Malaysia

Things to know before going to Malaysia

Malaysia is a captivating blend of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. But Before you jet off, it’s important to get familiar with a few essentials that will make your trip smoother. In this article, we cover everything you need to know before visiting Malaysia from visa requirements and currency tips to weather, local customs, dress codes, safety advice, and health precautions. Learn what to pack, how to get around, and how to respect local traditions. Whether it’s your first time in Southeast Asia or you're a seasoned traveler, this guide ensures you arrive in Malaysia informed and ready to explore with confidence.

Culture & History

    Malaysia's cultural roots trace back thousands of years, with ancient Malay kingdoms and trading ports influencing the region long before colonial times. The country gained independence from British rule in 1957, a proud moment that continues to shape its national identity.

    Malaysia’s rich tapestry of culture is one of its most fascinating aspects and a key reason travelers are drawn to the country. A melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous influences, Malaysia offers a vibrant cultural experience unlike any other in Southeast Asia. You’ll see this diversity reflected in its festivals, food, languages, and religions. Islam is the official religion, but Malaysia also celebrates Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Christmas.

    Respect local customs: dress modestly when visiting mosques or temples, remove shoes before entering homes or religious places, and avoid public displays of affection. Islam is the dominant religion, and it's wise to be mindful of religious practices, especially during Ramadan.

    Traditional values are strong, especially in rural areas. Learning about the culture enhances your appreciation of Malaysia’s heritage.

Visa Requirements

    Before entering Malaysia, check the visa requirements based on your nationality. Many travelers can enter visa-free for 14 to 90 days. For longer stays or for nationalities requiring a visa, apply online via the eVisa or eNTRI systems, which are straightforward and quick. Immigration officials may ask for proof of onward travel and accommodation, so have those ready.

    However, all foreign visitors irrespective of visa requirement must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).

    Few of visa-free countries: USA, EU member states, Australia, India, China, Canada, Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, UAE.

What’s MDAC, and the complete process ?

    Malaysia Digital Arrival Card(MDAC), a mandatory online form that all foreign travelers, except Singapore, must complete before entering Malaysia. It's not a visa but a required registration document that streamlines entry procedures and improves border security.

    All foreign visitors must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within 3 days before arrival. You can submit the MDAC on the official immigration website. It’s a quick, free and mandatory process that streamlines immigration clearance. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.

    If you're arriving by land—such as from Thailand or Singapore—the visa and MDAC requirements still apply. Always carry a printed copy or a screenshot of your approved MDAC for smoother processing at airport or land border checkpoints.

    Important: Do not fill out the MDAC form earlier than 3 days before your arrival. It must be submitted within the 3 days leading up to your travel date

Currency in Malaysia: Exchange Tips & Daily Costs

    Malaysia uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

    1 USD equals ~ RM4.5.

    Exchange money at licensed money changers in malls or city centers for the best rates. Avoid airport kiosks and hotels as they offer poor exchange rates. ATMs are a safe option for direct withdrawals. Always check for hidden fees and ensure the exchanger is authorized and regulated.

    Malaysia is a budget-friendly destination, especially for street food, local transport, and mid-range stays. Backpackers can spend under RM200/day, while mid-range travelers spend around RM300–500/day. Costs can rise in tourist-heavy zones like islands or during peak travel seasons, so budget accordingly.

Best Time to Visit

    Malaysia has a tropical climate, so it's hot and humid year-round. However, the best time to visit depends on the region.Explore our in-depth city-specific travel guides travel guides for everything you need to know about the destinations you're visiting in Malaysia.

    For most of Peninsular Malaysia, the dry season runs from November to August, making it ideal for outdoor travel and beach destinations. The East Coast (Kuala Terengganu, Perhentian Islands) experiences heavy monsoons from November to January.

    In Sabah and Sarawak, dry months vary slightly, but March to September is generally pleasant.

    Mountain areas like Cameron Highlands remain cooler throughout the year, offering a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.

