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MALAYSIA

Country map and key facts

Key facts

Official Name: Malaysia

Head of State: Yang di-Pertuan, Agung

Type of government: Constitutional Monarch/Parliamentary Democracy

Head of Government: Prime Minister

Capital City: Kuala Lumpur

Official language: Bahasa Malaysia

Population: 62 million

Religion: Official religion is Islam. Other religions include Hindu, Buddhist,

Confucian and Christian.

Currency: Ringgit Malaysia (RM)

Time Zone: GMT + 8 hrs., EST + 13hrs.

Weights and measures: Metric system

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Preparing for your move

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR MALAYSIA

The consular office of your host country’s embassy is the best place to start when

determining what types of documents, including visas, permits and registration

requirements, you’ll need to relocate.

Consulates can often provide information and advice on many other aspects of your

move as well.

Visas, passes and permits

Visas

Citizens of the U.K., the Commonwealth counties, and Ireland do not require visas;

citizens of the U.S., many European countries, Japan, and the Republic of Korea do

not need visas for visits of up to three months.

Passes

Visit passes are issued to all foreigners at the point of entry. The passes are valid

for 90 days for tourism or 30 days for business, excluding employment in Malaysia,

and can be extended. Visit passes issued in Peninsular Malaysia are not valid for

entry into Sabah and Sarawak, where separate visit passes must be obtained at the

point of entry. Passes issued in those two states, however, are good for travel

anywhere in the country.

Professional visit pass

A professional visit pass entitles the holder to enter the country for up to one year

for professional consulting work. It must be obtained before departure for Malaysia at

a Malaysia embassy or consulate.

Employment pass

An employment pass is issued for temporary employment of more than two years

with a minimum monthly salary.

Passports

All foreign visitors must have passports

valid for six months, beyond the duration

of NOT if

Malaysia does not admit holders of

Israeli passports

Malaysia may refuse entry to visitors

who do not comply with Malaysian

regarding appearance and clothing

It refuses admission to foreign women

in advanced stages of pregnancy-six

months or more

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Dependent’s pass

A dependent’s pass is issued to the family of a visitor granted an employment pass.

Residence permits

To reside in Malaysia for more than one year, you must obtain a National

Registration identity Card from the nearest Registration Office, and your company

must request a re-entry permit for you.

Passports and visas

One of the first things you’ll need to do in preparing for your move is to secure the

necessary travel documents and complete other paperwork that may be required for

prolonged stays abroad. At the top of the list is a passport for every member of the

family and, in most cases, visas. A passport is essentially an identity document issued

by governments to their citizens for travel outside the home country. A passport is an

official verification of the nationality of the holder and, with a few exceptions, is

required to enter another country. A visa is an authorization by the government of

another country permitting a foreigner to enter that country for a specified purpose

and period time. It is usually stamped in the passport of the visitor, although in some

instances may be on a separate paper. It may authorize only one visit to the country

or multiple entries. It is important to find out exactly what documents are going to be

necessary and to begin assembling them as soon as you know that you will be making

a move abroad. It is advisable to check with the consulate periodically to ensure your

information is up-to-date. Documentation regulations may change in short notice.

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Orientation to Malaysia

MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

Malaysia’s diversity of cultures has produced a colorful and vibrant society.

The three largest ethnic groups - Malay, Chinese, and Indian - follow distinctly

different cultures, religions, and philosophies. The ethnic and religious differences

have been and continue to be a source of some friction, although, for the most part,

social integration has been successful.

At the same time, Malaysia has transformed its economy from a low-income

producer of raw materials into a middle-income exporter of manufactured goods,

including high-tech products. Malaysia has developed its industrial and manufacturing

capability and encourages foreign investment. This development, combined with

abundant natural resources, has allowed the Malaysia economy to join others of the

so-called Asian Tigers. Malaysia has become a natural choice for thousands of

international companies relocating or establishing facilities in the Far East.

Malaysia has also developed its infrastructure; its telecommunications system and

extensive transport system, which continue to be upgraded, are modern and efficient.

