Penang, an island just off
the northwest coast of Malaysia, forms a part of the Malaysian state of the
same name. The capital, George Town, is a showcase of Southeast Asia’s largest
collection of pre-World War II buildings.
The island offers a wealth
of tropical beaches, historic sites, and one of the best opportunities to
experience the diversity of Malaysian culture.
Visas
Depending on nationality,
visitors may be required to apply for a visa in advance to enter Malaysia at
the Malaysian Embassy or representative at their country of origin.
Visa On Arrival can also be
given to visitors who qualify, and is issued at certain international airports
in Malaysia. To view entry requirements by country of origin, click on the link
below.
Visa information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia
Currency
The
Malaysian currency is known as Malaysian Ringgit
(MYR) or (RM). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels as well as shopping
malls.
Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.
MYR 1.00
equals:
|
Exchange Rates
|
Currency
|
|
0.34
|
Australian Dollar
(AUD)
|
|
0.25
|
Euro
(EUR)
|
|
0.22
|
British Pound
(GBP)
|
|
2.56
|
Hong Kong Dollar
(HKD)
|
|
18.34
|
Indian Rupee
(INR)
|
|
33.44
|
Japanese Yen
(JPY)
|
|
0.41
|
New Zealand Dollar
(NZD)
|
|
2.04
|
Chinese Yuan Renminbi
(RMB)
|
|
0.42
|
Singapore Dollar
(SGD)
|
|
0.33
|
US Dollar
(USD)
|
Taxes
A 10%
surcharge including government tax is applicable in most hotels and
restaurants.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in
Malaysia.
Business Hours
Bank Hours
10am - 4pm, Monday through Sunday
Office Hours
Though Malaysia is an Islamic country, offices observe a Monday to Friday schedule.
9am - 5pm (Business)
8am - 5pm (Government)
Shop Hours
10am - 10pm, Monday through Sunday
Public Health
Visitors arriving from
Yellow Fever Endemic Zones and other affected areas are required to present
International Health Certificates showing Yellow Fever vaccinations. This
regulation, however, does not apply to children below the age of one.
Cholera vaccination is not
required for travellers entering Malaysia.
Dress
Lightweight clothing is
ideal. A suit and tie are normal business attires. Revealing garments for women
are not advisable, especially in rural areas.
Weather
Penang’s climate can be
described as equatorial, a pleasant mix of warm, sunny days and occasional
cooling rain storms, with August through November being the wettest months
generally.
Humidity is usually high, and the temperature
varies between 21°C and 32°C (70° to 95° Fahrenheit).
Today
Intermittent Clouds
Sun through high clouds
|
High:
|
33°C /
91°F
|
|
Low:
|
26°C /
78°F
|
Tomorrow
Intermittent Clouds
Sun through high clouds
|
High:
|
32°C /
89°F
|
|
Low:
|
26°C /
78°F
|
|
Tuesday:
|
|
Mostly Cloudy
|
High:
32°C /
89°F
|
Low:
26°C /
78°F
|
|
Wednesday:
|
|
Mostly Cloudy
|
High:
33°C /
91°F
|
Low:
26°C /
78°F
|