Why Visit Malaysia: Top Reasons to Explore
Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo are the two primary regions that make up Malaysia. It is strategically located in Southeast Asia. Native American, Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures live in harmony. They respect each other while contributing their own languages, customs, holidays, and culinary traditions. You get to experience Hari Raya, Diwali, and the Chinese New Year as a tourist.
You have plenty of reasons to visit Malaysia again and again. Whether you are exploring the colonial alleyways of Malacca, trekking Mount Kinabalu, eating street food in George Town, or chasing luxury resorts on the beaches of Langkawi. In addition to being reasonably priced, easily accessible, and hospitable, this place is as friendly to first-time visitors as it is to seasoned tourists.
Languages
Malay
English , chineese , Tamil
Emergency Numbers
Police/ambulance – 999.
Country Code
Malaysia’s country code is +60.
Power Plugs
Type G (UK-style), voltage 240V.
Currency and Payments
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Malaysia?
- With its towering peaks, emerald tea plantations, and coral-ringed islands, Malaysia is a heaven for nature lovers.
- You can eat dim sum one week and celebrate Hindu festivals the next.
- Accommodations, meals, and transportation are reasonably priced without sacrificing quality.
- Consider caving in Mulu National Park, jungle trekking in Taman Negara, and world-class diving at Sipadan. Malaysia is a terrific place for people of all ages. This is due to its kid-friendly beaches, aquariums, and amusement parks like Sunway Lagoon.
Best Time to Visit Malaysia
Weather in Malaysia
Malaysia has a tropical climate. You will experience hot, humid days year-round. Temperatures range between 25 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. Rain can appear at any time. The monsoon seasons are,
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Southwest Monsoon (May to September) – Heavier rain on the west coast islands (Langkawi, Penang).
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Northeast Monsoon (November to March) – Affects the east coast islands (Perhentians, Redang, Tioman).
Month-by-Month Guide for Malaysia
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January to March – The West Coast is dry. It is perfect for KL, Langkawi, and Penang. Thaipusam at Batu Caves is a highlight.
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April to May – Hot but great for highland getaways like Cameron Highlands.
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June to August – Best for Borneo adventures, including wildlife spotting and mountain treks.
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September to October – Off-season with fewer crowds. George Town Festival takes place in August or September.
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November to December – Wet on the East Coast. But Christmas markets in KL and beach festivities for the New Year.
Adventure
Hiking Mount Kinabalu, diving at Sipadan, visiting Mulu Caves.
Wildlife
Spotting fireflies in Kuala Selangor, turtle watching in Terengganu.
Shopping
Pavilion Mall, Central Market, and local bazaars in Penang.
Food Tours
Hawker stalls, night markets, and cooking classes.
Festivals
Schedule your vacation to Malaysia around well-known occasions and festivities.
Theme Parks and Family Fun
Sunway Lagoon, Legoland Malaysia, Escape Adventure Park.
Top Attractions in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
- Petronas Towers - Iconic towers featuring an observation deck and sky bridge.
- Batu Caves - A revered Hindu temple complex set inside striking limestone caverns.
- Merdeka Square - The old city center, enclosed by colonial buildings.
- Bukit Bintang - A busy area for street food, nightlife, and shopping.
Penang
- Penang Hill - You can experience cool weather and breathtaking island views.
- George Town - A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial beauty and street art.
- Kek Lok Si Temple - One of the biggest and most exquisite Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia.
- Penang Street Food - Savor regional specialties like Assam Laksa and Char Kway Teow.
Langkawi
- Kilim Karst Geoforest Park - You can see mangroves, limestone formations, and wildlife by boat.
- Underwater World Langkawi - One of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia. It is ideal for families traveling with kids.
- Pantai Cenang Beach - The beach is popular among tourists for its water sports activities.
- Langkawi Sky Bridge - A beautiful pedestrian bridge that offers panoramic island views.
Borneo - Sabah and Sarawak
- Kinabatangan River Safari - You can see crocodiles, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys.
- Mulu Caves - Admire the limestone caverns and amazing stalactite formations.
