DO'S & DON'TS
When visiting Malaysia, visitors should observe local customs and practices. Some common courtesies and customs are as follows
Although handshakes generally suffice for both men and women, some Muslim ladies may acknowledge an introduction to a gentleman with a nod of her head and smile. The traditional Malaygreeting or salam resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend's outstretched hands, then brings his hands to his chest.
It is polite to call before visiting a home.
Shoes must always be removed when entering a home.
Drinks are generally offered to guests. It would be polite to accept.
the right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or when giving and receiving objects.
The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand, with the four fingers folded under, is the preferred usage.
Shoes must be removed when entering places of worship such as mosques and temples. Mosques provide robes and scarves for female visitors. Taking photographs at places of worship is usually permitted but always ask for permission first.
The country's large Muslim population does not drink alcohol
Banking Hours:
Most states:
Mon - Fri: 9.30am - 4.00pm
Sat: 9.30am - 11.30 am
Sun: closed
Kedah, Kelantan & Terengganu:
Sat - Wed: 9.30am - 4.00pm
Thurs: 9.30am - 11.30am
Fri: Closed
Post Offices:
>Open from 8.00am to 5.00pm daily except sundays and public holidays. In Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu pot offices are closed on Fridays and public holidays.
Time:
8 hour ahead of GMT and 16 hour ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.
ELECTRICITY:
Voltage is 220-240 volts AC at 50 cycles per second.
MEASUREMENT SYSTEM:
Malaysia follows the metric system.
TELEPHONE:
Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or prepaid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with phone card facilities or at any Telekom offices