ABOUT MALAYSIA AND KUALA LUMPUR
Malaysia is a uniquely diverse country with a multi-cultural population that will not fail to amaze. From the rich rainforest in Sarawak and mountainous peaks of the Crocker Range down to the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia has something for everyone.
Malaysia plays host to a wealth of exotic islands, Pulau (meaning “island”) Langkawi and Pangkor located on the west coast of the Peninsular are havens of tranquility offering snorkeling, scuba diving and ample sunshine.
Kuala Lumpur is one of Asia’s most thriving cosmopolitan cities seamlessly blending traditional culture with modern urbanization. Fondly referred to as ‘KL’, the city has a population of almost two million and has grown to become one of the region’s most prosperous capitals.
The city plays host to one of the world’s most recognised landmarks, the Petronas Twin Towers. Standing at 452 metres, the Petronas Twin Towers are the “tallest twin towers” in the world and have become an international symbol. At the foot of the Twin Towers lies Suria KLCC, one of the city’s finest shopping centres. With an array of shopping malls, offering tax-free discounts to foreigners, Malaysia has proven to be a shoppers’ paradise.
KL also has restaurants, clubs and bars that offer a vibrant nightlife to locals and visitors alike. All types of cuisine are available in a variety of settings from fine dining to street stalls, air conditioned splendor to al-fresco - there is something to meet everyone’s culinary desires making it a veritable gourmet’s wonderland.
GENERAL INFORMATION
WEATHER
Malaysia enjoys sub-tropical conditions throughout the year with temperatures hovering around 32 degrees Celcius (90-degrees Fahrenheit). Scattered rain shower will offer a welcome respite from the humidity. Rain showers seldom last for more than half-an-hour, leaving a fresh and crisp air.
LOCAL TIME
Standard Malaysian time is eight hours ahead of GMT
CURRENCY
The Malaysian Ringgit (RM) is the official currency in Malaysia.
PASSPORT VISA REQUIREMENTS
All citizens require a valid passport to enter Malaysia with a validity period of six months beyond the length of their stay.
Citizens of Commonwealth and European countries will be granted a visa upon entry. Delegates should contact their local Malaysian consulate to confirm visa requirements.
BUSINESS HOURS
Shops are generally open between the hours of 10.00 – 22.00. Banking hours are between the hours of 9.30 – 16.00 hours. Government offices and banks are closed on weekends.
TAX & TIPPING
Tipping is usually not customary in Malaysia. A 5% Government Tax and 10% Service Charge are added to rooms, meals and other related services.
CREDIT CARDS
Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops and restaurants. Travellers cheques and foreign currency can be changed at hotels or at a bank.
SALES TAX
Sales Tax (VAT) is included in prices quoted. However, sales tax is applicable at hotels and most eateries and entertainment outlets.
TAXIS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Taxis are inexpensive and required to use meters when ferrying passengers. Public transportation is very convenient and cheap.
ELECTRICAL CURRENT
Type G (British 3-pin) sockets with 220-240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second are used.
EMERGENCIES
Dial 999 for Police, Ambulance and Fire Department. KL Tourist Police can be reached at +60 3 2149 6593
