Just moved to Kuala Lumpur? Newcomer guide

Phone and SIM card

Foreign visitors register a prepaid SIM card with their passport at telco shops.

Official source: MCMC

Immigration

Passes and visas are handled by the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Check its official site for current rules.

Official source: Immigration Department of Malaysia

Bank account

Banks ask for your passport and visa or pass, and sometimes a letter from your employer. Check that a bank is licensed by Bank Negara Malaysia.

Official source: Bank Negara Malaysia

Doctors

Government clinics and hospitals and private clinics are available. Emergency: 999.

Official source: Ministry of Health Malaysia

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Getting around

Use a Touch 'n Go card, or tap a contactless card, on Rapid KL trains and buses.

Official source: Rapid KL

Schools

Malaysia has national schools, Chinese-medium national-type schools (SJKC) and private international schools. Check enrolment rules with the Ministry of Education.

Official source: Ministry of Education Malaysia

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Chinese food and shops

Petaling Street and many neighbourhoods have Chinese restaurants, kopitiam and markets. Browse our listings.

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💬 Newcomer Q&A

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