Practical tips: Kuala Lumpur

What I wish I'd known before my first trip.

Entry and arrival

Many nationalities, including citizens of Kazakhstan and most European countries, can enter Malaysia visa-free for a stay of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality. Most foreign visitors must also complete the online Malaysia Digital Arrival Card within three days before arrival. Rules change, so check the official immigration website before you fly. Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

Money

The currency is the Malaysian ringgit (RM or MYR). Cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels and many restaurants, and local e-wallets are everywhere, but hawker stalls, markets and small shops still prefer cash. ATMs are common; licensed money changers in malls usually offer better rates than the airport. Tipping is not expected, though rounding up is appreciated.

Getting around

Kuala Lumpur’s LRT, MRT, Monorail and KTM Komuter lines cover most sights, and a rechargeable Touch ’n Go card works on all of them. Free GoKL city buses loop around the centre. Grab is the easiest way to get a car and has fixed prices. The KLIA Ekspres train links the airport to KL Sentral in about half an hour.

Weather and seasons

KL is hot and humid all year, about 30–33 °C by day. Rain usually comes as heavy afternoon thunderstorms, often in April–May and October–November. Mornings are best for walking. Between roughly June and September, smoke haze from forest fires in the region can sometimes reduce air quality; check air quality indexes on bad days.

Health

Tap water is treated, but most people drink bottled or filtered water. Dengue fever is present, so use repellent, especially at dawn and dusk. Pharmacies are everywhere and private hospitals in KL are excellent but can be expensive; travel insurance is wise. Drink plenty of water and take shelter from the midday sun.

Etiquette and dress

Malaysia is a multicultural, mostly Muslim country. Dress modestly in mosques and temples, covering shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship. Use your right hand for giving and receiving things and eating. During Ramadan, be discreet about eating and drinking in public during the day. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

Food and drink

Eating out is one of the great pleasures of KL and is generally cheap and safe. Food is mostly halal; pork is found in Chinese restaurants. Alcohol is available in bars, restaurants and supermarkets but is heavily taxed and quite expensive. Hawker stalls with a busy turnover are usually the freshest. Drinks are often served very sweet; ask for ‘kurang manis’ for less sugar.

Safety

KL is generally safe, but bag snatching from motorbikes happens; carry your bag on the side away from the road. Watch your belongings in crowded markets and trains. Be careful crossing roads; traffic rarely stops for pedestrians. Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties, including for small amounts.

Scams and touts

Taxis without a meter are a classic trap; use Grab or insist on the meter. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering card games, investment tips or invitations home. In tourist food streets, check prices before ordering seafood, and in markets haggle politely. Use official counters for tickets to attractions.

Phone and SIM cards

Buying a local prepaid SIM at the airport arrivals hall is easy and cheap; bring your passport for registration. Coverage is good in cities and along main roads, but can be patchy in the highlands and forests. Download offline maps before going on hikes or to rural areas.