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TRAVEL REPORT
Malaysia

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

A hyperlink has been updated.

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Malaysia

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events) and tourist areas frequented by foreigners.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the islands off the east coast of Sabah, including Sipadan and Langkayan islands where the kidnapping of foreigners has occurred in the past. Malaysian authorities have increased security in the region in response to past incidents. Credible reports indicate that there continues to be a high risk of kidnappings and violence targeting foreigners.

Canadians contemplating overland travel from Malaysia to Thailand should review the Travel Report for Thailand.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Tourist facilities and services are available in major cities.

Crime

Violent crime against foreigners is uncommon. Petty crime is prevalent, especially in tourist areas and at the airport. Snatch and grab incidents against tourists occur. Thieves on motorcycles frequently grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, often resulting in injury. Women walking alone or with children are common targets. Exercise safety precautions and ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure at all times. Do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles.

Travellers should be particularly cautious at bars or clubs. Never accept food or drinks from strangers and do not leave food or drinks unattended. Cases of drugging followed by robbery and assault have occurred.

Airport taxis

Canadians arriving at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) or the Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) should be aware that touts attempt to get travellers to take their "taxi" into town. There have been several reported incidents of robbery and/or assault as well as gross overcharges by such individuals. Arriving Canadians are advised to take the registered airport taxi only. You must obtain a coupon from the airport taxi stand near the door before you exit the customs arrival hall.

Demonstrations

There has been a recent increase in large-scale illegal demonstrations. Police permission is required for any public gathering or demonstration. Offenders could face lengthy jail sentences. There have also been some reported cases of passers-by becoming victims of acts of violence during demonstrations. Canadians should avoid all political demonstrations and stay away from areas where they might occur. Travellers are reminded that protests can turn violent quickly and without warning. Canadians should be aware that demonstrations are usually accompanied by a heightened police presence and traffic delays.

Scams

Male travellers, usually alone, have been approached in public places with invitations to participate in card games offering attractive opportunities for winning large amounts of money. Victims have lost thousands of dollars before realizing they were being scammed.

There are reports of serious problems in responding to advertisements to do volunteer work with some adventure or environmental organizations. Canadians interested in doing volunteer work abroad are encouraged to conduct a careful research prior to making a commitment.

Credit card fraud

Credit cards should be safeguarded at all times. Malaysia has one of the highest rates of credit card fraud in the world. Credit card magnetic strips have been duplicated, even in international hotels. Swiping your own card may not always be possible. Users should pay careful attention when their cards are being handled by others during the payment processing. Scams involving debit cards also occur. Before using your card travellers should carefully inspect ABM to ensure it has not been tampered with.

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in Southeast Asia occur, particularly in the Strait of Malacca and in the waters between Sabah and southern Philippines. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the Commercial Crime Services division of the International Chamber of Commerce. Foreign vessels travelling in the waters off Sabah are subject to Malaysian law and must use routes designated by Malaysian authorities. Vessels must also fly both a Malaysian flag and the flag of their home country.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained with the Malaysian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the High Commission for Malaysia and its consulates, for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Malaysia. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of their expected departure from the country. Several neighbouring south-east Asian countries also require a six-month passport validity. It is recommended that travellers verify the entry requirements for all destinations and transit points with the relevant diplomatic mission in Canada prior to departure.

Tourist visas are not required for stays of up to three months. For stays of over three months, visitors must apply for an extension (for up to an additional two months) at any Malaysian Immigration office. The head office is located at Putrajaya:Tingkat 1-7 (Podium), Block 2G4, Precint 2, 62550 Putrajaya Tel: 03-8880-0000. Overstaying a visa is a criminal offence. Offenders will be subject to fines, jail sentences, and/or deportation.

Visitors should carry their passport at all times as a form of identification. The Malaysian government is attempting to halt illegal immigration, particularly among foreigners who are working without an Employment Pass. Before you apply for an Employment Pass (at the Immigration Office or a Malaysian High Commission overseas), your prospective employer must apply for approval (from the Standing Committee for Malaysianisation, JKT, or the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority, MIDA) to fill the position with an expatriate. While waiting for the approval, your employer can apply to bring you into the country on a Social Visit Pass (i.e. Temporary Employment). We strongly recommend against this last step: Canadians should obtain their Employment Pass before arrival since it is very difficult to change visa status once inside Malaysia. Foreigners are limited to three visit pass extensions, after which they must leave the country or a fine will be imposed for overstaying.

