Welcome to Malaysia. Selamat Datang ke Malaysia!
Read the following top 10 travel tips as your guides while you are in the country:-
- Since it's a tropical country, ensure that you bring light clothing, comfy shoes, insect repellent and plenty of sunscreen;
- Drug dealing and trafficking carry severe punishment;
- Gambling is only permitted at Genting Highland Casino;
- To drive in Malaysia, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) but it is recommended that you take taxis to move about as it is easier;
- You must have a certificate of inoculation for yellow fever if you're coming from infected countries. Vaccination for cholera and small pox are not necessary;
- Always keep your belongings safely with you while you're out and about. Important document should be kept in your hotel safety deposit box;
- Be careful with the authenticity of branded items as bootleg products are widely available
- Tipping is not practised or expected at eateries. It's your prerogative if you do want to tip;
- Have loose change handy with you at all times for taxis, buses and trains. Also, when taking a taxi, insist on using the meter; and
- Most importantly keep hydrating!
Etiquette
The locals here are particular about etiquette simply because they are from different cultural backgrounds.
- When visiting any home and places of worship, it's good manners to remove your shoes before entering the premises;
- Certain places of worship have a dress code, so please follow instructions. Some might not allow photography. Just look out for signage;
- When passing items (such as money) or pointing directions, it is considered polite to use the right hand;
- When invited for a dinner, utensils are usually provided but it's customary for the Malays and Indians to eat using their right hand. The Chinese usually use chopsticks;
- Purchase and consumption of alcohol is limited to patrons over 21 at non-halal establishments;
- Cigarettes are sold to those age 18 and above sonly. Please look out for NON SMOKING signage, as smoking is prohibited or limited to certain areas in most airports, shopping malls, banks, hospitals, cinema halls and eateries;
- It is courteous to say 'thank you' at the end of conversation;
- Blatant public displays of affection (PDA) are frowned upon.
Thank you for reading. Enjoy your stay and 'Terima kasih!'
Fly to Malaysia with Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia from all the corners of the globe.