Is Malaysia safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Malaysia is a safe and easy country to travel in, and most visitors have no problems. The realistic risks are bag snatching in cities, traffic, heat and dengue fever. Governments advise extra caution in parts of eastern Sabah, which most visitors do not need to go to.
The real risks
Bag snatching
Thieves on motorbikes sometimes snatch bags in Kuala Lumpur and George Town. Carry bags on the side away from the road and keep phones secure.
Traffic
Motorbikes and cars move fast and do not always stop at crossings. Cross carefully and use pedestrian bridges.
Eastern Sabah
The UK and US advise caution or against travel to some islands and coastal areas of eastern Sabah because of kidnapping risk. Check the current advice before planning trips there.
Strict laws
Drug offences carry very severe penalties. Dress and behave respectfully at mosques and temples.
Jungle and sea
On treks, use guides and carry water. On the east-coast islands, swim only at safe beaches, especially near the monsoon season.
Areas and times to take care
Kuala Lumpur's Bukit Bintang, KLCC, Chinatown and Brickfields, George Town's heritage zone and Melaka are busy and safe for visitors in the evening. Take more care with belongings around busy night markets and transport hubs. In Sabah, follow official advice for the east coast.
Getting around safely
Grab is cheap, safe and works in all major cities, and it is the easiest option at night. KL's trains are clean and safe, with women-only carriages on some lines. Long-distance buses are comfortable; choose reputable companies. If you drive, note that Malaysia drives on the left.
Solo and women travellers
Malaysia is generally comfortable for solo women. Dress modestly, especially outside big cities and in conservative states such as Kelantan and Terengganu, and cover shoulders and knees at religious sites. Use Grab at night and the women-only carriages if you prefer.
Health, water and heat
Most visitors drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water. Dengue fever occurs throughout the country, so use insect repellent day and night. Heat and humidity are high all year (highs of 30–32°C), so drink plenty of water. Medical care in KL and Penang is good; Borneo's remote areas have limited facilities.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Malaysia safe for tourists?
Yes. The main risks are bag snatching in cities, traffic and dengue fever. Check official advice for eastern Sabah.
Can I drink the tap water in Malaysia?
Most visitors drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water.
What is the emergency number in Malaysia?
999, or 112 from mobile phones.