Malaysia Travel Advice

• Foreigners have been kidnapped from the Malaysian island of Sipadan in 2000, and more foreigners were taken hostage in Sabah in 2003. If you are planning to go to Malaysia, ensure al your travel arrangements are legit and make sure you take necessary precautions whilst in Malaysia.

• If you plan to travel near the Thai border you are warned that this region has been unstable since early 2004 and regular fighting and terrorist acts occur in this region. Many foreign governments recommend all but necessary travel to this region be cancelled or re-scheduled when local authorities can crack down on the violence and instability throughout the region.

• Bag snatching throughout Malaysia is quite common; especially places frequented by foreigners such as markets and tourist locations. It is advised only necessary amounts of money is taken with you on outings and leave all un-used cash and any valuables, e.g. passports, jewellery, in a secure place in your hotel room.

• Reports by Thai officials as of late indicate that there have been bag snatchings and stealing whilst onboard domestic flights. It is advised that you keep an eye on your luggage whilst in the departing lounge but also in whilst on the plane.

• Do not open your hotel door to strangers, even those wearing hotel uniforms. There have been incidents in the past of mugging on the spot in victim’s hotel rooms by those donning hotel uniform, presumably stolen from the hotel.

• For certain kinds of public gatherings in Malaysia, police permission is required. During October 2007 and still continuing, there have been demonstrations which did not have the required police permission. It is not uncommon for police to use tear gas and water cannons to control demonstrations, large crowds and riots. You should exercise precaution and avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people which might place you, or your family at risk

• There have been a number of fatal bus crashes in Malaysia by sham companies, particularly on overnight journeys. It is advised you choose a reputable operator for your journey, who is insured.