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Malaysia Smartraveller - Gov 091017
Malaysia Smartraveller - Gov 091017
aspx
Official advice:
Exercise normal safety precautions
(http://smartraveller.gov.au#modal-country)
Warnings by area
View full map (http://smartraveller.gov.au#modal-country)
Coastal region of eastern Sabah including nearby islands and dive sites, reconsider
your need to travel
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This travel advice contains new information on local travel. The level of our advice has not
changed. Exercise normal security precautions in Malaysia overall. Reconsider your need
to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah.
Terrorism is a threat in Malaysia, including in Kuala Lumpur and other major cities.
Take official warnings seriously. Report any suspicious activity to police. Follow the
advice of local authorities. See Safety and security (http://smartraveller.gov.au#safety_and_security) .
Smoke haze across some parts of Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, is usual from
June to October but can occur at any time of the year. When haze levels are high,
Malaysian authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity. See Health
(http://smartraveller.gov.au#health) .
If you are intending to travel overland from Malaysia to Thailand, read our advice for
Thailand (http://smartraveller.gov.au/Countries/asia/south-east/Pages/thailand.aspx) . Travel to or through the
far southern provinces of Thailand is unsafe.
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Visas
If you are visiting Malaysia for tourism, you can get a visa on arrival for a stay of up to
ninety days. If you are visiting Malaysia for other purposes – such as business,
volunteering, study or research – you may need to arrange a visa in advance.
If you violate your visa conditions or overstay your visa, you could face penalties including
fines, detention and/or deportation.
Always check the dates on the visa stamp placed in your passport are correct.
Make sure you comply with all immigration rules and regulations, including your visa
conditions.
Other formalities
All foreigners entering Malaysia must provide biometric fingerprints of both thumbs and
index fingers on arrival. Children below 12 years of age and visitors with finger disabilities
are exempt from this procedure.
Passport
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the date you intend to return
to Australia. If you arrive in Malaysia with less than six months validity remaining on your
passport, you could be denied entry and deported – even if you intended staying for just a
few days.
Carry suitable photographic identification with you at all times while in Malaysia.
Passports are required for travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah
and Sarawak).
Your passport is a valuable document and attractive to criminals who may try to use your
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Be aware of attempts to obtain access to your passport by deception. If you are forced to
handover your passport, contact the Australian High Commission for advice.
Money
Declare on departure any Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) exceeding MYR30,000 or $US10,000
(or foreign currency equivalent). Higher amounts may be taken out of the country if
declared on arrival.
Terrorism
There is an ongoing threat of terrorism in Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur and other
major cities. Attacks could be indiscriminate and may affect locations frequented by
Westerners, including in Kuala Lumpur and other major cities.
On 28 June 2016, a grenade attack was carried out by Islamic State (ISIL)-linked
terrorists at a bar in Puchong, on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Eight people were
injured. Malaysian Police cautioned the attack could be the first of a series of attacks
planned by the terrorist group in Malaysia. The group has threatened further attacks.
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Take official warnings seriously and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Malaysian authorities increased security in the region in response to these and similar
incidents and the Sabah Government imposed restrictions on the use of waterways.
Current security measures include:
A curfew on all travel by water from 6:00pm to 6:00am in six coastal districts of eastern
Sabah state. This includes offshore areas up to three nautical miles (5.5 kilometers)
from the coast.
A requirement for all vessels travelling in the waters off Lahad Datu and Sandakan in
daylight hours to first get a permit or permission from police. Vessels must travel only
on designated routes.
A ban on all resort-organised water activities at night (such as diving and fishing).
Establishment of the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) comprising the regions
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of Beluran, Kinabatangan, Kota Marudu, Kudat, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Pitas, Sandakan,
Semporna and Tawau. There is an increased presence of security forces in the
ESSZone.
The water travel curfew is subject to fortnightly extension. If you travel by water during
curfew hours without permission, you could face a fine or up to six months in prison.
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it does not make payments or
concessions to kidnappers. The Australian Government considers that paying a ransom
increases the risk of further kidnappings, including of other Australians.
Avoid all travel to the coastal resorts of eastern Sabah, including islands, dive sites
and associated tourist facilities.
