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Malaysia
Malaysia is located just north of the Equator, between Thailand and Singapore. It is home to not only some of the most beautiful beaches and islands but some of the most ancient rainforests. It is a land of many cultures – where many races and religions live together in peace and harmony. Here is your opportunity to meet warm and friendly people, enjoy world-class facilities and marvel at the bewildering shopping delights and mouth – watering delicacies.
Climate
Malaysia is blessed with tropical weather throughout the year and temperatures range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF).
Currency
Malaysian currency is referred to as the Ringgit (RM). The RM comes in denominations of RM1, RM2, RM5, RM50 and RM100. Coins (denoted as sen) are minted in 1 sen, 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen and RM1. Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers. Travellers are advised to bring a combination of traveler’s cheques, cash and credit cards. Credit cards are widely used in larger establishments and hotels.
Opening hours
All states observe Saturdays as half days and Sundays as public holidays (with the exception of Terrenganu, Kedah and Kelantan – who observe Fridays as half days and Saturdays as public holidays).
Electricity
Voltage in most places is 220 – 240 volts 50 cycles alternating current AC with 3-pin square plugs and sockets. Socket sizes vary so it is just as well to take an adapter
Health
The sun is strong throughout the year in the country. Proper care against sunburn and dehydration must be constantly taken. The risk of malaria for most tourists visiting Peninsular Malaysia is extremely small. However, malaria prophylaxis is recommended for those visiting Sabah or Sarawak. A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required (if entering from a Yellow Fever endemic country). Food from street vendors should be treated with care. Drink only bottled or boiled water.
Language
The official language is Bahasa Malaysia, however English is widely spoken and understood and most signs appear in both languages.
Population
+/- 25 million
Tipping
Tipping is not common practice and is at your discretion.
Time
Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and 6 hours ahead of South African standard time.
Visas and passports
Visitors to Malaysia require a valid passport (which must be valid for at least six months after one has RETURNED to South Africa). Most nationalities do not require visas for tourist or business visits, however it is advisable to check with your travel consultant.
What to Wear
Mostly light clothing with perhaps a light jacket for air-conditioned locations and the highlands.
KUALA LUMPUR– Rich Past, Visionary Future
Kuala Lumpur, fondly referred to as KL, is a city of constrasts and is one of Asia’s most dynamic capitals. Not only is KL the commercial hub of the country but it is also the cultural centre, with a vibrant arts and music scene. Kuala Lumpur is also a shopping haven – from electrical items and leather ware in the malls all the way to souvenirs in the street markets. There are many places of interest in KL – ranging from museums to beautifully landscaped parks and a vibrant nightlife – all of which can be accessed easily by foot, by public transport or on an organized tour.
LANGKAWI
The Langkawi archipelago consists of a cluster of 99 islands, and offers superb resorts and miles upon miles of powdery white sand beaches. Other than the popular beaches, holiday maker’s experiences will include duty free shopping, rainforest walks, swimming in mountain pools, a wealth of water sports and spectacular views from the summit of Gunung Mat Cincang. Langkawi is accessible by ferry services from Kuala Kedah (75 minutes) and Kuala Perlis (45 minutes) on the mainland, to Langkawi and from Penang (2½ hours) to Langkawi. Daily flight services also link Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
PENANG ISLAND
Despite being a thriving city, Penang, often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient, retains all of her colonial grandeur. The island’s exotic beaches and old world charm has made Penang a popular favourite amongst holiday makers. For those not content with merely soaking up the sun, take a funicular railway ride up Penang Hill for panoramic views or stroll through the maze of narrow streets for an insight into the past of the East India Company. Penang Island is accessible by the Penang Bridge, one of the longest in Asia at 13.5km, or alternatively by ferry service to the mainland.
PANGKOR ISLAND
Pangkor Island is a cluster of 9 small islands on the Straits of Malacca, one of which is Pangkor Laut. Pangkor Laut Island, a haven for diving and snorkelling, promotes herself as ‘one island, one resort’ and is home to Emerald Bay, touted as one of Malaysia’s best beaches. Pangkor Island is accessible by air from Kuala Lumpur or by ferry from Lumut (a 4 hour drive from KL airport), followed by a boat transfer to Pangkor Laut.
KUALA LUMPUR– Rich Past, Visionary Future
Kuala Lumpur, fondly referred to as KL, is a city of contracts and is one of Asia’s most dynamic capitals. Not only is KL the commercial hub if the country but it is also the cultural centre, with a vibrant arts and music scene. Kuala Lumpur is also a shopping haven – from electrical items and leather ware in the malls all the way to souvenirs in the street markets. There are many places of interest in KL – ranging from museum, memorials and galleries to beautifully landscaped parks and a vibrant nightlife – all of which can be accessed easily by foot, by public transport or on an organized tour.
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