How to get around Malaysia

Navigating Malaysia is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.

Inter-City Travel

Traveling between cities in Malaysia offers a range of options catering to different budgets. Buses are generally the most affordable way to travel long distances, connecting major cities and smaller towns across the country. For example, a bus from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca or Johor Bahru is a popular route. There are various types of buses, from standard to luxury coaches.

The Electric Train Service (ETS), operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), provides a faster and more comfortable alternative for intercity travel, particularly popular for routes like Kuala Lumpur to Penang, Ipoh, and Johor Bahru. While typically slightly more expensive than buses, ETS train tickets can sometimes be comparable or even cheaper for certain routes, such as Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh, where a train ticket might be around RM 24 compared to RM 20 for a bus.

ETS fares vary by class (Silver, Gold, Platinum) and booking time; booking in advance and traveling during off-peak hours can lead to lower prices. For instance, ETS Silver is the cheapest but makes more stops, while Platinum has the fewest stops and may include complimentary snacks.

Travel Within Cities

Within cities, there are multiple transport choices for all budgets. Public transport, such as MRT, LRT, and monorail, is a cost-effective way to get around, especially in Kuala Lumpur. Fares on KTM Komuter, a commuter rail service, vary by distance; for instance, a trip from KL Sentral to Seremban can cost around RM 8.70, and to Batu Caves, about RM 2.60. Using a 'Touch 'n Go' card can offer discounts on public transport fares.

Ride-hailing services like Grab are widely used and can be more convenient than traditional taxis, offering various vehicle types. Grab fares typically have a base fare of around RM 2.00, with an additional RM 0.25 per kilometer and RM 0.43 per minute. A minimum fare of RM 5.00 applies. During peak hours, ride-hailing prices can increase.

Taxis are also available; a 5km ride in Malaysia might cost around 26.5 MYR. Taxi fares generally start around RM 5.00 and cost about RM 4.30 per kilometer. Night-time travel (12:00 AM to 6:00 AM) may incur a 50% surcharge, and additional fees can apply for luggage or calling a taxi service.

For airport transfers, the KLIA Ekspres offers a fast, non-stop service between KL Sentral and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), taking about 28 minutes. A one-way ticket for KLIA Ekspres starts from approximately RM 49.47, with online bookings potentially offering discounts.

Discover destinations in Malaysia