Things To Do
in Malaysia
Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country known for its stunning landscapes that range from lush rainforests and vast national parks to beautiful beaches and islands. It's a cultural melting pot, with a rich diversity of ethnic groups including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous peoples, each contributing to the country's unique traditions, festivals, and culinary flavors.
Malaysia's rapid development in areas like Kuala Lumpur contrasts with its rural villages and natural reserves, showcasing a nation that harmoniously blends modernity with rich historical and ecological heritage.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, where you can enjoy stunning views from the sky bridge. Afterward, explore the KLCC Park for a refreshing stroll.
Head to Bukit Bintang for lunch at local eateries and enjoy some shopping in the surrounding malls. Don’t miss out on the famous Jalan Alor for a culinary treat.
Cap off your day with a visit to the stunning Batu Caves, where you can watch the sunset over the city. Enjoy a traditional Malaysian dinner nearby.
Kick off your day with a relaxing boat ride to the breathtaking Pulau Payar Marine Park for snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming with marine life.
Have lunch at a beachside café and then visit the Langkawi Sky Bridge for panoramic views of the islands. Take some time to enjoy the beach or indulge in water sports.
Watch the sunset from Pantai Cenang, then enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant. You can also relax at one of the beach bars with a cocktail.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse culture and ethnic groups, creating a rich cultural experience.
- Natural beauty with stunning landscapes, beaches, and rainforests.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Modern infrastructure in urban areas and developing regions.
- Delicious and diverse cuisine influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures.
- Tourist-friendly environment with various attractions and activities.
- Issues with political stability and governance challenges.
- Income inequality and economic disparity among different regions.
- Environmental concerns, such as deforestation and pollution.
- Occasional social tensions related to ethnic and religious differences.
- Limited public transportation options in rural areas.
- Healthcare access can vary significantly between urban and rural areas.
Best Activities in Malaysia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient rainforest and spot diverse wildlife while hiking in Malaysia's oldest national park.
Discover the colorful marine life and pristine coral reefs while snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Perhentian Islands.
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting along the scenic rivers in Gopeng, surrounded by lush greenery and limestone hills.
Tours
Uncover the best of Malaysia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Malaysia
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic twin skyscrapers offering a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur
Hindu temple complex set in caves with a towering Lord Murugan statue
Suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the Langkawi archipelago
Hill station with a funicular railway and panoramic views of Penang Island
Scenic waterfront area with views of the city and nearby islands
Food in Malaysia
Malaysia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with anchovies, peanuts, boiled egg, and spicy sambal sauce. Look for it at local Malay food stalls or 'nasi lemak' specialty restaurants like Village Park Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur.
Must-Try!
A popular stir-fried rice noodle dish with prawns, eggs, Chinese lap cheong (sausage), and bean sprouts. Try it at famous stalls in Penang like Siam Road Char Koay Teow or Ah Leng Char Koay Teow.
A type of Indian-influenced flatbread served with dhal (lentil curry) or various types of curry. Enjoy it at local 'mamak' stalls or eateries such as Valentine Roti or Raju's in Kuala Lumpur.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Malaysia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling food street featuring an array of Malaysian Chinese delicacies such as grilled meats, seafood, noodles, and durian fruit. Don't miss the famous Hokkien mee and grilled chicken wings.
This waterfront food court is renowned for Penang street food like assam laksa, char kway teow, oyster omelette, and satay. It's a must-visit for a diverse range of local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Malaysia, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures. It is customary to address older individuals with titles such as 'uncle' or 'auntie.'
When visiting religious sites or local communities, it is important to dress modestly to show respect for the local culture. This may involve covering the shoulders, wearing long pants or skirts, and removing footwear when entering certain places.
In Malaysian culture, the right hand is considered clean and respectful, while the left hand is associated with bathroom hygiene. Therefore, it is polite to give and receive items, gestures, or money with the right hand.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Malaysia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Malaysia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Malaysia, tipping is not a common practice, especially in local restaurants and small businesses. However, in upscale establishments and tourist areas, a 10% service charge may be included in the bill. It is not necessary to tip on top of this service charge, but if you receive exceptional service, a small additional tip may be appreciated.
