[Malaysia Safety] A Popular Tourist Destination with Good Security! But Stay Alert!

Malaysia is one of the most stable countries in Southeast Asia in terms of security, making it ideal for tourism! With little risk of riots, coups, or terrorism, walking around the cities is generally safe. However, no matter how safe it is, it remains a foreign country. If you get caught in trouble, your hard-planned trip could be ruined. Here, we offer some tips for staying safe while enjoying your time in Malaysia.

1. Tips for Traveling by Car

Malaysia is a safe country with good security, but like any country, crime does occur. When visiting Malaysia for tourism or business, always remain alert and take measures to prevent crime.

When traveling by car, first of all, always lock your doors once you’re inside. Even if someone knocks on the window at a shopping center or hotel, do not carelessly open your window. If you encounter a robbery, sound your horn or get away immediately. Also, when leaving your vehicle, be sure not to leave any valuables inside. Keep your belongings out of sight by storing them in the trunk.

Most Malaysian gas stations operate on a self-service basis. When renting a car for tourism or business, do not leave your engine running or the driver’s door unlocked while refueling—it only invites crime. Even if it’s a hassle, always turn off the engine and lock your doors before refueling. Extra caution is needed when traveling with small children.

2. Beware of Grab-and-Go and Pickpocketing

One thing to watch out for when traveling abroad is bag snatching and pickpocketing. Although Malaysia is relatively safe and has many tourist spots, minor crimes targeting foreign tourists still occur frequently.

When sightseeing, avoid carrying a shoulder bag slung diagonally, do not put your wallet in the back pocket of your trousers, avoid flashing large amounts of cash in public, and refrain from wearing expensive accessories or branded items. In some country, it is common in restaurants or cafés to place your bag near your feet or on a chair, but that is absolutely forbidden overseas! Always keep your belongings in sight, such as on the table.

Expensive electronic devices like cell phones, cameras, and laptops are also common targets. When checking in at airports or hotels, if you leave them near your feet, they might be stolen. Be sure to keep your personal items secure.

3. Do Not Neglect to Be Vigilant Against Terrorism

In June 2015, a hand grenade explosion occurred at a restaurant in a shopping mall in the Puchong area of Kuala Lumpur, injuring three people. The Malaysian National Police arrested dozens of individuals, marking the first terrorist incident in Malaysia. However, the situation regarding terrorism in Malaysia remains unpredictable.

To avoid getting caught in an unexpected incident, exercise caution when visiting places that are likely targets for terrorism (shopping malls, department stores, markets, public transportation, tourist resorts, religious venues such as those for Friday prayers, and facilities associated with Western countries). Before visiting these locations, plan your escape route in advance, and if you sense anything suspicious, leave the area immediately.

4. Avoid Eastern Sabah

The eastern part of Sabah in East Malaysia (on Borneo) is currently subject to danger warnings from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (as of August 2017). In the eastern coast of Sabah and its surrounding waters, there are frequent incidents of piracy and kidnappings of foreigners for ransom, with various armed groups active in the area. A Level 3 travel advisory (travel suspension recommendation) has been issued for these regions, so regardless of your purpose, please cancel any travel plans there.

5. Beware of Taxi Overcharging!

Taxis in Malaysia are inexpensive and serve as an indispensable mode of transportation for both tourism and business. However, caution is needed when taking taxis, as overcharging is common.

While most Malaysian taxis operate with a meter, always check that the meter is running once you get in. Some drivers, upon realizing you are a foreign tourist, may deliberately take a longer route or use a meter that increases rapidly, so be vigilant. If you are charged an unfair amount, respond firmly. Note the taxi’s license plate and company details, and contact the taxi company if necessary. Also, there have been cases where passengers were taken to a different location without realizing it, so especially at night when traveling alone in a taxi, be extra careful.

6. Be Wary of Scams

Be cautious if someone approaches you in Malaysian markets. There are cases where you might be lured into a "rigged card gambling" scheme. Some may approach you and, under the guise of taking you to a "home base," get you involved in gambling with cards such as playing cards, resulting in significant losses. There have also been cases where a man in uniform on the street says, "I'm the police; may I check your bag?" and then steals your valuables using various methods. Also, note that if someone in a market approaches you and tries to sell counterfeit brand items, that is illegal, so be careful.

There have also been cases at airports where someone asks, "Would you mind holding my suitcase?" and then secretly has you carry drugs. Possession of drugs in Malaysia can result in severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. Don’t let a moment of carelessness lead to irreparable consequences.

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[Malaysia Safety] A Popular Tourist Destination with Good Security! But Stay Alert!