Malaysia Visa Requirements for Malaysia Citizens

FAQs

1. Do you have to be vaccinated to travel to Malaysia?

   No. You do not need to be vaccinated to travel to Malaysia, as there are currently no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for entry into the country. 

   Travelers can enter Malaysia without providing proof of vaccination or undergoing testing related to COVID-19. However, it is advisable to stay up-to-date with routine vaccinations, such as those for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or engage in specific activities. 

   Vaccinations against diseases like Hepatitis B and Japanese Encephalitis may also be recommended based on your travel itinerary and activities. While vaccinations are not mandatory for entry, being fully vaccinated can help reduce health risks during your trip and ensure a safer travel experience. It’s also essential to consider other health precautions, such as protecting yourself against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus, which are present in Malaysia. 

   Before your trip, consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic to discuss your vaccination needs and any additional health precautions based on your travel plans. By being informed and prepared, you can enjoy a safe and healthy visit to Malaysia.

2. Where to travel alone in Malaysia?

   Malaysia has several places that are ideal for lone travelers, whether they are looking for leisure, adventure, or cultural encounters. Here are a few of Malaysia's best destinations for solo travelers:

   Kuala Lumpur

   Kuala Lumpur, with its dazzling skyscrapers and beautiful city parks, is an excellent - and very simple - spot to get acquainted with Malaysia.

   There are several sights to view, including the ancient Merdeka Square and the contemporary Petronas Towers, which were formerly the highest structures in the world. The vibrant Batu Caves Temple and the exquisite Thean Hou Temple are magnificent complements to any two-day itinerary in Kuala Lumpur.

   As an alternative, take in the breathtaking city views from the canopy walk in KL Eco Park, which is nestled among lush trees.

   It's a great city for cuisine, offering a variety of traditional Malay dishes along with those made by the nation's ethnic communities in India and China. You may get delicious fusion food, foreign cuisine, brunch, and coffee served in adorable cafes since this region of Asia is more Westernized than some other parts of Asia.

   Perhentian Islands

   Beach lovers visiting Malaysia should visit Perhentian Besar, the larger island with a reputation for more sedate hotels and resorts, and Perhentian Kecil, the smaller island that is popular with backpackers.

   Perhentian Besar is preferable if you want a more laid-back vacation, although both Perenthian islands are great for snorkeling, tanning, and seeing turtles. 

   If you wish to learn to scuba dive, Perhentian Kecil is the ideal destination for a solo trip in Malaysia. It's among the most affordable locations in the planet to obtain a PADI Open Water Diver certification.

   Penang

   Due to its safety, friendliness, and abundance of natural and cultural attractions, Penang is an excellent island for solitary female travelers in Malaysia. Two of the attractions are Penang National Park and Kek Lok Si Temple.

   For single visitors to the island of Penang, staying in George Town is the ideal choice. Temples, museums, and well-known street art murals—many of which are by renowned artist Ernest Zachervic—can be found here. There's much to occupy your time.

   Delicious street cuisine is another reason George Town is well-known. Many fashionable cafés have joined the party in recent times. Georgetown is one of my favorite locations in Southeast Asia, if not the entire globe, and not only for foodies!

3. When to travel to Malaysia Ipoh?

   Ipoh enjoys a tropical climate, and the ideal time to come is during the winter, from December to February. Between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius are the possible temperatures. The weather is ideal for strolls in the evening and there hasn't been any rain. Tropical thunderstorms during the monsoon season, which runs from August to November, make it advisable to avoid visiting Ipoh at that time.

   Dry Season: May to September

   Good for Outdoor Activities: Ipoh's natural attractions, including as the well-known limestone caverns of Gua Tempurung and Kek Lok Tong Temple, are best explored during the dry season. At Qing Xin Ling Leisure & Cultural Village and Bukit Kledang, you may also go on hikes and enjoy magnificent gardens.

   Food tours: Ipoh is renowned for its cuisine, especially for its regional specialties like chicken rice and Ipoh white coffee. This includes culinary tours. With the weather not interfering, this is a great time to check out outdoor restaurants, farmer's markets, and cafés.

   Cultural Festivals: Although there aren't as many festivals in Ipoh as there are in other regions of Malaysia, foodies should check out the Ipoh Food Fest in August. You may sample regional cuisine by exploring different street food vendors.

