One of Southeast Asia’s tropical paradise, Malaysia has a diverse and rich culture that is perfectly described by their iconic slogan - “Malaysia, Truly Asia.” It’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is home to Petronas Twin Towers, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Meanwhile, Penang (George Town) and Melaka are UNESCO World Heritage sites in Malaysia where you can see unique architectural structures.Aside from its modern marvels, Malaysia is also known for its beaches, fascinating wildlife, verdant forests, and overall panoramic scenery.

Fast Facts

Languages: Malay, English, Chinese, Tamil

Currency: Malaysian Ringgit

Visa

Majority of nationalities are allowed to enter Malaysia without visa. However, there are some countries that require visa such as: Bhutan, Cina, Myanmar, Nepal, Taiwan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Israel.

There are 58 nationalities that may enter and stay in Malaysia without visa up to 90 days. There are 99 nationalities that may enter and stay in Malaysia without visa up to 30 days. Citizens of Ivory Coast, Iran, Libya, Sierra Leone and Somalia may enter and stay without a visa for up to two weeks. Citizens of Taiwan may enter and stay without visa up to 15 days.

List of countries allowed to enter Malaysia without or with visa can be found on International Air Transport Association: https://www.timaticweb.com/

How to Get There

Malaysia has a total of 62 airports, with Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) as one of the main airports. To get to Kuala Lumpur, choose one of many transportation modes: Express Rail Link (ERL), bus, taxi, airport transfer, or car rental. If you take the ERL, it takes 30 minutes to go from the airport to KL Central Station.

Meanwhile, buses operate 24 hours a day from the airport to Kuala Lumpur Central Station. Bus ride takes up to one hour and leaves every 30 minutes. For those taking a taxi, there are four types of taxi, each may carry from 3 to 8 passengers. To use a taxi, passengers have to buy coupons from the counter at the airport.

Getting Around

Malaysia’s daily public transportation covers as follows: trains (Light Rail Transit and KTM Intercity), taxis, and buses.

There are two types of train in Malaysian cities: Light Rail Transit (LRT) and KTM Intercity. The LRT is used to go from and to KLIA, while KTM Intercity is used to travel long-distance between cities in Malaysia. Meanwhile, taxi is commonly found in Malaysian cities. There are four types of taxi operating in Malaysia:

Meanwhile, Malaysia has Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, a main bus hub in West Malaysia which is located in Bandar Tasik Selatan. To go to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan, use various public transportation modes. Besides by car, you can go to Terminal Bersepadu Selatan directly from Kuala Lumpur International Airport by KLIA Transport Link (airport train), LRT, and KTM Intercity.

If you’re going to East to West Malaysia, then you have to travel by plane as this is the only transport available.

Things to Do in Malaysia

With more than 900 big and small islands, you’ll never run out of places to discover in Malaysia. Some of the main islands are Kapas Island, Langkawi Island, Pangkor Island and Payar Island.

Geographically, Malaysia is divided into two main areas: West Malaysia and East Malaysia separated by South China Sea. Capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is the most populated city located in West Malaysia. It boasts some of the most prominent landmarks in the country. One of them is Petronas Twin Towers, formerly the world’s tallest building. Also known as PJ, Petaling Jaya is a satellite city of Kuala Lumpur. It is located in the southwest of the city.

Johor Bahru is located across from the northern part of Singapore. Its Stulang Laut Harbour is appointed as the main harbour for boats coming from Batam, Indonesia and Singapore. People go here to visit Legoland Malaysia, the country’s first theme park.

Meanwhile, Ipoh is a large area located on the northern part of West Malaysia, 200 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. Ipoh’s landmark is known for being British heritage such as train stations, law court building and town hall. Kota Kinabalu, on the other hand, boasts some of the most popular fishing spots in the country. The city directly borders South China Sea on the west.

On to the east side of Malaysia is Kuching, this is the most populated city in East Malaysia. It attracts visitors with its local delicacies and the famous Sarawak.

Kuala Penyu sits on East Malaysia on the north, bordering the eastern part of Brunei Darussalam. Visitors to Pulau Tiga National Park enters through Kuala Penyu. The popular Tempurung beach and Sawangan beach are located in Kuala Penyu.

Other places to visit include Miri, which is the main entrance for those who visit Gunung Mulu National Park. Aside from beaches, Langkawi Island boasts several charming attractions like suspension bridge on top of Machinchang Mountain and Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls.

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Whether you’re looking for luxurious or mid-range hotels in Kuala Lumpur, colonial properties, no-frills hostels for backpackers, high-end resorts in Langkawi, family-run hotels, or a simple homestay in one of its villages, Malaysia has a lot to offer.

Booking in advance, especially during the holidays or when there’s a festival, is a must in order to ensure you’ll have an accommodation. Not only is availability tight during these periods, but rates also rise so you have to factor that in your budget.

Nightlife in Malaysia

While nightlife in Malaysia is more subdued than other destinations in Southeast Asia like Thailand, there are still many options for night entertainment. The heart of the action is located at Kuala Lumpur.

Some sky/rooftop bars and lounges provide a perfect setting where you can enjoy a quiet nightcap. There are also clubs featuring international and local DJs if you’re up for a pumping party scene. You can also check out their fancy speakeasy bars or the colourful markets like Petaling Street that also comes alive at night.

Malaysia Travel Tips