Best time to visit

The best time to visit Malaysia is during the dry season, which runs from March to early October. This period offers the most favorable weather for travel and outdoor activities, with less rainfall and lower humidity. However, due to Malaysia's tropical climate, it is possible to visit year-round. The east coast of Peninsular Malaysia experiences monsoon rains from November to February, making some islands and beach resorts less accessible. Conversely, the west coast, including destinations like Penang and Langkawi, is relatively dry during this time and remains popular with tourists.

What to expect

Language: The official language of Malaysia is Malay, also known as Bahasa Malaysia. English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and within the business community.

Currency: The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), abbreviated as RM.

Safety: Malaysia is generally considered a safe country for travelers. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded places and tourist hotspots. It is advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. Some areas in Eastern Sabah have experienced security issues, so travelers should stay informed about current travel advisories.

Cuisine: Malaysian cuisine is a melting pot of flavors influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures. Notable dishes include: Nasi Lemak: A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, often served with sambal (spicy chili paste), anchovies, peanuts, boiled eggs, and cucumber. Satay: Skewered and grilled meat, usually served with peanut sauce, rice cakes, and cucumber. Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried flat rice noodles with shrimp, egg, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts, flavored with soy sauce. Laksa: A spicy noodle soup with variations such as Assam Laksa (sour and tangy with fish) and Curry Laksa (coconut-based with chicken or seafood). Hainanese Chicken Rice: Poached chicken served with fragrant rice, accompanied by chili sauce and usually a soup. Teh Tarik: A popular hot milk tea beverage known for its frothy texture, achieved by "pulling" the tea between two cups.