HEALTH
Health Insurance is recommended; check that the activities you wish to engage in are covered by your policy (diving, caving, riding a motorbike and so forth). Choose the most suitable policy for your needs; some only pay out once your claim has been verified, while others will pay your bills immediately, or even fly you home. Some credit card companies offer travel insurance if you use your card to pay for your airfare.
SAFETY
Malaysia generally has a low crime rate, with petty theft being the main problem. You are unlikely to encounter violent crime. It is, however, always advisable to take reasonable precautions. Do not leave valuables unattended in hotel rooms; most hotels and banks offer safe deposit boxes for this purpose. Similarly, do not leave valuables unattended while on the beach. A padlock is a useful thing to bring with you as it can be used to secure your luggage while using public transport, and to secure hotel room doors and lockers. A money belt that can be worn under your clothing will ensure that your credit cards, traveler's cheques and cash remain hidden and safe. The emergency number for the police is 999.
VISA AND PASSPORT
All visitors to Malaysia need a valid passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Visas are not needed for most nationalities; either a 30 or 60 day visa will be issued on arrival. Israeli and Yugoslavian citizens are prohibited from entering Malaysia. Extensions are possible at all immigration offices, although the maximum stay is three months. When entering Sabah or Sarawak, one is given a 30 day entry permit. Returning to Malaysia requires no formalities, with the entry permit remaining valid and extendible.
CUSTOMS
Duty free allowances include: 1 litre of alcohol 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 225g of tobacco souvenirs and gifts valued at not more than MYR200.00 perfume valued at not more than MYR200.00.
CURRENCY
The Malaysian unit of currency is the Ringgit (or Malaysian dollar). MYR1.00 = 100 sen. Notes come in the following denominations: 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5, while coins range from 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 sen to MYR1.00.
TIME
Malaysia is eight hours ahead of GMT.
