Guide and Tips for Traveling in Malaysia

Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia that has enchanting natural beauty and culture. This makes Malaysia one of the favorite tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. 

According to data from the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism in 2023, the number of tourists in Malaysia has increased compared to the previous year.

Foreign tourists visiting Malaysia come from various countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, China, and India. They are attracted to Malaysia for various reasons, such as its natural beauty, diverse culture, and more affordable costs compared to other Asian countries.

Before traveling to Malaysia, there are some travel guides you should know to ease your journey. Check below to learn about preparations and destinations you need to know! 

What to Prepare for a Vacation to Malaysia?

A vacation to Malaysia promises an unforgettable adventure in a country rich in culture and natural beauty. To ensure your trip runs smoothly, here are some preparations to consider before traveling to Malaysia:

Passport and Visa

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your return date. Check if a visa is required before departing to avoid any travel issues.

Vaccination and Health

Check the necessary vaccinations and make sure your general vaccinations are up to date. Consider specific vaccinations as recommended by your doctor. Bring personal medications and medical prescriptions you might need while traveling in Malaysia.

Accommodation

You can book accommodations before traveling to Malaysia to get cheaper rates. Also, make sure your hotel or place of stay meets your needs and desired location.

Transportation

Plan transportation to and from the airport. Consider public transportation options or car rentals as per your needs while in Malaysia.

Clothing and Equipment

Familiarize yourself with Malaysia's climate and weather before deciding to travel. Bring appropriate clothing, including casual wear, swimwear, and formal attire if needed. Also, include travel essentials like a backpack, camera, and power bank.

Money and Credit Cards

Don't forget to exchange a small amount of local currency for your needs while traveling in Malaysia. You can also prepare and use internationally accepted credit cards.

Language and Local Customs

Learn a few phrases in Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) to help you communicate and interact with locals. Get to know local customs and etiquette, including polite rules and manners.

Tours and Activities

Plan the tours and activities you want to join in advance. Consider purchasing tickets or tour packages online to save time and costs.

Travel Insurance

Consider getting travel insurance that covers emergencies and health. This can provide peace of mind during your trip.

Safety and Health

Note the emergency numbers of the country you are visiting and contact the embassy of your home country. Ensure access to health and safety information in your destination.

Local Regulations and Policies

Familiarize yourself with the regulations and policies in the country you are visiting, including customs rules and prohibited items, to ensure your trip complies with local rules.

Why Should You Vacation in Malaysia?

Malaysia is one of the countries in Southeast Asia that offers diverse tourist attractions. From mesmerizing natural beauty to diverse culture and affordable costs, Malaysia has become a favorite tourist destination for visitors from various countries, including Indonesia. Here are 5 reasons why you should vacation in Malaysia:

Mesmerizing Natural Beauty

Malaysia boasts stunning natural beauty, from beaches and mountains to rainforests. Some popular natural attractions in Malaysia are:

• Langkawi Island: A tropical island known for its beautiful beaches and clear sea.
• Cameron Highlands: A mountainous area famous for its tea plantations and flowers.
• Gunung Mulu National Park: A national park renowned for its large and beautiful caves.

Diverse Culture

Malaysia is a multicultural country with diverse cultures. This makes Malaysia an interesting place to learn about Asian cultures. Some popular cultural attractions in Malaysia are:

• Melaka City: A historical city famous for its heritage from various periods.
• Kuala Lumpur: The capital city of Malaysia known for its skyscrapers and modern shopping centers.
• Kuala Terengganu: A city in East Malaysia known for its rich Malay culture.

Affordable Costs

Malaysia is a relatively affordable country to visit for foreign tourists. This makes Malaysia a popular destination for tourists from various backgrounds.

Easy Accessibility

Malaysia is easy to access. The distance between Indonesia and Malaysia is relatively close, with a flight time from Jakarta to Kuala Lumpur of about 2 hours. Additionally, Malaysia has a good transportation network, making it easy for tourists to travel to various destinations in the country.

Read Also: 6 Ways to Send Money to Indonesia from Abroad

Guaranteed Safety

Malaysia is a safe and comfortable country to visit. This makes Malaysia an ideal choice for tourists who want a peaceful and comfortable vacation.

Popular Destinations in Malaysia

As one of the favorite tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, here are some popular destinations you must visit while in Malaysia:

Kuala Lumpur Tower

The tallest tower in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, offering stunning views of Kuala Lumpur. You can go to the top via a high-speed elevator or climb the spiral stairs.

Aquaria KLCC

The largest aquarium in Malaysia, housing over 5,000 species of fish and marine animals from around the world. You can see sharks, stingrays, and various tropical fish.

Petronas Twin Towers

The tallest twin towers in the world from 1998 to 2004, a symbol of Malaysia's pride. Visit for views of Kuala Lumpur from above or explore the Sky Bridge connecting the towers. Sky Bridge, jembatan penghubung kedua menara.

Batu Caves

A Hindu cave complex in Kuala Lumpur, a sacred place for Hindus and a popular tourist site. See the 43-meter-tall Murugan statue, the tallest Hindu deity statue in the world.

