The vibrant capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a melting pot of cultures. This city is a mesmerizing blend of vibrant cultures, a tapestry of traditions, and the pulsating beat of modernity. It is as colourful and exciting as the many cultures that live here. Kuala Lumpur is located on the west coast of the Malaysian Peninsular in between Thailand and Singapore. Kuala Lumpur is located half an hour away from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1/Terminal 2 (KLIA T1/T2) by train, or 50 minutes away by car/taxi.
Passport and Visa
To embark on your journey to this vibrant city, make sure to have a valid passport and, in some cases, a visa for entry. Detailed visa application requirements can be obtained here. If you need a Visa Letter of Invitation please click here.
Climate
In terms of climate, Kuala Lumpur experiences little seasonal variation due to its proximity to the equator. The weather is generally temperate, with refreshing sea breezes along the coast year-round. Temperatures typically range between 18 to 30 degrees Celsius (65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit), making light and casual clothing suitable for most occasions. The city enjoys a tropical climate, with occasional rain showers throughout the year. Summer in Kuala Lumpur runs from December to March, with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 42°C, while the cooler winter season spans from June to August, with daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and cooler nights at 16°C (60°F).
Language
The national language in Malaysia is Malay (Bahasa Malaysia), but you'll find English widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Additionally, many Malaysians are multilingual, with proficiency in languages like Chinese and Tamil, reflecting the country's diverse cultural makeup.
Money
The currency used in Kuala Lumpur and throughout Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), abbreviated as RM. Coins come in various denominations, including 5, 10, 20, and 50 sen, while banknotes are available in denominations of RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, RM100, and RM200. Be aware that exchange rates for the Ringgit against other currencies can fluctuate daily, and banks and currency exchange bureaus often charge a commission for currency exchange services.
Banks
Generally banking hours in Malaysia are from 9:30 am - 4:30 pm (Mondays - Fridays), although some banks do extend their banking hours. Automated Teller Machines (ATM) are available at convenient locations throughout the country. All the main credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted in major institutions and an ever growing number of shops and restaurants.
Most states:
Monday – Friday: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm
*Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holiday. Some banks do open on Saturdays.
Public Transport
Malaysia offers an extensive array of public transportation options to facilitate convenient travel within its urban and intercity areas. The Light Rail Transit (LRT), Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), and Monorail systems form the core of Kuala Lumpur's urban transit, swiftly connecting key destinations and suburbs. Complementing these rail services, RapidKL buses ply various routes within Kuala Lumpur and its environs, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the city. For intercity travel, Malaysia provides reliable options such as intercity trains and express buses, linking major cities and towns across the country. These versatile modes of transportation, along with ride-hailing services like taxis and Grab, cater to the diverse needs of both residents and tourists, making it easy to explore the country's vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. You can also explore Moovit for seamless mobility assistance. Details here.
Time Zone
In terms of time, Malaysia follows the Malaysia Standard Time (MYT), which is typically eight hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+8).
Voltage
Regarding electrical voltage, Kuala Lumpur and most major cities in Malaysia use a voltage of 230-240 Volts and a frequency of 50 Hz for their electrical outlets. However, it's important to note that some rural areas may use a different voltage, so it's advisable to check with your accommodation or carry appropriate adapters for your electronic devices.
Internet
High Speed Broadband is easily accessible at hotels, internet cafes and shopping malls, among other places.
Accommodation
The conference has identified the The Grand Hyatt as the main conference hotel. Please see the hotel page here. There is a multitude of hotels located in close proximity to KLCC, and their information can be readily accessed on the Internet.