Police permission is required for public gatherings and demonstrations. If you take part in
a protest or demonstration, you could be arrested and deported for breaching the terms of
your tourist visa.
Monitor local media for information about planned and possible demonstrations.
Crime
Petty crime
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Smash-and-grab type attacks against slow-moving and parked vehicles also occur.
Handbags, expensive watches, jewellery and cameras are tempting targets for thieves.
Many tourists have lost passports and other valuables to thieves on trains from the airport
and at airports.
Thieves sometimes work in groups at busy shopping centres. One or more thieves
approach someone with stories of distress or warnings for that person's safety.
Meanwhile, other thieves steal the person's belongings.
Carry only what you need. Leave other valuables, including your passport, in a secure
location.
Don't tempt thieves – avoid wearing expensive watches, jewellery and cameras.
Walk on footpaths (where available), away from the curb, with your bag held on the
opposite side to the traffic.
When driving or parking your car, make sure valuables are kept out of sight.
Make sure vehicle windows are closed and doors are locked at all times, including
when moving.
Pay close attention to your personal belongings, particularly in crowded areas, when
travelling on trains from the airport and at airports.
Online scams have increased in recent years. Scammers tend to impersonate individuals
in need of financial assistance, and can prey on persons looking for prospective
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Do not send money or provide your bank details to anyone you do not know.
Be cautious when sharing personal information with people you have not met.
Scams involving gambling are also common. More information: Scams (http://smartraveller.gov.au
/guide/all-travellers/avoiding-danger/Pages/scams.aspx) .
Violent crime
You could encounter violent crime in Malaysia.
Foreigners have been assaulted and robbed after their drinks were 'spiked', including in
reputable establishments. Foreigners have also been assaulted by taxi drivers, especially
in downtown Kuala Lumpur.
Stick with people you trust at parties and in bars, nightclubs and taxis.
Book taxis by phone, use a shopping centre taxi desk or the My Teksi App.
Confirm that there is a license (with photo) on the dashboard or seatback before
entering a taxi. Make sure that the driver's appearance matches the photo.
If your taxi stops to pick up additional passengers (which is not allowed but sometimes
happens), get out of the taxi when safe to do so.
Rideshare apps such as Uber and Grab are available in Malaysia. Use similar
precautions when using these services as for using taxis.
If you travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), you'll
need your passport.
If you intend to hire a car, motorcycle, jet ski or any other motorised water sport
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equipment, first check with your travel insurer that you would be covered by your
insurance policy for any related damage and injuries. If not, consider paying a premium to
be covered.
Always use available safety equipment, such as lifejackets or seatbelts, even if others
don't.
If you plan to participate in adventure activities, first talk to your travel insurer to check
if the activity is covered by your insurance policy.
Road travel
Motorcyclists are a common traffic hazard in Malaysia. They often weave through traffic,
drive through red lights and pedestrian crossings and travel on the wrong side of the road
to beat traffic congestion. Increasingly, drivers who react by shouting, gesturing or tooting
their horn at motorcyclists, are physically confronted and sometimes assaulted. You are
four times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Malaysia than in Australia.
Drive defensively.
Avoid road rage. Don't react to poor driving practices of other drivers or riders.
To drive in Malaysia, you need a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) prior to arrival in
Malaysia. You can drive in Malaysia with an IDP for up to 90 days. See Road travel
(http://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/getting-around/pages/road-safety-and-driving.aspx) page for relevant
IDP authority.
If you intend to drive in Malaysia for a longer period, you will need a local driver's licence.
Taxis
Some taxi drivers, particularly in tourist spots or when roads are jammed, refuse to use
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SPAD, the government body regulating taxis in Malaysia, has an English language hotline
for reporting problems. To make a report, provide details such as the vehicle number, the
taxi company name, the time/date/location of the incident and the name of the driver (if
known).
Always confirm the driver will use the meter (or agree the fare) before you get in a taxi.
At the start of your trip, take note of the vehicle number, the taxi company name and
the name of the driver.
Public transport
There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses in
Malaysia, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions. If you plan to travel by
bus, choose a reputable company and avoid overnight routes.
Sea travel
In recent years, several passenger boats have sunk because of overloading and poor
vessel maintenance.
