Frequently Asked Questions about Kuala Lumpur
What are the biggest health concerns in KL?
Malaysian weather is hot and humid and so perhaps the biggest health concern is keeping your body properly hydrated. Tap water should either be boiled or purified before drinking. Dengue fever is a risk in all parts of Malaysia, the mosquitoes transmitting Dengue tend to bite during the day and so it is best to remain vigilant. Finally, Kuala Lumpur and most of the west coast tend to be covered in a blanket of smoke when burning is conducted during the dry season (June - Oct). This decreases visibility and is particularly bad for those suffering from Asthma or other respiratory problems.
What are the pollution levels like?
Air pollution levels are a problem in Kuala Lumpur. Forest fires, vehicle emissions and industrial pollution all detract from Kuala Lumpur’s air quality. Many expats will notice the pollution on first arrival, however it is something that your body gets used to. Spending weekends outside of the city in areas such as the Cameron Highlands does help, and wearing a facemask is recommended, especially for kids.
How safe is KL?
Violent crime is involving expats in Malaysia is relatively uncommon. There are occasional instances of petty theft and pick pocketing and some expats have reported burglaries. However this is not the norm and the levels of petty crime are more or less the same as in most large cities around the world. The number to call in an emergency in Malaysia is 999. It is best to always be aware of the people around you whether you’re walking on the street or on a subway, as there are pick pockets and snatch thieves. Female expats should try to be particular aware of the people around them at all times and it is generally recommended that women shouldn’t get into a cab or lift alone late at night.
Is it easy to meet other foreigners in KL?
Meeting other foreigners is not an issue in Kuala Lumpur, with a well-established expat community and a steady flow of international visitors the city offers many opportunities to socialise. There are a number of expat organisations in KL that arrange expat get-togethers. For those who enjoy getting out of the city the local Hash House Harriers meets fairly regularly. Families with kids will find that the local international schools also tend to be great when building a friendship network.
Malaysian weather is hot and humid and so perhaps the biggest health concern is keeping your body properly hydrated. Tap water should either be boiled or purified before drinking. Dengue fever is a risk in all parts of Malaysia, the mosquitoes transmitting Dengue tend to bite during the day and so it is best to remain vigilant. Finally, Kuala Lumpur and most of the west coast tend to be covered in a blanket of smoke when burning is conducted during the dry season (June - Oct). This decreases visibility and is particularly bad for those suffering from Asthma or other respiratory problems.
What are the pollution levels like?
Air pollution levels are a problem in Kuala Lumpur. Forest fires, vehicle emissions and industrial pollution all detract from Kuala Lumpur’s air quality. Many expats will notice the pollution on first arrival, however it is something that your body gets used to. Spending weekends outside of the city in areas such as the Cameron Highlands does help, and wearing a facemask is recommended, especially for kids.
How safe is KL?
Violent crime is involving expats in Malaysia is relatively uncommon. There are occasional instances of petty theft and pick pocketing and some expats have reported burglaries. However this is not the norm and the levels of petty crime are more or less the same as in most large cities around the world. The number to call in an emergency in Malaysia is 999. It is best to always be aware of the people around you whether you’re walking on the street or on a subway, as there are pick pockets and snatch thieves. Female expats should try to be particular aware of the people around them at all times and it is generally recommended that women shouldn’t get into a cab or lift alone late at night.
Is it easy to meet other foreigners in KL?
Meeting other foreigners is not an issue in Kuala Lumpur, with a well-established expat community and a steady flow of international visitors the city offers many opportunities to socialise. There are a number of expat organisations in KL that arrange expat get-togethers. For those who enjoy getting out of the city the local Hash House Harriers meets fairly regularly. Families with kids will find that the local international schools also tend to be great when building a friendship network.
