The history of Malaysia started in the early 15th century with the establishment of the Melaka Sultanate. The country achieved independence on 31 August 1957 as the Federation of Malaya. Malaysia was formed in 1963 with the entry of Sabah and Sarawak.
Manufacturing constitutes the largest component of Malaysia’s economy, while tourism and primary commodities, namely petroleum, palm oil and timber, are also major contributors to the country’s economy.
Malaysia is a fascinating country with a vibrant multicultural population. Besides the Malays and the native groups, immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other parts of the world have all contributed to the multi-racial composition of its population.
Based on statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the country’s population in 2020 is estimated at 32.7 million people. Out of the 29.7 million citizens, the Bumiputera (Malays and Orang Asli or indigenous peoples) comprises 69.6 percent of the population, the Chinese (22.6 percent), and Indians (6.9 percent), while others (1.0 percent).
The country’s evolution into a cultural melting pot is evident in its unique blend of religions, traditions, festivals, languages, food, and many more. Its cultural diversity can also be largely attributed to the country’s long and ongoing interactions with the world and colonial rule by the British, the Portuguese and the Dutch.
Indeed, ‘Malaysia Truly Asia’ is not merely a tagline. The country truly embodies the spirit of racial diversity and unity, which is the very element that makes it unique.
The official religion in Malaysia is Islam, but other religions including Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity are practiced freely.
The national language is Bahasa Melayu (Malay), but English is widely spoken. Most Malaysians are multilingual, speaking various languages and dialects, such as Mandarin, Cantonese and Tamil.
Before entering Malaysia, there are several requirements that visitors must meet. These include having a valid passport or document, obtaining a visa if necessary, possessing a valid return ticket and enough funds to cover expenses, and ensuring that visitors are not illegal immigrants. Additionally, visitors must fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before the departure date. You can visit the website to fill out your Malaysia Digital Arrival Card effortlessly.
Please visit the official portal of the Immigration Department of Malaysia for more details about the entry requirements
ASEAN nationals, except Myanmar, can enjoy a stay of up to one (1) month without the need for a visa. For stays longer than one month, visas are necessary, except for citizens from Brunei and Singapore.
Malaysia Tourist Visa application can be applied at any nearest Malaysian Embassies and High Commissions Office Abroad. Application can also be made online through the eVISA Portal.
To access the necessary information on Visa requirements for different countries, simply visit the official website of the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
MALAYSIA – Flora & Fauna
Wildlife
It is believed that the forests of Malaysia are older than those in the Amazon or the Congo Basin. Some of the rarest species on earth are at home here, such as the Sumatran rhinoceros, clouded leopard, Malaysian tiger, sun bear, monitor lizard and orangutan. Very special animal and plant species, such as the Rafflesia, only occur in the protection of the dense rainforests of Malaysia.
If you want to visit a nature reserve, you will be spoilt for choice in Malaysia. Bako National Park near Kuching (Sarawak) is very popular. With an area of 2,742 hectares of unspoilt forest, this park has a coastline with exceptionally shaped stone arches and surf pillars that wind and sea have carved out of the sandstone.
Don’t miss a visit to Kinabalu National Park in Sabah, where you can admire the Rafflesia. In addition to the rich plant life, the main attraction here is Mount Kinabalu – the highest mountain in the region.
Endau Rompin Park on the Malay Peninsula is one of the few remaining lowland rainforests. The interesting and rare flora of this park includes the fan palm, the climbing bamboo and the walking stick palm. Visitors can hike through the jungle, swim, fish, seek adventure while camping, watch birds or learn about nature and botany.
Visiting the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, located in the verdant Krau Game Reserve (Pahang), delights locals and tourists alike. The center not only takes care of the relocation of wild elephants, but also takes in orphaned or abandoned elephants. Here you can feed elephants, swim with baby elephants and learn about the efforts to relocate the animals through video lectures.
If you’re wondering what Kuala Lumpur has to offer in terms of nature, spend a few hours at the city’s Bird Park (Kuala Lumpur Bird Park). This park is the largest bird aviary in the world. Under the high nets of the complex, exotic birds fly around completely freely.
Key Tips
Pay attention to the weather forecast before you set off on a trip to a forest reserve.
You are well equipped in light cotton clothing and comfortable hiking boots.
Take enough drinking water and insect repellent with you.
Bring a bag where you can collect your waste and dispose of it later.