- Mount Kinabalu - Go to the highest peak in Malaysia, perfect for trekking and nature lovers.
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre - See rescued orangutans in their natural habitat.
Cameron Highlands
- Boh Tea Plantation - You can admire the mountain views while touring lush tea fields.
- Mossy Forest - It is a woodland with misty paths and an abundance of wildlife.
- Strawberry Farms - Enjoy homemade delicacies. You can also pick fresh strawberries from the farm.
- Butterfly Garden - This area is home to different species of colourful butterflies.
Malacca or Melaka
- Malacca River Cruise - You can take a 40 minute boat ride on the Malacca River.
- A Famosa Fort - It is a 16th-century Portuguese fortress.
- Stadthuys - This famous red building houses exhibits of Dutch colonial history.
- Jonker Street - You can go to the night market, relish local snacks, and shop for antique goods.
Must-Try Dishes
- Nasi Lemak - Malay dish made with eggs, peanuts, anchovies, sambal, rice, and coconut milk.
- Char Kway Teow - A stir-fried rice noodle dish.
- Penang Laksa - A Spicy-sour noodle soup.
- Satay - Marinated meat skewers with peanut sauce
- Roti Canai - Crispy flatbread prepared using ghee, flour, and water.
Malaysia Visa and Entry Requirements
You must know the Malaysia visa and entry requirements when planning a trip to Malaysia. Depending on your country, you may be eligible to enter without a visa. However, others must apply online for a Malaysia eVisa or eNTRI before their trip. Your passport should be valid for at least six months. Visitors may stay in Malaysia for up to 90 days, depending on their visa, whether you are here for business, pleasure, or family visits. Special visa procedures are required for longer stays, such as for education or employment purposes.
Main Airports
Kuala Lumpur International Airport - The largest airport in Malaysia with excellent international connectivity.
Penang International Airport - Traveling to Penang and northern Malaysia is most convenient from Penang International Airport.
Kota Kinabalu International Airport – This is an entry point for Sabah and Borneo.
Flights and Connections
Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and other foreign airlines serve Malaysia.
Low-cost airlines like AirAsia and Scoot provide convenient connections between Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia.
Domestic Flights - Domestic flights that link Peninsular Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak are the easiest way to travel around Malaysia.
KTM trains - You can conveniently get from KL to Penang, Johor Bahru, and Singapore by booking KTM train tickets.
Buses - Buses are dependable, reasonably priced, and connect even the most isolated villages.
Ferries - For islands like Langkawi, Penang, Tioman, and Perhentians, ferries are a necessity.
Ride-hailing service Grab - They are less expensive and safer than conventional taxis.
Driving and Car Rentals - These are excellent for touring rural Sabah and the Cameron Highlands. It is essential that you have an international driver license.
Popular Festivals and Events in Malaysia
Chinese New Year – Streets come alive with lion dances, fireworks, and red lanterns.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri – You can join the Muslims on the last day of Ramadan. Attend the Open House, light lamps, and give duit raya.
Deepavali – Little India district glows with colorful lights and festive decorations.
Thaipusam at Batu Caves – You can witness powerful rituals, processions, and acts of devotion.
Rainforest World Music Festival (Sarawak) – You can experience traditional and international music in an outdoor setting.
Bukit Bintang and Pavilion Mall - Shop for luxury brands from some of the region’s top spots, including Bukit Bintang and Pavilion Mall.
Central Market and Petaling Street - Want to take home one-of-a-kind items as a keepsake of your unforgettable trip? Head to Central Market and Petaling Street in Chinatown, where you can shop for handicrafts, batik, and souvenirs.
Royal Selangor Pewter - You must visit here for exquisite pewter crafts to carry as souvenirs.
Songket and Handwoven Crafts - Sabah and Sarawak are the places to go for authentic traditional fabrics and baskets.
Local Food Finds - Dodol candies, Ipoh white coffee, and fragrant Malaysian spices to bring home.
Refrain from wearing revealing clothes when visiting traditional places of interest like a mosque. You can wear swimwear on the beach.
