Traveller's Tips Part. 1

"Trishaw Ride in Melaka"

Hello again. This useful infomation are good for visitors when they are visiting Melaka.

BUSINESS HOURS

Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of GMT. Government offices are open from 8.00 am till 5.00 pm. Monday to Friday, with the lunch break from 1.00 pm till 2.00 pm. On Fridays, there is a longer lunch break, from 12.15 pm till 2.45 pm, to enable Muslims to perform Friday prayers at the mosque. Saturday and Sunday are off days for government offices.

Most private companies work a five-day week though the are some which also oporate a half-day on each or alternate Saturday. Banks usually open from 9.30 am to 11.30 am on Saturday.

While the majority of the country follows the international working week of Monday to Friday with the weekend on Saturday and Sunday, three states in Peninsular Malaysia follow a different working week. Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu work full days from Saturday to Wednesday and a half day on Thursday with the rest day on Friday. The weekend, thus, falls on Thursday and Friday.

CLIMATE & CLOTHING

The climate is generally hot and sunny. Due to its proximity to the Equator, humidity is very high, as are temperatures. Lightweight cothing is advised, particularly for holiday-makers although most restaurants and hotels can be cold due to the very efficient air-conditioning. Being a conservative country, locals appreciate it if visiting foreigners dress appropriately in public places. Shorts and T-shirts are acceptable wear. It is advisable to check the dress code for places of worship.

LANGUAGE

The official language is Bahasa Malaysia. However, English is very widely spoken and understood. Other languages spoken in the country include Cantonese, Mandarin and Tamil.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

Drugs of any kind are considered illegal. Only prescription medicine is allowed. All firearms are banned and those wishing to bring in any kind, including sports, must seek a license from the relevant authority. The penalty for those caught with the two prohibited items is DEATH.

Best Regards,

Saiful Anuar

"Visit Historic Melaka Means Visit Malaysia"