Malaysia

What You Should Know More About Malaysia

• Travel Advice

  • Taxi drivers of the Malaysia are very smart. They have a habit of overcharging you. So, make sure you get a fair idea about the fare that you have to pay for traveling from one destination to another. This will prevent any chance or argument.

  • Thefts are a common site here. It is good to guard your cash and valuables. Do not flash your important stuff in the public. This can be an invitation for the pickpockets to cheat you.

  • If you are traveling via public transportation in Malaysia, you might experience traffic. So, do get yourself some patience!

  • If you have rented a vehicle here, make sure you know about the local rules.

  • Be wary of the touts.

  • Monkeys in Malaysia are a pain. A lot of monkeys can be found hopping around near the temples waiting for an opportunity to snatch away the eatables from you. Make sure you keep the eatables in the bag so as to avoid any such incident.

  • Keep away from the drugs. If you are a tourist, you must particularly avoid landing up in a legal hassle because of the drugs.

  • Make sure you carry with you a copy of your passport, visa and license.

  • Check for the quality before you eat any street food.

• Drinking Laws

  For Non-Muslims, the legal age for drinking in Malaysia is 18 years. On the other hand, there is no legal age for drinking for the Muslims as it is against the law.

• Our Recommendations: What you can’t afford to miss?

  Mount Kinabalu

  Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Borneo with a summit height of about 4095 meters. The mountain is globally known for its massive biological and botanical species. You can find 100 mammalian species, 326 species of birds and 600 species of ferns here. The trail here is easy and can be climbed by anyone with average physical fitness. However, it is good to trek here with a guide.  

  Petronas Twin Towers

  Until 2004, the Petronas Twin Towers of Kaula Lampur were the tallest buildings. Now, they have been surpassed by the Taipei 101. However, the towers still happen to be the tallest twin building of the world. It is a huge 88 floor tower with a sky bridge between the two on the 41st and the 42nd floor.

  Langkawi

  One of the top holiday destination of Malaysia is Langkawi. It is a beautiful archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea. At present the largest of the islands is the Pulau Langkawi that has an inhabitation of 65,000.  

  Perhentian Islands

  Perhentian Islands are situated on the north eastern coast of Malaysia not very far from the border of Thailand. It is definitely a must visit place for all budget tourists. The island has some of the most dazzling beaches of the world and diving is a popular water sport here. You can also find some cheap accomodations here. Two key islands ere are the Perhentian Besar and the Perhentian Kecil. Both of these islands are beautified by the turquoise blue sea and the white sandy beach.

  Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre

  Commenced in the year 1964, the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre was initiated with an object of rescuing the baby orangutans from the illegal hunting, logging sites and plantations. These orangutans are trained in such a manner that they learn to survive in the wild. Basically, they come here young, are trained and then left back in the wild when they are ready. Some 60 to 80 orangutans are residing here. It is definitely one of the most important place to see in Malaysia.   

  Mulu Caves

  Situated in the Gunung Mulu National Park in Bornea, this park is surrounded by the magnificent caves and krast formations. You’ll find a Sarawak chamber in one of the underground caves. This chamber is believed to the largest cave chamber in the world making it one important sightseeing destination.

• What you will like there?

  Locals here are friendly

  There’s something about Malaysia that sets it apart from the rest of South East Asia. You don’t get that walking ATM feeling, there are little-attempted scams, fewer touts, and an overall feeling of being safe all round the clock. To me, Malaysia and the locals there seemed elated to see the tourists and were always up for help. In addition to that, English here is widely spoken given the fact that Malaysia once used to be a British colony. So, you’ll never have a hard time communicating with the locals here be it in restaurants, beaches, hotels, bus, food courts, and even otherwise.  

  Wildlife

  A lot of tourists who come to Malaysia to spend their holidays are lured to the abundant wildlife found here. You can plan a visit to Sepilok that will get you up and close with the wild beings. Some of the beings easily spotted here are monitor lizards, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, gibbons and several thousands of multi-hued critters.   

  Scenery

  Traversing from the mountains to the jungles, beaches to the hills, one thing that will stay with you throughout is the colorful scenery. Malaysia is every bit a photographer’s and landscape junkies delight. Blue skies, crystal clear waters and lush green surroundings – Majestic!  

  Trekking

  Malaysia is a land of abundant natural beauty. Exploring this Asia’s delight on foot gives you a chance to get up and close with nature. You have a plenty of trekking trails to best explore this tourist attraction. Some of the trails to follow are Taman Negara, Penang Hill, Mount Kinabalu and Cameron Highlands. That’s not all!  There are several untrodden trails about which you can hear from your tour guides and locals.

