10 Do’s & Don'ts while in Malaysia: What to Avoid! (2023)

FAQs

What should I be careful in Malaysia? ›

As mentioned, violent crime rates are meagre in the country; however, petty crimes like mugging, assault and such do occur. The thieves target unaware tourists in crowded places and restaurants. Downtown areas filled with clubs, restaurants and bars are places where you should be extra careful.

Pointing with the finger is considered rude in Malaysia so directions are often given using an open hand or using the thumb. It is also considered rude to sit opposite a host with your legs crossed (especially for women).

While public affection between partners is normal in Western society, it is considered inappropriate in Malaysia. In fact, it is not uncommon to see signs in public places that forbid it. A small hand hold or kiss on the cheek is fine, but avoid too much kissing, hugging and touching in public places.

Malaysia has some strict rules in place for its inhabitants, and most also apply to tourists. Obviously, all forms of public indecency are strictly forbidden and punishable by law. Do not engage in public sex acts ever, it could open up a world of trouble.

The safest cities in Malaysia are Klang and Kuala Lumpur. Both well developed and modern, you'll hardly find any violent crime here.

Crime. Violent crime against foreigners is not common. Petty crime, however, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and snatch-and-grab incidents is prevalent, especially in tourist areas and at the airport. Thieves on motorcycles frequently grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, often resulting in injury.

While it is preferable to wear pants in Kuala Lumpur, it is fine to wear skirts and shorts. Just don't wear “short shorts” or mini skirts. Mid-thigh shorts and skirts are generally sufficient. The worst thing that could happen is that you will a few looks from the locals.

Jeans are actually great travel pants, but not for Malaysia. Leave the jeans at home unless you're absolutely in love with them. It's hot and muggy pretty much all the time in Malaysia meaning, heavy pants just aren't a great idea.

Can you wear dresses in Malaysia? ›

There is no specific dress code for visitors in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. You'll see Malaysian women wearing a scarf or veil over their hair, some wearing loose clothing that covers them entirely, as well as women in shorter skirts, fitted tops and heels.

Although Malaysia is a Muslim majority country, the country permits the selling of alcohol to non-Muslims. There are no nationwide alcohol bans being enforced in the country, with the exception of Kelantan and Terengganu which is only for Muslims.

Tap Water. Tap water in Malaysia is supplied from different water treatment plants around the country. But is Malaysian tap water safe for drinking? The water is safe for consumption, at the time of leaving the water treatment plants.

The common greeting across all ethnicities is a handshake. However, physical contact between men and women is not permitted in all circumstances. If greeting a Malaysian woman, wait to see if she extends her hand first before offering to shake.

T-shirts and shorts are perfectly acceptable, but avoid skimpy or revealing clothes or you will get unwanted attention. Hotels, restaurants and shopping malls are usually air conditioned and at times this can be pretty fierce, so be sure to carry a sweater or pashmina in your bag.

The freedom to practice and propagate religion is guaranteed under the Article 11 of the Constitution of Malaysia and this is generally respected.

Malaysia is a top holiday destination and one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia to visit. However, It's strong economy and prosperous capital of Kuala Lumpur may make it seem as if it's an expensive country to visit, but that is not always the case.

As mentioned above, Malaysia is a hot tropical country. So no need for any coats or sweaters. All the people here just wear a cotton shirt or t-shirt and cotton pants or jeans.

A luxury lifestyle and low living costs are the main attractions for expats moving to Malaysia. Other advantages include a highly developed infrastructure and excellent healthcare, along with superb shopping facilities and delicious local cuisine.

Is it cheap to live in Malaysia? ›

In general, the cost of living in Malaysia is 51.56% lower than living in the U.S. Of course the cost of living varies depending on where you decide to live, but even in the most expensive city you will save a lot on living expenses compared to the U.S.

Aside from low cost of living, Kuala Lumpur has a high quality of life owing to its business freedom and many indulgent leisure activities. In 2020, Malaysia ranks 41st in digital quality of life, ahead of her neighbouring countries like Indonesia and Thailand that rank 71st and 63rd respectively.

The Federal Constitution of Malaysia (Malay: Perlembagaan Persekutuan Malaysia) which came into force in 1957, is the supreme law of Malaysia and contains a total of 183 articles.

Human rights in Malaysia are sanctioned in the Federal Constitution. The Constitution guarantees the right to life, freedom of movement, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and rights to education.

Malaysia strictly enforces its drug laws. If you possess, use, or traffic in illegal drugs in Malaysia, you will be sentenced to significantly longer prison sentences and much heavier fines than in the United States. Malaysian legislation provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers.

Actually Kuala Lumpur is ranked 35th in the EIU Safe Cities Index with a high score in personal security. The city is is generally safe for travelers since it is locals who are often the targets of crime. However, tourists usually are targeted when it comes to petty crimes like pickpockets and scams.

While Malaysia generally stays under the radar, it is one of Asia's most friendly and tolerant countries where its three major ethnic communities live mostly in harmony.

Malaysia is a very safe country, and you should feel very comfortable moving around the country on your own. Like anywhere you travel, you still need to be considerate of local laws and customs, and be aware of your surroundings.

