Mt Kinabali

Tipping

• Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in bills (usually 10%)
• If a service charge is not included, tipping around 5
• 10% for good service in restaurants is appreciated
• For hotel staff, a small tip (a few ringgit) for porters or housekeepers is customary
• Tipping taxi drivers is not common, but rounding up the fare is acceptable

Money & Payments

• ATMs are widely available
• Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas and major establishments
• It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and rural areas
• No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

• Remove your shoes before entering homes, mosques, and some temples
• When greeting, it is polite to lightly touch the other person's hand and then bring your hand to your chest (known as 'salam')
• Do not touch someone's head
• Always accept food or drink offered to you, even if you only take a small amount
• Eating with your right hand is customary, especially when eating traditional Malay food

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia and punishable by law, including caning and imprisonment. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not tolerated. There is no legal recognition of LGBTQ+ relationships.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• The legal drinking age is 21
• Alcohol consumption is restricted in some areas, especially in states observing Sharia law
• Drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties including the death penalty for drug trafficking
• Even possession of small amounts can lead to lengthy prison sentences and caning

Special Laws

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
• Shoulders and knees should be covered
• Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon
• Chewing gum is not prohibited, but littering can result in fines
• Do not point with your index finger; use your thumb instead
• Left hand is considered unclean, use your right hand for greetings, giving or receiving items, and eating