The TOP Penang & Rainbow Skywalk

An observation tower in Penang offering stunning views of George Town and the Straits of Malacca. Experience the glass bridge at the top for a skywalking sensation.

Langkawi Cable Car

A cable car connecting Pantai Cenang with Mount Mat Cincang, offering breathtaking views of Langkawi Island's rainforest, beaches, and sea.

Lost World of Tambun

A water and theme park in Ipoh featuring various water rides, amusement rides, and themed attractions.

Sunway Lagoon

Sunway Lagoon adalah taman hiburan air dan bertema yang terletak di Petaling Jaya. Taman hiburan ini memiliki berbagai macam wahana air, wahana permainan, dan masih banyak  wahana lainnya yang tidak kalah seru. 

LEGOLAND Malaysia

A LEGO-themed amusement park in Johor Bahru with various rides, attractions, and shows themed around LEGO.

Genting SkyWorlds

An indoor theme park in Genting Highlands with various exciting rides to visit with friends or family.

Main Tourist Attractions in Malaysia

Among the many amazing tourist destinations in Malaysia, here are some must-visit places when traveling to Malaysia:

Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia's iconic landmark with two of the world's tallest towers offering spectacular views of the city.

Mount Kinabalu, Sabah

Malaysia's highest peak attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Langkawi Island, Kedah

A cluster of tropical islands with beautiful beaches, rainforests, and stunning marine beauty.

Bako National Park, Sarawak

One of Malaysia's oldest national parks with rich biodiversity.

Melaka Historic City, Melaka

A historic city with rich colonial heritage and unique culture.

Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Green hills with vast tea plantations and cool mountain air.

Perhentian Islands, Terengganu

Tropical islands offering white sandy beaches and stunning marine life.

George Town, Penang

A historic city with famous street art and beautiful colonial architecture.

Read Also: How to Transfer Money Abroad Easily

Important Dates in Malaysia

Malaysia has a variety of cultures, so here are some important dates in Malaysia to know before traveling there:

Malaysia Independence Day (Merdeka Day)

Celebrated annually on August 31 to commemorate Malaysia's independence from British colonial rule in 1957.

Malaysia Day

Celebrated annually on September 16 to commemorate the formation of Malaysia in 1963. On this date, the Federation of Malaysia was officially formed by the federation of Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore.

Chinese New Year 

The date changes every year. This important day is celebrated grandly according to Chinese tradition.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri

Celebrated after a month of fasting during Ramadan in Malaysia. It's a time to reunite with family and friends, sharing happiness and blessings.

Deepavali

The date changes every year. Deepavali or Diwali is celebrated by Hindus to commemorate the victory of light over darkness. The celebration involves lighting lamps, feasts, and artistic performances.

Wesak Day 

The date also changes every year according to the lunar calendar. Wesak Day is celebrated by Buddhists to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha Gautama.

Agong's Birthday

The date changes every year to celebrate the election or rotation of Malaysia's King.

Travel Tips to Malaysia

For those planning a trip to Malaysia, here are some tips to ensure a smooth vacation:

Prepare Passport and Other Important Documents

Make sure your passport is valid and prepare other documents such as a visa if needed. Ensure you have copies of important documents like ID cards and travel insurance.

Book Flights and Accommodation in Advance

Book flights and hotel accommodations in advance to get more affordable prices and ensure availability.

Halal Food and Drinks, No Need to Worry

Malaysia is known for its diverse culinary offerings, and most food is halal. However, always check food labels if you have specific preferences.

Read Also: The most complete list of currency names in Asia

Learn About Public Transportation in Kuala Lumpur

Familiarize yourself with Kuala Lumpur's public transportation system, such as trains or buses, for efficient travel.

Bring Electrical Plugs from Indonesia

Electrical plugs in Malaysia usually use a three-pin standard, so bring an appropriate adapter or plug.

Create a Suitable Travel Plan

Plan your travel route well, including tourist attractions to visit and the time spent at each location.

Prepare Malaysian Currency

Exchange some money to Malaysian currency before departure, and ensure you have credit or debit cards accepted in Malaysia.

Travel to Malaysia at the Right Time

Consider the weather and holiday seasons when planning your trip. Choose a time that suits your weather preferences and desired tourist activities.

Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Choose accommodation that fits your budget and needs. Read reviews from previous guests to ensure quality and comfort.

Bring Instant Food

Bring some instant food as a backup, especially if you have specific food preferences or if access to certain foods is difficult in some locations.

Conclusion

With its many attractions, Malaysia is one of the favorite tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. If you plan to vacation in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a must-visit country. Tourist destinations in Malaysia offer a wide range of attractions, from natural beauty and culture to entertainment.

Before vacationing in Malaysia, pay attention to all preparations, especially financial arrangements. Easylink is the solution! Easylink Easylink makes it easy to transfer funds from Indonesia to Malaysia safely, easily, and quickly. So, what are you waiting for? Use Easylink now to send money to Malaysia!!