Malaysia

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 999 for police, ambulance, fire and rescue.
• Dial 15999 (+60-19-26-15999 from outside of Malaysia) for toll-free domestic violence and sexual assault hotline.
• Dial + 60-3-2168-5000 to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.  

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains)
• Commercial flights

Malaysia remains a transit point and destination country for members of terrorist groups. There is a continued risk of armed terrorist and criminal groups operating and planning attacks against foreigners, including U.S. citizens. 

Eastern Sabah

• Use caution in the islands and maritime areas off the coast of Eastern Sabah due to the threat of kidnappings-for-ransom from both terrorist and criminal groups. These groups attack with little to no warning. They target island resorts, maritime activities, and boats carrying tourists.
• U.S. government employees working in Malaysia need special authorization to travel to the islands and maritime areas off the coast of Eastern Sabah from Kudat in the north to Tawau in the south. This area includes, but is not limited to, the following islands: Bangii, Balambangan, Turtle, Sipadan, and Mabul. 
• The U.S. embassy has limited ability to offer emergency assistance in these areas because of their remote location. Due to the security situation, there are nighttime curfews at sea in the coastal areas in this region. Check local media or ask local police for the most recent curfew information.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, during large events, or after prayers on Friday afternoons.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable.
• Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Local law prohibits non-Malaysians from participating in protests.

Crime

Petty theft and other crimes occur in Malaysia, targeting both locals and foreigners.

• The most common crimes are purse snatching, pickpocketing, smash-and-grab theft, and residential burglary. Avoid wrapping purse straps around arms or shoulders to avoid injury.
• Violent and more serious crimes are less common.
  • Taxi drivers in central Kuala Lumpur have committed violent crimes against passengers.
  • Use a ride-hailing app or book a taxi by phone rather than hailing a taxi on the street, especially at night.
• Criminals sometimes rob motorists stuck in traffic or stopped at a light. Keep valuables out of sight while driving and remove them from the car when parked. Do not leave GPS devices on the windshield or dashboard.
• Police response can be slow, especially in more remote areas. Victims often need to travel to the nearest police station to report a crime.  

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Sophisticated internet romance and financial scams are common in Malaysia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers often pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold or bond purchases
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Bank overpayments
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers
• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage

If using dating apps or websites in Malaysia: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You can call 999 if you need emergency response from the police or an ambulance. You can report a crime by going to the nearest police station.

We encourage victims of crime to obtain a police report from local authorities.

For advice on how to file a police report, dial +60-3-2115-9999 or dial +60-3-2266-2222 for the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) Operations Center in Kuala Lumpur.

In some tourist areas, there are small "Tourist Police” stations. Staff at these stations are trained to help international visitors.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy at +60-3-2168-5000 and local law enforcement for assistance.  

• Dial 15999 to reach Talian Kasih, Malayia’s 24-hour sexual assault and domestic violence hotline. 

Talian Kasih works with the police and Social Welfare Department to provide quick, coordinated help, including support for victims to get Emergency Protection Orders.

• Public hospitals have “One Stop Crisis Centers.” They offer medical care, forensic testing, help filing a police report, counseling, and temporary shelter.
• Most private hospitals do not offer mental health or counseling services.
• If a victim of crime wants to take legal action against the perpetrator, they must visit a public hospital for forensic evidence collection.  
• There are victim’s assistance resources, including women’s shelters, in Kuala Lumpur and other urban areas. Resources may be limited in rural areas.  

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• Drug laws are very strict. Penalties for using, having, or selling illegal drugs include the death penalty, long jail sentences, or heavy fines.
• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings. This includes military facilities, government buildings, and Ministry of Health facilities, like public hospitals and clinics.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in immediate detention or other penalties.
• Some white-collar crimes like bribery and embezzlement are punishable by caning (being hit with a stick as a form of physical punishment).
• If you buy or collect local plants or animals without permission, you could face heavy fines, expulsion, or jail time.
• It is illegal to proselytize another faith to Malaysian Muslims.
• Special religious authorities, local police, and immigration sometimes raid popular nightspots and hotels. They aim to stop activities that go against Muslim religious custom, like prostitution and adultery.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Malaysia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.  

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur immediately.  

