Currency

The unit of currency is the Malaysian Ringgit indicated as (RM) which is equivalent to 100 sen.
Currency notes are in the denominations of one, two, five, ten, twenty, fifty & hundred. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 5,10, 20, 50 and 100 sen. Foreign currency and travellers cheques can be converted to Malaysian Ringgit at banks or authorized money changers. All major credit cards are freely used and accepted in the country.

Religion

Although Islam is the national religion, the Malaysian Constitution guarantees freedom of worship. Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and Sikhism are the main religions in Malaysia, and there are many mosques, temples and churches throughout the country.

Climate & Clothing

Malaysia has an equatorial climate with fairly uniform temperatures throughout the year. Temperatures range from 32°C during the day to 22°C at night. It can be slightly cooler in the hill country. (Rainfall is common throughout the year, averaging 200-250cm a year.) Light, cool and casual clothing is recommended all year round. For more formal occasions, jacket and tie or long sleeved batik for men and dresses for women.

Local Time

Standard Malaysian Time is eight (08) hours ahead of GMT

Water

It is generally safe to drink water straight from the tap. However, we suggest bottle water whenever possible.

Electricity

Malaysia's voltage is 220 - 240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. It is advisable to bring a multipurpose adaptor for your electronic equipment.

Access and Transport

Most international airlines fly to Kuala Lumpur but some also call at Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Kuala Lumpur International airport (KLIA) is about 1 hours drive into the city. You can travel by road or by the KLIA express. Malaysia Airlines operates numerous national services providing east connections to destinations throughout the country. Peninsular Malaysia can be entered by road or rail from Singapore and Thailand. Driving is on the left.

Telephone & Internet

Local calls can be made from public phones, whether coin or card operated. International calls can be made from phone booths with card phone facilities or at any Telecom offices. Most hotels are equipped with IDD service with a minimal service charge. Internet cafes are readily available in major shopping complexes and entertainment area and the charges start from RM 3.00 per hour.

Postal Services

Post offices are open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays and public holidays ( Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu :- Closed on Fridays and public holidays). The General Post Office in Kuala Lumpur is opened from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily and from 10 a.m.- 12.45 p.m. on Sundays. Most international hotels provide postal services at the front desk.

Medical Services

Medical services are available in all towns at government run hospitals and private clinics. Non prescription drugs are available at pharmacies as well as supermarkets, hotels and shopping centres.

Tourist Police

Visitors who encounter unforeseen problems and difficulties can seek the assistance of the Malaysian Tourist Police Unit. They usually patrol tourist spots and safeguard tourists' security. Tourist Police Unit telephone numbers in the major cities are:

Business Hours

The country is run on a normal eight hours a day system with Saturday as half day and Sunday, a day of rest. In the states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah, Friday is a day of rest with Thursdays as half days. Government offices are open from 8.00 am up to 4.15 pm on weeks days and 8.00 am to 12.45 pm on Thursday (Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah).
Banking hours are generally from 10.00 am to 3.00 pm from Monday to Friday and 9.30 am to 11.30 am on Saturdays. Department stores and supermarkets are open daily from 10.00 am to 10 pm (approx.). All Government offices & banks are closed on the first & third Saturday of each month.


Tipping

It is unnecessary in hotels and restaurants where there is already a 10% service charge, unless the services rendered is exceptionally good. If you are on a tour or a transfer, tipping is an expression of satisfaction and is a welcome gratuity for the person(s) who have assisted you throughout.

Export of Antiquities

Antiquities may not be exported without a license from the Director- General of the Museum Department. Diplomatic Missions. More than 72 countries have diplomatic missions in Malaysia and 26 are accredited to Malaysia from neighboring capitals. They are generally located in Kuala Lumpur. To contact your own Embassy, check with the operator or refer to a Telephone Directory.