Housing, sanitation, and health conditions continue to improve, making the country a

convenient and comfortable place in which to reside and to travel.

THE MALAYSIANS

More than 19.5 million people live in Malaysia, approximately 16 million on

the peninsula and over 3 million in the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of

Borneo. Malaysia has a young population, with approximately 48 percent of the

population under age 20. Its population is primarily urban, with 45 percent residing in

urban areas. Malaysia has always been a multi-ethnic country since the early years

when traders from East and West met. In addition to the indigenous tribes and the

resident Malays, the Chinese and Indians began to arrive in the 19th century: the

Chinese, to mine tin; the Indians, to work in the rubber plantations. Integration has

been somewhat successful, with bridges built through educational, social, sport, and

cultural groups. Although ethnic groups tend to remain together, friendships and

romances cross the communal barriers and social gatherings are fully mixed. There are

also intermarriages, especially between Chinese and Malay. Foreigners should remain neutral on this

issue. In extreme cases, work permits have been denied or rescinded for making indelicate remarks. At

Malaysia, whose official religion is

ISLAMIC, shows great tolerance for

other religions. Chinese practice

Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism.

Indigenous peoples retain and practice

their traditional religions. Many religious

and secular festivals are a fascinating

addition to Malaysian life. Malaysia

actively promotes itself as a tourist

destination. Its tranquil beaches, colorful

cities, and leisurely pace of life seem

ideal for exploration and relaxation.

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the very least, you will offend those who receive your comments and possibly cause them to lose

“face”.

Ethnic makeup Throughout history, Malaysia has been divided by class and culture into three main ethnic

groups: Malay, 59 percent of the population; Chinese, 32 percent; and Indian, 9 percent. These are

official figures, may be closer to 50 percent Malay and 40 percent Chinese. The discrepancy between

official and actual figures may be closer to 50 percent Malays’ strong negative feelings toward the

Chinese and attempts to minimize the impact that the Chinese have had on the country. Each of the

three main ethnic groups has its own characteristics and even its own place in society. The Chinese, for

example, are most likely to be found in commerce and industry. The Malays play a large role in the

politics of the country and have a tremendous sense of loyalty to their community and family. The

Indians, who are the minority groups, are generally in the professions of medicine and law. Ethnic

discord still exists in Malaysia, particularly between the Chinese and the Malays and toward immigrant

workers.

Languages

The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa, Malaysia, but English is widely

spoken in government and business circles and is taught as a second language. The

Chinese speak Mandarin as well as several other dialects, and most Indians speak

Tamil. Mandarin and Tamil are taught concurrently with Bahasa, Malay, and English

in school. The Malay script is Jawi, a derivative of Arabic, but is not commonly used.

Cultural traditions

Malaysians have a rich cultural heritage that derives from its many ethnic groups-

the Malay, Chinese, Indian, Peranakan (Straits Chinese), Eurasian, Kadazan, Iban,

Bidayu, Dayak, and indigenous Orang Asli.

Literature

Dating from 1535, the Sejarah Melayu, ”Malay Annals,” is the most important

literary work in the Malay language; the work chronicles life in the medieval city-

state of Malacca.

Decorative arts and handicrafts

The Chinese in Malaysia produce exquisite porcelain, costumes, and furniture.

Chinese pottery produced on Borneo is unique and particularly decorative.

Extraordinary handicrafts are produced though-out Malaysia. Kites, for example,

which are used for decoration and for competition, have intricate patterns. Shadow

puppets are made from buffalo hide, mounted on bamboo sticks, and placed behind a

sheet so that the audience only sees the shadow cast by the puppet. Despite the fact

that the audience cannot see the actual puppets, they are finely cut and painted, often

gilded, and are beautiful art works. Shadow puppet shows are recognized as one of

Malaysia’s most traditional forms of theatre. Leather puppets in the form of large

horses are used in the kuda kepang, which is a dance from the southern state of Johor.

Batik fabric painting is another handicraft that draws on traditional motifs. It has

gained in popularity in recent years and is used not only for clothing, but also for

modem paintings and souvenir pieces.

