With its sprawling modern cities like Kuala Lumpur and national parks full of lush rainforests, Malaysia’s diverse landscape includes pristine conservation areas like the Danum Valley.

However, with a population that includes a mix of Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese, and Indigenous people, it is also a culturally diverse place that adds to its appeal.

Many Malaysians are extremely friendly and open-minded. Since most speak English, meeting new people and making friends shouldn’t be difficult!

7 important things to know before visiting Malaysia

Easy immigration process

Compared to other Southeast Asian countries, the immigration process to Malaysia is simple. The process of obtaining a Malaysia eVisa is quick and easy. 10 eligible countries can apply for the eVisa, which can be obtained in just a few steps. Unlike a traditional visa, this one doesn’t require a trip to an embassy or consulate. It is possible to enter Malaysia once and stay there for up to 30 days on the Malaysian eVisa. eVisas are valid for three months after being issued. There are a few simple questions that applicants must answer and a fee that must be paid by credit or debit card to complete the Malaysia online application form.

You might need vaccines

It’s always a good idea to ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date before travelling to any foreign country, and visiting Malaysia is no exception. If you’re going to be in Malaysia for an extended period of time, you should get the Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines, as well as the Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies vaccines, before you go.

Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required to enter Malaysia if you’re coming from a high-risk area for the disease. For those who plan to visit rural areas, anti-malaria tablets and repellent are a good idea, as mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent in the country.

Be prepared for the tropical climate

Like other Southeast Asian nations like Thailand and Vietnam, Malaysia experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year. Keep this in mind when packing your suitcase and bring a lot of light and loose clothing.

In addition, keep in mind that the majority of Malaysians are Muslim. Take along some long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover up when you’re out of tourist areas and at sacred places.

As the monsoon sweeps across much of Southeast Asia in the summer, Malaysia isn’t exempt. So, pack waterproof clothes and boots if you’re planning a trip between June and October. It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella just in case!

Technology is widely available

One thing that you don’t have to worry about is accessing the internet. Wi-Fi and internet access are commonplace. Free Wi-Fi can be found anywhere, including hostels, hotels, coffee shops, malls, and even airports. A prepaid sim card is another option if you don’t want to rely on Wi-Fi networks to connect to the internet. Depending on the plan you choose and the provider from which you select your plan, they can cost anywhere from 20 to 50 MYR.

If you plan on using any public Wi-Fi while on vacation, it may be a good idea to get a virtual private network (VPN).

Malaysia isn’t a single land

Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo are two distinct regions of Malaysia. There is no land connection between the two regions, and as a result, they are worlds apart.

Peninsula Malaysia is home to the major cities, while Malaysian Borneo is home to most of the country’s natural attractions. Visiting Peninsular Malaysia is a great way to see some of Malaysia’s most beautiful temples and savour some of the country’s most delectable cuisine. On the other hand, Malaysian Borneo is an adventurer’s dream, whether you want to go scuba diving at Sipadan, see orang-utangs, or climb Mount Kinabalu.

Because both parts of the country can be visited during a vacation, you don’t have to make a choice. Flights are the quickest and most convenient way to travel between the two regions.

Malaysia has some of the best beaches in Southeast Asia

Especially on Perhentian Island, which is dotted with resorts, Malaysia’s beaches are world-class and can compete with the best stretches in Thailand and Indonesia.

It’s no surprise that both Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo are brimming with beaches that are ideal for scuba divers. Scuba diving in Malaysia is also incredibly affordable, so there’s no reason not to give it a whirl!

Malaysian food is delicious

Definitely, one of the highlights of visiting Malaysia is sampling the wide range of delectable cuisines on offer. You will have the opportunity to sample local dishes such as the creamy coconut milk-infused Nasi Lemak, but you will also have ample opportunities to sample cuisine from all over Asia at Malaysia’s inexpensive street food stalls and diverse restaurants.