Traveller's Tips Part. 2

" The Stadhuys Building"

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

The major national holidays are religious in nature, i.e Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Raya Haji, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas, Maulidur Rasul and Maal Hijrah. Other National holidays are New Years Day(January 1), the King's birthday(June 5), Labour Day(May 1) and National Day(August 31). Melaka observes public holidays for Awal Ramadhan(first day of the fasting month), Melaka Historical City Day(April 15) and the Governor's birthday(October9). The dates of most of the public holidays tend to vary each year, according to the lunar calendar.

UTILITIES

Although water from to the tap is treated and cleans, it is advisable to boil water for drinking purposes. Moreover, bottled water is avaiable. The power supply is reliable and is supplied at 220 to 240 volts. Most hotels provide 110-120v adapters.

VISAS

No Visas are required for those coming from Commonwealth countries, except Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Citizen of Israel, Serbia and Montenegro are not allowed to enter Malaysia without the prior approval of the Government. Those coming from Indonesia, The Philippines and Thailand are required to have a visa unless they are on a Social or Business Visit for less tahn one month. For most other countries, a visa not required for a Social and Business Visit unless the duration exceeds either one or three months, depending on the country. Thus, it is best o check with the nearest immigration or diplomatic mission office.

A disembarkation form must be filled in and handed to the Immigration official upon arrival. Your passport must be valid for at least six months.

WEIGHTS & MEASURES

The metric system is used in the country with distances being calculated in kilometres,, and weights in grams and kilograms. Some still use Imperial system of miles, feet and inches. In markets and rural areas, katis and tahils ( 1 kati = 12 ounces ) are also used.

I hope this information can be used by visitors before or when their visiting Melaka the Historical City.See next time.Bye.

Best Regards,

Saiful Anuar

"Visit Historic Melaka means Visit Malaysia"