Games Games are important in Malaysian life. Traditional games are not only for amusement, but are

believed to enhance one’s mental and physical development. Patience, maintaining rapport, and

accepting defeat and disappointment are all learned from playing games by the rules. There are many

traditional games and competitions, such as bird-singing, top- spinning, drum-playing, and kite-flying.

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Festivals With its multi-ethnic population, festivals and celebrations are an important aspect of

Malaysian culture and are held throughout the year.

Religion The constitution guarantees freedom of worship. Islam is the official state religion, and

Muslim practices pervade much of Malay life and culture. Stricter observance of Muslim customs,

such as the head covering for women, is increasing, especially on the East Coast. Almost all ethnic

Malays are Muslims; other ethnic groups are Hindu, Buddhist, Taoist, Confucianist, and Christian.

Various religions in Malaysia follow definite dietary and social restrictions and customs; visitors to

Malaysia should become familiar with and respect these customs.

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE

Malaysia is located just north of the equator in Southeast Asia, straddling the

Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, adjacent to the Malacca Straits – one of the

most famous and important sea passages in the world. Malaysia is bordered by

Thailand in the north, Singapore to the south, Indonesia to the south across the sea,

and Brunei on the island of Borneo. Malaysia’s land area is approximately 328,500

sq. km, slightly larger than the U.S State of New Mexico. Malaysia is divided into

two sections by 600 km/400 miles of ocean. West Malaysia, also called peninsular

Malaysia, lies between the Malacca Straits on the west and the South China Sea on

the east. Across the South China Sea on the northern third of the island of Borneo,

East Malaysia contains the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Most of Malaysia’s land is

covered with dense jungle, swamps, and unspoiled tropical forests, with a mountain

range running down the length of the peninsula. The coastline extends nearly 5,000

km/3,000 miles with beautiful sandy beaches and low-lying alluvial plains, ideal for

growing rice. These coastal plains gradually rise to hills and mountains in the interior

of the peninsula . Although only one degree north of the equator, Malaysia is blessed

with a moderate climate. The days are sunny, hot, and humid all year, but the nights

are fairly cool. Although humidity is between 85 and 95 percent, temperatures rarely

climb above 90F/32C by day and 7F/23C at night. The highland areas have

cooler temperatures. There are two seasons: wet and dry. The rainy seasons are April

to May and October to November on the west coast and November to February on the

east coast. Rain showers generally occur in short bursts in the mid-afternoon and

scarcely disrupt life in the cities, although they can often hamper travel in the

countryside.

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CITIES

George Town

The commercial and communications hub of the northern peninsula is George

Town on the island of Penang. It was named King George III of England and grew to

be a major center for a lucrative trade of tea and spices. The city’s architecture is a

mix of modern buildings and traditional shops, but the essence of the town is Chinese.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is located about 80 km/50 miles inland from the peninsula’s

southwestern Malacca coast at the confluence of the Kelang and Gombak rivers,

which flow through the city center; “Kuala Lumpur” means a “muddy estuary.” The

city was founded relatively recently in 1857 by tin prospectors, and the city retains

something of a “boomtown” character. Kuala Lumpur, commonly called KL, remains

in the center of one of Malaysia’s thriving tin-mining regions. Kuala Lumpur is the

administrative capital of Malaysia and its major economic center. It is a bustling city

of more than one million people, with modern office towers next to traditional two-

story shophouses and colonial public buildings. It is also the cultural center of

Malaysia and offers extensive shopping facilities and pleasant residential areas.

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Calendar

Public holidays

Fixed holidays

Jan. 1 New Year’s Day *

May 1 Labor Day

Aug. 31 National Day

Dec. 25 Christmas

* Except in Johor, Keday, Kelantan, Perlis and Terengganu.

