Useful Tip and Info
Gateways to Selangor
By
Air: Malaysian Airlines, the national carrier, currently flies to 95 destinations
worldwide. Many international airlines offer flights to Malaysia, most
of which land at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Sepang.
By Sea: Westport is another entry point
to Malaysia, for those who choose to travel by luxury cruises. Located
in Port Klang, the largest and busiest port in the country, getting to
and from the port is convenient.
Weather
With
a temperature averaging between 21 C and 32 C, travel in Malaysiais a pleasure.
As Malaysia's climate is sunny almost year round, light clothing is ideal
while getting about. The rainy season tends to occur between November to
February. Click here for the current four-day weather forecast.
Currency exchange
All transactions in Malaysia is traded in Ringgit Malaysia (RM). The ringgit is currently pegged at RM3.80 to $1 US dollar. Click here for the latest currency exchange rates.
Getting around
With
the convenience of the North-South Highway, Selangor is easily accessible
from Thailand, Singapore and all parts of the peninsula. Buses are a practical
way to get about Selangor, with bus stations
atall main townships. Other means of transportation
include taxis, light rail transits, commuter trains and rental cars.
Immigration Regulations
Visitors are required to complete a disembarkation card to be handed to the Immigration Officer, together with other travel documents. Visas are not required for nationals from Netherlands, Republic of Ireland, San Marino and Liechtenstein and Commonwealth nations (except India, Pakistan, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka).
Office Hours
Official hours for government offices are from 8.45am to 4.15pm. For banks and financial institutions, services are provided for between 10am to 4pm. Otherwise, most office hours are from 9am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays. On Saturdays, office hours are until 1pm.
Custom Regulations
Prohibitions Trafficking in illegal drugs carries a Mandatory Death Penalty in Malaysia. A special permit is required for carriage of firearms and ammunition.
Etiquette
To avoid 'cultural offences', here are some tips:
1.Remove shoes when entering homes and places
of worship.
2.Dress in suitable attire, covering both arms
and legs when visiting places of worship.
3.Handle food with your right hand.
4.Do not point your foot at someone.
The Kota Darul Ehsan
The Kota Darul Ehsan arch is the most distinguished
landmark in Selangor. The gateway to Selangor is symbolised by this arch.
Located along the Federal Highway and incorporating exquisite Moorish architecture,
the arch creates a spellbinding effect to travellers on the highway with
its illumination of royal gold colours.
Shah Alam Mosque
Located in Shah Alam, this state mosque stands
majestically on 36 acres of scenic landscaped gardens and parkland. Designed
by the present King, it is the largest mosque in South East Asia with the
tallest minarets (142.3m) and largest dome in the world.
Tugu Kris
In Klang, a towering silver Keris greets visitors
to the state. The monument was set up in celebration of the silver jubilee
of the installation of the Sultan of Selangor in 1985. This specially designed
memorial depicts the Keris Semenanjung which symbolises power, strength
and unity.
State Monument
Located adjacent to the Selangor State Secretariat
in Shah Alam, this lovely and serene monument with a sweeping arch, reflecting
pools and gold inscriptions is a favourite destination for shutterbugs
and tourists.The annual Warrior's Day (Selangor state level) is held here
to honour those who have sacrificed in serving and defending the country.
Arts & Crafts
Pewter
Among the most popular handicraft is the world-famous
Royal Selangor Pewter. Thispewter is considered the original and the best
of its kind in the world. Visitors to the Royal Selangor Pewter complex
can view the extraordinary craftsmanship of the world's largest pewter
factory,the world's largest tankard and precious gemstones fashioned into
exquisite jewellery.
Mah Meri carvings & traditional dances
A
place to truly experience Malaysian arts and culture is Carey Island. Located
just off the mainland, the island is well known for its aborigine community
called the Mah Meri. This tribe is famed for its wood carvings, unique
traditional dances and music.