Network

    Malaysia has excellent mobile coverage across cities and tourist areas. Major telecom providers include Hotlink (Maxis), Digi, Celcom, and U Mobile.

    You can easily purchase a tourist SIM card at airports, convenience stores, or mobile kiosks. 4G coverage is strong in most places, and 5G is expanding in major cities. Plans are affordable — expect to pay around RM20–RM50 for 7–unlimited GB of data.

    Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and shopping malls. If you're exploring remote areas or islands, the signal may be weaker, so download maps or important info in advance.

Languages

    The national language is Bahasa Malaysia (Malay), but English is widely spoken, especially in urban centers, tourist areas, and by younger generations.

    You’ll also hear Mandarin, Cantonese, and Tamil, reflecting Malaysia’s multicultural heritage. Road signs and public information are often bilingual, in Malay and English. Learning a few basic Malay phrases like “terima kasih” (thank you) or “selamat pagi” (good morning) can enhance your travel experience. Most locals are friendly and appreciate visitors who make an effort. Language won't be a major barrier during your trip in Malaysia.

Getting Around Malaysia

    Traveling between cities in Malaysia is affordable and efficient thanks to a well-developed transport network.

  • By Bus: Intercity buses are the most economical way to travel across Malaysia. Major hubs like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru are well-connected. Most intercity buses and trains in Malaysia offer comfortable seating, and select routes also feature Business Class options. Consider booking a ticket in advance on platforms like RedBus or Easybook.

  • By Train: KTM’s intercity and ETS (Electric Train Service) offer comfortable travel between major destinations like KL, Ipoh, and Butterworth (Penang). It's scenic and reliable.

  • By Flight: For longer distances (e.g., Kuala Lumpur to Sabah or Sarawak), flying is fast and convenient. Budget airlines(Super Cheap) like AirAsia and Firefly operate frequent domestic routes.

  • By Car: Renting a car is ideal for flexible road trips, especially in regions like Langkawi, Cameron Highlands, or the East Coast. Highways are well-maintained and signage is in English. Malaysia drives on the left-side.

Best Ways to Get Around Malaysian Cities and Towns

    Local transportation in Malaysia is both reliable and budget-friendly. In major cities, use Grab for convenient, cashless rides it’s more trustworthy than street taxis. It usually costs around RM10–RM12 for a 5 km ride.

    Kuala Lumpur has a strong public transport network, including buses, LRT, and MRT. Fares are cheap and schedules are frequent. In tourist towns, you might rely on shared vans, trishaws, or taxis — always ask for the meter or agree on a price.

    On islands, transportation may include scooters, bicycles, or boat transfers. Walking is easy in compact towns like George Town or Melaka, making exploration more enjoyable.

    Renting a scooter is a convenient and budget-friendly way to hop between attractions especially in places like Langkawi, where public transport is limited.
  • Scooter rental - RM40–RM60 per day.

Food and Alcohol Costs in Malaysia: What to Expect

    Malaysia’s cuisine is a flavorful mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences—don’t miss dishes like nasi lemak, laksa, and roti canai costs around RM5–RM10, while mid-range meals at local restaurants are typically RM15–RM30. Street food is both delicious and budget-friendly, especially in cities like Penang and Kuala Lumpur. For more insights, explore our in-depth article on Malaysian cuisine -

  • A complete food guide provide info of what to, when to and the vegetarian options.
  • Must-try dishes you shouldn't miss in Malaysia.

    • Alcohol is taxed heavily—expect to pay RM15–RM30 ($3–$7 USD) for a beer at bars, and more in upscale places. Supermarkets sell beer from RM8 ($1.70 USD) per can, but alcohol is limited in Muslim-majority areas.

    Langkawi and duty-free zones offer better prices. Always drink responsibly and respect local customs regarding alcohol.

Is Malaysia Safe for Travelers?

