Malaysia has been a popular tourist destination for a long time and due to its rapid development, even more so in recent years.  Tourism plays a major role in the Malay economy therefore every effort has been made to make every guest to this country comfortable and safe. Do not take all the following tips as warnings, most are only advice. Remember being a knowledgeable traveler is a big step to a successful vacation. NOTE: Please review the Medical Tips very carefuly. Thank you.

Customs & Rules

Everyday etiquette is relaxed and straightforward. Visitors behaving courteously are unlikely to unintentionally give offense.

Seniority is greatly respected within Malay households. The eldest male of a family should be greeted first and frequently sits in the best or highest seat.

Pointing with a finger is considered to be extremely rude. Instead, the entire hand should be used to indicate a direction, but not a person.

It is important to remove one's shoes at the door of a house upon entering. It is also customary to do so upon entering a mosque or an Indian temple.

Comfortable and informal clothing is suitable during the day and recommended all year round because of the tropical climate. However, as Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, conservative dress is most appropriate. Women should not wear dresses, skirts or shorts that are too short. In cities, towns and villages, shorts are considered highly inappropriate.

Do not dress in any manner that may give the impression that you are a "hippie," as "hippies " are banned from the country.

For formal occasions or evening wear, formal attire is expected. Men should wear a suit and tie or a long-sleeved batik shirt. Evening dresses or cocktail dresses are recommended for women.

Business
Malaysians tend to be late for appointments yet expect others to be on time. Your contact will meet you at your hotel or at his or her office.

Meetings are often held during lunch or dinner.

Malaysians are usually called by their given names preceded by Mr., Mrs., or Miss. The Chinese use their family names preceded by Mr., Mrs., or Miss.

A firm handshake and a "hello" are suitable as a greeting. Muslims bring their hand to their chest after shaking hands, and you should follow suit.

Business cards are always exchanged and should be both given and received with both hands at all times. Study the card for a few moments before placing it in your pocket.

A suit and tie is suitable business attire for men, with the jacket removed on warmer days.

Long-sleeved batik shirts are always acceptable. For women, a suit or blouse and skirt are best for daytime appointments.

The many cultures and religions of Malaysia may make giving a suitable gift a complicated issue.

Never give liquor to a Muslim (alcoholic beverages are forbidden in the Muslim religion), or clocks, watches, knives or white flowers to a Chinese person (white flowers are associated with death in Chinese culture, and so are clocks, knives and watches - the word for time and death sound similar).

A pen or a similar object having a company logo is probably the safest kind of gift.

Medical Tips

NOTE: All Venezuelans who plan to visit Malaysia MUST have a Certificate which states that he/she has had a vaccination for yellow fever . This Certificate MUST be valid for a minimum of 10 days.

It is advisable when traveling to any foreign destination that you check with your local hospital as to what inoculations or medications you may need for your trip. This applies even more so when traveling to tropical areas. If there’s a Tropical Diseases hospital nearby, contact it before departure for Malaysia. If not, then chat to your local doctor.

Some areas of Malaysia do have malaria so it’s a good idea to keep this in mind before you visit. Mosquitoes generally throughout Malaysia can at times be bothersome so it is advised that you come prepared, especially if you go plan on going outside at night. Many western hospitals will advise taking precautionary medical measures against the possibility of contracting the disease but those that live in malaria infested areas, around the world, often advise against this. The reason for this is that if you are on medication and still contract malaria, it is harder to detect than if you are on no medication at all. Some travellers prefer to carry the cure with them rather than taking preventative measures all the time. The choice therefore is yours entirely but do speak to your local doctor before visiting.

Dengue fever is another mosquito born illness that is prevalent in most parts of south-east Asia. Complications with the disease, which can lead to death, usually only occur on a second infection and although causing severe headaches and body pains and general weakness, there is no preventative medicine. The only way to avoid contracting the disease is to protect yourself against mosquito bites as best possible.

Hospital care is possibly not exactly what you might be used to unless you happen to be in one of the main centres. It is generally a good idea to take out some form of travel insurance that includes medical cover and if suffering from some complaint, bring a supply of any medication you may require during your stay. Many hospital staff around the country, speak English, so you will be understood.

Medicines can be bought directly over the counter, though your particular brand may not be available. Do be wary of inert drugs being substituted for active ones though and always check the 'sell by' date on all medicines purchased.

Rabies is endemic in many south-east Asian countries and if you do happen to be bitten by any domestic or wild animal, seek medical assistance at once. Also try to capture the animal or at least determine its ownership where possible. Even if you have already been vaccinated against the disease, further doses will be required.

Money Tips

Most currencies can be exchanged at the banks or local moneychangers. Travellers cheques denominated in most countries can also be exchanged. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments and the transfer of funds into the country through one of the banking systems, though generally slow by western standards, can be achieved.

Shopping Tips

Generally travellers find the prices of Malaysian products and general store items to be lower than their home country. Electronic goods are reasonable, though generally slightly higher than and not as varied as neighboring Singapore. Clothing and shoes, depending on your country of origin can be cheaper and you will be able to pick up many 'brand names' that are almost the real thing, for a lot less than the genuine article.

Getting out of Trouble Tips

Generally travellers find the prices of Malaysian products and general store items to be lower than their home country. Electronic goods are reasonable, though generally slightly higher than and not as varied as neighboring Singapore. Clothing and shoes, depending on your country of origin can be cheaper and you will be able to pick up many 'brand names' that are almost the real thing, for a lot less than the genuine article.

Getting Around Tips

Travel within Malaysia is relatively cheap and convenient. When traveling from one center to the other, unless connected by an air-route can be negotiated by rail, road or boat.

Car and motorbike rental is also easy on the purse strings. Your home country’s driving license or an International one is required for all vehicle hire. Malaysian law requires car drivers and front passengers to wear seat belts. If renting a motorbike, helmets are required. Ask for a second helmet if carrying a pillion passenger.

When opting for public transport, such as taxis, it is recommended that you agree on a price before you set off or you may end up paying more than you should.

Drugs Tips

On arrival in Malaysia you will see notices everywhere telling you that 'DRUGS MEAN DEATH' or 'ANTI-DADDA' (Drugs). Do not take these words lightly. Partaking in the use of or distribution of drugs in Malaysia carries a mandatory death penalty. Be warned!

Dining Tips

Dining in Malaysia is a highlight in any visitors visit. From traditional Malay to Chinese, Indian and western dishes, Malaysia has it all. A wise choice if unsure of which restaurant to choose...go where the locals go, they know the best eateries.

Nightlife Tips

Malaysia is generally a very safe place at night. Wandering around on your own down a dark alley or off the beaten track once the sun has gone down, as in most countries, though, is probably not a good idea. Women on their own are advised to be cautious especially if not acceptably dressed.

Scammers

When in Kuala Lumpur beware of scammers. Travellers are often lured into private homes on the pretense of meeting a family member that has ties with the home-country of the hapless traveller. Often they are asked to join in a simple card game. After winning a few rounds they soon find themselves losing and before long are cashing in their travellers cheques to pay off huge debts that they have incurred.

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