Malaysia Travel Tips

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO MALAYSIA

LANGUAGE

The official and national language in Malaysia is Malay, or Bahasa Malaysia. English is widely understood and spoken in the urban areas. Mandarin (Chinese) and Tamil (Tamil Indian)  with their dialects are also widely spoken.

In total, Malaysia includes speakers of 137 different languages showing just was a multi-cultural country it is. Most Malaysians are multilingual, speaking various languages and dialects.

Transportation Signs

In addition to the official language:

Airports: You’ll find English language signage everywhere.

Train Systems: In English

Taxis: In English

Grab: In English

Buses: Drivers speak English

Other Signs in Main Centres

In addition to the official language:

Menus: In English

Shops: In English

You’ll see some signs in Malaysia with English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil languages all represented.

APPS

Translation apps work more or less the same way, share the same basic features, and can be used offline if you download language packs.

Google Translate: Online and app (Android and iOS)

• Key feature: real-time speech and text image translation

Virtual Private Network

For an extra layer of security, you could set up a VPN (virtual private network) before your trip.

CURRENCY

• The Malaysian Ringgit is the official currency of Malaysia

• Currency Name Malaysian Ringgit

• ISO Code MYR

• Symbol RM

• Sub Unit Sen

• Conversion NZ$1 = MYR 2.6151  (October 2024)

• Central Bank Bank Negara Malaysia

All major credit cards are accepted in Malaysia, with Visa and Mastercard the most widely used. Many retailers in main centres also have Apple Pay.

You can exchange foreign currency for Malaysian currency at banks, some hotels and Bureau de Change kiosks, which are in international airports and most city centres. ATM’s are readily available in urban areas.

Malaysian currency is available in: 

• Coins with values of 5, 10, 20 and 50 sen

• Bank notes with values of RM 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 

TIPPING

Tipping in Malaysia is not expected, instead a service charge may be added to your bill which goes to the company rather than the individual staff member. If you’re in a cafe or restaurant it’ll usually be declared on the menu.

ELECTRONIC PLUGS AND TRAVEL ADAPTORS

Malaysia operates on a 240 watt power voltage: 240 and 50 Hertz. Plug G

For Malaysia there is one plug types, Type G

• The Type G electrical plug has three rectangular blades in a triangular pattern and has an incorporated fuse

VISA

Having a valid passport, the right visa and completing the entry requirements are key to a trouble-free entry into Malaysia. Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid Malaysian Visa.

• You do not need a visa to visit Malaysia if you are planning to stay for less than three months / 90 days and your trip is for tourism or business purposes. This includes citizens from Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and South Africa.

• If you're visiting the island of Borneo, it's important to know that the eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak may have additional entry requirements as they maintain semi-autonomous immigration controls. You must have your passport to enter or exit Sabah or Sarawak, even when arriving from mainland Malaysia on domestic flights.

• All travellers are required to fill and submit their Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arriving in Malaysia. Submission must be made within 3-days of your trip (including date of submission) https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/egate

• To see the complete list of which passport holders require a visa to visit Malaysia, check the official Malaysia Visa website here https://malaysiavisa.imi.gov.my/evisa/evisa.jsp

Useful Documents To Have When Travelling to Malaysia

• Passport

  Original passport or travel document of your country with at least three months remaining validity on the date of travel and at least two visa pages clear of any markings, the passport should be in good condition without any damage that could render it invalid.

• Travel itinerary

  Travel itinerary is a travel reservation to and from Malaysia in your name, not a ticket, the itinerary should include your travel dates, flight numbers, and any layovers or connections, this document helps show your planned travel route and duration of stay.

• Proof of Funds

  Proof of enough money for your stay and to leave Malaysia, such as personal bank statements, pay slips from your employer, or tax records, these documents help verify that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay and for your return journey.

HEALTH

Vaccines and Medications: 

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. Visitors bringing in a quantity of medication are advised to carry a doctor's certificate to avoid possible problems with Malaysian Customs on arrival.

SAFETY

Before travelling, check the New Zealand Safe Travel site for official advice for New Zealanders living and travelling overseas.

Staying Safe While Travelling in Malaysia

• Always lock your accommodation and vehicle and keep windows secure when you're not around. 

• Don’t hitchhike or accept lifts from strangers. 

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery. 

• Store valuables securely, ideally in a safe at your accommodation. Never leave valuables or important documents in parked vehicles. 

• Never leave bags, backpacks, wallets or cameras unattended in any public place, especially airports, ferry terminals or bus/railway stations. 

• If you're out at night, keep to well-lit places where other people are present. Don’t take shortcuts through parks or alleyways. Take a taxi or get a ride with someone you know.

Petty Crime
Petty Crime is common in Malaysia including bag snatching and credit card fraud. As with everywhere, it is important you take the same precautions to look after yourself and your possessions as you would at home.

Travel Insurance

New Zealanders travelling or living in Malaysia should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

The New Zealand High Commission Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Street Address Level 21, Menara IMC, 8 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur 50250

Telephone +60 3 2078 2533

Fax +60 3 2078 0387

Email klinfo@mfat.govt.nz

Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/malaysia

Hours Mon-Fri 0830am to 1230 hrs (reception); Mon-Thurs 0800-1630 hrs, Fri 0800-1600 hrs (telephone enquiries and pre-arranged appointments)