The Ultimate Checklist: Malaysia
🇲🇾 Welcome to Malaysia 🇲🇾
Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, divided into two regions: Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (on Borneo island).
The Essentials
☀️ Weather
Malaysia has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging between 25°C to 35°C.
There are two monsoon seasons: the Southwest Monsoon (May to September) and the Northeast Monsoon (November to March).
The best time to visit Malaysia is from April to October for the East Coast and from December to March for the West Coast
🧧 Money Matters
Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
In larger cities most credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, however make sure to have a little bit of cash on you just in case. For local markets and street vendors cash is a must!!
Tipping isn't mandatory but appreciated for good service
💬 Language
Official Language: Malay (Bahasa Malaysia)
However English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist spots.
🛜 Connectivity and Wifi
Wifi is widely available in all hotels and the majority of cafes, restaurants and malls
Sim cards are available for purchase at the airport upon arrival as well in most city centres (check with your hotel to find out more details)
An alternative to SIM cards are eSIMs, an eSIM is a digital SIM card that you can download on your phone and use for the duration of your trip (link below)
🔌 Plug and Sockets
Malaysia uses plug type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Malaysia operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz.
🆘 Safety and Emergency Numbers
Police and General Emergencies: 999 or 112
Fire and Ambulance: 994
Travel and Transport
🛫 Air
Malaysia has a total of 15 airports with 8 international airports, which means that air travel is convenient across Malaysia and allows you to explore to your hearts content.
I've listed out the 3 biggest airports across the region before for your reference.
🚝 Public Transport
Public transport in Malaysia is well-developed, especially in urban areas and major cities such as Kuala Lumper.
🚙 Road
Car rentals are available at the majority of international airports as well as in most larger cities. Make sure to check online with your provider before booking!
And remember that Malaysians drive on the left side of the road!
Taxis are also easily available, additionally you could download and use a taxi hailing app - such as Grab.
🍲 Food and Culture
Malaysia is a multicultural country with large Malay, Chinese, and Indian populations. In regards to religion, Malaysia is predominantly Muslim, with Buddhist, Hindu, and Christian minorities.
Make sure to respect religious customs and dress modestly in religious sites - such as temples and mosques!
Due to Malaysia being so diverse and multicultural the food is also alike - diverse, flavourful as well as affordable.
Must-tries include:
🍚 Nasi Lemak - considered the national dish of Malaysia, rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leave, served with the protein of your chose. Often served with an egg, roasted nuts as well as cucumbers.
🍢 Satay - a popular Southeast Asian dish of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meat, often served with a rich, spicy peanut sauce.
🍜 Laksa - a spicy noodle soup popular in Southeast Asia, featuring rice noodles or vermicelli in a fragrant broth made from coconut milk or tamarind, and spices. Normally served with prawns, chicken, or tofu, and fresh herbs.
🫓 Roti Canai - a Malaysian flatbread, with crispy and flaky layers. Normally served with curry or dhal for dipping.
Top tip - tap water isn't always safe to drink so stick to bottled and filtered water during your trip!
🧳 Packing List
You're almost set to go! I've complied a list of a few must haves on your trip to Malaysia to make you are able to make the most of your trip!
🧴 Sunscreen and insect repellent - because no one wants sunburn and mossys ruining there trip
🧣 A Sarong or Scarf - useful for covering up when visiting religious sites or if it gets chilly in air-conditioned spots.
☂️ Rain Jacket or Umbrella - for sudden rain showers, particularly during the monsoon season
📱Useful Apps
Thank you for reading and make sure to save for your future reference!
The home for unique & authentic travel
