A Digital Nomad Guide to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysia Visa for Kuala Lumpur

The majority of nationalities do not need a visa to enter Malaysia which is a great benefit for digital nomads. You can stay in the country visa-free for up to 90 days as a tourist after which you need to exit and re-enter. Keep in mind that in many cases you will need to show proof of a return ticket when entering Malaysia without a visa. If you are fine with doing a visa run every 90 days you can essentially stay in Kuala Lumpur as long as you like without a visa. You will have to factor in the cost of having to fly to a nearby country such as Singapore, Indonesia or Thailand which could be expensive over time.

If you’re from a country that requires you to have a visa for Malaysia you should apply for one before you come to Kuala Lumpur. Some nationalities can receive a visa on arrival although you will have to confirm this with the embassy. Some nationalities also need to exit Malaysia after only 30 days which could make living there as a digital nomad problematic over time.

Unfortunately, long term or multiple entry visas for Malaysia are hard to come by for digital nomads. To obtain one you will have to be employed by a Malaysian company or sent there from your own home country for work. Neither is very realistic for digital nomads so sticking with the visa-free 90 days is highly recommended.

Culture and Food in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is often described as being a cultural melting pot for all sorts of ethnicities and backgrounds. Many Malaysians are not actually Malay but Chinese Malaysian, Indian Malaysian or many more. The city can be distinctly divided into different neighbourhoods that tend to represent a culture or nationality.

Brickfields for example is a neighbourhood largely inhabited by Indian Malaysians which can be identified by the beautiful and colourful architecture, incredible temples and many vegetarian restaurants. Chinatown on the other hand has a very strong Chinese influence with Buddhist and Taoist temples, Chinese Malaysian street food and a large Chinese population.

While all religions are represented in Kuala Lumpur you should remember that the city is predominantly Muslim with many cultural aspects being heavily influenced by Islam. As a woman you should dress modestly especially when leaving the city centre and venturing into more local neighbourhoods. Islam in Kuala Lumpur is considered to be less strict than the Middle East but it should still be respected by visitors. 

Since so many different ethnicities and nationalities coincide in Kuala Lumpur the city has not only one culture but several. You’ll find completely different traditions, foods and celebrations in the Indian parts of town than those in the Malay neighbourhoods. Some big celebrations and holidays throughout the year include the popular Thaipusam Festival which is a Hindu celebration held at the Batu Caves, Hari Raya which is the end of Ramadan celebrated by many Malays and Chinese New Year. There is always something going on in every season so you’ll never be bored in Kuala Lumpur.

The food selection in Kuala Lumpur is endless. You’ll find traditional food from almost every Asian country all of which tend to be affordable and authentic. You can find a full meal for as little as 2$ if you eat at local restaurants. Some of the most famous dishes include Nasi Lemak which is a coconut rice served with sambal, an egg, peanuts and anchovies. You’ll find this dish in a variety of Malay restaurants and it is an absolute must-try when coming to KL as it is considered the national dish. Then there is Beef Rendang which is a beef-dish also popular in the Indonesian cuisine but has been adopted by Malaysia as a popular traditional food. You’ll love the flavours of coconut and tender pieces of beef.

Cendol is a rather unusual food item that can be found in KL and all around Malaysia. It is a dessert served with sugar syrup and shaved ice and looks like green worms or noodles. It is absolutely delicious and is best bought from a street vendor for the most authentic taste.

For some of the best food around Kuala Lumpur you should head to local areas and smaller restaurants away from the tourists. But, of course, there are also busier areas with fantastic food, it will just be a bit more expensive. Brickfields is a popular area for authentic Indian food and vegetarian dishes while Jalan Alor, is a busy night market food street known for its seafood dishes. Head to Taman Connaught night market for street food and snacks from all around Asia and an incredible selection of delicious fusion dishes.

Kuala Lumpur Nightlife

There is definitely no shortage of places for going out in the evening in Kuala Lumpur. From Irish pubs and hidden bars to swanky rooftop bars in 5-star hotels, you’ll find it all. From 10:00 pm onwards, numerous clubs in the popular nightlife area Changkat Bukit Bintang and cocktail bars in Bangsar come to life and offer a varied programme for every taste.

One thing you should know before going out in Kuala Lumpur is that it unfortunately won’t be cheap. Alcohol in Malaysia is a little more expensive than you might be used to in other Asian countries, as it is heavily taxed. You should expect to pay between 10$-15$ for a cocktail or 3$-5$ for a beer, depending on the location and establishment. 

