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MALAISIE TRAVEL TIPS
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CUSTOMS AND RULES
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Malaysia's culture is vastly
different to the west and it is much appreciated when foreigners respect
both its laws and heritage. Most Malaysians are devout Muslims and Islam
itself provides the social fabric of the country. Therefore it is advised
that unless travelling in the main centres respectful attire should be
worn, especially by women. Covered shoulders and NO high-cut shorts or
skirts. Best to purchase a sarong to wrap up in if you feel you may expose
a little too much flesh in ALL Muslim areas. Not only will you feel more
comfortable, the locals will appreciate it when they see you have made an
effort.
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MONEY
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Most currencies can be exchanged at the
banks or local moneychangers. Travellers cheques denominated in most
countries can also be exchanged. Credit cards are accepted in most
establishments and the transfer of funds into the country through one of
the banking systems, though generally slow by western standards, can be
achieved.
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GETTING
OUT OF TROUBLE
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Generally
the rules that apply in your own country apply in Malaysia, but the visitor will
soon find a few customs and regulations not encountered within their
homelands. The main obvious custom, is the dress
code. COVER UP! Especially women. This means covered shoulders and thighs,
no topless bathing on the beaches or in hotel pools. Men take note, bare torsos are also not accepted in the villages
and towns. Do not take your cue from fellow travellers but rather from the
Malaysians themselves.
It is
very impolite to use the left hand to give or receive something, as the
left hand is used for washing after going to the toilet.
Pointing
or beckoning is also considered rude. Malaysians indicate with their thumb
atop a loose fist, while hailing someone is done with the palm of your hand
facing down and waving your fingers (opening and closing them) downwards.
Shoes should be taken off when entering a
mosque or similarly, someone's house.
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GETTING
AROUND
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Travel within Malaysia
is relatively cheap and convenient. When traveling from one center to the
other, unless connected by an air-route can be negotiated by rail, road or
boat.
Car and motorbike rental is also easy on the purse strings.
Your home country’s driving license or an International one is required for
all vehicle hire. Malaysian law requires car drivers and front passengers
to wear seat belts. If renting a motorbike, helmets are required. Ask for a
second helmet if carrying a pillion passenger.
When opting for public transport, such as
taxis, it is recommended that you agree on a price before you set off or
you may end up paying more than you should
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WINE, WOMEN (and MEN)
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Foreign women travelling in Malaysia have reported
receiving unwanted attention from Malaysian men. This can be particularly
bad in some resort areas where local men have inaccurate images of western
women. When travelling in Malaysia
it is important to bear in mind that this is an Islamic country and modest
dress is VERY important. It is recommended that female travellers keep
their shoulders and thighs covered. Topless bathing is totally out of the
question and you would only embarrass the local woman and be seen as
offering yourself to the men, in other words, asking for trouble.
Alcohol, in the more Muslim areas will be
hard to find as it is banned by the Islamic faith. If you wish to partake
in its consumption when travelling to these areas, particularly in southern
Malaysia,
its best to take your own (unless you are staying in a hotel or similar
establishment). Under no circumstances is it polite to drink alcohol in
public areas unless the area is designated for this purpose
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TRANSPORTS
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Interstate taxis are
an inexpensive and rapid means of travel from one state to another. The
taxi stand in Kuala Lumpur
is located on the level 2 of the Pudu Raya Bus Terminal. Fares for
interstate taxis are fixed. Meters are generally not used by these taxis,
so you should be sure to negotiate a fare before the journey.
City Taxis are
metered. In Kuala Lumpur
taxis are easily recognizable by their yellow and black colour or the new
red and white colour. Fares are calculated according to meters. There is no
extra cost for air-conditioned taxis and a 50% surcharge on the fare from
midnight to 6 am is normal.
Trishaw The old form of transport in the country, this three-wheels
vehicle modified from a bicycle is a fun way to get around. Some can be
very beautifully decorated. It is slowly being phased out as most cities
are becoming more and more modernised. However, in certain parts of Malaysia,
the service is still available for tourists. Fare is to be negotiated
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