  Culture

  This is one reason you’ll fall in love with Malaysia. There are not too many countries that are as culturally rich as Malaysia. From Mosques to South Indian temples, modern Malaysia of today is basically a potpourri of 3 distinct cultures – One, inspired from Malaysia itself, second inspired from China and the third one inspired from India. Malaysia in every way is Truly Asia!!

  Festivals

  A multitude of festivals celebrated in Malaysia is a direct consequence of the cultural diversity seen here. Every month, there is some or the other festival being celebrated around the country, be it secular or religious or sports or culture based.  

  Value for Money

  Malaysia, of course, is not the cheapest country in South East Asia but it does offer a great value for money. In comparison to the western standards prevalent here, the prices are every bit reasonable. Accommodation, as well as the quality of transport, is phenomenal. You can even book resorts, hotels and stays at very reasonable prices.   

  Cities

  Not only Asians but people across the world love to hate Asia for its busy roads cramped with traffic, street markets and different cultures and traditions co-existing with each other. The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is certainly one of the best cities in South East Asia with enough options for sightseeing that will keep you busy for days. However, the real delight is Penang, which is a great destination to explore. It is a small island that is packed with delicious food and great

  Beaches

  Malaysia definitely has some of the most spectacular beaches in the world. It is a great place for honeymooners and everyone who loves blue waters and clear skies.

  Food

  Food in Malaysia is pure and simple. Undoubtedly, it is the best in the world. Satiate your taste buds with some of the authentic local dishes here.

• Recommended reads for destination

  Website: Government Website
  
  

• When is the best time to visit Malaysia?

  Malaysia is a hot and humid country and its west and east coast experience a paradoxical seasonal variation. Hence, it is important to know that the east coast receives the heaviest downpour during Late-November to Mid-February, whereas the west coast remains wet during September and October.

   

  Broadly speaking, the best time to visit Malaysia is between March and early October, when the rain isn’t severe.

   

  The months of January and February are particularly vibrant, thanks to all the parades and festivals that happen in these months.

• How to reach Malaysia?

  By Air

   

  The major airports for Malaysian flights are in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Goa. Most airlines land at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

  Alternatively, you may travel from the neighbouring countries of Singapore and Indonesia, to other cities in Malaysia, via direct or connecting flights.

   

  By Train

   

  Malaysia has railway networks with Singapore and Thailand.

   

  By Road

   

  You can travel to Malaysia from Singapore and Thailand on bus or even hire a taxi.

• Do I need a visa for Malaysia? How does one get a Malaysia visa?

  Yes, you require a Malaysian visa to travel to the country. Malaysia offers visa on arrival to residents of very few countries.

   

  New Delhi has Malaysia High Commission in Chanakyapuri. Malaysian Consulates in India are in Mumbai and Chennai. Malaysia High Commission accepts visa applications from all over the country. The visa application fee must be paid via demand draft only. Note that you need to submit a complete list of required documents as well.

• What is the currency of Malaysia and where can I get my money exchanged?

  Malaysian ringgit is the official currency.

  There is no restriction on tourists to bring in any amount of foreign currency.

  
  Cash

   

  It is however, advisable to carry cash because exchanging cash in Malaysia is very easy. Forex booths are widely distributed throughout the country and they accept all major currencies.

   

  Credit and Debit Cards

   

  You may use your own international debit or credit card. Your home bank may charge a fee on foreign transactions. ATM’s are plenty in Malaysia.

   

  Travellers Cheques

   

  Tourists are also allowed to carry traveller’s cheques. When cashing traveller’s cheques, you are required to show your passport.

• What are the things to do in Malaysia?

  Listed below are the things to do in Malaysia:

   

  1. Climb up the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers, The Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur.
  2. Satisfy your inner shopaholic at the shopping stretch from Bukit Bintang to BBKLCC, KL.
  3. Relish an authentic platter of Char Kuey Teow on the busy food streets of Jalan Alor.
  4. Let your hair down at the Genting Highlands, Pahang, known for its amusement parks, casinos and clubs.
  5. Dive into Malaysian heritage on a cultural tour of George Town in Penang.
  6. Visit the island of Langkawi for the best water-sports and an unbeatable bird-watching experience.
  7. Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s highest peak. Climbing and trekking along the way is a favourite among adventure-tourists.
  8. Sipadan Island, Sabah is touted the world’s cleanest diving spot. Go scuba-diving and snorkelling at this site. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is another deserving alternative.
  9. Visit the Kabili-Sepilok Nature Reserve and interact with playful orangutans among the lush mangroves.
  10. Enjoy a decadent River Safari along the Kinabatangan River and marvel at the surrounding wildlife.
  11. Take a relaxing stroll through the rainforests of Taman Negara, known for their self-sufficient and lush eco-system.
  12. Explore the world’s largest cave chamber at Mulu National Park, Sarawak.
  13. Unearth the quaint charm of Melaka City, a UNESCO site in the country.
  14. Unleash your inner child at Sunway Lagoon, Selangor, known for its thrilling water-rides!
  15. Delve into the Malaysian way of life at the Sarawak Cultural Village.

