£1 MYR 5.31
Today
11:56 am
+8h from you
Travel warning
There's a significant risk of kidnapping on the islands and dive sites off the east coast of Sabah, which could affect popular tourist spots.
Weather in Malaysia
Malaysia
34°
Partly cloudy
Wed
26
34
Thu
26
34
Fri
26
34
Sat
25
35
Sun
26
34
SPF level in Malaysia
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Malaysia
Languages in Malaysia
Tipping in Malaysia
Tipping is not as widespread in Malaysia as it is in some Western countries, but it's becoming more common, especially in tourist areas. Service charges are often included in restaurant and hotel bills.
Restaurant
5-10% if service is exceptional, but often a 10% service charge is already included in the bill.
Bar/Café
Not expected, but you can round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is common.
Hotel Porter
MYR 2-5 per bag is appreciated.
Hotel Housekeeper
MYR 5-10 per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
MYR 10-20 per person for a full-day tour if you are satisfied with the service.
Safety in Malaysia
Tips for British travellers
Malaysia is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Always carry your passport as it is the law to have ID on you at all times.
Be extremely careful of bag-snatchers on motorbikes, particularly when walking near roads.
Drink spiking and methanol poisoning have occurred in bars, so stay alert with any drinks you are given.
Dress modestly, especially in conservative areas, as you may be refused entry to some places.
Only use licensed watersports or dive operators and insist on proper training and safety equipment.
Bonus tips:
Credit card and ATM fraud is common, so be cautious when using your cards.
If you rent a motorbike, you must wear a helmet as it is illegal not to do so.
Driving in Malaysia
A UK driving license is valid for driving in Malaysia for up to 3 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50-60 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Malaysia
Voltage
240V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type G
UK adapter needed?
No
Malaysia uses Type G plugs, which are the same as in the UK. The standard voltage is 240V and the frequency is 50Hz. Therefore, UK travelers will not need an adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities, tourist areas, and larger establishments. Smaller shops and restaurants may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Malaysia
ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. They may be less common in rural areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are the most convenient way to withdraw cash. Most ATMs accept international cards, but be aware of potential fees from your bank.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK citizens. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Malaysia. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper data and calls.
Local SIM data package
50GB for 120 MYR (~£20)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Celcom, Maxis, Digi
WiFi & internet
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls, especially in tourist areas.
Average speed
50 Mbps
Internet access is generally good in Malaysia, particularly in urban areas. Many establishments offer free WiFi to customers. Mobile data is also readily available but local SIM card is cheaper.
Health & vaccinations in Malaysia
It's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, hospital stays, and repatriation. While GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Malaysia, ensure your travel insurance covers you for all potential medical needs.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis, especially if you plan to visit rural areas. Dengue fever is prevalent throughout Malaysia, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk. Medical facilities are generally good in major cities, but may be limited in rural areas.
Calling Malaysia
Country code
+60
To call Malaysia from the UK, dial 00 60 followed by the area code (without the leading 0) and the local number.
To call the British High Commission, you would dial 00 60 3 2170 2200.
The country code for Malaysia is 60. When calling Malaysia from abroad, you will need to dial your country's exit code, followed by 60, and then the Malaysian phone number. Drop the leading '0' from the area code when calling from outside Malaysia.
UK Embassy in Malaysia
British High Commission Kuala Lumpur
185 Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450, Malaysia
Airports in Malaysia
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.