WHEN TO GO

With its tropical climate, Kuala Lumpur is hot and humid all year round and can be visited at any time. The average temperature remains between 22°C and 33°C throughout the year, with a monsoon season occurring in the winter months.

LOCAL CUSTOMS

Whilst traveling in Malaysia, whenever you meet with an older person or a woman, you should greet them with a slight bow. Malays are fairly reserved and do not appreciate displays of affection in public places.

ATTIRE

In spite of the onset of globalization and the growing influence of western modes and style, traditional Malays prefer to participate in social and cultural occasions in their native costume. Remember to dress with due respect to the county’s Islamic culture.

LANGUAGE

Malay, English is widely spoken.

CURRENCY

MYR

EXCHANGE RATE

$1 = MYR 3.10 £1 = MYR 5.00 €1 = MYR 4.13

COUNTRY DIALLING CODE

+60

24 HOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT

Ambulance: 999 Fire and rescue: 994 Police: 999

EMBASSY CONTACTS

US: +60 3 2302 3988 UK: +60 3 2170 2200

TIME ZONE

GMT +8

POPULATION

1.6 million

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Mawlid al-Nabi, Wesak Day, Merdeka Day, Hari Raya Puasa, Hari Raya Qurban, Awal Muharram and Christmas are the main holidays in Kuala Lumpur.

BUSINESS OPENING HOURS

Weekdays are the best times to go shopping in Kuala Lumpur, as most establishments open from 9am to 8pm at night. It is a different scenario at the weekend however as typical business hours on Saturdays are from 9am to 5pm. Shops and businesses are closed on public holidays.