• What is the local food of Malaysia? Which are the best places to taste this food?

   

  The local food comprises Nasi Lemak, Nasi Dagang(rice steamed in coconut milk), a broth of Bakuteh, fried Hokkien mee, Sang Har Kway Teow noodles and the kebab like Satay. Some of the best places to taste Malaysian cuisine include:

   

  • Nam Heong Village,
  • Tg’s Nasi Kandar,
  • Opium,
  • Madam Kwan’s,
  • Nasi Kandar Pelita and
  • Bijan.

• What is the best public transport to commute around Malaysia?

  Buses

  One of the best options for public transport, the Hop On Hop Off Bus is an efficient vehicle for sightseeing.

  Trains

  The railway system in Malaysia is well-developed and include KL Monorail and Light Rail Transport LRT. Tickets are fairly cheap and you’re charged according to travel distance.

  The Touch N’Go Travel card comes in handy for tourists travelling by bus or train.

  Taxis

  This is a slightly expensive alternative. Make sure you never get into a taxi which isn’t metered.

• Do I need to have any vaccinations before the trip to Malaysia?

  Yes. You must be up to date on the routine vaccines of MMR, DPT, Varicella and Polio.

  In addition, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are recommended.

  Some travellers may require prophylaxis against Cholera, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies and Malaria.

• What is the local language in Malaysia and which are the most commonly used greetings? (mention at least 4) (Hello, Thank you, Good morning/night, What is the price of ____?, How far is _____?)

  The native languages of Malaysia are Malay and Malaysian. Common greetings translate as:

  Hello-Selamat

  Thank you- Terima Kasih

  Good morning- Selamat pagi

  Good evening- Selamat Petang

  What is the price of? – Apa Harganya?

  How far is? – Berapa Jauh?

• Which are the best shopping places in Malaysia and what are they famous for?

  • For a quaint street-shopping vibe, under the festive ceilings of hanging lanterns, check out Petaling Street, which sells everything under the sun (or lantern).
  • For ethnic and rustic labels, try Central Market, KL. This place is known for its charming souvenirs as well.
  • For a posh mall experience, hop over to Suria KLCC in the Petronas.
  • Pavilion, KL is known for its high-end brands and designer boutiques.
  • Alternatively, find yourself lost in the labyrinthine Berjaya Times Square Mall.
  • Buy reasonably priced apparel and footwear from Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall, also famous for handicrafts.
  • For a duty-free shopping experience, hit the Zon Paradise.
  • The Central Shopping Market of The Cameron Highlands is the place for a traditional Malay retail experience. Purchase strawberries, tea and flowers from here.
  • Sungei Wang Plaza is a shopping haven for young, fashion-conscious women.

• Which are some famous beaches in Malaysia?

  The Malaysian coast is teeming with exotic birdlife, sea creatures and it boasts a relaxed atmosphere like no other. Some of the most famous beaches here are:

  1.    Kapalai Beach, studded with rustic wooden chalets and hamlets at intervals;
  2.   Sipadan Beach, which is home to hawksbill turtles, manta rays, parrotfish and barracudas;
  3.    Rawa Island Beach and Lang Tengah Island Beach, known for their crystal clear waters, coral colonies and water-sports;
  4.   Matakang Island Beach, which has the world’s first Underwater Postoffice;
  5.    Sapi Island Beach, where swimming, kayaking, sea-walking and cliff jumping are some of the most popular tourist activities;
  6.    Cenang Beach, an upmarket beach where you can enjoy banana rides, paramotoring, jet skiing and paragliding.
  7.    Mabul Island, which is famous for being an important muck-diving site.
  8.   Turtle Beach, known for its turtle conservation and clear coast and
  9.        Mantantani Island, which is an Ornithologist’s paradise as many exotic species of birds visit here.

• How is nightlife in Malaysia? Which are the best places to enjoy nightlife?

  Malaysia is blessed with an active and effervescent nightlife. Unlike Bali and Thailand, the nocturnal activities offered by the country have a charm of their own as opposed to in-your-face tub-thumping.