Detention conditions

• Prisons in Malaysia are overpopulated. Prisoners usually share cells, which can become crowded.
• Normally prisoners stay with the general population of the prison block. However, when you return from court or from the hospital, you will be placed in quarantine block for up to 14 days. During this period, you will have limited access to prison facilities, and you will not be allowed visitors, except from the U.S. embassy.
• When the quarantine period ends, you will return to your usual block.
• You will receive 3 meals a day. If you have money in your prison account, you can purchase extra food.
• If you are sick, the prison medical officer will determine if you should receive further treatment or be prescribed medication.
• In some cases, the prison will send you to a government hospital for further treatment.
• In prison, you can purchase a telephone card and register up to 5 contact telephone numbers on your prison record. You can then request to contact any of the 5 registered telephone numbers. We advise putting the U.S. embassy as 1 of the registered telephone numbers.
• Our Guide for U.S. Citizens arrested in Malaysia provides more information.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods, such as luxury fashion items and consumer electronics, are common in many destinations and through online retailers.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your trip using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• Homosexual acts are illegal under Malaysian law.
• Punishments can include up to 20 years in prison or caning.
• ·Police sometimes raid nightclubs and events that are popular with lesbian and gay travelers.
• Same-sex marriages and civil unions performed in other countries are not legally recognized in Malaysia.
• Some Malaysian states have Islamic Sharia laws that apply to male and female Muslims. These laws make same-sex activity illegal with punishments up to 3 years in prison and caning.
• People who identify as gay or lesbian might face discrimination or violence, especially in more conservative rural areas. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Malaysia requires accessibility for people with disabilities in public buildings, transportation, and communications. 

• Accessibility features like ramps, accessible parking, accessible toilets, and audio and visual alerts for safety systems are common in government facilities.
• Accessibility features are more limited in older buildings, public transportation, and rural areas.
• Kuala Lumpur’s trains and buses have priority seating for people with disabilities.
• Not all train stations have elevators. 
• Public transportation has inconsistent use of Braille, but some of the modern rail systems have Braille signage.
• Malaysian law prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. However, the law is not always enforced.
• Social acceptance of persons with disabilities is similar to the United States.
• Malaysia has an active NGO community focused on disability welfare and protection. They can provide information and help with employment services, assistive devices and equipment, chore services, companion-based services, day services, and support networks for parents.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

Review our information on:

• Women Travelers
• Marriage
• Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C)
• Victims of Crime

Human rights

There are significant human rights concerns, including reports of:

• Cruel or inhumane treatment
• Unfair arrests or detention
• Strict limits on free speech and media, such as censorship

While the government of Malaysia arrested and prosecuted some officials involved in human rights abuses, some non-governmental organizations claim that many offenders have not been held accountable.

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Malaysia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 999 for emergency services.  

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may not meet U.S. standards.
• Ambulances may not be equipped with the latest medical equipment.
• Wait times for an ambulance can be long. Travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the hospital if it is medically safe to do so.
• When you dial 999 for emergency assistance, the dispatcher will connect you to a government hospital of their choice.
• To get emergency care at a private hospital in Malaysia, call that hospital's emergency hotline directly. 

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Malaysia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Malaysia.
• Hospitals in Malaysia require payment up front before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available throughout Malaysia. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors will require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff in rural areas may speak limited or no English.
• Public hospitals often only have minimal staff available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family stay the night with the patient, especially if the patient is a minor child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities. Hospital-based psychological and/or psychiatric care is only available through government institutions and is not to U.S. standards.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism in Malaysia is increasingly popular.

• The medical system in Malaysia is different than in the United States. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• The quality of care can vary widely in elective or cosmetic surgery facilities. If you plan to have surgery in Malaysia, make sure that emergency medical care is available, and providers are accredited and qualified.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Malaysia.
• Persons traveling to Malaysia for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. For more information consult the Immigration Department of Malaysia.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.       

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Malaysia. You can search for the list of legal, registered medications on the Ministry of Health Portal.
• You may only bring a controlled substance into Malaysia with a written prescription, and you are limited to carrying a 30-day supply.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals can be easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Malaysia does not allow the importation of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products. All cannabis-related products, even those prescribed as medication in the United States, are strictly prohibited in Malaysia, which has very severe anti-drug laws.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is not legal in Malaysia, even though some agencies or clinics are known to say that it is.
• Surrogacy agreements with gestational mothers are not legal and will not be enforced by Malaysian courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Malaysia via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status.
• Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences. 
• If you are considering traveling to Malaysia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad. 

Water quality and food safety

• In many areas tap water is not safe to drink.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

• Some locations in Malaysia, such as Mount Kinabalu and Mount Tahan, are at high altitudes.
• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude locations.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Malaysia.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.
• In Malaysia, air quality fluctuates with the seasons. It is usually most severe in the dry season from August to October because of large agricultural fires. 

Road conditions and safety

Road safety is a very serious safety concern in Malaysia. In 2024, about 630,000 traffic accidents occurred in Malaysia, resulting in about 5,100 deaths. It is one of the most dangerous countries to drive in.