   Season of the Wet (October to April)

   Rainy Days: Ipoh frequently receives rain showers and sporadic thunderstorms during this period, which may interfere with intentions to go outside. Even while it normally rains in the afternoon or evening, there are days when it rains all day long.

   Indoor Activities: If you go during the rainy season, you might want to check out inside sights like the Darul Ridzuan Museum or the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, which explores the history of Ipoh's tin mining industry.

   Festivals: Chinese New Year (January/February) and Thaipusam (February) are two of the biggest cultural events that take place during the wet season. The Hindu celebration of Thaipusam, held at the Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniyar Temple in Ipoh, is very colorful.

4. What to know before traveling to Malaysia?

   Before traveling to Malaysia, there are several important factors to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. 

   First, understand that Malaysia is a multicultural country with a rich tapestry of ethnicities, primarily Malay, Chinese, and Indian, which influences its cuisine, festivals, and daily life. Familiarizing yourself with basic Malay phrases can enhance your interactions, although English is widely spoken. The tropical climate means you should pack light, breathable clothing, but also a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces. Respect for local customs is crucial; dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection. 

   Additionally, be aware of the local currency, the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), and consider exchanging some money before your trip to avoid unfavorable rates at the airport. Malaysia is generally affordable, with a daily budget of $30 to $50 being typical for travelers. 

   Finally, it’s wise to have travel insurance for peace of mind, as petty crime can occur in urban areas. By preparing for these aspects, you can fully enjoy the diverse experiences Malaysia has to offer, from its bustling cities to serene natural landscapes.

5. Which travel card is best for Malaysia?

   When traveling to Malaysia, choosing the right travel card can significantly enhance your experience by minimizing fees and maximizing convenience. 

   One of the top options is the Wise travel card, which supports over 40 currencies and offers competitive mid-market exchange rates. This card allows you to load Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) before your trip, ensuring you avoid unfavorable airport exchange rates. 

   Another excellent choice is the Revolut travel card, known for its flexible plans and no fees on spending in currencies you hold. Both cards provide features like free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit, instant notifications for transactions, and easy management through mobile apps. 

   If you're looking for a credit card, the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card is highly regarded for overseas spending, offering 8 points for every RM1 spent abroad. It also includes travel insurance and airport lounge access, adding extra value for frequent travelers. 

   Ultimately, the best travel card for you will depend on your spending habits, the types of transactions you anticipate, and any additional features you may find beneficial, such as travel insurance or rewards programs. By selecting the right card, you can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience in Malaysia while saving money on transactions.

6. Should I exchange money before I travel to Malaysia?

   It is generally recommended to exchange some money before traveling to Malaysia, especially if you are coming from a country that uses a different currency. While you can easily exchange currency upon arrival at the airport or in major cities, exchanging money in advance can offer several advantages:

   • Better exchange rates: Currency exchange providers in your home country may offer more favorable rates compared to those at the airport or in Malaysia, particularly if you exchange a larger amount. This can help you get more Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) for your money.
   • Convenience: Having some MYR on hand before your trip can make your arrival smoother, as you won't need to immediately search for a currency exchange service. This is especially useful if you arrive late at night or on a weekend when exchange offices may be closed.
   • Smaller denominations: When exchanging money in advance, you can request smaller bills (RM10, RM20, RM50) which are more practical for making purchases, tipping, or paying for public transportation upon arrival. Large bills like RM100 may not be accepted by some merchants.
   • Reduced risk: Carrying a small amount of cash in MYR reduces the risk of having to exchange money at unfavorable rates if you run out of local currency during your trip.

   However, it's important to note that you don't need to exchange all your money before traveling, as ATMs are widely available in Malaysia and most major credit cards are accepted. Consider exchanging a portion of your budget to have on hand upon arrival, and use ATMs or credit cards for the rest of your spending.

