June 9, 2004

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy with an elected federal parliamentary government. The country is comprised of thirteen states, eleven on the Malayan Peninsula and two, Sabah and Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. There is also a federal district, which contains the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, the administrative center of Putrajaya, and the island of Labuan (located off the southwest coast of Sabah ). Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country of 23 million people. Malays form the predominant ethnic group. The two other large ethnic groups in Malaysia are Chinese and Indians. Islam is the national religion. Bahasa Malaysia is the official language, although English is widely spoken. Travelers to Malaysia may access information on areas of interest through the Malaysian government's web site at http://www.kln.gov.my and the Malaysian tourism promotion board's website at http://www.tourism.gov.my/ or the Malaysian Ministry of Culture, Arts & Tourism's web site, http://www.malaysiamydestination.com/

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: American citizens are required to have a passport valid for at least six months to enter Malaysia, but do not need a visa for a pleasure or business trip if their stay in Malaysia is 90 days or less. Visitors to Malaysia will receive a Malaysian Disembarkation Card to complete and present to Malaysian immigration upon arrival. Travelers are required to carry their passports for travel from peninsular Malaysia to eastern Malaysia (on the island of Borneo ) and between the provinces of Sabah and Sarawak, both of which are on Borneo. Visitor passes issued for entry into peninsular Malaysia are not valid for entry into Sarawak. New visitor passes must be obtained upon arrival in Sarawak; in most cases, visitor passes issued by Sabah and Sarawak immigration are valid for any part of Malaysia.

For more information on the latest entry procedures and requirements, contact the Embassy of Malaysia, 3516 International Court, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone: (202) 572-9700, the Malaysian Consulates located in New York, telephone (212) 490-2722, or Los Angeles, telephone (213) 892-1238, or the Malaysian Government web site, which has information on Malaysian embassies and consulates abroad at http://www.kln.gov.my. Overseas inquiries should be made at your nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

DUAL NATIONALITY: Malaysia does not recognize dual nationality. American citizens who are also Malaysian citizens could experience close scrutiny by Malaysian immigration officials when entering or departing Malaysia on Malaysian passports. The United States requires all American citizens to enter and depart the United States on U.S. passports. United States visas cannot be issued to dual American citizens.

In addition to being subject to all Malaysian laws affecting American citizens, dual nationals may also be subject to other Malaysian laws that impose special obligations on Malaysian citizens. For additional information, see the consular affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our dual nationality flyer.

VISA OVERSTAYS: Since the beginning of 2003, Malaysian immigration authorities routinely have been detaining foreigners who overstay their visas. Depending upon the nature of the violation, detentions may last from a few hours to several weeks, pending a formal hearing. American citizens are urged to be aware of their visa status while in Malaysia and to follow immigration laws and regulations strictly.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Since 2000, there have been several kidnappings in eastern Sabah's coastal areas. The terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), based in the southern Philippines, has been responsible for some of these incidents. In April 2004, two Malaysians and an Indonesian were kidnapped from their vessel, which was in Philippine waters off the coast of eastern Sabah. Though the incident occurred in the Philippines, it is worth noting that it took place very close to eastern Sabah. In October 2003, six Indonesian and Filipino workers were kidnapped from a coastal resort in eastern Sabah. These incidents reinforce the United States' concern for the safety of travelers to this region of Malaysia. Sabah has extensive open waters between the mainland and offshore resorts, and emergency assistance may not always be available. For these reasons, American citizens should exercise caution when visiting the coastal areas of eastern Sabah.

The United States Government has designated Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. JI is an extremist group linked to al-Qaeda and other regional terrorist groups, such as the ASG, and has cells operating throughout Southeast Asia. Extremist groups in the region have demonstrated their capability to carry out transnational attacks in locations where Westerners congregate. Terrorist groups do not distinguish between official and civilian targets.

Americans planning to travel to Malaysia are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur and to consult the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet for Malaysia and the Department of State's most recent Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, both available at http://travel.state.gov. Americans planning to travel to the coastal areas of eastern Sabah should also contact the U.S. Embassy before departure by telephone at (6-03) 2168-5000, or by e-mail at klconsular@state.gov.

Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

CRIME: The overall crime rate in Malaysia is low and violent crime involving tourists is relatively uncommon. Petty theft, particularly purse snatchings and pick pocketing, is the most common criminal activity directed against foreigners. Thieves on motorcycles commit “snatch thefts” in crowded shopping areas. In most incidents, two men on a motorcycle speed up from behind a victim and the passenger on the back snatches a purse, handbag or cellular telephone. These thefts occur at all hours and often in front of large groups of witnesses. Women walking by themselves or with small children are the most common targets. People have been injured or killed by being pulled to the ground by their purse straps as the thieves speed off. Automobile burglaries also occur. Credit card fraud is a growing problem in Malaysia. Travelers should avoid using credit cards, if possible; credit card numbers should be closely safeguarded at all times.

The loss or theft abroad of U.S. passports should be reported immediately to the local police and American embassy. American citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/index.html, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs web site, http://travel.state.gov.