• Motorcyclists often do not follow traffic laws.
• Accidents are often due to excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, and motorcyclists weaving in and out of traffic. 
• Use turn signals well in advance to alert motorcycles when you are turning.
• It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.
• Be aware that motorcyclists commonly drive on sidewalks. 
• Drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
• Traffic jams are common in major cities. Multi-lane highways often narrow down into two-lane roads, causing congestion. Many streets are narrow and winding.
• Traffic is heavy during the morning and afternoon rush hours and slows down a lot when it rains. Monsoonal rains can quickly flood roads in low-lying areas.
• Malaysia’s traffic signage generally follows international standards, but clarity and consistency can vary. Not all signage is in English.
• GPS is recommended for navigation outside major highways.
• Basic safety regulations, including vehicle maintenance and anti-overloading measures, are enforced under the Road Transport Act 1987. However, overloading in the trucking industry is still common.
• Emergency services are accessible via 999, with varying response times.
• Major highways offer roadside assistance hotlines.
• Private providers offer nationwide towing and repair services.
• Carry a spare tire, jack, tools, and a first-aid kit, especially in rural areas. Ensure adequate fuel and consider a dash cam for safety and evidence.

Traffic laws

Traffic in Malaysia moves on the left. This is the opposite side of the road than the United States. Steering wheels are on the right side of the car, like in the United Kingdom or Australia.

• By law, you must wear your seat belt in both the front seat and back seat.
• Using a cell phone while driving is illegal unless it is hands-free.
• Turning left at a red light is not allowed unless there is a sign that says it is.

Driver’s license requirements:

• You can legally drive in Malaysia if you have both an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a valid U.S. driver’s license.
• You must get the IDP outside of Malaysia.
• If your IDP or U.S. license has expired, you must obtain a local driver’s license.
• Always carry your passport or Malaysian identification card when driving.
• Some visa holders may be eligible for a process called “conversion” to get a local license. For information, contact the Malaysian Ministry of Transportation.
• The Ministry of Transportation recommends engaging a local driving school to help with the paperwork.
• To obtain a local license, you also need a valid long-term visa or work permit.

Rental vehicle caution:

Many car rental agencies in Malaysia will rent vehicles for a short time to U.S. citizens with only a valid U.S. driver’s license. This is against local law. You could be fined or subject to other penalties.

If you plan to drive in Malaysia, get an IDP before leaving the United States. For information on how to obtain an IDP.

• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

If you are involved in a traffic accident:

• Call the police immediately. Depending on how serious the accident is, call either the emergency number 999 or the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Center in Kuala Lumpur, +60 3-2115-9999 or +60 3-2266-2222.
• Stay in your car and wait for the police to arrive before exchanging information with other people involved in the accident.
• Reports of road rage incidents are increasing, especially after midnight.
• Avoid confrontational behavior if you are in an accident. If you are threatened, stay in your car and lock the doors. If the situation is unsafe, leave the scene and file a report with the local police within 24 hours.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Many people prefer booking taxi or ride services through popular smartphone apps for convenience and clear pricing.
• Taxis are metered. However, many drivers refuse to use the meter and charge much higher rates. This is common during peak hours, when it is raining, or when the destination is in a busy area.
• By regulation, metered fares go up by 50 percent between midnight and 6:00 a.m. Meters automatically show the higher fee during these hours.
• If you are visiting Malaysia by cruise ship, use taxis or tour operators that have an official relationship with the cruise company.

Public and commercial transportation

• There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses in Malaysia, especially at night or in bad weather.
• If you plan to travel by bus, choose a reputable company, and avoid overnight routes.
• For more information, visit Malaysia’s Ministry of Transportation, the national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Malaysia’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Malaysia should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather conditions

Malaysia experiences high temperatures, humidity, and significant rainfall throughout the year. Major weather events include:

Monsoon flooding

Flooding is one of the most common and impactful natural disasters in Malaysia, particularly during its 2 monsoon seasons:

• East coast monsoon (northeast monsoon): Occurs from November to March. It brings heavy rainfall to the east coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang. Flash floods and river overflows are frequent during this period.
• Southwest monsoon: Occurs from May to September. Rainfall is less intense compared to the Northeast Monsoon. Urban areas like Kuala Lumpur may experience flash floods due to poor drainage systems.

Landslides

• Landslides are often triggered by heavy rainfall during the monsoon seasons, particularly in hilly or mountainous regions. This includes Cameron Highlands, Genting Highlands, and parts of Sabah and Sarawak. Urban areas with steep slopes are also vulnerable. 
• Landslides are most likely during the northeast monsoon from November to March.

Tropical storms and strong winds

• Malaysia occasionally experiences tropical storms and strong winds. This is common in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak). 
• These events are most likely from April to May and from October to November.

Haze and air pollution

• Haze is a recurring environmental issue caused by smoke from forest fires in neighboring countries, particularly Indonesia. 
• Typically occurs during the dry season from August to September when the Southwest monsoon brings drier weather. 

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.