Cash is widely used in Malaysia, especially in smaller towns and markets. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments and urban areas. It's advisable to carry cash for small transactions and when visiting rural areas. Mobile payments and e-wallets are also gaining popularity, particularly in urban centers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Malaysia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Malaysia, with less rain and more sunshine. Ideal for outdoor activities and beach vacations.
Expect heavy rainfall and higher humidity, especially on the east coast. Not the best time for outdoor activities or beach vacations in these areas.
Transitional periods between the dry and monsoon seasons. Can experience mixed weather with some rain and occasional sunshine.
Malaysia at Night
Hiking in Malaysia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Tabur offers stunning views of the Klang Gates Dam and the city skyline. It features a challenging route, making it popular among hikers.
As one of the world's oldest rainforests, Taman Negara offers a variety of trails through lush greenery, wildlife sightings, and even canopy walks.
Famous for its limestone karst formations and extensive cave systems, Gunung Mulu offers several trekking routes with breathtaking scenery and unique biodiversity.
The highest peak in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu is known for its challenging climb and diverse flora and fauna. The views from the summit at dawn are spectacular.
A cool climate and stunning landscapes make the Cameron Highlands a popular destination for hiking. The area features numerous trails through tea plantations and forests.
This hill located in Negeri Sembilan offers a relatively easy hike and is suitable for families, with beautiful views at the summit.
Known for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Fraser's Hill has several scenic hiking trails that lead through lovely pine forests and offer birdwatching opportunities.
This park features coastal and jungle trails, allowing hikers to explore diverse ecosystems and lush landscapes while enjoying beautiful sea views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Malaysia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Malaysia by plane.
The main international airport serving Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia.
An international airport in Singapore, recognized as one of the best airports in the world.
Bangkok's main international airport in Thailand, located in Samut Prakan Province.
The main airport serving Jakarta and Indonesia’s capital region.
The main airport in Brunei, located near the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan.
An international airport serving Bali, Indonesia.
Located in Johor, Malaysia, serving both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Malaysia, comprising around 50-60% of the population. They are predominantly Muslim and play a significant role in the country's politics and culture.
The second largest ethnic group, making up approximately 25-35% of the population. They are mainly concentrated in urban areas and are known for their contributions to business and commerce.
Comprising about 7-10% of the population, the Indian community in Malaysia includes Tamils, Malays, and other ethnic groups, contributing to the country's diverse cultural landscape.
Also known as Orang Asli, they represent about 1-2% of the population. This group consists of various ethnic tribes and is recognized for their unique cultures and traditions.
This category includes various smaller ethnic groups and expatriates, making up the remaining population. These groups include Eurasians, Thais, and various foreign nationals.
The Soul of Malaysia
Discover the essence of Malaysia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Badminton is one of the most popular sports in Malaysia, with a strong presence in local and international competitions. The country has produced several world-class players and has a passionate fan base.
Football is widely played and followed in Malaysia, with numerous clubs and leagues across the country. The Malaysia national football team competes in various regional tournaments.
Field hockey has a rich history in Malaysia, and the national team has seen success in regional competitions. It remains a popular sport in schools and local communities.
Cricket is gaining popularity in Malaysia, with a growing number of clubs and a national team that participates in regional tournaments. The sport is especially popular among the Indian community.
Motorsports, particularly Formula 1 and MotoGP, attract significant interest in Malaysia. The Sepang International Circuit is a key venue for major racing events.
Basketball enjoys a decent following in Malaysia with schools and community leagues promoting the sport. The Malaysian Basketball Association oversees the local scene.
Rugby has a growing fan base in Malaysia, with efforts to develop the sport at the grassroots level. The Malaysia national rugby team competes in various competitions in Asia.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Indian restaurants in Malaysia offer vegetarian and even vegan dishes, thanks to the large Indian community. Look for 'nasi campur' stalls or Indian eateries for a variety of meat-free choices.
As Malaysian cuisine relies heavily on rice, there are naturally gluten-free options available. Dishes like nasi lemak, satay, and grilled meats are generally safe for those avoiding gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Malaysia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malaysia.