideal for wildlife, trekking, and outdoor activities.
What power plugs are used?
Type G plugs (UK-style) are standard in Malaysia—bring a suitable adapter.
