The Budget Nomad: Exploring Malaysia on the cheap

Malaysia is a land of pulsating cities, ancient rainforests, and mouth-watering street food-a paradise for travelers in every sense. Yes, Malaysia has become a lot more popular, and hence, prices add up pretty quick and tend to seem rather accessible to the well-heeled. Fear not, fellow broke backpackers! With insider knowledge and a few cool hacks, one really can get the best of Malaysia on a broke budget. Haggling for deals at bustling markets to feasting on delicious street food for pennies, we’ll show you how to see the sights of Malaysia’s best-kept secrets on a broke budget. In this post, we share with you our ultimate and top tips and tricks on broke backpacking in Malaysia so that one can enjoy this incredible country without having to empty their wallet.

How to get there:

From Thailand:

• Bus: Take a bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit station to Butterworth or Penang ( approx. 18-20 hours, $10-20USD)
• Train: Take a train from Bangkok’s Hualamphong station to Padang Besar (approx. 14 hours, $20-30USD), then transfer to a Malaysian train to Kuala Lumpur

From Singapore:

• Bus: Take a bus from Singapore’s Golden Mile Complex to Kuala Lumpur’s TBS station (approx. 5-6 hours, $10-20 USD)
• Train: Take a train from Singapore’s Woodlands station to Johor Bahru, then transfer to a Malaysian train to Kuala Lumpur (approx. 7-8 hours, $20-30 USD)

From Indonesia:

• Bus: Take a bus from Jakarta’s Pulo Gadung station to Pontianak (approx. 24 hours, $10-20 USD), then transfer to a bus to Kuching, Malaysia
• Ferry: Take a ferry from Batam or Tanjung Pinang to Johor Bahru (approx. 2-3 hours, $10-20 USD)

From Brunei:

• Bus: Take a bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuala Belait (approx. 2 hours, $2-5 USD), then transfer to a bus to Miri, Malaysia
• Ferry: Take a ferry from Bandar Seri Begawan to Labuan (approx. 2 hours, $10-20USD), then transfer to a ferry to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

When to go:

Weather:

• Dry Season (December to February): Best time to visit Malaysia, with clear skies and minimal rain.
• Shoulder Season (March to May and September to November): Good times to visit, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
• Wet Season (June to August): Avoid visiting during this time, with frequent rain and potential flooding.

Festivals and Celebrations:

• Thaipusam (January/February): Witness the colorful procession and festivities at Batu Caves.
• Chinese New Year (February): Experience the vibrant celebrations and decorations.
• Hari Raya Aidilfitri (June/July): Join in the Eid al-Fitr celebrations and feasting.
• Deepavali (October/November): Marvel at the stunning light displays and festivities.
• Merdeka Day (August 31): Celebrate Malaysia’s independence with parades and fireworks.
• Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): Enjoy the lantern displays and mooncakes.

Tourist Season:

• Peak Season (June to August): Avoid visiting during this time, with large crowds and higher prices.
• Shoulder Season (March to May and September to November): Good times to visit, with fewer tourists and lower prices.
• Low Season (December to February): Best time to visit, with minimal tourists and lowest prices.

Best Time for Broke Backpackers:

• September to November: Good weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices make this the best time for broke backpackers.
• March to May: Another good period, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Regional Variations:

• East Coast (Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang): Best visited during the dry season (December to February).
• West Coast (Penang, Langkawi, Cameron Highlands): Can be visited year-round, but best during the shoulder season (March to May and September to November).
• Sabah and Sarawak (Borneo): Best visited during the dry season (December to February), with occasional rain showers.

Best Itineraries:

1 Week:

• Day 1-2: Kuala Lumpur (explore city, visit Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, Petaling Street)
• Day 3-4: Cameron Highlands (trek, visit tea plantations, relax)
• Day 5-6: Penang (explore Georgetown, try street food, visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion)
• Day 7: Return to Kuala Lumpur

2 Weeks:

• Day 1-3: Kuala Lumpur (explore city, visit Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, National Museum, Petaling Street)
• Day 4-6: Taman Negara National Park (trek, spot wildlife, stay in eco-lodge)
• Day 7-9: Cameron Highlands (trek, visit tea plantations, relax)
• Day 10-12: Penang (explore Georgetown, try street food, visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Penang Hill)
• Day 13-14: Return to Kuala Lumpur

1 Month:

• Week 1: Kuala Lumpur (explore city, visit Batu Caves, Merdeka Square, National Museum)
• Week 2: Taman Negara National Park (trek, spot wildlife, stay in eco-lodge), Cameron Highlands (trek, visit tea plantations)
• Week 3: Penang (explore Georgetown, try street food, visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion), Langkawi (relax on beaches)
• Week 4: Sabah (visit Kota Kinabalu, climb Mount Kinabalu, relax on beaches)

