Travel Tips

Climate

Equatorial/Tropical—the climate is generally hot and sunny all year round; visitors need to wear comfortable clothing to avoid heatstroke. We also have scattered unpredictable rains, therefore, it’s advisable to always bring an umbrella in case it rains.

Average Temperature

Lowlands (Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, Sandakan, Tawau) – 32 degrees Centigrade

Highlands (Ranau, Kundasang, Tambunan) – 21 degrees Centigrade

Bear in mind though, that Mount Kinabalu has its own climate. Temperatures can drop to freezing level above 3500 meters.

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (RM)

Foreign currencies can be exchanged for Malaysian Ringgit (RM) at a few 5-star hotels and foreign currency exchange counters located in major shopping complexes. Most major hotels charge a nominal fee for currency conversion.

Banking Hours:
Monday – Friday : 9:30am to 4pm.

VISA, MasterCard, American Express – credit and charge cards are accepted in almost all departmental stores, supermarkets, petrol stations and restaurants.

Payment using e-wallets are also available in most shops and stores here. Look out for the e-wallet logo displayed at payment counters.

Local Time

Standard Malaysian Time is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+8)

Usual Office Hours

Monday to Friday from 8am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm; Saturday from 8am – 1pm

Shopping

Shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants and mini markets are generally open daily from 10am to 10pm

As for tipping; food and beverages in exclusive restaurants, cafes and clubs, as well as accommodations normally include 10 per cent service charges.

Tipping is not obligatory in most places.

Electricity & Water Facilities

Electricity is on the 240 Volts AC/ 50-Cycle system; treated pipe water is available in most urban and sub-urban areas. Type G plugs are used in Malaysia.

Communications

Mobile telecommunications cover many parts of Sabah with the exception of some remote areas. Public phones are scarcely available in most places.

Medical

Government hospitals, clinics and dispensaries are available in all towns. The list of private medical practitioners and pharmacies are available in the local phone directory. However, those with specific medical needs are advised to have a good supply of medications.