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Safety in Malaysia

Like anywhere in the world, use common sense when it comes to safety.

Bag snatching is common in Kuala Lumpur, mostly in places like Bukit Bintang and KLCC. It is best to walk with your bag toward the side, not the road. Beware that there has been an increase of thieves on motorcycles. Don't keep valuables in your purse. Get a copy of your passport and keep it in your purse rather than the actual passport. If you are faced with a robber, don't hold on to your bag. In rare cases, people have been injured or killed by desperate thieves.

ATM fraud is common, so always keep your recipes and check your balance often.

Kidnapping has been on the rise in the past years for foreigners, mostly in East Malaysia on the coast of Sabah and in expat areas of Kuala Lumpur. Be mindful, let someone know where you are going and take a self-defense class.

Natural Precautions

Malaria

There is a risk of Malaria in Sabah and Sarawak and central Penisular Malaysia all year round, including Temara Negara National Park. There is low to no risk urban/suburban areas, including Kuala Lumpur, and coastal areas.

Dengue Fever

A viral illness that is transmitted to humans by mosquito bites and is common in urban areas. There is no vaccine, so avoid mosquito bites as best you can. Symptoms include fever, headache, severe joint, bone and muscular pain.

Haze

Malaysia experiences air pollution from forest fires in Indonesia, known as haze. This happens from June to August, when the hot and dry weather conditions causes dust to remain in the air and build.