Movable holidays

1999 2000

Feb.16 Feb.5 Chinese New Year

Feb.17 Feb.6 2nd

Day of New Year *

Jan.19-20 Jan.8-9 Eid al –Fitr, Hari Raya

Puasa

Mar.28-29 Mar.17-18 Eid al-Asha, Hari raya Haji

Apr.18 Apr.6 Islamic New Year

May 30 May18 Wesak (Buddha Purnima)

1st Saturday in Jun. HM the King’s Birthday

Jun.26 Jun.15 Prophet’s Birthday

Nov.7 Oct.26 Deepavali (Diwali)**

* Except in Kelantan and Terengganu.

** Except in Sarawak and Federal Territory of Labuan

There are many other holidays and festivals that vary by state. Check with the Malaysia

consulate for specific dates. Holidays that fall on a Sunday are celebrated on Monday. Many cities and

states have their own holidays. The week –long flower festivals in mid-July will cause a change in

work schedules.

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Weather chart

Kuala Lumpur

Average daily maximum/minimum temperatures and precipitation

Max. Min. Precip.

F/C F/C in/mm

Jan. 90/32 72/22 6.2/158

Feb. 92/33 72/22 7.9/201

Mar. 92/33 73/23 10.2/259

Apr. 91/33 74/23 11.5/292

May 91/33 73/23 8.8/224

June 91/33 72/22 5.1/130

July 90/32 73/23 3.9/99

Aug. 90/32 73/23 6.4/163

Sep. 90/32 73/23 8.6/218

Oct. 89/32 73/23 9.8/249

Nov. 89/32 73/23 10.2/259

Dec. 89/32 72/22 7.5/191

Kuching, Sarawak

Average daily maximum/minimum temperatures and precipitation

Max. Min. Precip.

F/C F/C in/mm

Jan. 85/29 72/22 24/610

Feb. 86/30 72/22 20.1/510

Mar. 88/31 73/23 12.9328

Apr. 90/32 73/23 11/279

May 90/32 73/23 10.3/262

June 91/33 73/23 7.1/180

July 90/32 72/22 7.7/196

Aug. 91/33 72/22 9.2/234

Sep. 89/32 72/22 8.6/218

Oct. 89/32 73/23 10.5/267

Nov. 88/31 72/22 14.1/358

Dec. 87/31 72/22 18.2/462

Source: The Times Book World Weather Guide

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Finding a home

HOUSING

Housing is generally easy to find and rates are reasonable in metropolitan areas.

There are many high-rise apartment buildings built to Western standards with

spacious flats that include air-conditioning and accommodation for live-in help.

Apartments for rent are often in condominium complexes that usually offer a

swimming pool, 24-hour security, a gym, a squash court, and other facilities.

However, many expatriates prefer to live in villas / semidetached houses or

townhouses, or two-story detached houses. Malaysia takes great pride in its gardens,

and houses generally have a fenced or walled garden of some sort. Some rental

apartments and houses are fully equipped, but you will probably have to supply a

stove and refrigerator and your own blinds, awnings, and shutters. Although it is

becoming more common to find housing with air-conditioning, it is not standard.

Often physicians, teachers, and specialised professionals may spend time in small

villages in remote / distant areas. A good standard of housing is more difficult to find

and more expensive in such areas. In these situations, expatriates often combine with

other team members or colleagues to share accommodation.

UTILITIES

Tenants apply for their own utility services. A utilities deposit is required for

electricity, phone and water services; the amount depends on the size of the

accommodation and the number of units to be used. The utility deposit is refunded at

the end of the tenancy period, provided proof of settlement of the utility bills is

furnished to the landlord.

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The municipal water and electrical systems are adequate, but water pressure is low by

U.S. standards. Occasional water shortages do occur, and an auxiliary water tank and

pump are recommended. Interruptions in utility services due to public works are

listed in the daily newspapers. Although bills are not transferred to the new tenant’s

name, the new tenant is responsible for paying them. Because of power brownouts

and surges, it is advisable to consider a surge protector for sensitive items such as

computers, stereos, televisions, and VCRs.

