Transportation ...
Malaysians drive on the left-hand side of the road. You are allowed to drive on Malaysian roads if you have a valid driver's licence from most other countries.
The roads can get very congested and driving standards vary. Although driving and traffic seems chaotic to begin with most people adjust quickly. When purchasing road maps it is advisable to select the latest detailed street directory and a large map so that you can see the whole picture.
If you choose to drive, always go prepared with a map, water, mobile phone (with credit) and toll fares. Satellite navigation systems are becoming popular and have increasingly accurate information. Various systems, including Garmin, are available in KL.
The website www.expatkl.com has some excellent information about transport and features the Expat Motoring Guide under the topic ‘Living in Malaysia '.
Cars
A wide range of cars is available including locally manufactured and assembled or imported, both types may be either new or used. In general, prices for imported cars are substantially higher than the USA and Europe although tariffs are slowly being lowered. Vehicle loans may be available through the dealership.
You can find second-hand cars by viewing notice boards at the Shell office, expat association notices, newspapers or Autotrader magazine. Another good source of information is Peter Fong at City Motors, 012 201 3503, who often resells expat vehicles.
Drivers
You may choose to hire a driver but you will be expected to provide the car and insurance. There are agencies that can find a driver for you, however they appear to be rarely used by expats. The best way to find a driver in KL is by recommendation.
Alternatively, you may make arrangements with a taxi driver for daily transport to work or schools.
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Driver's Licence
In Malaysia you can drive using an international driving permit, but if you plan to be here a while it is necessary to obtain a Malaysian driver's licence within 3 months of arrival. It is best to check with your own embassy about the regulations.
To apply for a licence, you or your partner must have a valid Malaysian work permit (and a dependent pass for the non-working partner) for one year or more. Usually, only a road signs test is required. Licence holders of USA , UK , Australia , New Zealand and Netherlands are exempt from this test.
Application Requirements for a Malaysian driver's licence:
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A written confirmation (in English) from the issuing authority of the date that your original licence was issued. This can normally be obtained from your embassy for a fee.
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Your original passport and copy
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Copy of employment/dependent pass
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Original driver's licence and copy
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Translation of driver's licence to English if needed (services for a fee provided by embassy)
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2 photographs (driver's licence size)
Insurance
Vehicle registration (road tax) and liability insurance is mandatory. Proof of a “no claims record” is necessary to get a discount and should be on original letterhead (copies or faxes are often unacceptable). The ‘no claims' discount only applies to one vehicle.
Car insurance is readily available through several agencies in KL. The dealership where you purchase the vehicle may sell insurance. Automobile Association Malaysia (AAM) www.aam.org.my is another resource, which also provides car breakdown services that may be purchased separately. MSIG agent Mr. Wong, 019-333-0199, visits Shell Offices at least once a week and will also arrange vehicle ownership transfers and annual registration renewals.
Taxis
Taxis in KL are a convenient and economical means of moving around the city. Air-conditioning and meters are compulsory in all taxis but compliance is not enforced. Be sure to negotiate a flat rate or ask the driver to run the meter before you get in and then make sure the meter is switched on. Drivers usually speak at least some English. Don't be surprised if taxis refuse to take you to outlying areas where they are unlikely to get a return fare.
Taxis can be very hard to get during rush hours and heavy rains, and fares soar. Make sure that you or the driver knows the way to your destination before setting off. Not all drivers know their way in all areas of town; carrying a map with you is always a good idea.
Some locations such as KLIA and Subang airport, Sentral Station and Sunway Lagoon require a coupon to be purchased for the taxi fare.
Buses
Several public bus services operate in KL. Fares are inexpensive but information on schedules and destinations of buses is not usually posted. During peak periods most buses can be very crowded and is likely to have standing room only!
Trains
Light Rail Transport (LRT) has two transit networks within the city. Air-conditioned and very convenient, the LRT operates every 3 minutes during peak periods. Feeder buses go to suburbs and shopping centres.
KL Monorail operates in the city centre linking up with some LRT stations.
KTM Komuter electrified rail service, transports passengers within greater KL and the Klang Valley .
The KL International Airport (KLIA) Express provides service between KL Sentral station and KLIA, with departures every 15 minutes. The journey to the airport takes 30 minutes. Luggage can be checked-in at Sentral Station for selected airlines, at least three hours prior to an international flight.
KTM Intercity trains operate routes from KL to Padang Besar, Singapore and also the East Coast up to Tumpat from KL Sentral Station.
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