A typical first trip here runs about $400 to $525 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Nasi lemak, coconut rice with sambal, egg, anchovies, and peanuts; the national dish
- Char kway teow, wok-fried flat rice noodles; a Penang specialty
- Laksa, spicy coconut noodle soup with many regional variations
- Roti canai, flaky flatbread with dhal or curry; eaten at any time of day
- Penang street food is considered among Asia's very best
- Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Malaysia's most significant Muslim celebration
- Chinese New Year, celebrated exuberantly by Malaysia's Chinese community
- Deepavali (Festival of Lights), Hindu celebration with spectacular decorations
- Thaipusam at Batu Caves, dramatic Hindu festival with kavadi piercings
- Malaysia Day (September 16) and National Day (August 31)
Bahasa Malaysia is official. English is widely spoken, Malaysia was a British colony and English remains common in business and tourism.
Malay, Chinese, and Tamil are all spoken. Kuala Lumpur is English-friendly throughout.
- Malaysia is majority Muslim, dress modestly and be respectful during Ramadan
- Remove shoes when entering homes, mosques, and some shops
- Use right hand for eating and greeting
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist establishments
Latest for Malaysia
Updates for Malaysia will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.