Travelling to Malaysia? Must-read travel guide for 2025

From bustling night markets in Penang to beautiful jungles  and beaches in Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia is full of surprises and wonders. But before you pack your bags, here’s a quick,  guide with everything you need to know  including how to go cashless with TNG eWallet, Malaysia’s most popular payment app. 

Check your visa and travel documents 

Malaysia offers visa-free entry to passport holders from many countries, typically for anywhere between 30 and 90 days depending on your nationality. . But always confirm the latest requirements through the official Malaysian Immigration website. Before flying in, you’ll also need to submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online. It’s free, quick, and required for all non-citizens.

Best time to visit Malaysia

Malaysia is warm and humid year-round, but weather varies by region: 

West coast (Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang): Best from December to April 

East coast (Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Redang): Best from March to October 

Highlands (Cameron, Genting): Cooler and misty all year 

Tip: Pack an umbrella or poncho, tropical downpours can strike without warning. 

Currency and money matters

The local currency is Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). While credit cards are widely accepted, mobile payments are even more popular especially in cities. 

Even small shops and hawker stalls accept e-wallets, so having TNG eWallet on your phone makes daily spending fast, easy and convenient.With TNG eWallet, you can: 

• Pay at restaurants, convenience stores, taxis, and attractions
• Scan and pay anywhere that accepts DuitNow QR (available nationwide)
• Top up easily using credit or debit cards and reload PINs found at all major convenience stores, pharmacies and petrol stations
• Enjoy exclusive rewards and cashback. You can do this by claiming vouchers in the GOrewards section of the app 

How to start: 
Just download TNG eWallet, sign up using your passport, and complete the account verification process to activate your account. No local bank account needed. You can do this from the comfort of your home, all you need to do is download and register for a WhatsApp account to receive the One Time Password (OTP). 

Note: TNG eWallet is currently only available for tourists from selected countries, with more to be added soon. Click here for the list of eligible countries. 

Getting around Malaysia

Malaysia is relatively well-connected, especially in and around Kuala Lumpur and getting from one place to another is simple: 

In cities: Use  the MRT, LRT, or public buses to get around easily. For added convenience, Grab isMalaysia’s go-to ride-hailing app. 

Between cities: Trains and long-distance buses are an affordable way to travel. Bonus: You can also purchase tickets for both directly through TNG eWallet. 

For flexibility: Want to expore off the beaten path or travel at your own pace?  Renting a car might be the ideal option.  

Whichever mode you choose, TNG eWallet makes your journey smoother. 

Where to go and what to see

Malaysia offers something for every kind of traveller. Here’s a starter list of must-visits: 

Kuala Lumpur: Marvel at Merdeka 118, the second tallest building in the world, and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, still the tallest twin towers globally. Explore The Exchange 106, home to a luxury mall and a scenic rooftop park. Don’t miss Jalan Alor for street food galore, or the majestic Batu Caves, a major Hindu pilgrimage site just outside the city.. 

Penang: Explore George Town’s famous street murals, visit Kek Lok Si Temple – one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples, and indulge in Penang’s world-renowned hawker food scene. 

Langkawi: Made up of 99 islands, Langkawi is a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches, island-hopping adventures, and duty-free shopping. Don’t miss a guided mangrove tour or take the SkyCab cable car for a breathtaking aerial view of the islands. If you're visiting in an odd-numbered year, check out LIMA — the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition — a world-class event featuring aircraft displays and naval demonstrations. 

Sabah and Sarawak: For those craving adventure, head to East Malaysia. In Sabah, trek through lush rainforests, dive in crystal-clear waters at Sipadan, or take on Mount Kinabalu — the tallest peak in Southeast Asia. In Sarawak, discover ancient cave systems in Mulu National Park, stroll through charming Kuching, or experience the vibrant Rainforest World Music Festival, an annual celebration of global and indigenous sounds. Both states offer a rich mix of nature, culture, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

Cameron Highlands: Need a break from the heat? Head up to Cameron Highlands, where cool mountain air and rolling tea hills await. With temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F), it’s a refreshing escape from Malaysia’s tropical warmth. Sip freshly brewed tea at the scenic BOH Plantation, go strawberry picking at local farms, and take a leisurely stroll through lush gardens and mossy forests. 

What to eat (and how to pay for it)

Malaysia is a food lover’s dream — bold, spicy, flavourful, and deeply satisfying. Here are just a few must-tries: 

Nasi lemak – Fragrant coconut rice served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts and a boiled egg. It’s Malaysia’s unofficial national dish, a must-try before you leave. 

Char kuey teow – Wok-fried flat noodles with prawns, Chinese sausage and bean sprouts.Loved for its smoky ‘wok hei’ (breath of the wok), this dish is especially popular in Penang, though you’ll find delicious versions all across Malaysia. 

Satay – Skewered grilled meat served with rich peanut sauce. Famous in several parts of Malaysia, but especially famous in Kajang for its satay stalls. 

Teh tarik – Creamy pulled milk tea hat’s sweet and frothy and often called Malaysia’s ‘unofficial national drink’. 

Durian – This king of fruits. Pungent, creamy and probably not everyone’s cup of tea, but absolutely worth trying at least once. 

From street stalls and night markets to cafés and mamak, most palcesplaces now accept cashless payments including TNG eWallet. You can eat your way through Malaysia without ever reaching for cash. 

Your Malaysian adventure starts here

Malaysia is vibrant, welcoming, and easy to explore. With TNG eWallet, you can pay securely and spend less time worrying about cash. From dining out to buying attraction tickets, it handles everything seamlessly. 

Download TNG eWallet, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure. Experience Malaysia worry-free.