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.
MONEY
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.
GETTING OUT OF TROUBLE
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.
GETTING AROUND
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
WINE, WOMEN (and MEN)
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
TRANSPORTS
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