If you're a woman travelling in Malaysia, most of your body should be covered. Wear blouses or shirts with sleeves, slacks or long skirts and closed collars. The Muslim women wear a tudong, a veil or scarf over their head and covering their bosom.

Is Malaysia safe for female Travellers? ›

By and large, Malaysia is safe for female travellers who take basic precautions. The same that apply in almost any country. Stay in a reputable hotel or hostel - check your reviews and look for the experiences of solo female travellers. Don't accept offers for rides with guys you don't know.

Burundi is the world's poorest country followed by Central African Republic, DR Congo, South Sudan and Somalia as the poorest. The richest countries are Luxembourg, Singapore, Ireland, Qatar and Switzerland.

Luxembourg is the world's richest country and the world's largest banking centre. More than 200 banks and 1,000 investment funds operate in the capital. The high performance of Luxembourg is partly due to the fact that citizens of neighbouring countries work in the duchy: France, Germany and Belgium.

The average salary in Malaysia is 79,000 MYR annually (18,877 USD). The annual minimum salary is 19,815 MYR (4,735 USD). The minimum monthly wage is 1200 MYR/Month (287 USD per month). The typical salary range in Malaysia is 1,670 MYR (lowest average monthly salary to 29,400 MYR (highest average monthly salary).

Islamic tradition suffuses the dress code for locals, Muslim or otherwise, and dictates that both men and women should keep torsos covered; shirt sleeves, if short, should come down to the elbow (for women, long-sleeved tops are preferable), while shorts or skirts should extend down to the knee (long trousers are ideal ...

also known as the 'Land of Indigenous Malay'

The 1891 census merged these ethnic groups into the three racial categories used in modern Malaysia—Chinese, 'Tamils and other natives of India', and 'Malays and other Natives of the Archipelago'.

The five examples of what not to wear were listed/illustrated as torn pants (a pair of torn jeans shown), short pants (a man in running shorts shown), skirts or shorts above the knee level/mini skirts or shorts (this is for ladies), slippers, and sleeveless shirts (man in singlet pictured).

Malaysia is every shopper's paradise, and for a good reason – the country boasts of huge, sprawling western malls with indoor amusement parks, and large, open markets that promise a true Asian street shopping experience.

Unlike the rest of Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur is a huge city where jeans and converse are the typical uniform. You can leave the casual beachwear at home and opt for city clothes instead. The weather can get scorching hot so check it in advance, and pack lightweight fabrics that you feel comfortable wearing.

As around 60% of the population in Malaysia is Muslim try to avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting rural areas, religious temples and mosques. T-shirts and shorts are perfectly acceptable, but if your clothes show too much of your skin you may get unwanted attention.

Can I wear crop top in Malaysia? ›

you can, don't worry Malaysia has many religions.. it won't prevent you to wear what you liked. It doesn't matter actually. A lot of ppl wear crop tops in Malaysia. But ofc , there are some ppl who feel that wearing clothes that show too much of your skin is disrespectful.

Indecent printings, paintings, photographs, books, cards, lithographic, engravings, films, video tapes, laser discs, color slides, computer disc and any other media. Any device which intended to be prejudicial to the interest of Malaysia or unsuited with peace.

The safest cities in Malaysia are Klang and Kuala Lumpur. Both well developed and modern, you'll hardly find any violent crime here.

Crime. Violent crime against foreigners is not common. Petty crime, however, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and snatch-and-grab incidents is prevalent, especially in tourist areas and at the airport. Thieves on motorcycles frequently grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, often resulting in injury.

Life in Malaysia is punctuated by several events and festivals that aim to preserve local cultures and traditions and celebrate Malaysia's living heritage. Kuala Lumpur and other major cities have a particularly rich cultural, gastronomic, and sporting calendar.

A luxury lifestyle and low living costs are the main attractions for expats moving to Malaysia. Other advantages include a highly developed infrastructure and excellent healthcare, along with superb shopping facilities and delicious local cuisine.

Actually Kuala Lumpur is ranked 35th in the EIU Safe Cities Index with a high score in personal security. The city is is generally safe for travelers since it is locals who are often the targets of crime. However, tourists usually are targeted when it comes to petty crimes like pickpockets and scams.

While Malaysia generally stays under the radar, it is one of Asia's most friendly and tolerant countries where its three major ethnic communities live mostly in harmony.

Is Malaysia safe for woman? ›

Malaysia is a very safe country, and you should feel very comfortable moving around the country on your own. Like anywhere you travel, you still need to be considerate of local laws and customs, and be aware of your surroundings.

There is begging in the country so expect people to come onto buses or approach you outside the restaurants. Is Malaysia safe for solo female travellers? Yes, but as with anywhere be careful at night and also with your belongings in the capital as bag snatching on motorbikes has been known.

Malaysia has some strict rules in place for its inhabitants, and most also apply to tourists. Obviously, all forms of public indecency are strictly forbidden and punishable by law. Do not engage in public sex acts ever, it could open up a world of trouble.

There is no limit for a resident and non-resident to carry into and out of Malaysia foreign currency notes and traveller's cheques but need to declare in Customs Form 22 (Borang Kastam 22) if total amount exceed USD 10,000 equivalent.