    Malaysia is generally very safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. Petty theft (like pickpocketing or bag snatching) can happen in crowded areas, so stay alert and keep valuables secure. Always use official taxis or Grab, especially at night.

    Tap water isn't always safe to drink — use bottled or filtered water. Naturewise, be cautious during hikes or ocean activities, but serious risks are rare. Malaysia is politically stable and welcoming to tourists. Keep emergency numbers handy:

    999 for ambulance or police, and 991 for fire.

What Are the Must-Visit Places in Malaysia?

    Malaysia has something for every kind of traveler. Discover the top things to do in Malaysia to explore more.

    One can explore the vibrant capital Kuala Lumpur, with its Petronas Towers, Batu Caves and street food. Wander historic George Town (Penang), a UNESCO heritage site filled with culture and art. Relax on tropical islands like Langkawi, Perhentian, or Redang. Dive into unforgettable underwater adventures with scuba diving or snorkeling at not only Malaysia’s but world's top marine spots like Sipadan and Lankayan Island. Discover nature in Cameron Highlands or climb Mount Kinabalu in Sabah. Visit Melaka for colonial charm or Borneo for orangutans and rainforests.

    Each destination has its own unique flavor whether you're chasing beaches, tea plantations, food trails, or eco-adventures, Malaysia is full of surprises.

Quick Tips

  • Stay Connected: Buy a local prepaid SIM (Digi or Maxis) at the airport for cheap data and reliable coverage across the island.

  • Rent Wisely: Scooter rentals (RM40–RM60/day) are the cheapest way to get around, inspect brakes and lights before you ride.

  • Hydrate & Protect: The tropical sun is intense—carry a refillable water bottle, apply reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), and wear a wide-brim hat.

  • Beat the Heat: Plan outdoor activities early (8–11 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) to avoid peak midday temperatures and sudden rain.

  • Carry Cash: Many street stalls and boat operators don’t accept cards—keep small denominations (RM1, RM5, RM10) for night markets and tips.

  • Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, quick-dry clothing, insect repellent for jungle treks, and a waterproof pouch for your electronics on boat tours.

  • Book Tours Ahead: Popular activities like island hopping, mangrove tours, and the cable car sell out in peak season—reserve at least two weeks in advance.

Related Articles

The Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide

The Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide

Travel Guide
Top Things to Do in Malaysia

Top Things to Do in Malaysia

Activities
Places to Visit in Malaysia

Places to Visit in Malaysia

Activities
Malaysia's 16 Days Itinerary

Malaysia's 16 Days Itinerary

Itinerary

You may also like

Best Places for Scuba Diving in Malaysia
Activities

Best Places for Scuba Diving in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur's Complete Travel Guide
Activities

Kuala Lumpur's Complete Travel Guide

A Complete Food Guide
Food Guide

A Complete Food Guide

Langkawi's Complete Travel Guide
Travel Guide

Langkawi's Complete Travel Guide

Our Values

What makes QTG special? Our values guide every guide, tip, and itinerary we create.

Cat Logo

Real Experiences

We rely on our own travel experiences — plus the journeys of friends and family we've helped by crafting itineraries — to bring you trusted, firsthand insights.

🔍

Thorough Research

Every guide, tip, and recommendation is backed by detailed research and cross-checked facts — so you spend less time figuring things out, and more time enjoying the journey.

✈️

Passion for Travel

Travel isn't just a topic for us — it's what drives us. That passion fuels every piece of content we create, from the smallest tips to full itineraries.

🤝

Helping You Travel Better

Our ultimate goal is to make your trips smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable — whether it's your first getaway or your fiftieth.

💬

Feedback-Driven

We listen to our community and continuously improve based on your feedback — because your travel needs come first.

Thank You for Reading!

We hope you found this guide helpful in planning your amazing trip.
Safe travels and create unforgettable memories!

Explore Malaysia

Discover more about Malaysia

Custom Itinerary

Plan your perfect trip to your dream destination

About Us

Learn more about our travel journey

More guides

Explore other destinations