When you board, confirm that life jackets are available and readily accessible for all
passengers.
A curfew on all travel by water from 6:00pm to 6:00am in the coastal districts of eastern
Sabah state. This includes offshore areas up to three nautical miles (5.5 kilometres) from
the coast. The water travel curfew is subject to fortnightly extension. If you travel by water
during curfew hours without permission, you could face a fine or up to six months in
prison.
Yachts and other vessels in the southern Sulu Sea and those sailing between Sabah,
Malaysia and Palawan in the Philippines are at risk from kidnapping. In November 2016,
a yacht was attacked in waters between eastern Sabah and Sulu by militants based in the
southern Philippines. One German national was killed, and another kidnapped and later
beheaded. In April 2014, two German nationals were kidnapped from their yacht in the
Sulu Sea and held captive for six months. See Safety and security.
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Check IMB piracy reports, seek local advice and take appropriate security measures
before any travel by boat in the Strait of Malacca.
More information:
Piracy (http://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/avoiding-danger/pages/piracy.aspx)
Cruises (http://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/getting-around/Pages/cruises.aspx)
Airline safety
The Australian Government does not provide information on the safety of individual
commercial airlines or flight paths. See the Aviation Safety Network (http://aviation-safety.net
/database/country/country.php?id=9M) for information on aviation incidents in Malaysia.
National parks
National parks are protected areas and some are home to ethnic minority groups.
Be respectful of the law and customs in these areas. If in doubt, seek local advice.
Before entering a park, register your plans with park officials and let a reliable person
know of your plans.
You are subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by
Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended
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stay.
If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you
under our Consular services charter (http://smartraveller.gov.au/services/pages/consular-services-charter.aspx) .
But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Surrogacy laws
Under Malaysian civil law, which applies to everyone in Malaysia, it's unclear whether or
not (and in what conditions) surrogacy is legal. However, under Sharia law (which applies
only to Muslims), surrogacy is clearly illegal.
More information:
Other laws
Some aspects of Sharia (Islamic) Law have been introduced by all states in Malaysia.
Kelantan and Terengganu states are particularly observant. Relevant provisions apply to
all Muslims, including those from Australia. Research applicable laws before you travel.
Penalties for criminal offences, including certain drug offences, commercial crime, rape
and robbery, may include corporal punishment.
Homosexual acts are illegal. Malaysian law provides for whipping and up to a 20-year
prison sentence for homosexual acts involving either men or women.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal. Penalties are strictly enforced.
Australian laws
Some Australian criminal laws apply overseas. If you commit these offences, you may be
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child pornography
forced marriage
money laundering
terrorism.
Local customs
Malaysia is a multicultural but predominantly Islamic country. There are conservative
standards of dress and behaviour in many areas of Malaysia.
The Islamic holy month of Ramadan will begin in late May 2018.
Find out what customs are observed at your destination. If in doubt, seek local advice.
Make sure your words or actions don't offend others' cultural or religious beliefs.
During Ramadan, take particular care to respect religious and cultural sensitivities,
rules and customs.
If you are not fasting during Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public
and in the presence of people who are fasting.
If Malaysian authorities discover that you hold both Australian and Malaysian citizenship
you may be required to renounce either your Australian or Malaysian citizenship
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immediately.
Travel insurance
Take out comprehensive travel insurance (http://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/insurance/pages
/default.aspx) before you depart to cover overseas medical costs, including medical
evacuation.
Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance,
you can't afford to travel. The Australian Government will not pay for a traveller's medical
expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs. This can be very expensive and cost
you many thousands of dollars upfront.
Confirm:
what circumstances and activities are and are not covered under your policy
that you are covered for the whole time you will be away.
At least eight weeks before you depart, see your doctor or travel clinic for a basic
health check-up, and to discuss your travel plans and implications for your health.
More information:
Medication
Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available
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Take legal prescription medicine with you so you remain in good health. Keep your
medicines in their original packaging. Always carry on your person a copy of your
prescription or a letter from your doctor stating what the medicine is, how much you'll take
and that it's for personal use only.
