Foreign travel advice

Malaysia

Warning FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of Malaysia.

Health

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks  

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Malaysia, including Mount Kinabalu in Eastern Malaysia (Malaysian Borneo). Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Other risks

Mosquito-borne diseases occur all year round. These include:

Take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Other risks include rabies in the states of Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Sarawak.

For more information and advice visit the TravelHealthPro’s other risks page for Malaysia.

Air pollution

High levels of air pollution in major towns and cities in Malaysia may make respiratory conditions worse.

Forest fires in Indonesia can cause haze between June and October. Haze can cause disruption to local travel, regional air travel and to schools.

Monitor the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) updates and health advisories issued by the Malaysian Department of Environment.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare facilities in Malaysia

Government and private hospitals charge for all services. Private care is expensive. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

FCDO has a list of English speaking doctors in Malaysia

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Malaysia.

COVID-19 healthcare in Malaysia

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Malaysia, you should follow local procedures.   

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.