Bird watching
Malaysia’s diverse tropical landscapes, ranging from humid mangroves to misty mountain ranges, are home to several hundred species of birds. In addition, Malaysia is visited by around 120 migratory bird species that are on their migrations between Asia and Australia. Over 600 species of native birds in the Malay Peninsula and around 580 more in the Malaysian part of Borneo, all of which can be easily spotted in parks and reserves, make Malaysia a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Half of Malaysia’s land surface is made up of rainforests or plantations. Thus, the bird world has an abundance of different habitats at its disposal. Malaysia’s rainforests can be divided into three distinct groups (or habitats): coastal mangroves, lowland rainforests, and mountain forests.
The swampy ecosystems of the coastal mangroves, where fresh and salt water meet, are home to the kingfisher, among other things. The lowland rainforests, with their freshwater swamps, peat forests and hilly dipterocarp forests, are the largest habitat for birds and are home to more than 200 species, including mute stork and bronze fruit pigeon.
The mountain forests are located at an altitude of over 900 m and are characterized by a cool, humid climate and a stunted tree population. This habitat is preferred by bird species such as the Rothschild’s Pfaufasan and the black-ringed white-eyed.
In each of these habitats, it is possible to observe the bird species that live here in detail. However, there are also places where all three ecological zones can be found and thus the bird life of Malaysia can be admired in all its diversity.
Be amazed by the sight of exotic birdlife, capture your memories in holiday pictures, and learn about these beautiful creatures. For more information on birdwatching in Malaysia, please visit. For birdwatching information in the Genting Highlands, please visit.
Key Tips
Before you set off, find out as much as you can about your destination and the bird species that live there.
Binoculars can be very helpful in detecting and identifying birds that are sitting far away or flying very high.
Most bird species are active early in the morning and late in the afternoon when temperatures are lower. Many bird species follow certain habits when it comes to feeding. Find out in your guide when is the best time to sighting certain species.
At low tide, the mudflats are an excellent place to observe shorebirds.
Wear long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquitoes! The use of insect repellents is also strongly recommended.
Drink a lot! Take enough drinking water with you on your trip, as the body dehydrates more quickly due to the high humidity.
Some bird sanctuaries require an entry permit issued by the state’s forest department.
Turtle Watching
There are four species of turtles that lay their eggs in Malaysia: the leatherback turtle, the green turtle, the hawksbill turtle and the olive ridley turtle. Turtles are known to travel long distances on their way to their egg-laying sites. Unfortunately, the number of these friendly creatures is dwindling, and some species are threatened with extinction.
It is a special experience every year to watch the animals lay their eggs. Leatherback turtles prefer the coast near Rantau Abang (Terengganu). The warm and grainy sand and the sloping beach make it easier for the lumbering animals to lay their eggs.
Other areas where turtles can be spotted include Turtle Bay on Pangkor Island and Tanjung Jara Beach in Terengganu.
Key Tips
The months of April to September are the best time to observe turtles.
To protect the species, the consumption of turtle eggs is prohibited.
If you have missed the turtles’ egg-laying season, you can visit the Turtle Sanctuary and Information Centre in Kuantan (Pahang).
Parks & Gardens
The rainforest in Malaysia is one of the oldest in the world and is home to a rich flora and fauna.
Malaysia is one of the twelve countries in the world that have the most species-rich animal and plant worlds. More than 14,500 species of flowering plants, 3,000 species of trees, 300 species of palm trees, 60 species of bamboo, 210 species of mammals, 600 species of birds and several thousand species of insects and sea creatures live here.
Nature lovers will be overwhelmed by the diversity of Malaysia’s flora: the pitcher plant Nepenthes rafflesiana, the lady’s slipper orchid Paphiopedilum Sanderianum and the cycad Cycas circinalis, among others, grow here.
Some parks and gardens are open to visitors, offering them the opportunity to wander among Malaysia’s natural wonders and get up close and personal.
Key Tips
If you want to experience the beauty of Malaysia’s flora, you don’t have to travel far. In the big cities, parks offer the opportunity to escape from the urban hustle and bustle into nature, such as the Perdana Botanical Gardens in Kuala Lumpur, the botanical gardens in Penang and the Taiping Lake Gardens in Perak.
To preserve the beauty of these gardens, visitors are asked not to pick flowers.
For a visit to these gardens, thin, light clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. And be sure to take your sunscreen with you.
Trekking
With its jungle hiking trails, Malaysia has a lot to offer for both beginners and experienced trekkers. In the numerous tropical forest and wildlife reserves, nature lovers get their money’s worth.