For women, however, it can be a bit cheaper, as many bars advertise free drinks on certain weekdays. These “Ladies Nights” are popular events during the week as free-flow drinks draw crowds of people to bars around town. For more information on which bar has free drinks when, check out this website. As a woman you should avoid going out at night alone in Kuala Lumpur. KL is not a dangerous city, but you should still use your common sense, and avoid walking home alone at night or taking drinks from strangers. Always keep your safety in mind and take a friend with you.

Kuala Lumpur’s hidden bars

Kuala Lumpur has an incredible culture of hidden bars and speakeasies which can be found all around town. The idea of these bars is that they are not publicly advertised and you need to know where they are to find them. Some of the most famous hidden bars are located in China Town and Bukit Bintang, but you’ll find some in most neighbourhoods. It’s best to book a table before you go, as these places are sometimes no bigger than a living room. Also to be noted is the dress code which varies from bar to bar. Some are very strict, while others have more of a casual approach. 

Kuala Lumpur’s hidden bars originate from a time of prohibition and have become a popular tourist attraction over the years. While some of them are very well known like Suzie Wong or PS150, others are kept secret by locals and expats. New bars pop up all the time and it’s very fun to discover one you’ve never been to before. 

While most of these bars feel more like a lounge with a relaxed atmosphere, Suzie Wong definitely stands out. This bar is much larger than many of the others and can almost be compared to a club. They regularly have live music and cabaret shows that shouldn’t be missed. 

If you’re looking to go clubbing in Kuala Lumpur, Suzie Wong might be a good place to start but it’s by far not all Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife has to offer. Head to large clubs like TREC Kuala Lumpur or Kyō to dance the night away with renowned DJs playing. Keep in mind that these places will not be affordable and entry alone will cost between 5$ and 10$. Stick to bars around Chinatown and Changkat if you’re on a budget.

Things to do in Kuala Lumpur

• KUALA LUMPUR FOREST ECO PARK (FORMERLY BUKIT NANAS)

  When you visit the Forest Eco Park in Kuala Lumpur, you’ll feel like you left the city behind and entered a remote jungle. The park is located on a hill near the KL Tower and offers a beautiful view of the city. You can walk on suspension bridges throughout the park which are elevated at a height of up to 20 metres. This is a great spot to come for photography or a relaxing walk after a long day of work. Opening hours are from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm daily and there is a 10$ entrance fee. The Forest Eco Park is a great place to find a piece of nature in the city with exotic plants and sometimes even monkeys.

• KL TOWER

  

  One of Kuala Lumpur’s most recognisable skyscraper is the KL Tower which is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city. There are two different platforms open to visitors; an enclosed platform and the open-air terrace four floors above. With the ticket for the open-air terrace, you will also get admission to the platform below, which is definitely worth it to get the best view of the city. The tower also has glass-bottom sky-boxes which is great for anyone looking to challenge their fear of heights. As the Tower is located right next to the Forest Eco Park, it is a good idea to combine these two attractions and do them in one day. 

• BATU CAVES

  

  The Batu Caves are arguably the most spectacular and popular tourist attraction in all of Malaysia. A colourful rainbow staircase and a 43-metre high golden statue adorn the entrance to the caves and provide the perfect backdrop for incredible photos. Entry to the main caves is free, but some of the smaller caves nearby cost a small entry fee of a few dollars. It’s worth seeing the Batu Caves early in the morning as it can get very crowded at midday. Luckily the caves are located not to far from the city and can easily be reached by train.
  

• CHOW KIT MARKET

  Chow Kit Market is one of the largest markets in all of Kuala Lumpur. It is a maze-like system of corridors where you can easily get lost. Here you can find almost anything your heart desires, including fresh fish and meat, the most delicious fresh fruits and vegetables as well as a huge clothing market where you can find both second-hand and new clothes. 

  After a long day of shopping you should take a break to try some of the unusual snacks sold by street vendors nearby. You should plan at least an hour if not more for a visit to the market, as it can get very crowded.

• CHINA TOWN

  Kuala Lumpur’s China Town is one of the busiest parts of the city with street markets, local restaurants and many hotels and hostels around. Probably one of the most well-known parts of China Town is Petaling Street, a market street where vendors sell clothing, electronics and food. Don’t forget to stop by Central Market, an even larger indoor market selling art and local products. Don’t forget to haggle if you’re planning on buying something since prices can be very high initially. Sin Sze Si Ya and Sri Mahamariamman Temple are also well worth a visit and can be reached in just a few minutes on foot.

