Before you fly
Complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online in the days before travel. Most visitors must do this, it is free, and it is done on the official immigration website.
There are many lookalike sites charging a fee for it. Use the government site and nothing else.
Visa requirements vary by nationality; many passports get visa-free entry for 30 or 90 days. Check the immigration site directly.
Money
Ringgit (RM / MYR). Cards in malls, hotels and restaurants; cash at hawker stalls, markets and small shops, though QR payment is spreading.
Money changers in the malls give better rates than banks or the airport — one of the few places in the world where that is reliably true.
ATMs everywhere; decline dynamic currency conversion.
Tipping is not expected. A 10% service charge and a service tax are added at many restaurants and appear on the bill.
Dual pricing for foreign visitors at many attractions is normal and displayed.
The drug laws
This needs stating plainly. Malaysia has the death penalty for drug trafficking, and possession above certain quantities creates a legal presumption of trafficking.
The mandatory death sentence was abolished in 2023 and judges now have discretion, but the offence and the penalty remain. Long prison sentences and caning apply well below the trafficking threshold.
Do not carry anything for anyone. Do not assume a small quantity is a minor matter here.
Alcohol
Legal for non-Muslims, sold in licensed premises, supermarkets and convenience stores, and very heavily taxed — Malaysia has among the highest beer duties in the world.
Not sold at Malay food stalls or in Kampung Baru. Muslims are prohibited under sharia law from consuming it, and this is enforced against Malaysian Muslims, not visitors.
Use the duty-free allowance on arrival.
Dress and conduct
Cover shoulders and knees at mosques and temples, and it is enforced at Masjid Negara, Batu Caves and elsewhere. Robes or sarongs are usually provided.
Shoes off at mosques, temples and in people’s homes.
Use your right hand for giving, receiving and eating.
Public displays of affection are best kept minimal.
Modest dress generally is appreciated outside the malls and tourist districts, and is not required.
Do not point with your index finger — use the thumb with a closed fist, which is the local gesture.
Safety
Kuala Lumpur is safe for visitors and violent crime against them is rare.
Bag-snatching from motorcycles is the real local risk. Carry a bag away from the roadside.
Pickpocketing on the crowded monorail, at Petaling Street and at night markets.
Emergency: 999, or 112 from a mobile.
Health
Dengue is endemic and the mosquito bites during the day. Use repellent. There is no prophylaxis.
Malaria is not a risk in Kuala Lumpur.
Tap water is treated and generally safe, but most residents boil or filter it. Bottled water is cheap.
Medical care is good and private hospitals in Kuala Lumpur are of a high standard and much cheaper than in Europe or North America — Malaysia has a substantial medical tourism sector. Take insurance anyway.
Hours and the working week
Malls open around 10 and close around 10, seven days.
Friday midday — many Muslim-run businesses and government offices close for prayers, typically around 12.30 to 2.30.
The weekend is Saturday and Sunday in Kuala Lumpur and most states, but Friday and Saturday in Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Johor. This catches people out on day trips.
Practical
Plugs are UK-style three-pin, 240V.
Air conditioning is set very cold. Carry a layer.
No durian on public transport or in hotels, and the bans are enforced.
Public toilets often charge a small amount and often do not supply paper. Carry tissues; the “wet” toilet with a hose is standard.