As a tourist you are sure to encounter Malaysia’s bustling cities but the real heart of Malaysia is its gentle and hospitable citizens. The country is a great mix of tradition and modernity and the warmth of Malaysia pleasantly surprises every visitor. Malaysia is a rich nation of South-East Asia and its high skyline; well developed cities certainly reflect that!
Yet, if you take heed of certain small things whilst in Malaysia, it will certainly make the trip even more enchanting. Here are some travel tips to guide every tourist visiting Malaysia.
- Be interactive in Malaysia to get the most out of your stay. Even Malaysians enjoy meeting people from other places and this is certainly the best and easiest way to learn a new culture. So, do not hesitate to strike a conversation - go ahead and talk! You may greet them differently. Offer your right hand to a Malaysian Muslim or say Salam (which is a 'greeting of acceptance’). Greet a Hindu with Namaste or Vanakam. Conversely a Chinese Malaysian may be greeted with a simple shake of the hand. Even simpler would be a polite ‘hi’, with a smile and a nod while being introduced to a Malaysian.
- Passport/Travel documents should be complete. A visa for a minimum validity of six months should be possessed. Do not forget to fill in the Disembarkation Card (IMM. 26) on entry and hand it to the Immigration Officer with your passport. You will also need a passport/travel document when you travel between Sabah and Sarawak which must be obtained on arrival in Sarawak.
- Visa requirements may vary for citizens of different countries and for different purposes. However, a visitor who wishes to visit Malaysia is required to have just a single visa to travel anywhere within the country. To obtain the latest requirements and entry procedures for visiting Malaysia, travelers should pay a visit to the nearest Malaysian Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.
- Tourist Police officers can be recognized by their dark blue shirts, checkered hat bands and the letter "I" (for information) on a red and blue badge on their front pocket. They are here to help tourists in every way, so feel free to seek any kind of help or advice from them while in Malaysia!
- Before planning your trip, check for the public holiday dates from the nearest Tourism Malaysia Office to avoid any inconvenience or hassle.
- Tourists may seek health services from private clinics; however, getting medical insurance is a better idea before travelling to Malaysia. For OTC medicines, there are many pharmacies and 'Chinese medical halls'. Tourists may drink water straight from the tap, however, bottled mineral water is also easily available. Vaccination is not required for smallpox and cholera while visiting Malaysia.
- The climate is generally good in Malaysia. The temperature generally stays between 21 C and 32 C. Humidity is high, however, and conditions can be sticky at times.
- Light clothing is recommended because the climate is mostly sunny.
- Etiquette should be followed to avoid any religious or cultural problems. Remember to remove your shoes while entering homes and places of worship. Ladies should dress neatly and cover their arms and legs while visiting places of worship. Use your right hand to handle food, and for taking or giving gifts to Malaysians and do not point your foot at someone.
- Malaysia is indeed a very safe nation. Violent crime is extremely rare. It should be noted, however, that petty crimes including pick-pocketing are relatively higher in the city of Johor Bahru. Tourists must take care of their documents and remain a little aware whilst out and about to save themselves an inconvenience. Credit cards should be used in reputed shops only.
- Maintain clean habits in public washrooms and carry some loose change, generally RM 0.20 to 2 to be paid there for maintenance.
- In many parts of the world we have the privilege of being able to speak our minds. Whilst Malaysia is generally a tolerant country, tourists are advised to avoid criticizing the Malay royal families – as this is in fact a crime potentially punishable with a prison sentence.
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‘Malaysia, truly Asia’ is indeed an apt tag line for the nation of Malaysia. Here you’ll find many different races and cultures – each of which will truly engage you with their charm and traditional hospitality.
