Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Malaysia?

Visitors from most countries can enter Malaysia without a visa for a period of 14 days to 3 months, depending on nationality. 

US passport holders can stay in Malaysia for up to 3 months without a visa. 

Canadians do not need a visa for Malaysia and can stay for 3 months without one as long as their passports are valid for at least 6 months.

For further information please check the list of the countries and respective visa requirements at www.kln.gov.my

Is English widely spoken in Malaysia?

Bahasa Malaysia is the official language. However, English is widely spoken and understood in most major cities and urban centers.

What is the currency exchange rate?

The exchange rate for the Malaysian Ringgit is approximately MYR3.80 to 1 USD, and approximately MYR3.10 to 1 CAD.

For other currency exchange rates, kindly visit the Malaysian Central Bank Currency Converter.

Can I use Credit Cards?

Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and large department stores. It is also advisable to have some cash carried separately from your credit cards for emergency and cash only purposes.

What about taxes and tipping?

A service charge of 10% is added automatically to restaurant and hotel bills, plus a 5% government tax. Tips are generally not expected, so tipping is not a social obligation.

Do I need vaccination for yellow fever or take malaria tablets?

It is not necessary to take malaria tablets or get vaccinated for yellow fever. However, please consult your doctor or family physician if in doubt.

What type of clothing should I wear?

Light clothing is recommended all year round in tropical weather. Informal dressing is the order of the day, with an emphasis on comfort. Shorts and T-shirts are acceptable wear.

For more formal occasions however, gentlemen usually don jackets and ties while ladies wear dresses. For places of worship, it is advisable to check the dress code. Malaysians also tend to take their shoes or sandals off when they enter their homes.

What if I get sick during my visit?

State-of-the-art medical centers throughout Malaysia are well-equipped and staffed to serve the healthcare needs of visitors from around the world. Medical specialists are highly qualified professionals supported by well-trained para-medical staff and sophisticated equipment.  Most private medical centers uphold internationally recognized quality standards or have accreditation by the Malaysian Society for Quality of Health.

What is the standard voltage and electrical plug used?

Voltage in Malaysia is 220-240 volts at 50 cycles per second. If you are planning to bring any electrical equipment of 110 volts, it is recommended that you pack a converter. Power sockets always employ the three-square-pin (British) type, although some older places have three-round-pin sockets.

Is Malaysia safe and convenient to travel independently?

Malaysia is a safe country to visit, and the overall crime rate is low. When traveling to any destination, simply normal precautions like avoiding secluded spots and unlit streets.

It is relatively easy to get around in Malaysia. The country’s well-developed transportation system enables visitors to travel within the country conveniently and fairly inexpensively.

Where can I obtain brochures and tourism materials on Malaysia?

For travel partners, brochures and tourism materials are available upon request on the Tourism Malaysia USA website at MalaysiaAwaitsYou.com 

For consumers, brochures and tourism materials can be downloaded at https://ebrochures.malaysia.travel/ while images can be downloaded at https://imagegallery.tourism.gov.my/fotoweb/