PRE-ASSIGNMENT TRIP

Where you live while on assignment may well be the single most important factor

in determining whether your stay in the country is an enjoyable experience or an

ordeal. Many considerations enter into the decision as to where to live. For families

with children, proximity or good transportation to schools may be paramount. For

others, it may be convenience to the work. If the relocating family member travels

frequently, proximity to the airport route is important. The best way to find housing

meeting your family’s requirements, location, and possibly price, is to make a

preliminary trip to the destination country, during which you will also be able to

investigate the school situation. In Malaysia, there are firms providing full relocation

services; these include professional counseling, to determine your housing and

education needs, planning your itinerary, and making appointments for you. It is

advisable to take advantage of all the assistance offered.

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Choosing a school

SCHOOL IN MALAYSIA

There are international schools in Kuala Lumpur and in other cities or areas with

concentration of expatriates. Many schools have extensive waiting lists; begin inquiries and reserve

places as soon as possible after confirmation of relocation to Malaysia.

School considerations

No aspect of a move overseas is more important for most families than the

education of school age children.

Several important considerations are involved in making the choice between local

and international schools. The former may offer the advantages of acquiring a new

language, broader acquaintanceships with host-country culture. It has been the

experience of many expatriate parents that adaptation, particularly of younger children,

is much less difficult than anticipated. Most often, however, the key consideration is

the effect a year or more in a foreign system may have on the child’s reintegration

into schools at home or qualifications for college entrance. If there are serious

questions on this point, an international school may be the safer choice.

Private schools

In Kuala Lumpur there are several

English language schools; some provide

education through the high school

years. Others schools in the Kuala

Lumpur area include a British school,

French school, German, Australian and

Japanese school.

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Living in Malaysia

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Sanitation conditions

Sanitation services in the cities are efficient. Tap water is safe to drink in the major

cities, but boil water or drink bottled water in other areas. Food served in the major

city restaurants and sold in urban food stalls is safe and subject to health inspections,

but avoid local delicacies sold at roadside stalls and in small centers.

Diseases and other health concerns

Health standards in Kuala Lumpur and other major cities are generally good and

continue to improve. Diseases that may be encountered in Malaysia are Japanese

encephalitis, malaria, and dengue fever.

Crime

Major crimes against foreigners are rare; however, petty crimes in tourist areas,

such as pick pocketing and purse snatching, are not uncommon. Be especially careful

in street markets, and do not carry documents or large amounts of cash, if not

absolutely necessary; it is advisable to avoid deserted streets at night in Kuala Lumpur.

“Boys,” anywhere in age from mid-teens to early sixties, will offer to guard your car

on the street. Although it is an unnecessary service, it is wise to allow them to

provide it and give them some change; if you decline, you may return to a scratched

or damaged car. Malaysia has one of the highest rates of credit card fraud in the

world; check your monthly statements carefully. Emergency telephone numbers are

the same throughout Malaysia; all operators speak English.

MEDICAL CARE AND FACILITES

There are a number of Western-trained doctors in Malaysia, and government and

private hospitals are of good quality. For certain specialists, however, many

Malaysians and expatriates travel to neighboring Singapore. Medical costs are

reasonable. Travelers should arrange for health insurance before departure since

Malaysia does not have reciprocal health insurance agreements with other countries.

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MONEY MATTERS

Currency

The Ringgit Malaysia is composed of 100 sen (cents); its symbol is RM.

Notes: RM2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100

Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50sen; RM1.

Making purchases and paying bills

Most international credit cards are accepted at many establishments. Personal

checks, even from a Malaysian bank, are typically not accepted by shops and

restaurants. Utility bills may be paid in person at a variety of locations or by card

through designated banks / outlets.

ATMs

ATMs are available in Kuala Lumpur at most bank branch offices.

AUTOMOBILES AND DRIVING

Driving in Malaysia

Driving in Malaysia, despite its generally excellent roadways, can be a challenge.

It may take time and practice for drivers to become accustomed to the system of

inner-ring roads and traffic circles in Kuala Lumpur. Local drivers can be aggressive.

Most driving regulations are similar to those of the British road system; drive on the

left. Traffic signs in Kuala Lumpur are in English. Vehicles may be imported duty-

free within 90 days of arrival. All cars must have front seat belts. Malaysia has 2 good

quality local car manufacturers, and several foreign brands have assembly plants in

Malaysia. However, purchasing a car in Malaysia involves a greater expenditure than

in many Western countries.