  1.    Gravity Club is by far the best club in Malaysia. It’s home to suave bartenders and renowned DJ’s.
  2.   The warehouse interiors of Play Club at The Roof, make it a unique pub experience that is surely a crowd-puller.
  3.    Bora Bora in Batu Ferringhi and Beach Blanket Babylon in Georgetown are plush beach bars.
  4.   Famous for its ambience and a high-end beverage section, Stratosphere @The Roof is a hotspot for pub goers.
  5.    Unlock the quaint world of speakeasies and sordid corners, in Whiskey Tango Foxtrot whose entrance is through a London-esque telephone booth!
  6.    The nightmarket sentiment of Malaysia adds a colourful vibe to the country’s evening sky. Petaling Street Market is like mini Chinatown. It’s canopied by paper lanterns and parasols, which add to the bazaar mood.
  7.    Kampung Baru Sunday Market is lively with bokeh lights and fairy lamps.

• Which are best islands to visit in Malaysia?

  The Malaysian landscape boasts a spectacular coast, home to some of the best beaches in South-East Asia.

  1.    For a luxe experience, beautiful waters and thrilling adventure sports, Langkawi is a must-visit.
  2.   If you’re more of a hippie/indie vibe seeker, head over to the quieter Perhentians.
  3.    To view the exotic wildlife of Malaysia, a la giant Monitor lizards, make a trip to Tioman Islands.
  4.   Layang-Layang is known for its pristine sands and water. It’s a secluded beach and is possibly the most superior scuba-diving site in Malaysia.
  5.    Sipadan is another famous site for water-sports. Its waters are teeming with rich marine life.
  6.    Redang boasts limpid waters and a well-preserved coral ecosystem.
  7.    Pulau Pangkor is loved by the locals for its decadent and rustic spirit.
  8. Which are the best cruise options available in Malaysia?

   

  Malaysia offers luxurious cruises. These include:

   

  1.    Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruise for a longer voyage. These are international cruise lines.
  2.   For shorter trips, the five night Spice of SouthEast Asia Cruise by Royal Caribbean, is the perfect alternative.
  3.    If you’re keen on exploring the interiors of Malaysia, then a jungle river cruise is the right choice for you. Pandaw River Cruises is one such river cruise that takes you through the heart of the Borneo forests.
  4.   Malaysian port cruises are also popular incase you are interested in island-hopping. These tend to cover Langkawi, Malacca and Redang.

• Which are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malaysia?

  Kinabalu Park and Cheng Hoon Teng are important UNESCO World Heritage sites in the country.

  Inscribed sites include:

  1.    Lenggong Valley
  2.   Gunung Mulu National Park and
  3.    Melaka, Malacca town and George Town.

• Which are some romantic places in Malaysia for honeymoon?

  Malaysia has both economical and luxurious alternatives for a couple on their honeymoon.

  Some of these are:

  1.    The exotic beaches, the thrilling water-sports and the mystical Asah waterfall of Tioman Island, whose landscape is a beautiful painting splashed with jungles, mountains and streams;
  2.   The turquoise waters and quaint villages of Langkawi, also called Jewel of Kedah;
  3.    A stay at the Nature Lodge, Sabah Rainforest, where couples get to reside amidst the lush greenery;
  4.   An urban retreat at the luxe resorts of Kuala Lumpur;
  5.    An exclusive Malaysian cruise where young couples can sit back and soak in the good life;
  6.    The soft beige sands, rolling hills and sweeping views of Batu Ferringhi;
  7.    The enchanting, deep forests of Taman Negara, where the blue of the sky marries the emerald of the thick woods and
  8.   The laidback, culture-rich area of Georgetown, known for its rustic nooks and forgotten corners.

• What kind of water sports can be done in Malaysia?

  The beaches of Langkawi, Sipadan, Rawa Island, Lang Tengah Island et cetera, are conducive to various kinds of watersports. These include:

  1.    Snorkelling
  2.   Scuba Diving (Best-Layang Layang)
  3.    Kayaking
  4.   Motor boating
  5.    Speed boating
  6.    Banana Rides
  7.    Sea-walking
  8.   Paragliding
  9.        Paramotoring
  10.        Muck Diving (Mabul Island)
  11.   Jet Skiing (Cenang Beach)

• Which are some famous temples in Malaysia?