Travellers must complete a Traveller's Declaration Form upon arrival and departure. A special permit is required to bring in more than 1,000 ringgits in the form of cash or other negotiable items. Excess amounts are seized upon arrival. Visitors may leave the country with only the amount of currency declared on the Traveller's Declaration Form on arrival. Exporters and importers should contact the Commercial Section of the High Commission of Canada in Kuala Lumpur for details affecting their transactions. (See Section 5)

Proof of yellow fever immunization is required for those arriving from infected areas. Travellers arriving from an infected area without a yellow fever vaccination certificate will be quarantined upon arrival or denied entry into the country.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for stays up to three months)
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required

An airport tax, which is usually included in the price of your ticket, is applied to all international flights.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Malaysia - KUALA LUMPUR, High Commission of Canada
Address: 17th Floor, Menara Tan & Tan, 207 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Postal Address: P.O. Box 10990, 50732 Kuala Lumpur,
Tel.: 6 (03) 2718-3333
Fax: 6 (03) 2718-3399
E-Mail: klmpr-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.malaysia.gc.ca

Malaysia - PENANG, Consulate of Canada
Address: 3007, Tingkat Perusahaan 5, Prai Industrial Park, 13600 Prai, Penang
Tel.: 6 (04) 389-3300
Fax: 6 (04) 389-2300
E-Mail: tyt@lbsb.com.my
Internet: http://www.malaysie.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Kuala Lumpur and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 (collect calls accepted).

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

There are current or recent outbreaks of chikungunya in areas of Africa and Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand. For more information, see the Public Health Agency of Canada's (PHAC) website.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

The authorities in Malaysia have implemented screening measures at all international airports in response to the H1N1 Flu Virus outbreak. Travellers entering Malaysia from Canada may be subject to a body temperature check. In some cases, travellers may be isolated and treated.

There have been recent indications of an increase in the incidence of dengue fever in some areas of Malaysia. Travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from contracting dengue fever by using mosquito repellent (DEET), and avoiding swampy or low lying areas where mosquitoes are more prevalent. Using physical barriers such as mosquito nets, long sleeved shirts and other physical protections are also recommended. People experiencing flu-like symptoms (loss of energy, fever, aching joints and muscles) are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

Medical services are adequate in the larger cities. Upfront payment is expected.

Decompression chambers are available in Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Sabah and Labuan.

It is recommended that all travellers carry a letter from their doctor authorizing the use of prescription medicine.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Travellers should be aware that some aspects of Shari’a (Islamic) Law have been introduced in some regions of the country. In keeping with Islamic laws and customs, some states, particularly Kelantan and Trengganu, have strict controls on the purchase and consumption of alcohol by Muslims. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Travellers should respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. 

Canadians should know that Malaysian laws regarding illegal drugs are very strict and include the death penalty for serious offences.

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized, which may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual citizenship.

Homosexual activity is illegal. Convicted offenders may face lengthy jail sentences and fines.

Laws against drinking and driving are strictly enforced.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Traffic drives on the left. Road conditions are good. Seat belts are mandatory. Aggressive driving habits by motorcyclists may pose a risk to foreign drivers who may not be accustomed to these competitive driving techniques. The use of cellular phones while driving is prohibited.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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The currency is the ringgit (MYR). Traveller's cheques are accepted at banks, hotels, and large department stores. Credit card fraud is common in Malaysia. Some major hotels will not accept credit cards due to the extent of fraud. Travellers should only use their credit card with reputable venders and should watch retailers closely when handling your card. Automated banking machines (ABM) are available in main cities.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Unrestricted burning in neighbouring Indonesia periodically causes atmospheric pollution to rise to unhealthy levels. Levels change quickly and should be closely monitored. Travellers with respiratory problems should take this into account and consult with their physician prior to travelling. Such unrestricted burning may also lead to travel disruptions in affected areas.

The monsoon season extends from October to February, and can cause flooding and landslides, especially in remote locations. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

See our Global Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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