Malaysia Travel Requirements + Reasons Why You Should Travel to Malaysia

May 3-8, 2023

Traveled to Malaysia for a FAM tour with Philippine Airlines. I've been to this country several time before the pandemic, but always for events. After this trip, I wish I can go back for a solo or personal travel to get to know our neighbor country more. There are still new things to explore, and I just love the whole vibe of Malaysia. I always go home happy!

Our group during the Malaysia-Philippine Airlines FAM Tour! We were with Travel Agencies.

Just like in my past posts, sharing some of my travel notes for this trip:

1) No more requirements to travel to Malaysia, just the usual plane tickets, passport, etc. (Vaccinated or Non-vaccinated passengers are welcome, negative PCR not mandated)

A nice counter at the NAIA Terminal 2

Check in was a breeze, and our flight was on time

KUL-PEN FAM TRIP! 

2) Malaysia has same timezone as Philippines, so no need to adjust your watch and body clock.

3) However, they use a different electrical outlet - three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Don't forget to bring your adaptor!

4) We traveled via Philippine Airlines from NAIA Terminal 2 to KLIA Terminal 1. Travel time was about 4 hours, so I slept a lot. Since it's a full board flight, we also get 30-kilo luggage allowance, and inflight meals. 

Since we were with PAL, stayed at the Mabuhay Lounge while waiting for our boarding

Ate nadin even though they will still serve food at the plane

Time went by while eating (and catching up with Kenneth)

Lounge Perks: Shower Room

Sun was already up when we took off

5) Malaysia is also very hot at this time of the year, so pack your cool and comfortable clothes, scarf, hats, umbrella, and sunscreen. Plan a lot of indoor activities too--like cafes and museums.

6) I bought my local data sim at the airport after the luggage carousel. So many options, but we chose the 7-day 7GB local sim at RM25. Internet connection was good from my experience, worth the price. 

I had no time to book via Klook, so I just looked for a sim card booth at the airport. There are a LOT of options, and they are conveniently located in one area

Make sure to canvass first before paying. I got the 25 Ringgit 7GB 1 week data sim

7) It has been a while since I encountered a problem with using my BDO Debit Visa card in another country. I tried using my card in different stores and cities in Malaysia, but it was always declined. I was able to withdraw Malaysian Ringgit at an airport ATM machine though, and the charge was only Php 190+. So next time, will make sure to withdraw enough money for the trip to avoid paying for the charge every time. 

8) No experience commuting since we we're part of a tour bus, so no need to buy reloadable train card for me. But I heard that local train system in KL is very good, and they also have Grab Car and Taxi too.

Sharing some plane photos:

Full flight!

My seatmate, Ate Gem

As expected, they served food mid flight. Availed the meal with hashbrown and eggs

Nice weather to welcome us when we landed

So happy to set-foot in Malaysia once again!

Ending this blog post with "Why travel to Malaysia (versus its other neighboring Southeast Asian countries)?" 

Since Malaysia is still a less-brought up travel destination within my circle, let me share my reasons why you will love it here:

Malaysia has something for everyone. Nature trip or city life, high fashion to  beaches or rainforests, authentic cuisines, amusement parks or adventure activities, luxurious to budget travel--Malaysia has them all!

Diversity. Malaysia is also very multicultural, being home to diverse cultural ethnicities including Malay, Chinese, and Indians. Malaysia Truly Asia, indeed! Imagine celebrating so many cultural festivals in one country, from Hari Raya at the end of Ramadan, Chinese New Year, to Diwali. Diversity also extends to their food, the language they speak, and religion. This openness to differences is outstanding, making it a colorful destination of choice.  

Rich in History. Malaysia is also very rich in heritage, and you’ll witness how they preserve their history and art very well. Going on a walking tour is a treat. They are also a melting pot of architecture, from KL’s Petronas Twin Towers and Saloma Bridge, to Penang’s George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Developed country, but an affordable destination. Kuala Lumpur is a world-class city, mapapa sanaol ka talaga. The moment I stepped foot in KLIA, I experienced how advance they are with their train system inside the airport, to their efficient yet cheap public transportation system. My friend Kenneth who has been to Malaysia several times said that Grab is also very affordable here, as well as their accommodations. A nice room worth Php 10k in Manila, is only about Php 5k in KL.  

Nature Destination. Tired of the busy city life? Malaysia also offers a lot of rainforests, national parks, and beach destinations. Want to go on a hike? They also have Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest mountains in South East Asia.  

Foodie Destination. And, of course! Get ready for a gastronomic adventure with Malaysia’s multi-ethnic culinary diversity. Each region has something different to offer. When in KL, visit Jalan Alor in Bukit Bintang for authentic street food. For the ultimate foodie destination, make sure to add Ipoh and Penang in your itinerary. 

Our tour bus while in KL

Our very nice and funny KL tour guide Sir Lai, who knows a lot about Filipino culture and Filipino language

Excited face, anticipating for this trip's adventures!

Selamat datang! (Welcome!) I hope this entry sparked your interest in traveling to Malaysia. Up next, I will post about our itinerary or Things To Do in Malaysia. Hope you will also watch out for that. ♥

To be continued!

Book your flight from Manila to Kuala Lumpur via Philippine Airlines.