The Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
The Petronas Towers are twin skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat's official definition and ranking, they were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 when they were surpassed by Taipei 101.

Kuala Lumpur

The Petronas Towers are twin skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. According to the Council on Tall Buildings...

Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Cameron Highlands
There are a handful of things that Cameron Highlands is best known for – tea plantations, jungle trails and… strawberry farms!

Cameron Highlands

There are a handful of things that Cameron Highlands is best known for – tea plantations, jungle trails and…...

Batu Caves, Selangor, Malaysia
Batu Caves
Batu Caves is a limestone hill that has a series of caves and cave temples in Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia.

Batu Caves

Batu Caves is a limestone hill that has a series of caves and cave temples in Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia.

Best Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur 2024 4K
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Malaysia Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Kuala Lumpur

Location:

Southeastern Asia, peninsula bordering Thailand and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia, Brunei, and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam

Currency:

ringgits (MYR)

Area:

329,847 sq km

Population:

33,519,406 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

Bahasa Malaysia (official), English, Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin, Hokkien, Hakka, Hainan, Foochow), Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Panjabi, Thai; note - Malaysia has 134 living languages - 112 indigenous languages and 22 non-indigenous languages; in East Malaysia, there are several indigenous languages; the most widely spoken are Iban and Kadazan

Religion:

Muslim (official) 61.3%, Buddhist 19.8%, Christian 9.2%, Hindu 6.3%, Confucianism, Taoism, other traditional Chinese religions 1.3%, other 0.4%, none 0.8%, unspecified 1% (2010 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC+8

Tel Code:

+60

Things to Do

  • 1. Petronas Towers

    Visit the iconic Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, the tallest twin towers in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of the cityscape from the observation deck.

  • 2. Langkawi Island

    Explore the beautiful Langkawi Island with its pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush jungles. Take a cable car ride to the top of Gunung Mat Cincang for panoramic views.

  • 3. Batu Caves

    Discover the Batu Caves, a series of limestone caves and cave temples located just outside of Kuala Lumpur. Climb the 272 steps to the main cave temple and marvel at the giant golden statue of Lord Murugan.

  • 4. Cameron Highlands

    Escape the heat and visit the cool Cameron Highlands, known for its tea plantations, strawberry farms, and lush greenery. Take a guided tour to learn about tea production and sample freshly brewed tea.

  • 5. Taman Negara

    Experience the oldest rainforest in the world at Taman Negara. Go trekking through the dense jungle, spot wildlife such as elephants and tigers, and take a boat ride along the Tembeling River.

  • 6. George Town

    Wander through the historic streets of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its colonial architecture, street art, and vibrant food scene featuring local dishes like Char Kway Teow and Penang Laksa.

  • 7. Mount Kinabalu

    Conquer the majestic Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. Embark on a challenging trek to the summit and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

  • 8. Borneo Rainforest

    Immerse yourself in the wildlife-rich Borneo Rainforest, home to orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. Take a river cruise to spot these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.

  • 9. Perhentian Islands

    Relax on the pristine white-sand beaches of the Perhentian Islands. Go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and marine life.

  • 10. Kuching Waterfront

    Stroll along the scenic Kuching Waterfront and admire the traditional colonial architecture. Visit the Sarawak Museum and enjoy local delicacies at the nearby food stalls.

Weather

Malaysia has a tropical rainforest climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences two main seasons: the Northeast Monsoon, from October to February, and the Southwest Monsoon, from May to September.

Northeast Monsoon (Dry season)

The Northeast Monsoon, from October to February, is considered the best time to visit Malaysia. The weather is dry, mild, and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The skies are clear, and the visibility is good, which makes it a great time to visit the country's many attractions such as the beaches of Langkawi, the highlands of Cameron and Genting, and the tropical rainforests of Sarawak.

Southwest Monsoon (Rainy season)

The Southwest Monsoon, from May to September, is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and thunderstorms. This is not the best time to visit Malaysia for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities or sightseeing, but it's a good time for those who want to experience the country's lush, green landscapes and enjoy indoor activities like visiting museums, shopping or trying the local food.

In general, the best time to visit Malaysia is from October to February, when the weather is dry, mild, and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it's always worth checking the weather forecast for the specific regions you plan to visit, as the weather can vary depending on the location.

Food

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is Malaysia's national dish, featuring fragrant coconut rice served with anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, boiled egg, and a spicy sambal sauce. This aromatic and flavorful dish is a breakfast staple and a beloved comfort food in Malaysia.

