Practical tips: Penang & Ipoh

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

Entry and visas

Many nationalities get visa-free entry to Malaysia on arrival for a stay of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on passport; check the current rules before travelling. Most foreign visitors must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card online within a few days before arrival. Your passport should be valid for at least six months.

Money

The currency is the Malaysian ringgit (RM). Cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels and many cafés, but hawker stalls, markets and older kopitiams often prefer cash. ATMs are easy to find in George Town and Ipoh. QR e-wallet payments are increasingly common, though not always open to foreign cards.

Getting there and between

Penang has an international airport in the south of the island. Ferries and two long bridges link the island to Butterworth on the mainland, where the ETS train runs to Ipoh in around two hours and onward to Kuala Lumpur. Book ETS tickets ahead at weekends and holidays.

Getting around

George Town’s heritage zone is best on foot. The free CAT bus loops through the centre, Rapid Penang buses cover the island, and Grab is cheap and reliable. In Ipoh, walk the old town and use Grab for caves and day trips. Renting a car or scooter suits Balik Pulau and the Kinta Valley.

Seasons

It is hot and humid all year, around 30°C by day. The heaviest rain usually falls roughly from September to November, often in afternoon storms, while December to March tends to be drier. Mornings are best for walking and hiking; plan indoor visits for the afternoon heat and rain.

Health

Drink bottled or filtered water. Use mosquito repellent, as dengue occurs in Malaysia, and take sun protection seriously. Hawker food is generally safe at busy stalls. Pharmacies are easy to find, and Penang has good private hospitals.

Etiquette

Dress modestly at temples, mosques and clan houses, covering shoulders and knees, and remove shoes where asked. Ask before photographing people, especially worshippers and residents of the clan jetties. Use your right hand to give and receive things, and avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.

Safety and scams

Penang and Ipoh are generally safe. Watch for bag snatching by passing motorbikes; carry bags on the side away from the road. Confirm prices for seafood and durian before ordering. Hiking trails can flood in storms, and monkeys snatch food.

SIM and connectivity

Prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs from Malaysian operators are sold at the airport and in malls; you’ll need your passport to register. Coverage is good in towns and most of the island. Wi-Fi is common in guesthouses and cafés.

Festivals

Chinese New Year brings lanterns and lion dances, especially at Kek Lok Si. Thaipusam, Deepavali and Hari Raya are celebrated with processions, open houses and food. The George Town Festival, usually held mid-year, fills the old town with art and performances. Book accommodation early around big holidays.