If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, contact the nearest American embassy or consulate for assistance. The embassy/consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: Medical facilities and services are adequate in the larger cities where Western-trained doctors can be found. The American embassy can also provide a list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals upon request. Psychological and psychiatric medical and counseling services are limited. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars or more. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services although major credit cards are acceptable.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. American medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties, whereas travelers who have purchased overseas medical insurance have, when a medical emergency occurs, found it life-saving. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs' website, http://travel.state.gov.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's web site, http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website, http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, American citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Malaysia is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance:

Visitors are reminded that traffic in Malaysia moves on the left side of the road, and that most vehicles use right-hand drive. Seat belts are mandatory. Cell phones cannot be used while driving. Laws against drinking and driving are strictly enforced with stiff penalties. Pedestrians are reminded to look carefully in all directions when crossing roads and driving. Motorcyclists attempt to circumvent traffic blockage by weaving through vehicles and pedestrians. Traffic is heavy during the morning and afternoon rush hours and slows down considerably when it rains. Bottlenecks are common sights in major cities. Development of the infrastructure has not kept pace with the proliferation of motorized vehicles. Multi-lane highways often merge into narrow two-lane roads in the center of town and cause added congestion. Many streets are narrow and winding. Taxis are metered, but some drivers charge a rate much higher than the metered rate during peak hours, when it is raining, or when the passenger's destination is to or through a heavily congested area.

A well maintained, heavily used, divided multi-lane highway runs the length of peninsular Malaysia from Singapore to the Thai border. Malaysia's West Coast also has well-developed paved roads between major cities. These two-lane highways are usually congested. Serious accidents can occur from collisions and from drivers who lose control of their vehicles when driving too fast in hilly regions.

For specific information concerning Malaysian driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Malaysian National Tourist Organization offices in New York at http://www.visitmalaysia.com/ or the Malaysian government web site, http://www.kln.gov.my.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Malaysia's Civil Aviation authority as Category 1 - in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Malaysia's air carrier operations.

For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation telephone number within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's web site, http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at telephone number (618) 229-4801.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Malaysia's customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Malaysia of items such as firearms, narcotics, medication, business equipment, currency, books or other printed material, video, and audio recordings, which might be considered obscene or in any way harmful to the public interest and cultural property. It is advisable to contact the Malaysian embassy in Washington, D.C. or one of Malaysia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at http://www.ustr.gov/reports/2003/special301.htm.

Malaysian customs officials encourage the use of an ATA (admission temporaire/temporary admission) carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. The ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the U.S. Council for International Business, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480; e-mail atacarnet@uscib.org, or visit http://www.uscib.org for details.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, an American citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and do not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating the law, even unknowingly, may be fined, expelled, arrested or imprisoned. The Malaysian criminal code includes a provision for a sentence of caning for certain white-collar crimes, including criminal misappropriation, criminal breach of trust and cheating. Unauthorized collection and/or removal of local flora and fauna may be prosecuted as a crime and can result in heavy fines, expulsion, and/or imprisonment.

Malaysia strictly enforces its drug laws. Malaysian legislation provides for a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers. Individuals arrested in possession of 15 grams (1/2 ounce) of heroin or 200 grams (seven ounces) of marijuana are presumed by law to be trafficking in drugs.

Although access to prisoners is permitted, the U.S. Embassy may not learn of the arrest of U.S. citizens in smaller, more remote areas until several days after the incident. Prison conditions are harsh. American citizens are encouraged to carry a copy of their U.S. passports with them at all times, so that, if questioned by local officials, proof of identity and U.S. citizenship are readily available.

Under the April 2003 PROTECT Act, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens to exploit children sexually via pornography, the Internet or other means or to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18 in a foreign country, regardless of whether there was intent.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Currency exchange is readily available; international bank-to-bank transfers may take several days and require adequate identification. Credit cards are accepted throughout the country, but travelers should be aware that criminal syndicates have compromised credit card numbers frequently, even at well-established businesses. Western Union money transfers are available through offices of Bumiputra Commerce Bank.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY LOCATION: American citizens living in or visiting Malaysia are encouraged to register at the U.S. embassy in Kuala Lumpur either online, or in person at the consular section, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within the country. The U.S. embassy is located at 376 Jalan Tun Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur. The local mailing address is P.O. Box No. 10035, 50700 Kuala Lumpur. The U.S. embassy telephone (60-3) 2168-5000, is available 24 hours per day for emergencies such as arrests, serious illness/injury, or death of Americans, (after business hours, please press 1 at the recording). The American Citizen Services telephone number is (60-3) 2168-4997/4979, and the Consular section fax number is (60-3) 2148-5801. The general fax number for the U.S. Embassy is (60-3) 2142-2207. The U.S. Embassy's web site is http://malaysia.usembassy.gov/; and the Consular section's e-mail is: klconsular@state.gov.

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This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 6, 2003, to update sections on Country Description, Visa Overstays, Safety and Security, Crime, Traffic Safety and Road Conditions, Customs Regulations, Criminal Penalties, Special Circumstances, Children's Issues and Registration/Embassy Location.

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