For seniors, the hike to Gunung Tahan in Taman Negara (Pahang) is particularly recommended. The younger ones, on the other hand, can work out at the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM – Forest Research Institute of Malaysia) north of Kuala Lumpur.
Other recommended hiking trails are Niah National Park, Mulu National Park, Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Selangor Mangrove Forest, Selangor Templar Park Mountain Forest, Ulu Bendol Negeri Sembilan Mountain Forest, Endau Rompin Lowland Rainforest, Gunung Ledang Highland Rainforest (Johor) and Lambir National Park.
If you prefer lower temperatures, you’ll find jungle trails in the Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s Hill.
Key Tips
Pay attention to the weather forecast before you set off on your hike.
Remember to take enough drinking water and insect repellent with you. If you are going on a river hike, special leech socks are recommended.
One budget shoe that many locals resort to is the ‘Adidas Kampung’, which can be had for less than 10 MYR. It is made entirely of rubber, is robust and waterproof, making it ideal for hiking in tropical rainforests. The hill climb on Mount Kinabalu, the “Mt Kinabalu International Climbathon”, has already been won by locals who have worn this shoe. The ‘Adidas Kampung’ is sold in some corner shops, hardware stores and night markets.
Cave expeditions
There are countless caves in Malaysia, including some of the largest and longest in the world. These caves are often located in the lush rainforests and mangroves and are home to fascinating wildlife.
Most caves in Malaysia are provided with marked paths and paved stands. However, there are also caves that are only accessible by boat, or those in which visitors have to move around on all fours. In some caves, important archaeological finds have also been made, which are around 40,000 years old. In others, old cave paintings can still be admired today. The Batu Caves in Selangor are home to Hindu temples that are a magnet for believers from all over the country. In some caves in the state of Sabah, remains of human burial sites have also been found.
In Malaysia, an entire “industry” has developed that targets bird nests. In some caves, for example, it is allowed to climb to the ceilings with the help of bamboo ladders to get to the nests. These consist of the saliva of the birds, which is said to have medicinal healing powers, and fetch a high price on the market. The caves in Malaysia are habitats for fruit bats, salangans and invertebrata (invertebrates). In addition, there are other natural phenomena to admire here, such as massive stalagmites and stalactites. As with any other natural wonder, the preservation of stalactites and wildlife is of great importance in the caves.
Although extensive expeditions have already taken place, many caves in Malaysia are far from being fully explored. This always attracts adventure-hungry explorers. Most cave tours are day trips, but overnight tours can also be booked. Camping is not allowed in the caves, but in most cases accommodation is available nearby. A permit is required to visit some caves. This can be applied for at the forestry authority of the respective state.
In order not to disturb the wildlife in the caves, photography with flash is prohibited here. Always be careful, as there is a chance of encountering dangerous animal species (snakes, scorpions) in the caves.
Key Tips
Cave tours usually take place during the dry time of the year (March–October). However, always be prepared for rainfall.
Always take a reliable and experienced cave guide. Cave guides can be booked in national parks and with adventure/cave tour providers or contacted through the Malaysian Nature Society.
Many caves are not yet marked on maps and should never be explored on your own, but ideally in groups of four.
Climb
The highest mountain in Malaysia is Mount Kinabalu (4,095 m). This is located in the Kinabalu National Park in the state of Sabah and is a popular destination for locals and tourists.
Around two days should be planned for the ascent and descent. The climb has a length of 8 km and usually starts at the Timpohon Gate near the park’s headquarters (1,800 m). Most climbers spend the night at the top of the Laban Rata hut (3,273 m) and continue their ascent to the summit the next morning. If you are looking for a very special adrenaline rush, you can also take the via ferrata on the way back, which leads down over ropes, support timbers, ladders and bridges. However, this is not recommended for people with knee problems or fear of heights.
Other popular climbing destinations include the Lost World of Tambun theme park, Nipah village on Tioman Island, Taman Etnobotani in Gua Musang (Kelantan), Gunung Jerai (Kedah), Gunung Angsi (Negeri Sembilan) and Gunung Ledang (Johor). If you’re looking for an even greater challenge, you can climb the highest mountain on the Malay Peninsula, Gunung Tahan. For the total distance of 130 km, which leads through rainforests, rivers and over mountain ranges, you should book an experienced mountain guide.
Closer to the capital, you can climb up to the Batu Caves, a limestone massif with eight rocky peaks and 170 climbing routes. Popular rock faces here include Nyamuk Wall, Nanyang Wall, Roadshow, Comic Wall, Damai Wall, White Wall and Red Rocks.