• THEAN HOU TEMPLE

  

  Thean Hou Temple is a lesser known temple in Kuala Lumpur and a bit of a secret tip if you’ve never been to the city before. You won’t have to deal with the tourist crowds that you might encounter when visiting the Batu Caves, China Town or the Petronas Towers. The temple offers a beautiful atmosphere and the architecture is absolutely amazing. The view alone will make coming here worth it. Admission is free but please note that this is a religious site, so be respectful and follow the dress code. It is a bit difficult to reach the temple by public transport or on foot, so it is recommended to take a taxi directly. 

• NATIONAL MUSEUM

  The National Museum in Kuala Lumpur is a great spot to escape the rain that you’ll most likely encounter in KL at some point in time. If you’re interested in Malysian culture and history this is the place to go. The entrance fee only costs around 1$ for which you get to explore the large museum for as long as you want. The exhibits are organised chronologically ranging from the prehistoric era all the way to colonial times and the 21st century. Learn more about Kuala Lumpur’s significance and how landmarks around the city were a part of history.

• PETRONAS TOWERS

  Kuala Lumpur’s most famous skyscraper and an emblem of Malaysia are the famous Petronas Towers. They are the largest twin towers in the world and a must-see for anyone coming to KL. Your visit to Kuala Lumpur is not complete if you haven’t seen the towers which can be done either from the KLCC Park below or by going all the way to the top. There are limited tickets available each day, so it is worth planning your visit to the twin towers and buying your ticket online about a week in advance. You only have 45 minutes at a time in the sky bridge that connects the two towers and then in the observation deck where you have the best view of the city. At around $20, the ticket price is not the cheapest, but definitely worth it if it’s your first time in Kuala Lumpur.

• BUKIT BINTANG

  Bukit Bintang is a very busy area in the city centre with countless shopping malls and more upscale restaurants. During the day, it is worth taking some time to stroll through the streets and maybe have lunch in one of the many food courts. This area is saturated with shopping malls of all kinds and sizes and some of the best international restaurants around. In the evening, the nearby Changkat is the main area for nightlife with many bars and clubs. Then there is Jalan Alor, a busy night market street known for its delicious seafood restaurants and incredible street food.

Best Time to Visit Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur has a hot and humid climate year round which means there is no real on and off season. As it is a tropical climate, occasional rainfall is to be expected, but it varies depending on the season. Kuala Lumpur is said to be slightly cooler than other places in Malaysia as it is surrounded by mountains in all directions. Temperatures can be expected to be between 29°C – 35°C during the day and between 26°C – 29°C at night. The humidity usually rises above 80% which makes it uncomfortable and sweaty to be outside at times.

It is best to pack light clothing for everyday wear, as well as a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Always remember to wear sunscreen even when the sky looks cloudy. While short sleeves and shorts might be most comfortable to wear in hot temperatures, always have a light jacket or sarong with you to cover up in case you’re visiting a temple or religious site. The majority of indoor places will have AC which could mean you’ll get cold easily after a long day outside in the heat.

It is also advisable to carry a bottle of water with you at all times, as well as an umbrella in case of unexpected rainfall. Luckily many parts of KL like shopping malls and train stations are connected by covered walkways which will make getting around in the rain bearable. Unexpected rainfall usually lasts no more than an hour and only happens 1-2 times a day. You can pass the time in an air-conditioned shopping mall.

Kuala Lumpur for Families

Kuala Lumpur is an incredibly loud and busy city which might not be the best environment to raise a family. However, the outskirts are actually a lot more family-friendly than you would expect. If you’re considering moving to KL with your children you should definitely prioritise finding an apartment in areas such as Mont Kiara where many other expats live. This is also where you’ll find the best selection of international schools and day-care facilities. 

Kuala Lumpur has many different parks and fun activities for the entire family. Spend a day at the zoo or explore the science centre in the Suria Shopping Centre. Then there is Berjaya Shopping Centre in Bukit Bintang which has an entire in-door theme park as well as activities such as laser tag or bowling. In the city centre, you can find theatre performances made for kids and family days hosted by many institutions. 

Since Kuala Lumpur is such a large city you’ll always find something to do. The selection of after-school activities and clubs for kids is very good and there are many opportunities to join sports teams, learn a new language or practise an instrument. With a large international community, children will be exposed to many different cultures and backgrounds which you won’t find in many other places. 