Roti Canai

Roti Canai

Roti Canai is a popular Malaysian flatbread made from dough that's stretched, flipped, and skillfully cooked on a flat grill. It's often served with flavorful curry sauces, dhal (lentil curry), or even sweet condensed milk. This versatile dish is enjoyed throughout the day.

Char Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow

Char Kway Teow is a stir-fried noodle dish with a sweet and savory flavor, often cooked with prawns, Chinese lap cheong (sausages), bean sprouts, and a flavorful soy sauce. It's a quintessential street food in Malaysia, loved for its smoky aroma and satisfying taste.

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese Chicken Rice is a comforting and well-loved dish in Malaysia, featuring succulent poached chicken served over fragrant rice, accompanied by chili sauce, minced ginger, and a light soy sauce. The dish is known for its simple yet delightful flavors.

Satay

Satay

Satay is a popular Malaysian street food consisting of skewered and grilled marinated meat, usually chicken, beef, or lamb. It's accompanied by a delectable peanut sauce and often served with rice cakes, onions, and cucumber. The smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavor makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Accommodation

Malaysia offers a wide range of accommodation options for travelers, including:

Hotels

Malaysia has a wide range of hotels, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Prices vary depending on the level of comfort and service you require. In the main tourist areas, such as Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Penang, you'll find a good selection of mid-range and luxury hotels.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular and affordable accommodation option in Malaysia. They are generally small, family-run establishments that offer basic rooms and facilities. Guesthouses can be found in most towns and cities, and they are a great way to experience the local way of life.

Hostels

Hostels are a budget-friendly accommodation option, and are more common in the main tourist areas and cities. They usually offer dormitory-style accommodation and shared facilities, and they can be a great way to meet other travelers.

Homestays

Homestays are a great way to experience the local culture and way of life in Malaysia. They are often located in remote or rural areas and offer a chance to stay with a local family and learn about their daily life.

Resorts

Malaysia has a growing number of luxury resorts, many of which are located in remote and scenic locations such as the beaches of Langkawi and Tioman Island. These resorts offer a high level of comfort and service, and they are perfect for those looking for a more upscale experience.

Camping

Camping is not a common option for travelers in Malaysia, and there are few facilities available for camping. It's not a recommended option.

It's important to note that accommodation options may vary depending on the specific location you are visiting in Malaysia, and it's always a good idea to check the availability of accommodation options before you travel.

Transportation

Malaysia has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, offering several options for getting around, including:

Bus

Buses are one of the most common and affordable ways to get around Malaysia. They connect most major towns and cities and are a good option for long-distance travel. However, the buses can be old, overcrowded, and in poor condition, and the roads can be in bad shape, so the journey can be bumpy and uncomfortable.

Train

Trains are another popular option for getting around Malaysia. They connect most major towns and cities, and offer a more comfortable way to travel than buses. The trains can be slow, but they provide a great way to see the country's beautiful scenery.

Plane

There are several domestic airlines that connect major cities and tourist destinations. This is one of the most convenient options for long-distance travel, but it's also the most expensive.

Taxi

Taxis are widely available in Malaysia and are a convenient option for getting around the city. They are relatively inexpensive, but it's always a good idea to agree on the fare before the trip starts to avoid any confusion.

Grab

Grab is a popular ride-hailing service in Malaysia, similar to Uber, it is widely available in most cities and towns and can be a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Motorbike or Scooter

Renting a motorbike or scooter is a popular option for travelers who want to explore Malaysia at their own pace, but it can be dangerous due to poor road conditions and lack of safety regulations.

It's important to note that transportation options may vary depending on the specific location you are visiting in Malaysia, and it's always a good idea to check the availability of transportation options before you travel.

Money

Currency

  • The currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small transactions or in rural areas.

Cash And Cards

  • It is recommended to carry a mix of cash and cards in Malaysia.
  • ATMs are widely available in cities and towns.
  • Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most establishments.

ATMs

  • ATMs are plentiful in Malaysia and can be found in cities, towns, and popular tourist destinations.
  • It is advisable to use ATMs located in well-lit and secure areas.
  • Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with ATM withdrawals.

Tipping

  • Tipping is not a common practice in Malaysia.
  • Service charges are usually included in the bill in hotels and restaurants, so tipping is not necessary.
  • However, you can round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively low compared to Western countries.
  • Accommodation, transportation, and food are affordable.
  • However, prices may vary depending on the location and type of establishment you visit.

Scams

  • Be cautious of scams and touts targeting tourists, especially in popular tourist areas.
  • Beware of people offering unsolicited help, as they may have ulterior motives.
  • Be cautious when using ATMs to avoid card skimming devices.
  • Only exchange currency at authorized money changers or banks to avoid counterfeit notes.