Malaysia is composed of over 800 idyllic islands filled with secluded beaches, biologically diverse rainforests, iconic cityscapes, historical places, and sacred sites – all of which cannot be fully explored given just 48 hours. Yet for those of us with limited time, we can still enjoy the highlights of Malaysia on a fast-paced trip.
The capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is the economic and cultural powerhouse of the country. It is home to many glittering skyscrapers, architectural landmarks, majestic mosques, stunning temples, shopping malls, and tantalizing cuisines. Not far from Kuala Lumpur is a UNESCO-listed city named Malacca (or Melaka as what locals would call it). It is one of the most interesting parts of Malaysia because of its rich history and fascinating blend of Dutch, Portuguese, British, Chinese and Malay cultural influences. An enriching cultural day tour to Malacca is highly recommended to see a glimpse of its colonial past, well-preserved structures, and breathtaking historical sites.
TIMEZONE, CLIMATE, AND WEATHER
Timezone
The Philippines shares the same time zone with Malaysia. That being said, there is zero time difference between the two countries.
Weather
The weather in Malaysia is hot, humid, and rainy all year round. The average temperature falls between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius. The humidity is almost always above 80 percent.
Climate
Malaysia has an equatorial climate which means it’s hot and humid all year round except during the monsoon seasons. The best time to visit Malaysia is between March to early October so to avoid the worst rains.
LANGUAGE
The official and national language of Malaysia is Bahasa Melayu. English, Chinese dialects (primarily Cantonese and Mandarin) and T
Here are some useful Malay words/phrases:
cantik – nicemakan – eatsamasama (colloquially shortened tosama ) – you’re welcome- selamat
datang – welcome (as in arrival) - selamat
pagi /pentang/tengah hari – good morning/evening /afternoon - tandas – toilet
- terima
kasih (abbreviated astq in SMS) – thank you tidak – no- ya – yes
CURRENCY, EXCHANGE RATE, TAXES, AND FEES
Currency
The currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit. The currency code is MYR and the currency symbol is RM.
Travel Tax
Upon departure from the Philippines, all Philippine nationals are expected to pay 1620 PHP for the travel tax.
Miscellaneous Fees
Expect to pay terminal fees. Rates differ and depend on the airport you are departing from.
Exchange Rate
HOW TO GET THERE
By Air
Take a direct flight from Manila, Clark, Cebu, or Davao to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, or AirAsia. Travel time is approximately 3 to 4 hours.
You can check the flight schedules on Google here. Please note that the rates and schedules are subject to change without prior notice.
By Land
If you’re commuting from Singapore, take a bus to Johor Bahru by public transport via Woodlands Causeway. The trip may take 40 minutes to 2 hours depending on the traffic situation.
From Johor Baharu to Malacca is a bus ride that will take 3 to 4 hours. We personally prefer the bus company, Causeway Link.
Lastly, Malacca to Kuala Lumpur is about a 2-hour bus ride. Choose KKKL Express.
For all bus/train schedules and walking routes, Google Maps is your friend.
WHERE TO STAY
NU Hotel
When in Kuala Lumpur, I highly recommend NU Hotel. All within walking distance are a train station, a shopping mall, convenience stores, and several 24-hour hawker stalls.
But there are many easy-to-use and secure websites that can help you choose your accommodation based on your personal preferences and budget.
Agoda/Booking
Agoda and Booking have a great network of hotels to choose from at competitive prices. I’ve booked hotels through them a number of times and I love them both.
Trivago/Hostelworld/Traveloka
Other online travel platforms that are worth checking out are Trivago, Hostelworld, and Traveloka. They have great deals and a wide selection of accommodations to choose from too.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing is a great online hub where you can meet locals and get a chance to hang out or crash at their place for FREE. Yes, you read that right. Couchsurfing can help lower your expenses and save you a lot of money in return.
HOW TO GET AROUND
Public transportation is very affordable in Malaysia but their railway stations can be quite confusing and unreliable when it comes to schedules at times. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for help.
Also, do be wary of taxi touts. Taxis generally have a bad reputation in Malaysia because a lot of them exploit passengers (especially tourists) by refusing to use meters so they can overcharge. Keep in mind that a journey within Kuala Lumpur usually costs around RM 20. Should you take a taxi, GrabTaxi is the way to go.
WHERE TO GO
If you only have under 48 hours to explore Malaysia, here are the places that should not be missed:
A UNESCO world heritage city that has a rich historical past
with Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences
The tallest twin tower complex in the world
A Hindu shrine hidden in a cavern on a limestone hill
Since we arrived late at night in Kuala Lumpur coming from Malacca, we didn’t get the chance to see other places like the National Mosque, the King’s Palace, and the National Museum. But all of these can be visited in just one day when you book yourself a city tour on Klook here for as little as 400 PHP or almost 90 RM.
MALAYSIA TRAVEL TIPS
Ready to travel to Malaysia?
Passport
Philippine passports now have a 10-year validity for holders 18 years old and above. Keep in mind that it is a standard requirement for passports to have at least 6 months of validity remaining. Make sure to renew your passport if it is expiring in 6 months after the intended departure date.
Click here for Philippine passport requirements.
Bring your passport with you everywhere you go in Malaysia. There may be instances when it’s needed for purchasing goods, availing certain services, or when claiming a tourist tax refund.
Cash
Money changers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport operate 24 hours a day for the convenience of all tourists. But for more favorable rates, get your money changed to MYR whilst in the Philippines or money changers at malls around KLCC or Bukit Bintang.
But if you’re coming from Singapore, you can change your money at JB Sentral. Use your SGD instead of PHP to buy more MYR.
SIM Card
Make this your first purchase upon arrival at the airport for your data needs. But if you’re coming from Singapore via bus, you can buy one upon arrival in Johor Bahru at JB Sentral Bus Terminal.
The main providers in Malaysia are Maxis, Digi, U Mobile, Tune Talk, and Celcom.
Smartphone
Here is a list of helpful apps you must download and install on your smartphone:
- Klook – Discover great deals on attraction tickets, fun activities, exciting tours, unique experiences, and more.
- Google Maps – Create a personalized itinerary by adding pins and setting routes for places you want to go to.
- Grab – In times you don’t wanna take the public transit, this ride-hailing app allows you to book conveniently through your phone safely and securely with just a finger tap.
- Waze – Navigate the streets of Malaysia with ease using this GPS-navigation app. Get real-time traffic and road info updates as you take a bus or a taxi cab.
Portable Fan
In a place like Malaysia where the humidity is high all year round, a portable fan will be your best friend. Buy one if you don’t have it yet.
Umbrella
The equatorial sun is intense and rains are sporadic. Make sure to always keep an umbrella in your bag.
Comfortable Wear
Malaysia is an Islamic country so it is important to dress conservatively. But choose items that are made with lightweight fabric (like cotton and linen) for maximum breathability and comfort.
Universal Travel Adapter
The voltage in Malaysia is 230 volts and the power plugs and sockets are type G. Best to bring a universal travel adapter with you. This is to ensure that you can use your gadgets and chargers there.
DON’TS
- Displaying public affection
Pointing with your index fingers (use thumbs
with four fingers folded under instead)- Giving or receiving objects with the left hand (use right hand instead)
- Accepting unmetered taxis