Malaysia: Payment methods & tips

All continents Asia Malaysia

Travel money:

Prepaid Travel credit card

in Swiss francs (CHF)

For ATM cash withdrawals
For cashless payments in shops, restaurants, hotels, and online

ATM Search

Banknotes

in local currency

For minor expenses on arrival in country of destination

Local currency / ISO Code

Ringgit MYR

Further Information

Import local currency
up to MYR 30'000.00; must be declared

Import foreign currency
unlimited; USD 10'000.00 (equivalent) or more must be declared

Export local currency
up to MYR 30'000.00; must be declared

Export foreign currency
limited to amounts imported and declared (minus exchange)

Credit cards

Customary credit cards are accepted in most places. For more detailed information, please contact the credit card issuer.
Use credit card with caution. Unauthorized use is widespread.

ATM Search

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Practical Information:

Cultural characteristics

Malaysia is a predominantly Moslem country. Please observe local customs for dress code and conduct.
Ramadan 2019: 05.05. - 04.06.

Time difference with Switzerland

+ 7 h / + 6 h during our summer time

National language

Official language

Malay

Language capabilities

English

Capital

Kuala Lumpur

Country code for calling Switzerland

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

Voltage

220/240 volt / adapter required

Travel documents for Swiss citizens

Passport still valid 6 months or more after end of stay, return or onward travel ticket and proof of sufficient funds for stays up to 3 months.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate

Kuala Lumpur, 16 Pesiaran Madge, Tel. +3 21 48 06 22 / +3 21 48 07 51 / +3 21 48 06 39 / +3 21 42 87 66

Opening hours

Banks

9.30 - 15.00 h (Mon - Fri)
10.00 - 22.00 h (Sat)

Stores

9.00 - 21.30 h (daily)

Health situation

Do not drink tap water.
Mosquito protection advised.
Risk of dengue fever.
Risk of malaria in certain areas.
Vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles recommended.

Other information

Security

Travelers who wish to travel to this country are advised to inquire about current traveler safety prior to departure.
Highest caution required when travelling to the east coast of Sabah (Borneo) and the offshore islands.
Si consiglia di rispettare le abituali misure precauzionali contro la microcriminalità.
Do not carry valuables (watches, jewelry, expensive cameras, etc.) on you.
Avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

Special legal regulations

Severe penalties for violations of drug laws (up to life imprisonment/death penalty).

Driving

Left-hand driving.
Western Malaysia: A Swiss driver's license is accepted for car rentals (with translation from the Swiss Embassy in Kuala Lumpur) if issued at least two years previously (depends on car rental company).
Western Malaysia: International driver's licence recommended. Eastern Malaysia: International driver's licence required.
Minimum age for car rentals: 21 to 25 (varies by company).
Blood alcohol limit: 0.8 ‰.

Travel advice for Malaysia.