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As your life as an ex-pat begins, staying connected with family and friends around the world is a crucial factor. Knowing that you can call up a friend or family member at any time, makes ex-pat life more comfortable and you won’t feel like you’ve moved to another galaxy.

Malaysia’s country code is +60

Mobile phone

  •  DiGi offers the fastest download speed in Malaysia and is a popular choice.
  •  Celcom has the best 4G/LTE coverage.

Check their websites for the latest plans and offers.

Home Internet

Internet is another essential component for a smooth transition to ex-pat life. If you work online, you must be connected and have excellent upload and download speeds. There are numerous internet cafes in Kuala Lumpur and you won’t have any issues finding free WiFi around the city. Check out coffee outlets like Starbucks or Coffee Bean.

Free WiFi is also available at airports.

If you have moved into a flat and need WIFI at home, there are a few companies that will get you connected. You will need your passport and Residence Permit to get a contract. Contracts are usually for 24 months and include a TV.

The top three providers are:-

  • Time Fibre Home Internet is one of the most popular providers with fast secure fiber optic internet connections.
  • TM Unifi is another popular internet provider.
  • Maxis offers super fast fiber internet.

Check their websites for current plans on offer.

Radio

In the age of Spotify and Apple Music, the radio may not be your bag but if you would like to listen to some local sounds then Hot FM might be for you. It is the most popular radio station in Malaysia.

Fly FM is another hugely popular station with all the latest music and news.

Of course, with today’s technology, you will have no trouble tuning in to your favorite radio station from home.

Newspapers

  • The Star is a daily newspaper with all the latest news in English. It is one of the most popular publications.
  • Malaysia News is a daily newspaper with the latest stories in English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil.
  • The Malaysian Reserve is a daily business newspaper in English.
  • The Sun Daily is a daily newspaper with all the news in English.

Of course, you can always stay connected with your home publications as well.

Magazines

  • Time-Out Kuala Lumpur is available online and you can also pick up an English version around town. It is the must-have weekly guide for keeping up with concerts, cinemas, restaurants, bars, and all events in Kuala Lumpur.
  • KL-The Guide has a wealth of information about everything to do and see in Kuala Lumpur.

Television

You won’t be deprived of any of your favorite programs as Netflix, HBO, and Hulu are all accessible through your internet provider.

Top Tips

01 Do not drink tap water. It may be safe in some regions, but best to stay on the safe side and only drink bottled water or fill your reusable at your hotel.
02 Respect the dress code. For women, bring along a scarf. If you intend on visiting any of the beautiful mosques, you will need to cover your hair. Entry to the mosque will not be allowed if you are not dressed respectably. Shorts and short skirts won’t be allowed.
03 Respect the culture. Even though Malaysia is a liberal country in regards to dress, it is still advisable to dress more modestly. Super short shorts and revealing tops will get you some unwanted attention.
04 Download the Grab application for booking your ride. Grab is an alternative to taxis and the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber.
05 Driving is on the left-hand side of the road as in the United Kingdom, so it’s is necessary to keep your wits about you for those first days driving in Malaysia.
06 Malaysia has some of the most harshest drug laws. Don’t get caught with drugs.
07 Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia. Therefore, it is necessary to keep a low profile and refrain from public displays of affection.

Useful links

https://www.wonderfulmalaysia.com

A general information site for Malaysia. It includes tips and recommendations as well as articles on Malaysian life.

http://www.visitkl.gov.my

Exciting, surprising, enticing. The official website for everything to do and see in Kuala Lumpur.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/176705455831148/

A Facebook group for ex-pats living in Kuala Lumpur. A practical resource for newbies relocating to KL. https://www.malaymail.com/

One of the Malaysian newspapers in English, but there are many.

https://esd.imi.gov.my/portal/expatriates/myxpats/key-services/employment-pass/

The government site for the different visas for ex-pats in Malaysia.

https://www.redbus.my/

A practical website to book bus travel in Malaysia.

Interesting Facts

1. Well-known shoe designer Jimmy Choo was born on the Malaysian island of Penang.

2. The population is comprised of Malays, Chinese, and Indians.

3. The main religion is Islam, but Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Christianity are also practiced.

4.Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur are the tallest twin towers in the world and hold the Guinness Book World Record.

5.Malaysia is home to one of the stinkiest fruits in the world. The smell of the Durian is so bad that it is banned from many establishments.
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