Etiquette Advice
- Leave your footwear outside before entering any house or temple.
- Avoid PDAs in rural areas.
- Always give or receive objects using your right hand.
Where to Stay in Malaysia
Luxury Resorts - There are world-class resorts with private beaches, infinity pools, and spas in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, and Langkawi.
Mid-Range Hotels - Heritage hotels in Malacca and boutique hotels in George Town.
Budget Stays - Low-cost lodging options such as hostels, hotel apartments, and guesthouses in Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and backpacker islands like Perhentians
Homestays and Eco-Lodges - Stay with local families in rural areas like Sabah and Sarawak. There are eco-lodges in Taman Negara.
Airbnb - Excellent for longer stays, this platform offers apartments and local accommodations in Penang and KL.
Weather in Malaysia
-
Budget Travelers – 30 USD to 50 USD per day (MYR
140 to MYR 230).
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Mid-Range – 60 USD to 120 USD per day (MYR 280 to
MYR 560).
- Luxury – 150 USD per day (Over 700 MYR).
Cost Breakdown (average daily)
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Food – RM 5 to 50
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Transport - RM 5 to 300.
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Accommodation – It ranges from RM 30 to 80 in hostels, RM 150 to 180 in Airbnbs, and RM 300 to 800 in all-inclusive resorts.
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Activities – Starting at RM 250, depending on the activity you choose.
Tips for Travel to Malaysia
Packing Checklist
- Lightweight clothes and modest wear for religious visits.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Swimwear & sunscreen.
- Mosquito repellent, travel adapter, and power bank.
Practical Travel Tips
- Before boarding a cab, make sure the meter is on.
- Always keep your valuables safe and out of reach.
- Always carry a bug repellent.
- Avoid giving the monkeys food. They become aggressive.
- Book flights and accommodations in advance.
- Make copies of your ID and passport.
- Obtain travel insurance.
3 Days in Kuala Lumpur
- Day 1 - Petronas Towers, KLCC Park, Jalan Alor..
- Day 2 - Batu Caves, Bukit Bintang, Chinatown..
- Day 3 - Day trip to Malacca.
7 Days in Penang & Langkawi
- 2 Days - KL theme parks and aquariums
- 2 Days - George Town for heritage, street art, and food.
- 2 Days - Langkawi for beaches, island hopping, Sky Bridge, and adventure activities.
- 1 Day - Penang
14-Day Adventure Itinerary
- 2 Days - Kuala Lumpur
- 2 Days - Cameron Highlands
- 3 Days - Penang
- 2 Days - Langkawi
- 3 Days - Sabah, Mount Kinabalu & Sepilok
- 2 Days - Sarawak, Mulu Caves.
Where to Stay in Malaysia
Luxury Resorts
World-class resorts with private beaches, infinity
pools, and spas can be found in Kuala Lumpur, Kota
Kinabalu, and Langkawi.
Mid-Range Hotels
Heritage hotels in Malacca, boutique hotels in George
Town
Budget Stays
Low-cost lodging options include hostels and guesthouses
in Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and backpacker islands like
Perhentians.
Homestays and Eco-Lodges
In rural Sabah or Sarawak, stay with local families; in
Taman Negara, stay in eco-lodges.
Airbnb
Excellent for longer stays, this platform offers
apartments and local accommodations in Penang and KL.
Please speak with a tour operator if you are doubtful. They will provide you with the best deals and world-class customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should be careful if you plan to travel alone at night.
Many countries can enter Malaysia without a visa for 30 to 90 days. While some countries are eligible for a visa on arrival.
Some places do not have safe tap water. It is better that you carry a water bottle with a filter and avoid purchasing single-use plastic.
Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Penang, Cameron Highlands, Perhentian Islands, and Tioman Islands are the top destinations in Malaysia.
For delectable hawker cuisine, visit street stalls. Meals cost only a few dollars.
Locations such as the Cameron Highlands and Taman Negara are suitable for camping.
The most popular app in Malaysia is called Grab.