Malaysia Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Kuala Lumpur
- Currency
- MYR (Ringgit)
- Best time to visit
- West coast (KL, Penang): December–February. East coast beaches: April–September.
Visa requirements
Most Western nationalities get 90 days visa-free on arrival.
Getting around
Peninsular Malaysia is well served by KTM trains (including the fast ETS service) and intercity buses, while flights connect to Malaysian Borneo. Kuala Lumpur has an integrated network of LRT, MRT, monorail and commuter trains, and the ride-hailing app Grab is the dominant, convenient way to get around cities.
Safety
Malaysia is generally safe. Be mindful of bag snatching in cities.
Tipping customs
Tipping is not traditionally expected. Upscale restaurants and hotels add a 10% service charge (shown as '+' on bills), so extra tipping is optional; round up taxi fares, and small change for hotel porters is appreciated.
Travel tips
Grab is widely used. Dress modestly in mosques. Nasi lemak for breakfast is non-negotiable.