Calling Kuala Lumpur
Date: December 6-8, 2024
Venue: Swiss-Garden Hotel Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur, 117, Jln Pudu, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Event Hall: Grand Hibiscus Ballroom
Booking: Swiss-Hotel Official website
Travel Tips
Packing Essentials: Pack for the tropics!
Expect warm and humid conditions for the outdoors, so pack lightweight and loose-fitting clothing made from breathable materials. It’s advisable to wear garments that cover your shoulders and knees in order to respect local customs, particularly within Muslim communities. For within the event site, including a light cardigan or sweater is also wise, as indoor air conditioning can be quite cold.
Purchasable Essentials: Things to consider buying
The tropics will bring about unpredictable weather that changes with little to no warning, so consider purchasing a travel umbrella. Sunscreen and bottle water optional but recommended.
Spending Tips: Digital and Cash
Credit and debit cards, and digital wallets are widely accepted in many establishments in Kuala Lumpur, but note that numerous local favorites—especially street food stalls—only accept cash. These stalls offer meals for around US$2 or less, so carrying a small amount of cash is advisable.
Tipping is not mandatory:
Sales and Service Tax (SST): Expect a 6% tax on goods and services, unless stated otherwise
Service charge: An additional 10% service charge is might be included in the bill
Street Food: Tipping is not common but appreciated
Other Services: Tipping taxi drivers or staff at hotels is not customary
E-wallets to consider:
- Touch 'n Go eWallet
- GrabPay
- Boost
Language: English Proficiency
Malaysia is a multilingual nation with Malay, English, Tamil, and Chinese being widely spoken. While Malay is the official language, many locals are fluent in English.
Cultural Etiquette: Respecting Local Customs
As Malaysia has a predominantly Muslim population, it’s essential to observe certain customs:
- Public Displays of Affection: Avoid intimate actions like kissing in public spaces
- Right-Handed Gestures: In Islamic culture the left hand is considered unclean; use your right hand for eating or handing items when in such settings
- Religious Sites: Remove shoes and cover your hair when entering places of worship
- Alcohol Consumption: While available to non-Muslims, public intoxication is frowned upon
Visa Requirements
Travelers from many countries do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism purposes. However, effective January 1, 2024, all travelers must complete the Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) prior to arrival. Exemptions apply for permanent residents of Malaysia and certain passport holders.
The information above is subjected to change. Due dilligence for your own travel requirements is advised.