While most digital nomads don’t really need a car in Kuala Lumpur you should consider buying one if you are staying in the city long term with a family. Taking kids to school or going grocery shopping will just be a lot more convenient than having to navigate public transport with little ones. Definitely join some Facebook groups geared towards expat families in Kuala Lumpur to make connections to other parents and network. This is the best way to get access to family events and make friends.

Living in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur Transportation

Kuala Lumpur has an incredible public transport system and getting around is easy and affordable. There are different types of trains in the city which will take you to most places in the city centre and to neighbourhoods further away. The most popular forms of transport are the LRT or MRT, modern underground train networks with an extensive selection of routes. If you’re living in KL for an extended time period you should definitely buy a rechargeable metro card that will make getting on and off the train a lot easier. There are LRT or MRT stations all around the city centre and the trains are air conditioned and very clean. 

KL also has the Monorail, an elevated train that operates above the busy streets. There aren’t as many Monorail routes as there are for the LRT but everyone who comes to KL should ride one at least once. The experience can sometimes feel a bit like a rollercoaster although one gets used to the feeling after a few rides.

Finally, there are the KLIA express and the KTM Komuter. The former is an express airport train that takes passengers to and from KLIA International airport into the city. The KLIA is essentially the only form of public transport that reaches the airport which means that it is of course quite expensive (Around 13$). If you’re travelling with more people it might be more affordable to simply take a taxi. The KTM Komuter is a train that goes further out of the city to neighbourhoods like the Batu Caves. It doesn’t run as often as the LRT or Monorail trains but can be useful for commuting.

Of course, Kuala Lumpur also has a bus system. The public buses are very affordable and especially useful if you live in an area without a train station. They are mostly used by locals and some bus drivers do not speak English so make sure you know exactly where you are going before getting on. 

One of the best ways to get around on a budget in Kuala Lumpur are the free Go KL City buses. They take tourists and locals all around KLCC, Bukit Bintang and Chinatown to important sightseeing hotspots. They are free to use and a great way to get around town without spending any money.

Of course, there are plenty of taxis in Kuala Lumpur. Like in many large cities ride-sharing services have taken over and most people only use the app Grab. Rides are rarely more expensive than a few dollars and there is no need for long waiting times. During the rush hour it is sometimes not advisable to call a Grab since you can get stuck in traffic but other than that it is highly recommended to make use of the app. Especially if you’re worried about safety and feel uncomfortable using public transport late at night you’ll be pleased to know that Grab is a safe and convenient form of getting around in Kuala Lumpur.

You could also buy or rent a car during your time in Kuala Lumpur, however, there is no real need to. The city is extremely well connected and you’ll get by fine without one. Parking can be expensive and hard to find so it’s worth considering whether you’d get much use out of a car.

Fitness and Health

Kuala Lumpur is a large city so you’ll find just about every form of gym, sports class or fitness space here. Of course, you can find the traditional gyms like Fitness First, Peak Fitness or Epique Fitness who tend to have multiple locations across the city which you can use interchangeably. These large chains offer high-end facilities but also premium prices starting at around 50$ per month for a 12-month contract.

If you’re on a budget you should consider looking for smaller, off-brand gyms further away from the city centre which will cost far less. If you’re renting an apartment in a large building there is a good chance that you’ll have access to an in-house gym for free. This won’t be very large but will be included in your rent.

Another great way of staying fit in Kuala Lumpur could be to join a local sports team. Most of the time this is quite affordable and you can join with no prior experience. This is also a fantastic way to connect to others and find new friends.

If you simply don’t have the budget for joining a gym but still want to stay fit you should get into running. Kuala Lumpur has multiple parks like KLCC Park or Perdana Botanical Gardens with great running tracks. Especially if you come early in the morning this can be a great way to escape the busy city and get in touch with nature. Just keep in mind that the heat and humidity won’t make this an easy workout.

Kuala Lumpur People

Over 1,8 million people live in Kuala Lumpur and its vicinity. The city is incredibly large although the majority of people live in the outskirts which you probably won’t visit as a digital nomad.

People from all around the world live in Kuala Lumpur but the three largest groups are represented by Malays, Chinese and Indians. Kuala Lumpur is praised world-wide for being a very harmonious city where these cultures coexist peacefully. Being Malaysian does not necessarily mean someone is Malay. Many Chinese or Indian people have lived in Kuala Lumpur for generations and are just as Malaysian as anyone else. 

