Malaysia

Malaysia is a tropical paradise endowed with breathtaking natural beauty, exotic, cultures and friendly people.

Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also hundreds of colourful festivals. Malaysian  love celebrating and socializing. Malaysians are warm and friendly.

Malaysia has 13 states: 11 on the West Malaysia , Sabah and Sarawak on the East Malaysia. Malaysia’s capital city is Kuala Lumpur and the new administrative center in Putrajaya.

Geography

Located between 20º and 7º north of the Equator, Peninsular Malaysia is separated from the states of Sabah and Sarawak by the South China Sea. To the north of Peninsular Malaysia is Thailand while its southern neighbor is Singapore. Sabah and Sarawak share a common border with Indonesia while Sarawak also shares a border with Brunei Darussalam. Area 329, 758 sq. km; Population 25 million..

The Climate

The climate in Malaysia is hot and wet. Day temperatures are between 28°C and 35°C. It is a little cooler at night and immediately after rain. Relative humidity is between 60%-73% year round. An umbrella is a must as rain is intense. There is little seasonal change.

Languages

Bahasa Malaysia (Malay language) is the national language, but Tamil dialects and Chinese are still widely used in their respective communities, and most people speak English.

Religion and Culture

Malaysia’s festivals and celebrations are colorful. During such times, many homes are beautifully decorated and many Malaysians wear their traditional costumes. One unique feature of Malaysian celebrations is the concept of open house where friends of other races are invited to join in the merry making and enjoy festive goodies.

Visa

Visitors to Malaysia must be in possession of a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond the period of stay. Most nationalities do not require a visa for social or business visits if staying less than 60 days.

Visit the Malaysian Immigration Department’s website:

Or Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia website.:

Currency

Malaysia currency is in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR. but more commonly referred to as RM)

Money can be exchanged at banks or Money Changers found in major shopping centers.

Travelers cheques and most credit cards are accepted at all hotels, major department stores and restaurants. ATM’s are also readily available and, subject to your card, you can withdraw cash in local currency.

Health

No vaccinations are required & malaria treatment is generally not required unless spending time in remote & seldom visited areas.

We suggest you contact your own physician or travel doctor for your own circumstances.