Driver’s license

An international driver’s permit or a valid license from your home country is

required to drive in Malaysia for the first three months. After that time, depending on

which country’s license you hold, you probably need to apply for a local license.

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CUISINE

Malaysian cuisine encompasses many different cuisines - Malay, Indian, Chinese,

Nyonya, Portuguese, Thai, and Western dishes. Malay and Indian dishes are spicy

and delicious. The best Malay food is often found served at roadside stalls, although

caution should be used when purchasing meals from these spots - patronise only stalls

crowded with customers, as Malaysians avoid a stall with questionable hygiene.

Indian Muslims (known as Mamaks) blend Indian and Malay food. Chinese cuisine

includes a large variety, from Cantonese to more spicy dishes, blending in some

Malay and Thai flavours. Rice is the staple grain, and fish and chicken are the most

widely consumed sources of protein. A wide array of tropical and unusual fruit is

available. Locally grown coffee and tea are popular beverages; local beer is

considered excellent. Juices, prepared from Malaysia’s wide variety of fresh fruits,

are popular and refreshing.

HOME FURNISHINGS

Home furnishings of all types are readily available at reasonable prices. Bring

only those personal items from home that are essential to make your stay comfortable.

Malaysia’s high heat and humidity, insects, and bright sunshine can ruin many

delicate fabrics and woods, upholstery, rugs, and paintings.

EVERYDAY SHOPPING

There are several large modern

shopping centres in Kuala Lumpur.

Supermarkets, particularly in the

expatriate neighborhoods, sell most

products and ingredients you should

require. Convenience stores, such as

7-11, can be found in most areas.

Open-air markets selling produce, fish

and seafood, and other perishables, are

found in all towns and cities.

Neighborhoods in major cities are

served by the “van man,” who travels

a set route, selling fresh provisions

daily, and dispensing news of the

neighborhood. Prices on some goods

and services, including basic food

items, are controlled by the

government.

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CLOTHING

Malaysia’s tropical climate calls for light, informal dress. Clothing made of

natural fabrics are preferable, as synthetics retain heat and dampness. Sweaters and

light jackets are only needed in the highlands, not in any of Malaysia’s cities.

Business dress for men does not include a jacket, except for very formal occasions.

Umbrellas are necessary for the rainy seasons (which recently have been

unpredictable in Kuala Lumpur). Shorts, miniskirts, and off-the-shoulder and

sleeveless garments are sometimes offensive to Muslims, particularly in rural areas. It

is advisable to avoid these types of clothing, except at beach resorts. Although there

is a wide selection of clothing and footwear available, sizes tend to be smaller than

those in the West. Many expatriates, therefore, bring a supply of clothes and shoes

from their home countries.

PERSONAL CARE ITEMS

International brands of cosmetics, toiletries, and personal care items are widely

available in all of Malaysia’s cities.

APPLIANCES AND ELECTRONICS

Electrical current is 220V - 50 Hertz; North American appliances cannot be

plugged directly into the outlet. Some North American appliances can be made to

work with transformers and adapters.

Broadcast system and equipment

Malaysia’s broadcast system is PAL-B(VHF) and PAL-(UNF), inconsistent with

the broadcast system of North American. To receive local transmission and play

videos, you will need a full multi-system television and VCR, which operates in most

countries.

HOUSEHOLD HELP

Household help is readily available throughout Malaysia, although it may take

some time to find someone who is suitable for your household. Babysitters are

difficult to find, and local children usually accompany parents when eating out. For

those who do not wish to hire live-in or full-time household help, clearing and

gardening services are widely available in major cities.

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Health and safety concerns

What if I get sick?

