Malaysia
Rainforests, Rooftops & Roti Canai
Where Diversity is the Destination
Few places offer such a seamless mix of heritage and modernity as Malaysia. From bustling Kuala Lumpur to serene island beaches, steamy street food stalls to cool highland tea plantations, every corner of Malaysia tells a different story, and each one is worth hearing. Chinese temples, Hindu shrines, and Muslim minarets sit side by side, reflecting the nation’s multicultural soul.
Nature lovers will find paradise in Borneo’s rainforests or Langkawi’s beaches. Foodies can feast their way through night markets serving spicy laksa, buttery roti, and charcoal-grilled satay. And with warm hospitality and English widely spoken, exploring Malaysia is as easy as it is exciting.
Visa Requirements
UK passport holders can enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 90 days. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival and you have a return or onward ticket. No forms, no fuss, just tropical vibes ahead!
Key Airports
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) – Malaysia’s primary international hub with great access to the whole country.
- Penang International Airport (PEN) – Perfect for exploring Penang’s food, art, and heritage.
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) – Gateway to Malaysian Borneo, diving adventures, and Mount Kinabalu.
Spoken Languages
Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) is the official language, but English is widely spoken—especially in cities, hotels, and tourist areas. Many Malaysians are also fluent in Mandarin, Tamil, or local dialects.
Here's a quick language crash course:
- Selamat datang – Welcome
- Terima kasih – Thank you
- Tolong – Please / Help
- Berapa harga ini? – How much is this?
- Sedap! – Delicious!
Malaysians are friendly and laid-back—if you smile, they’ll smile right back.
Holidays to Malaysia
During the Summer
Malaysia is tropical and warm year-round (26–32°C), but May to September is generally drier on the west coast (Penang, Langkawi) and wetter on the east coast (Perhentian Islands). Humidity is high, but so is the fun.
During the Winter
From November to March, the east coast experiences heavy monsoon rains. However, Kuala Lumpur, Penang and the west coast remain hot and mostly dry—perfect for city-hopping and cultural exploration.
Top Malaysian Hot Spots
Start with the skyline: Kuala Lumpur’s iconic Petronas Towers are a must-see. Then dive into nature, whether it’s exploring the lush Cameron Highlands, spotting orangutans in Borneo, or snorkelling off Tioman Island. And of course, eat your heart out in Penang, Malaysia’s undisputed food capital. This is a land where adventure and flavour go hand in hand.
Kuala Lumpur – Urban Jungle Meets Cultural Heart
Modern, multicultural, and endlessly fascinating. Marvel at the Petronas Towers, shop till you drop in Bukit Bintang, and savour every bite in Jalan Alor’s famous food street.
Penang – Art, Architecture & Amazing Eats
George Town is a UNESCO-listed gem, known for its street art, colonial charm and world-class cuisine. Don't leave without trying char kway teow or nasi kandar.
Langkawi – Island Life, Elevated
Known as the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is perfect for beach lovers and nature seekers. Think waterfalls, cable cars, and duty-free shopping, all wrapped in emerald green beauty.
Borneo (Sabah & Sarawak) – Into the Wild
For serious nature lovers. Trek through ancient rainforests, meet indigenous communities, and spot orangutans and pygmy elephants in the wild.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Holiday
- Eat at the Hawker Stalls - Some of Malaysia’s best food is served on plastic plates under open skies. Don’t be shy, if there’s a queue, it’s probably incredible. Look for nasi lemak, roti canai, satay, and mee goreng.
- Cover Up for Temples and Mosques - Malaysia is religiously diverse and culturally respectful. When visiting places of worship, cover your shoulders and knees—and remove your shoes when entering.
- Take Domestic Flights for Easy Exploration - With over 17,000 islands and two main regions (Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo), flying is often the most efficient way to get around. Local airlines are affordable and reliable.
- Join a Night Market Crawl - From Kuala Lumpur’s bustling Pasar Malam to Penang’s laid-back vibe, night markets are where food, fashion and local life collide. Go hungry. Leave happy.
Why You Should Go (And Go with Marhaban Travel)
Malaysia is more than a destination—it’s an experience of contrasts and connections. One country, many cultures. One trip, countless moments of “wow.” Perfect for couples, families, solo travellers and adventure-seekers alike, Malaysia caters to every kind of traveller with grace and generosity.
At Marhaban Travel, we help you explore Malaysia your way - whether that means luxury beach escapes, jungle adventures, foodie tours or cultural deep-dives. We take care of the details, so you can dive into discovery with complete confidence.
Tropical, Tantalising, Totally You.