  The famous temples are listed below:

   

  1.    Batu Caves, built within a limestone cavern, are a site of pilgrimage during the Thaipusam festival. It has a towering statue of Lord Hanuman.
  2.   The Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple in Melaka, is one of the oldest in the region.
  3.    The resplendent glass temple of Tebrau, which accepts idols of various religions and welcomes people of all faiths.
  4.   The Klang Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu is located in Selangor.
  5.    Sri Mahamariamman Temple, in Kuala Lumpur, is a highly ornate monument dedicated to Goddess Amman and
  6.    The Waterfall Temple in Penang, which sits atop a hill and has a waterfall in its vicinity. It’s dedicated to Lord Muruga.

• Which are some best golfing locations in Malaysia?

  Some of the most superior golfing locations in Malaysia are in:

  • Johor, the golf capital of the country;
  • Kedah;
  • Kelantan, known for its traditional golf courses;
  • KL, famous for its multicultural and urbane golf patches;
  • Langkawi, which has 3 golf courses including: The Golf Club Datai Bay, Gunung Raya Golf Resort and The 99 East Golf Club.
  • Negeri Sembilan, which is home to golf courses in its salubrious atmosphere and tranquil surroundings;
  • Pahang, which is host of the four hill resorts of Cameron Highlands, Fraser’s Hill, Bukit Tinggi and Genting Highlands and
  • Sabah, where players enjoy golf amidst the deep-blue waters and dark-green forests.

• Where can I get a helicopter trip in Malaysia?

  • Kuala Lumpur offers a panoramic helicopter tour of Malaysia. It’s a great way to witness the skyscrapers and natural scenery of the city. Usually, chopper rides last half an hour.
  • Additionally, Langkawi offers a bird’s eye view of the islands on its exclusive helicopter tours.

• Which are some famous places for a village tour in Malaysia?

  • Langkawi- The islands are chirping not only with flora and fauna but also known for their village settlements.
  • The Pulau Ketam village tour includes sightseeing of Thean Hou Temple and Sultan Salahuddin Mosque.
  • The Mari Mari Cultural village is away from the hustle bustle of city-life and is situated in the countryside of Kota Kinabalu.
  • Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching is a living museum. It’s a 17 acre site studded with longhouse replicas and it gives tourists a sneak peek into the daily routines of its ethnic tribes.

• Which are some best forests stays in Malaysia?

  Jungle resorts are Malaysia’s ‘’thing’’. The Malaysian ecosystem is blessed with the Borneon bounty. With that in mind, some of the best forest stays here are of:

  1.    Nature Lodge, Sabah Rainforest, where you can stay amidst the lush greenery;
  2.   Taman Negara, known for its lush woodlands and evergreen forests;
  3.    The Datai Langkawi, overlooking the Andaman sea;
  4.   The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, which boasts paleozoic hills, mystical caves, geothermal hot springs and more, within the lap of luxurious greenery and
  5.    The Shorea ecoresort, nestled in the Berembun Forest Reserve, where the clouds bow down to kiss the land.

• Which are the best hiking trails in Malaysia?

  The best hiking trails in Malaysia are listed below:

   

  1.    Gasing Hill trail, in Bukit Gasing Forest Park, Petaling Jaya- It lets you choose between an easy 20 min hike and a ‘’killer’’ trail;
  2.   Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kepong- With Rover Track being the most popular trail. The track later leads to Canopy Walk;
  3.    Puchong Hill, Bandar Puteri Puchong- A hidden gem, which encompasses a waterfall. Beware it may get precarious following rainfall;
  4.   Mt. Tok Wan, Seminyeh-A daunting experience for amateurs, but a thrilling trip for professional hikers;
  5.    Kutu Hill, Kuala Kubu Bahru-Includes bamboo forest trails, root climbing, ladder ascent and river crossings, and
  6.    Saga Hill, Taman Saga, Ampang-An exotic trail, studded with hills, streams and rivulets. The highlight here is a makeshift gym consisting of dumbbells and bars!

• Here are the best tips Thrillophilia has to offer for your trip to Malaysia

  • First of all, Malaysia is known to be a retreat, so sit back, put your feet up and enjoy the decadence.
  • Explore Malaysia beyond KL, because the heart of the country is in fragments dispersed throughout its terrain.
  • Domestic flights are dirt cheap, thanks to AirAsia. Now everyone the jet-set lifestyle.
  • The word ‘’bacon’’ is loosely used and most restaurants in Malaysia do not serve pork.
  • Want to chug some Guinness outside Ireland? Malaysia is the place for you!
  • Alcohol is duty-free on Malaysian islands.
  • Malaysia is rich in flora and fauna so make sure you delve deep into the rainforests here!
  • Cab fares in Malaysian aren’t fair! No wonder other modes of transportation are preferred!