More information:
Health risks
Smoke haze
Smoke haze often occurs across parts of Malaysia, usually from June to October but it
can occur at any time. Monitor the haze situation and any health warnings issued by the
Malaysian government and seek your own medical advice. When haze levels are high,
the Malaysian authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity. Regular air quality reports
are available from the Malaysian Department of the Environment (https://www.doe.gov.my/portalv1
/en/info-umum/english-air-pollutant-index-api/100) .
Mosquito-borne illnesses
Dengue fever is prevalent, including in major urban areas, with more serious outbreaks
reported from time to time. There was a significant increase in cases of dengue in 2015
and 2016. There is no vaccination or specific treatment available for dengue fever.
Malaria is a risk in rural areas but is less common in urban and coastal areas. Outbreaks
of other mosquito-borne illnesses (including chikungunya fever and filariasis) also occur.
Reported cases of Japanese encephalitis have increased in recent years.
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The risk of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses increases during the wet season.
take measures to avoid insect bites, including always using insect repellent and
wearing long, loose fitting, light coloured clothing
discuss your travel plans and other vaccination needs with your doctor before you
travel
More information:
Rabies
Rabies is a potentially fatal viral disease that can be found in dogs, monkeys, bats and
other mammals. In Malaysia, the most recent cases were reported in the state of Sarawak
and were transmitted through feral dog and cat bites. Rabies can also be contracted
when a rabid animal's saliva gets directly into the eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin.
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tuberculosis, typhoid, cholera, and hand, foot and mouth disease) are prevalent, with
more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time.
Seek medical attention if you suspect poisoning, if you have a fever or suffer from
diarrhoea.
Marine stings
Stings from jellyfish and other marine animals can be fatal. Seek advice from local
authorities, your tour operator or hotel regarding seasonal bathing conditions,
recommended precautions and other potential dangers.
Medical facilities
Private hospitals with international standard facilities can be found in major cities. Public
hospitals in major cities have a good range of medical services but access can be slow.
Services are more limited in rural areas.
Decompression chambers are located in Kuantan, Lumut, Ipoh, Semporna and Labuan.
Medical tourism
Medical tourism, including for cosmetic surgery, is common. Standards at discount and
uncertified medical establishments can be poor. Serious and possibly life-threatening
complications can result.
Check your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery – most
don't.
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Depending on what you need, your best option may be to first contact your family, friends,
travel agent, travel insurance provider, employer, or airline. Your travel insurer should
have a 24-hour emergency number.
Emergencies
Firefighting and rescue services: 999
Police: 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Center on +60 321 159
999 or +60 322 662 222
Australian Government
Read the Consular services charter (http://smartraveller.gov.au/services/pages/consular-services-charter.aspx)
for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
You can also obtain limited consular assistance, including lodging Australian passport
applications, at the following Australian Consulates headed by Honorary Consuls:
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If you are unable to contact the High Commission or nearby Consulate in a consular
emergency, contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or
1800 808 449 within Malaysia. If you are in Australia, call 1300 555 135.
secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location or carry it on you at all times (in a
waterproof bag)
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contact friends and family in Australia with regular updates about your welfare and
whereabouts
closely monitor the media, weather reports, other local sources of information, the
Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (http://gdacs.org/)
All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis, but Malaysia and its
neighbours' susceptibility to earthquakes makes destructive tsunamis more likely.
More information:
Earthquakes (http://smartraveller.gov.au/guide/all-travellers/avoiding-danger/Pages/earthquakes.aspx)
Severe weather
Flooding and landslides are common during the wet season (October to February).
Severe rainstorms can result in loss of life, and extensive damage to infrastructure.
Essential services can be interrupted.
Additional Resources
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Scamwatch (http://www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/693900)
Contact us
The Australian Government provides 24 hour consular assistance.
For passport information, visit the Australian Passport Office (https://www.passports.gov.au) or call
the Australian Passport Information Service on 131 232 (tel:131232) from Australia.
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About us
Smartraveller is provided by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
(http://smartraveller.gov.au//dfat.gov.au) .
For how we can help you overseas, see the Consular Services Charter (http://smartraveller.gov.au
/services/Pages/consular-services-charter.aspx) .
Legalising documents
Documents are in Australia (http://smartraveller.gov.au/services/legalising-documents/Pages/australia.aspx)
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