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Malaysia FAQ

Is tipping customary in Malaysia?

Tipping isn’t expected in Malaysia. Some restaurants include a 10% service fee in bills. Feel free to leave a tip at restaurants or with taxi drivers if you’re feeling generous – it will be appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Malaysia?

The internet is easy to access in Malaysia’s large cities, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots quite common, especially in tourist spots, hotels and hostels. Regional areas and rural communities might have little to no internet access, so be aware of this before heading out of the city.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Malaysia?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in Malaysia’s large cities; however, it may be patchy in regional areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated on your phone before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Malaysia?

Malaysian public toilets are a mix of western-style toilets and squat toilets. Up-market hotels and malls will usually have both options, whereas rural areas will almost certainly only have squat toilets. Be aware that soap and paper aren't always supplied, so be prepared and carry your own.

What will it cost for a…?

Hawker food snack = 3 MYR
Cup of teh tarik (tea) = 1-2 MYR
Beer in a bar or pub = 8 MYR
Souvenir t-shirt = 10-20 MYR

Can I drink the water in Malaysia?

It's not recommended to drink the tap water in Malaysia. Filtered water is a better option; try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Remember to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Malaysia?

Credit cards are widely accepted by malls, hotels and large restaurants in Malaysia. Smaller guesthouses, shops and cafes may not accept credit cards, so ensure you have enough cash to cover purchases in smaller establishments.

What is ATM access like in Malaysia?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and towns but are far less common in rural and remote areas. Ensure you have enough cash before heading to isolated areas, as ATMs might be sparse.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Malaysia?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Malaysia?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Jan 24 Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
Feb 1 Federal Territory Day
Feb 11 Chinese New Year
May 1 Labour Day
May 25 Wesak Day (Birth of Buddha)
Jun 1 King’s Birthday
Aug 8 Hari Raya Puasa (End of Ramadan)
Aug 31 Merdeka Day (National Day)
Sep 16 Malaysia Day
Oct 15 Hari Raya Qurban (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Nov 3 Deepavali (Festival of Lights)
Nov 5 Awal Muharram (Islamic New Year)
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. Religious festivals are usually timed with the lunar calendar, so the dates listed above are estimates and vary from year to year. For a current list of public holidays in Malaysia go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Malaysia/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Malaysia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • MALAYSIA:
    Australia: No - not required
    Belgium: No - not required
    Canada: No - not required
    Germany No - not required
    Ireland: No - not required
    Netherlands: No - not required
    New Zealand: No - not required
    South Africa: No - not required
    Switzerland: No - not required
    United Kingdom: No - not required
    USA: No - not required

    The above nationalities do not need visas to visit Malaysia as a tourist for up to three months. Other nationalities should check with their Malaysian embassy or consulate.

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Malaysia at a glance

  • 14
  • Kuala Lumpur (population 1.1 million)
  • 28.7 million
  • Bahasa Malaysia
  • MYR
  • (GMT+08:00) Kuala Lumpur, Singapore
  • Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)
  • +60

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