Language

Due to the diversity of cultures that exist within Malaysia, there are many different languages spoken across the country. Nevertheless, Bahasa Malaysia Malay is the most widespread and native language of the country. English is taught in schools and is efficiently spoken by many locals. In addition, Chinese dialects, Arabic, Portuguese and even some Thai areas are found throughout Malaysia.

Currency

Malaysia’s main currency is the Malaysian ringgit. However, this is commonly called the Malaysian dollar by outsiders. In general, Malaysia is seen as a relatively cheap country when comparing prices to the West. However, it is usually more expensive than neighboring Thailand or Indonesia. In rural areas, credit cards are rarely accepted for purchases. In the metropolises, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express services are available. Travelers’ checks are accepted by hotels, banks and shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur and other large cities.

Time

Malaysia uses the Malaysia Standard Time (MST), which is eight hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC +8).

Electricity

Malaysia uses 240V with 50 Hertz throughout the country. Visitors needing a different voltage should purchase a travel voltage converter. The plugs in Malaysia are consistently three-pronged. All plugs have two flat parallel in addition to one ground pin. Travelers are advised to bring an adaptor for electrical devices when visiting Malaysia.

Communications

When calling anywhere in Malaysia, the country code is +60. Each state has its own area code that need to be entered following the country code. For instance, Kuala Lumpur is 03 (+60 3). Malaysia boasts four reputable mobile phone networks, which include DiGi, Maxis, U Mobile and Celcom. GSM 800 and GSM 1800 systems are in use throughout the country. The main postal service in the country is Pos Malaysia, although Fedex, DHL and UPS also provide postal services to Malaysia.

Duty-free

Duty-free limitations exist in Malaysia, mainly for tobacco, alcoholic and cosmetic products. When it comes to tobacco, visitors can bring 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, a total of 225g of tobacco substances. One liter is the alcohol limit, while cosmetics cannot exceed the purchase value of RM200. In addition, gifts and souvenirs cannot exceed the value of RM200.

Tourist Office

Malaysia Tourism, Putrajaya: +60-3-8891-8000 or http://www.tourism.gov.my/

Embassies in Maylasia

US Embassy, Kuala Lumpur: +60-3-2168-5000 Embassy of Japan, Kuala Lumpur: +60-3-2177-2600 Singapore High Commission, Kuala Lumpur: +60-3-2161-6277 Embassy of the Republic of Philippines, Kuala Lumpur: +60-3-2171-1420 British High Commission, Kuala Lumpur: +60-3-2170-2200 Australian High Commission: +60-3-2146-5555 Canadian High Commission: +60-3-2168-8511

Emergency

Emergency services: 999