The possibility of becoming ill and requiring medical attention is one of the most

common concerns in preparing for a move abroad. Most relocation assignments are

to developed countries where the quality of care and facilities is comparable to that at

home. In areas where medical resources may be limited or substandard, there are

usually arrangements already in place for transporting expatriates who become

seriously ill to facilities in other countries where appropriate care can be obtained. It is

a good idea to check out emergency facilities before any need arises. In addition,

before leaving home, every member of the family should have a thorough checkup to

detect any incipient health problems. This should be far enough in advance to permit

any necessary treatment before departure. Follow-ups should be scheduled during

home leaves. Dental care, in particular, can be substandard in some areas.

Health and other alerts

It is helpful to be informed in advance as to any endemic or short-term health

problems in areas to which you may be travelling. Agencies of the expatriate’s own

government regularly issue country- specific advisories available to citizens travelling

or relocating abroad. Similarly, in times of political instability (eg. the situation in

Indonesia in early 1998), governments will sometimes advise their own citizens to

evacuate. For these reasons, it is important to register with your own Embassy or High

Commission upon arrival in the country of assignment.

Hiring household help

Although not all families on foreign assignment have household help, it is a

common expatriate experience. The best way to find help is usually through a friend,

neighbor, or other expatriate who can vouch for the individual’s reliability. In the

best of all possible situations, a well-recommended person who has worked for an

expatriate family leaving for home becomes available. Some training of even

experienced English-speaking help is usually necessary, if only in the particular likes,

dislikes, and that the rules are followed. Prospective candidates for household

employment should be interviewed and their references checked. Be aware of the

host country’s labor laws, especially pertaining to hours, working and living

conditions, religious customs / restrictions, tax and social welfare payments, and

provisions for dismissal. A probation period (generally 3 months in Malaysia) during

which immediate or short-term dismissal can be made is advisable, prior to

committing to any long-term employment commitment.

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Social life

ACCLIMATISATION IN MALAYSIA

Foreigners have lived in Malaysia for many years and have found various ways to

become acclimatised to a foreign culture.

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

There are a number of clubs that expatriates can join to meet other expatriates

and Malaysians. Golf clubs are especially popular; as in the West, business is often

discussed during a round of golf. Most expatriates find a club necessary for making

a smooth transition to social and professional life in Malaysia. Malaysia also has a

growing number of pubs and restaurants where friendships can be made in a relaxed

and familiar environment.

SPORTS AND FITNESS

Favorite spectator sports are soccer

and badminton. Many expatriates join

rugby and cricket teams. There are also

many private golf and tennis clubs that

expatriates join; a growing number of

golf clubs are becoming accessible to

non-members. Recreation areas on the

peninsula include national parks and

broad, sandy beaches,. Opportunities

are excellent for jungle-trekking, bird

watching, water sports and hiking.

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RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Mosques are widespread, and Hindu, Buddhist, and Taoist temples are found

throughout the country. There are many Christian churches in Kuala Lumpur and

other major cities. The nearest synagogue is in Singapore.

Settling in

In most locations, there is already an established expatriate community offering

numerous opportunities for socialising and becoming involved in activities. Most

families are in similar circumstances and have similar interests. There are almost

always clubs, especially well-organized women’s groups, that often have orientation

programs or welcome networks to assist new arrivals. Where there are children,

schools are a natural focus of social as well as scholastic activities. Church and

sporting activities are other possibilities for easing the stress of transition. Embassies

and consulates usually have information on expatriate clubs, and may occasionally

host social get-togethers for resident nationals. Volunteer organisations offer the

opportunity of making new friends while doing good. Health and fitness clubs are a

good way to meet other expatriates. If they aren’t readily available in your new

community, major hotels usually have fitness facilities and may allow membership to

residents.

SCENIC AND CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS

Malaysia offers an extensive variety of scenic, cultural, and historic attractions. The

Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board has offices in many locations and distributes

numerous publications on Malaysia. One of the most interesting features of Malaysian

life is its many festivals. Learning about the background and meaning of the festivals,

and watching and/or participating, in the celebrations will help the visitor understand

the various Malaysian cultures and appreciate their various heritages. Festivals are

joyous occasions in Malaysia that reinforce the different cultures and religions of its

people. Traditional costumes are worn, and visits to friends and relatives are

important parts of celebrations.