The national language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia, also often called Bahasa or Malay. The language is closely related to that of Indonesia and is spoken widely across the country and even surrounding areas. In Kuala Lumpur the majority of people speak it but by far not everyone. Chinese Malaysians tend to speak Mandarin or Cantonese while Indian Malaysians speak Tamil or Hindi. Luckily they are all united by the common language English which is very widespread and used to communicate. 

Bahasa Malaysia is not a difficult language to learn as it uses the English alphabet and is decently easy to pronounce. If you’re planning on staying in Malaysia longer you should consider learning Bahasa which might make communicating in more local neighbourhoods easier. In the city centre you will always get by with English but sometimes a bit of Bahasa can be helpful. There is a good selection of language schools around the city who offer affordable courses for beginners. Speaking some Bahasa will be especially useful if you live further away from the city centre or are planning to travel around Malaysia after you leave KL.

The people in Malaysia are known to be open and friendly. If you are ever lost or need help you will most likely find someone to assist you. The culture in general is very welcoming and Kuala Lumpur is a good place to live as a digital nomad even if you’ve never been there before. Always make sure to respect local customs when visiting a place like Kuala Lumpur. Some religious places may be inaccessible to foreigners or a certain dress code should be adhered to. Inform yourself of any clothing requirements before you visit a new place and try to cover yourself especially as a woman.

Over 13 million people visit Kuala Lumpur every year. Most tourists only take a few days to see the city or use it as a stopover to see other popular places around South East Asia.  You’ll see a lot of tourists in Kuala Lumpur year-round but they tend to stick to Bukit Bintang, KLCC and Chinatown where the main attractions are located.

Kuala Lumpur is a safe city but some areas should be avoided especially if you’re travelling alone. Always keep your belongings close especially around busy streets and make sure to only get into official taxis or ride-sharing services where you know the license plate number from your app. If you’re getting home late at night avoid quiet streets and don’t walk by yourself.

Kuala Lumpur Insurance and Medical Care

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital and has some of the best hospitals and doctors in the entire country. If you’re worried about finding good medical care abroad you can feel at ease in Kuala Lumpur where you’ll be well taken care off. The vast majority of doctors and health care staff speak English especially in hospitals and doctors offices around the city centre. 

The health care system is divided into the public and private sector. Foreigners only have access to private health care which is easily accessible around the city but can be very expensive. While an initial visit to the doctor will only cost you around 25-50$ this price can quickly go up for treatments or medication. If you are in need of surgery or a hospital stay you will easily pay thousands as a non-Malaysian citizen. This is an important reason why you should always have medical insurance as a digital nomad wherever you go. You never know what treatments you might need abroad so make sure you know what is covered by your insurance. 

It is difficult to obtain medical insurance in Malaysia as a foreigner so it is highly recommended to buy some from your own home country which will be the most affordable option in most cases. The price will depend on where you are from but it is a lot more affordable in most cases than having to pay for treatments abroad. Routine checkups or minor issues won’t break the bank but some more complicated medical things will.

Make sure you are fully covered by reading our full Digital Nomad Travel Insurance guide.

Jobs in Kuala Lumpur

To work legally in Malaysia you need a formal work permit issued by the government. This is usually only given to foreigners if they are sent to Malaysia to work by an international company. Looking for work in Kuala Lumpur as a digital nomad is therefore very difficult and not really recommended. Finding a casual job like working in a bar or restaurant is nearly impossible as employers need to justify why they are hiring a foreigner over a Malaysian citizen. 

If you do find a Malaysia company to hire you locally they could apply for a work permit on your behalf but the chances of it being accepted are only high if the job is very specific and skilled. 

If you have a university degree or qualifications in a field that is in high demand you could consider applying for some jobs and working locally. However, if you’re already a digital nomad your chances of earning money online are likely to be much higher and with better payment. Local contracts are usually not very beneficial with low initial payments. Also, keep in mind that there are many Malaysians looking for work.

If you’re coming to Kuala Lumpur you should already be financially stable and earn enough to sustain yourself without having to work locally in a job that might have benefitted someone else. Whatever you do, never work illegally in Malaysia. You could face harsh punishments and potentially even be removed from the country. Always obtain all necessary permits needed.

Check out our in-depth Digital Nomads Jobs Postings to find the best jobs available for Digital Nomads.