Transport

Connections in the region

Malaysia is well connected to Europe, Australia and the whole of Asia. Thus, it makes a good base to discover neighbouring countries such as Singapore and Thailand. Kuala Lumpur is the main airport but there is an extensivenetwork of domestic and international flights, including direct routes between Europe and Malaysian Borneo. Buses and trains to neighbouring countries such as Singapore and Thailand are also available.

Transport within the country

It is possible to fly within Malaysia but it can be an expensive option. Inter-city trains (including sleeper trains) and bus services are widely available and offer good value for money as well as comfort (most of them are air-conditioned). It is recommended that you buy your transport tickets at the counters of train or bus stations.

The road network is extensive and major roads are well maintained. However, road quality is of varying standard (as is the driving local style) outisde of cities. For this reason, it is best not to drive at night. If you already have a driving licence from your home country, it is possible to acquire a Malaysian licence. To find out the procedure, you can get advice from your university’s international office or check with the Road Transport Department of Malaysia.

Public Transport within cities

The best way to get around Kuala Lumpur is by train, on one of the city’s commuter rail networks (monorail and light-rail transit train services). In general, bus services are inexpensive and available in many areas. Taxis can be flagged down at the side of the road in most places. In the cities, taxis will have meters so insist on the driver using the meter. If there is no meter, you are advise to agree on a price. It is reasonable to haggle but you may wish to ask fellow students what reasonable fares are.