Malaysia FAQs

What is the best time to visit Malaysia?

Malaysia is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on where you're travelling.

The west coast, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi, is generally best between December and April, while the east coast islands tend to have their best weather between March and October.

Thanks to its tropical climate, you'll find warm temperatures throughout the year, making Malaysia an excellent option for beach holidays, city breaks and cultural adventures.

How long should I spend in Malaysia?

Most New Zealand travellers spend 7 to 14 days in Malaysia.

A week is enough to combine Kuala Lumpur with a beach destination like Langkawi or Penang, while two weeks allows you to explore multiple regions, experience the food scene, visit cultural sites and enjoy some downtime on the coast.

Where should I go on holiday in Malaysia?

Malaysia offers a fantastic blend of cities, culture, beaches, rainforests and islands.

Kuala Lumpur is popular for shopping, food, culture and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Penang for its incredible street food and heritage streets, Langkawi for beaches, resorts and island-hopping, Malacca (Melaka) for history and colonial architecture, Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) for wildlife, rainforests and adventure and Perhentian Islands for snorkelling and crystal-clear waters.

Many first-time visitors combine Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Langkawi for a well-rounded Malaysian holiday.

Is Malaysia a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?

Absolutely. Malaysia is a popular choice for Kiwi travellers thanks to its affordability, diverse culture, excellent food, family-friendly attractions and beautiful landscapes.

Whether you're looking for a city break, a beach escape, a foodie adventure or a multi-country Southeast Asia itinerary, Malaysia offers excellent value and plenty to see.

Do I need a visa for Malaysia from New Zealand?

New Zealand passport holders can generally visit Malaysia for short-term tourism without applying for a visa in advance.

Entry requirements can change, so it's always worth checking the latest travel advice and entry requirements before you depart.

How do I find the best Malaysia holiday package?

The best Malaysia holiday packages often combine flights, accommodation and transfers, with the option to add tours and island stays.

Booking early is recommended during school holidays and peak travel periods. Many travellers also combine Malaysia with Singapore, Thailand or Vietnam as part of a multi-city Asian holiday.

Is Malaysia expensive to visit?

Malaysia is often considered one of the best-value destinations in Southeast Asia.

Accommodation, transport and dining are generally very affordable, while luxury hotels and beachfront resorts can offer remarkable value compared to many other international destinations.

How much does a Malaysia holiday cost from NZ?

Malaysia offers excellent value for money.

Many New Zealand travellers find that accommodation, food, transport and sightseeing costs are lower than in many other popular holiday destinations. Whether you're seeking luxury resorts or budget-friendly travel, Malaysia caters to a wide range of budgets.

Where should I stay in Malaysia?

The best place to stay depends on the type of holiday you're planning. Kuala Lumpur is perfect for shopping, dining and sightseeing, Penang is ideal for culture, heritage and food lovers, Langkawi is popular for beaches, families, and resort stays, and Borneo is great for wildlife encounters and nature experiences.

Malaysia has accommodation options to suit every budget, from boutique hotels and apartments to luxury beachfront resorts.

What should I pack for Malaysia?

Malaysia's tropical climate means lightweight clothing is essential.

We recommend packing:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Swimwear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• A reusable water bottle
• A small umbrella or rain jacket
• Modest clothing for visiting mosques and religious sites

Humidity can be high, so light fabrics are your best friend.

Do I need travel insurance for Malaysia?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for Malaysia.

A comprehensive policy can help cover medical expenses, travel delays, lost luggage, cancellations and activities, giving you greater peace of mind while travelling.

What currency is used in Malaysia?

Malaysia uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while ATMs are easy to find throughout the country.

Can I use New Zealand dollars in Malaysia?

No, New Zealand dollars are not accepted for everyday purchases.

You'll need to exchange NZD into Malaysian Ringgit or withdraw local currency when you arrive.

Is Malaysia safe for travellers?

Malaysia is generally considered a safe and welcoming destination for tourists.

As with any destination, it's sensible to keep an eye on your belongings, use reputable transport providers and stay aware of your surroundings in busy tourist areas.

Can you drink tap water in Malaysia?

It's generally recommended that visitors drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water.

Most hotels, restaurants and tourist facilities provide easy access to safe drinking water.

How do I get around Malaysia?

Getting around Malaysia is easy thanks to its modern transport network.

Choose to journey by train, domestic flights, buses, taxis, ride-share services or private transfers.

For most visitors, trains and ride-share services like Grab, provide a convenient and affordable way to travel around major cities.

Do I need to hire a car in Malaysia?

Most travellers don't need a rental car in Kuala Lumpur, Penang or other major cities.

Public transport and Grab are widely available and affordable. However, hiring a car can be useful in destinations like Langkawi if you'd like the freedom to explore at your own pace.

What are the best things to do in Malaysia?

Malaysia offers an incredible variety of experiences.

Some visitor favourites include:

• Visiting the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur
• Exploring George Town's street art and food scene in Penang
• Relaxing on Langkawi's beaches
• Riding the Langkawi SkyCab
• Visiting the Batu Caves
• Spotting orangutans and wildlife in Borneo
• Exploring Malaysia's bustling night markets
• Enjoying island-hopping and snorkelling adventures

Is Malaysia family-friendly?

Yes, Malaysia is a fantastic destination for families.

Families love the mix of beaches, theme parks, wildlife experiences, shopping and cultural attractions. Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang are particularly popular with families travelling from New Zealand.

What should I know about cultural etiquette in Malaysia?

Malaysia is a multicultural country with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous influences.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, remove your shoes before entering mosques and some homes, be respectful during cultural and religious celebrations and always ask permission before photographing people in rural communities.

Locals are friendly and welcoming and showing respect for local customs is always appreciated.

Do I need cash or can I use cards in Malaysia?

Both are useful.

Cards are widely accepted in shopping centres, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions, while cash is handy for local markets, food stalls and smaller businesses.

Is Malaysia a good stopover destination?

Yes. Malaysia is an excellent stopover option for travellers heading between New Zealand, Europe and Asia.

Kuala Lumpur's modern airport, affordable accommodation, world-class dining and easy access to attractions make it ideal for a short stopover. Even two or three nights gives you enough time to experience the city's highlights and break up a longhaul journey.

What apps should I download before travelling to Malaysia?

These apps can make travelling around Malaysia much easier:

• Google Maps
• Grab
• Google Translate
• WhatsApp
• Klook
• XE Currency Converter

Downloading offline maps before you arrive can also be helpful, especially if you're planning to explore outside major cities.