7. Does Malaysia have travel restrictions?

   Yes. Malaysia has significantly eased its travel restrictions regarding COVID-19. For example, pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 testing is no longer required. Quarantine requirement upon arrival is also eliminated. However, visitors to Malaysia must comply with various travel requirements, which include:

   • Travel Insurance covers COVID-19 treatment. Although there are no COVID-19 vaccination requirements for traveling entering Malaysia, travelers must possess travel insurance for their trip to Malaysia. 
   • Passports must be valid for at least 06 months from the arrival date in Malaysia.
   • A valid visa if travelers hold a passport from a country that requires a visa for Malaysia
   • Effective January 1, 2024, all travelers are required to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three days before their scheduled arrival in Malaysia. Exemptions from MDAC apply to Singapore passport holders, diplomatic and official passport holders, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders.
   • A valid return ticket or an onward ticket to a third country, and enough funds to pay your costs while in Malaysia.

   Important Note: Travelers are advised to carry their passports at all times, as Malaysian law requires carrying identification. When traveling between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), passports are required, and entry and exit stamps must be obtained.

8. When is the cheapest time to travel to Malaysia?

   Generally, the cheapest time to travel to Malaysia is typically during the monsoon season from November to March and the inter-monsoon periods of April to early June and September to October. Malaysia experiences two main off-peak seasons where travel costs, including flights and accommodation, are generally lower:

   1. Monsoon Season (November to March)

   • Weather: The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo experience heavy rainfall, which can deter tourists.
   • Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices for flights and hotels, and significant discounts on tours and activities.
   • Cons: Some outdoor activities and island excursions might be limited due to weather conditions.

   2. Inter-Monsoon Periods (April to early June and September to October)

   • Weather: The weather during this period is more predictable with occasional rain showers, but not as intense as the monsoon season.
   • Pros: Moderate tourist numbers, competitive pricing on travel and accommodation, and better weather for sightseeing compared to the monsoon season.
   • Cons: Still limited outdoor activities such as beach getaways or nature excursions.
9. Does Malaysia require proof of onward travel?

   Yes, Malaysia requires proof of onward travel for visitors entering the country. This requirement ensures that travelers do not overstay their visas and have plans to leave the country within the allowed timeframe (either 30 days or 3 months). Proof of onward travel can include a return ticket to the traveler's home country or a flight ticket to another destination outside Malaysia. This regulation is part of Malaysia's immigration policy to manage and monitor the flow of visitors and ensure compliance with visa regulations. 

   In some cases, travelers might need to show their itinerary, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds for their stay to further demonstrate their intentions to leave Malaysia. It's advisable for visitors to carry printed copies of these documents and any relevant travel insurance to avoid complications. Additionally, travelers should always verify the latest entry requirements on the GVC website or their airline in advance of their departure for Malaysia. By having the necessary documentation, travelers can ensure a smooth entry into Malaysia and enjoy their visit without any legal issues.

10. Does Malaysia travel where to go?

    Malaysia is a multicultural, dynamic nation with amazing natural scenery, a rich cultural history, and contemporary cityscapes. Here are a few popular travel spots in Malaysia that are frequently visited by tourists:

    • Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is well-known for its retail malls, street markets, and varied culinary scene. It is also home to the renowned Petronas Twin Towers. Discover places like Menara Kuala Lumpur, the famous Merdeka Square, and Batu Caves.
    • Penang sometimes referred to as the "food capital" of Malaysia, is home to stunning beaches, a rich cultural history, and delectable cuisine. Enjoy the local cuisine at hawker centers and take in the colonial architecture and street art of George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Malacca: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca is a historic city with a fusion of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Discover the city's eclectic past, visit the A Famosa fortification, and browse Jonker Street for antiques and regional specialties.
    • Cameron Highlands: A cool hill town that provides a nice respite from the heat, Cameron Highlands is renowned for its strawberry fields, tea plantations, and lush vegetation. Explore floral gardens, go on hikes through mossy woodlands, and drink freshly made tea.
    • Borneo: The ancient rainforests and abundant wildlife of Malaysia's Borneo are well known. See wildlife in Sabah and Sarawak, such as pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and orangutans, and trek Mount Kinabalu in Kinabalu National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Malacca is a historic city with a fusion of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Discover the city's eclectic past, visit the A Famosa fortification, and browse Jonker Street for antiques and regional specialties.

    These are but a handful of the amazing places Malaysia has to offer. Travelers may enjoy a wide range of activities in Malaysia, regardless of their interests—culture, nature, adventure, or leisure.