To drive in Malaysia, you require a Malaysian Competent Driving Licence, Probationary Driving Licence or an International Driving License.

Maldivian Drivers License is recognized by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) of Malaysia as a valid license to drive in Malaysia. A letter validating your Maldivian driving license can be obtained from the High Commission. Click here for application form which contains the procedure for obtaining the letter. It is advisable to carry the letter when driving.

IMPORTANT: If you are planning to drive in Malaysia and you have no experience driving outside the Maldives, it is recommended that you do some practice drives with a competent instructor before driving on your own. The speed limits, road conditions and traffic signs (in Bahasa Malaysia) are different from home and therefore may take sometime getting used to.

The Malaysian Road Transport (JPJ) informs the High Commission that if a Maldivian is summoned (fined) for driving with a valid Maldivian license and relevant documentation from the High Commission, he or she can appeal the matter to the Royal Malaysian Police Headquarters at Bukit Aman, Kuala Lumpur.  If you have any additional issues please email the High Commission with the details.  (24/12/2008)

The Malaysia Road Transport Department (JPJ) informs that only those with a long term visa (such as Malaysia My Second Home program or students pursuing doctorates) are eligible to convert their license.

If you are staying for a longer period in Malaysia it may be worthwhile to check from JPJ whether your visa status qualifies you for a license conversion. For more information visit their website http://www.jpj.gov.my/.

Yes, it is compulsory for the driver and all passengers including those in the rear seats to wear seat belts. Malaysia started implementing compulsory seat belts for all passengers from 1 January 2009. Violating this rule can result in a compound (fine) of RM 300 during the grace period from January to June 2009. From July 1, 2009 drivers and passengers not using their seat belts will have to pay a fine of up to RM 2,000, serve up to one year’s jail or both under the Malaysian Road Transport Act.

Exemptions: Vehicles that are exempted from this rule are commercial vehicles such as taxis and rental cars, large vehicles that can seat nine passengers or more and haulers that have a tonnage limit of more than 3.5 tonnes, and cars registered before Jan 1, 1995 which do not have the rear anchorage points.

All vehicles are driven on the left-hand side of the road. Wearing of seat belts are mandatory for the driver and passenger/s in the front seat/s.

For minor accidents, you can reach a settlement between the drivers. If you are involved in a major traffic accident or if you cannot reach an agreement with the driver of the other vehicle, you are required by law to report the accident to the nearest police station or Constable within 24 hours of the incident.

If you are traveling out of Malaysia, be sure to take your passport and check visa requirements for that destination. Maldivians do not require prior visa to travel to Singapore or Thailand but conditions such as return air ticket and proof of sufficient funds are still required. Also, if you are on a single entry Social Visit Pass (Visa) in Malaysia you will be required to fulfill the entry requirement when you reenter Malaysia.

Taxis have license plates with a white background and black numerals. All taxis are run on meters. Some taxi drivers choose not to run on meters especially if there is traffic congestion or rain.

Kuala Lumpur is well connected through its light rail transport (LRT) system. Train and bus transport within Kuala Lumpur is relatively cheap. They are popular modes of transport for daily commuters, students, shoppers and tourists. Most public transport will run from early morning to late night. Taxis are difficult to find in some parts of city at late hours.

There are some ‘feeder buses’ that run free service to main shopping areas from certain destinations. Train services to Singapore and Thailand are also available.

You can obtain train and bus schedules from any of the main train stations or bus terminals.  Some bookshops also supply Malaysian travel books which may contain this information.  You may find the map in the following website useful: http://www.klsentral.com.my/railLinks.html.

Presently 3 airlines operate domestic flights in Malaysia. Malaysia Airlines (1 300 88 3000), Air Asia (1 300 88 9933) and Berjaya Air (03- 78468226). It is advisable to book in advance for domestic flights since obtaining a seat can be difficult during peak holiday seasons.

You can renew your road tax at Malaysian Road Transport Department branches. You can also renew your road tax on www.myeg.com.my. For more information call 03-7801 8888 (MYEG Services)