Key Tips
Do not climb at the time of the monsoon. Find out in advance which months are best for mountaineering and plan your trip accordingly.
Even in the dry season, the weather in the mountains is often unpredictable. Equip yourself with waterproof equipment (waterproof cover for the backpack, waterproof jacket and shoes).
It often gets very cold in the mountains, so remember to wear enough warm clothing.
One budget shoe that many locals resort to is the ‘Adidas Kampung’, which can be purchased for less than 10 MYR. It is made entirely of rubber, is robust and waterproof, making it ideal for hiking in tropical rainforests. The hill climb on Mount Kinabalu, the “Mt Kinabalu International Climbathon”, has already been won by locals who have worn this shoe. The ‘Adidas Kampung’ is sold in some corner shops, hardware stores and night markets.
The currency unit of the Malaysian currency is the Malaysian Ringgit, with the code MYR. It is commonly recognized by the symbol RM and is also referred to as Ringgit Malaysia.
Bank notes are available in various denominations, including RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, and RM100. Coins, on the other hand, are issued in 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, and 50 sen denominations.
When it comes to payment methods, most hotels, shopping complexes, restaurants, and shops in Malaysia readily accept international credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Diners Club.
In addition, for those who prefer a convenient, cashless experience, MY Tourist App offers a mobile payment solution specifically designed for international travellers visiting Malaysia. Furthermore, the country has embraced digital payment methods such as Touch N Go, GrabPay, and Boost as well as bank transfers which are widely accepted and utilized by locals and tourists alike.
For those who prefer to use travellers’ cheques, they can be exchanged at local banks. However, it’s worth noting that visitors bringing in significant amounts of foreign currencies are required to make declarations.
Malaysian hospitals and clinics are easily accessible to those who require them. Public and private hospitals and clinics are both located in every city. Malaysia’s healthcare facilities and services are top-notch and provide you with excellent aid and comfort. Government hospitals and clinics are open for 24 hours.
Given the perpetual warmth of the tropical climate in this country, visitors must prioritize their well-being by applying sunscreen, staying hydrated, and wearing appropriate attire to combat the humidity.
Malaysia, by and large, maintains a commendable standard of food hygiene. Additionally, the availability of bottled water and soft beverages is extensive.
Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT +8:00) and 16 hours ahead of US Pacific Standard Time.
Religious holidays and festivities typically receive 1 or 2 days of observance. Public holidays, such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas Day, and Wesak, are among the religious holidays that fall into this category. Additionally, several other public holidays are typically awarded a single day of recognition. Examples of these include National Day (31st of August), Malaysia Day (16th of September), Labour Day (1st of May), Islamic Day (date varies), Agong’s Birthday (3rd of June), and numerous others.
Each year, Malaysia will have school holidays during the months of March, May, September, and December. Optimize your travel plan, as expenses tend to rise and popular attractions become more crowded during school holidays. Plan smartly for a smoother and more enjoyable adventure in Malaysia.
A standard 3-pin plug and socket is commonly used. The supply voltage in Malaysia is 240V and at a frequency of 50 Hz.
The main telecom operators in Malaysia are CelcomDigi, Maxis, Umobile, and Tune Talk. Conveniently, prepaid SIM cards can be easily purchased at airports, malls, and city centers. For short-term visitors to Malaysia, there are traveller SIM card packages available. These packages typically include preloaded credit and a specific amount of minutes for calls and data.
Below are the area codes for domestic calls:
| Alor Setar | 04 |
| Ipoh | 05 |
| Johor Bahru | 07 |
| Kangar | 04 |
| Kota Bharu | 09 |
| Kota Kinabalu | 88 |
| Kuala Lumpur | 03 |
| Kuala Terengganu | 09 |
| Kuantan | 09 |
| Kuching | 82 |
| Melaka | 06 |
| Penang | 04 |
| Pulau Langkawi | 04 |
| Pulau Tioman | 07 |
| Sandakan | 89 |
| Seremban | 06 |
| Sibu | 84 |
| Taiping | 05 |
When travelling to Malaysia, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs.
This includes understanding the dress codes, tipping etiquette, and appropriate behaviour at religious sites. Here are some guidelines to follow when visiting Malaysia:
By being informed and respectful of the local customs, you can have a more enjoyable and culturally immersive experience during your visit to Malaysia.
When entering places of worship, such as mosques and temples, it is important to remove your shoes.
Many of these religious sites also provide robes and scarves for female visitors and men wearing shorts. While it is generally allowed to take photographs at these places, it is always courteous to ask for permission beforehand.
Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia due to the Muslim population’s abstinence from alcohol. Moreover, it is advised to refrain from pointing with the right forefinger. Instead, the right thumb can be used by creating a gentle fist with the hand and placing the thumb above it.
Deal with a travel agent licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia. Know and understand the terms and conditions of the tour packages that they bought. Use tour operators and transportation services licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia. Use a valid licensed tour guide approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia. Use only valid licensed transportation services approved by government agencies. Do not deal with any illegal agent or individual. Tourists who deal with unlicensed travel agents or tour operators risk NOT getting good services as stated in the package. NOT being covered by insurance. NOT being covered by the Tourism Industry Act. NOT being paid any compensations or reimbursements.
Malaysia is equipped with a well-established system to provide immediate help during emergencies. The Auxiliary police, stationed in various regions, are crucial in delivering swift assistance. Here are the essential contact details to remember in case of an emergency:
In various public places like shopping centers, terminals, and many other locations, one can enjoy the convenience of accessing complimentary WIFI. Nevertheless, certain free WIFI networks may necessitate a sign-in or registration process. Additionally, cafes, eateries, and establishments that serve beverages also offer patrons the perk of complimentary WIFI.
When it comes to culinary delights, Malaysia has gained international fame for its diverse selection of food and beverages. The local cuisine is a definite crowd-pleaser and a must-try for tourists visiting the country. Immerse yourself in the tantalizing flavours of Malay, Indian, Chinese, and other cuisines Malaysia proudly offers.
With its perpetual warm climate, Malaysia is famous for its tropical setting. Throughout the day, the sun’s rays can be scorching, necessitating the appropriate attire to combat the heat.
When it comes to commemorating your journey to Malaysia, there is an extensive array of unique and memorable gifts and souvenirs to choose from. Whether it be traditional attire, exquisite pewter items, expertly handcrafted crafts, delectable Malaysian treats, vibrant Malaysian Batik, stunning Sabah pearls, or even more treasures, you can find them all at various locations across the country. Make sure to explore Karangkraf, a bookstore featuring a diverse selection of local books and magazines. For added convenience, Karangkraf operates an online store, facilitating seamless purchases for those interested in acquiring particular books.
Whether you’re exploring the lively Central Market, marvelling at the iconic KLCC, browsing the Karangkraf online store, or strolling through the charming local shops, you’ll undoubtedly find the perfect keepsake that captures the essence of your Malaysian adventures.
With an area of approximately 329,847 square kilometres, and warm tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C, Malaysia houses an infinite range of exciting tourism products throughout the year for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Located between two and seven degrees north of the Equator, Malaysia is formed by 13 states – Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Perak, Pulau Pinang, Kedah, Perlis, Sabah and Sarawak; and three Federal Territories – Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan. Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan are located in East Malaysia, while others are in Peninsular Malaysia.
We would be happy to advise you personally, in order to get a better and faster insight into your wishes. Our travel examples can be designed in exactly the same way, combined, shorter, longer or according to your own wishes. Our travel specialists will (based on their own experience) present you with optimal travel routes and transparent prices for your planned dream trip.
After we know your wishes, the responsible travel specialists will send you a corresponding offer as soon as possible, of course non-binding and without obligation. We will then discuss this offer with you and will be happy to make changes according to your wishes. You decide when to start and how long you want to travel.
We concentrate 100% on your stay in your destination, receive you wherever and whenever you arrive, adapt the itinerary to your individual flight times and wishes, and are also available to you personally during the trip via email and WhatsApp 24 / 7 available for a smooth and relaxing trip. This enables us to respond promptly and personally to all eventualities, such as flight delays, extra requests on site, etc.
As an individual tour operator, we do not have fixed travel dates like many package tour operators.
With us, you as a customer decide when you want to fly and how long you want to stay, and therefore ideally you can also book the most cost-effective flight connection for yourself using the popular online search engines such as Kayak, Skyscanner, etc.
We will be happy to help you find the best international flight for you. Domestic flights are already included in our trips.
Only when you are 100% satisfied with our travel planning will your written booking be made with us and you can lean back and look forward to a dream trip according to your individual wishes. We will make all bookings for you in the destination and then send you our travel confirmation / invoice. Your deposit is 20% when booking, the balance is due 30 days before departure.
Owner & Managing Director
Meisara Tungga Dewi & Matthias Vogel
Sombomerten Demangan RT006/RW021
Maguwoharjo, Depok
Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55282
Yogyakarta
Indonesia
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