3 Months:

• Month 1: West Coast (Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Penang, Langkawi)
  • Explore Kuala Lumpur’s city, visit Batu Caves, Merdeka Square
  • Trek in Cameron Highlands, visit tea plantations
  • Discover Penang’s Georgetown, try street food, visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
  • Relax on Langkawi’s beaches
• Month 2: East Coast (Taman Negara National Park, Kuala Terengganu, Perhentian Islands)
  • Trek in Taman Negara National Park, spot wildlife, stay in eco-lodge
  • Visit Kuala Terengganu’s city, explore nearby islands
  • Relax on Perhentian Islands’ beaches
• Month 3: Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei)
  • Explore Kota Kinabalu’s city, climb Mount Kinabalu, relax on beaches
  • Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Kinabatangan River
  • Trek in Mulu National Park, visit Niah National Park
  • Discover Brunei’s city, visit Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Transportation:

Buses:

• RapidKL: Kuala Lumpur’s bus network, with routes covering the city and suburbs.
• Express Buses: Connect major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.
• Local Buses: Serve smaller towns and rural areas.

Trains:

• KTM Komuter: Commuter trains connecting Kuala Lumpur’s suburbs.
• KTM Intercity: Long-distance trains linking major cities.
• ETS (Electric Train Service): High-speed trains connecting Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Butterworth.

Ferries:

• Penang Ferry: Connects Penang Island to the mainland.
• Langkawi Ferry: Links Langkawi Island to the mainland.
• Sabah and Sarawak Ferries: Connects coastal towns and islands in East Malaysia.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use online resources: Plan your route with Moovit, Google Maps, or Transitlink.
• Buy tickets in advance: Reserve seats for long-distance buses and trains.

Fares and Payment:

• Cash: Pay with cash for most buses and ferries.
• Touch ‘n Go: A prepaid card for convenient travel on RapidKL buses and trains.
• Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted for online bookings and some ticket counters.

Top things to do:

Kuala Lumpur:

• Visit Batu Caves (free)
• Explore Merdeka Square (free)
• Walk through Petaling Street (free)
• Try street food at Jalan Alor (RM10-20)
• Visit the National Museum (RM2)
• Explore the Lake Gardens (free)
• Visit the Islamic Arts Museum (RM12)
• Take a stroll through Chinatown (free)
• Visit the Central Market (free)
• Explore the Kuala Lumpur Tower (RM30-50)
• Visit the Petronas Twin Towers (RM80-100)
• Take a walk through the KLCC Park (free)

Cameron Highlands:

• Hike to the Mossy Forest (free)
• Visit the Boh Tea Plantation (free)
• Explore the Night Market (free)
• Take a bus tour (RM20-30)
• Visit the Orang Asli Village (RM10-20)
• Hike to the top of Mount Brinchang (free)
• Explore the Cameron Highlands Trail (free)
• Visit the Rose Valley (RM10-20)
• Take a scenic drive to the Sungai Palas Tea Estate (free)
• Visit the Cameron Highlands Butterfly Farm (RM10-20)
• Explore the Cameron Highlands Strawberry Farm (RM10-20)

Penang:

• Explore Georgetown (free)
• Visit Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (RM12)
• Try street food at Hawker Centers (RM10-20)
• Visit the Penang Hill (RM30)
• Relax at Batu Ferringhi Beach (free)
• Explore the Penang Museum (RM2)
• Visit the Kek Lok Si Temple (RM2)
• Take a stroll through Little India (free)
• Visit the Penang Botanic Gardens (free)
• Explore the Fort Cornwallis (RM10-20)
• Take a trishaw ride through Georgetown (RM20-30)

Langkawi:

• Take a cable car ride to Mat Cincang (RM30)
• Visit the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park (free)
• Relax at Pantai Cenang Beach (free)
• Take a mangrove tour (RM50-70)
• Visit the Langkawi Sky Bridge (RM5-10)
• Explore the Langkawi Wildlife Park (RM20-30)
• Take a boat tour to the nearby islands (RM50-70)
• Visit the Underwater World Langkawi (RM30-50)
• Explore the Langkawi Night Market (free)
• Take a snorkeling or diving trip to Pulau Payar (RM150-200)

Sabah:

• Hike Mount Kinabalu (RM200-300)
• Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (RM30)
• Explore the Kinabatangan River (RM50-70)
• Relax at Kota Kinabalu Beach (free)
• Visit the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (RM20-30)
• Take a boat tour to the nearby islands (RM50-70)
• Explore the Kota Kinabalu Night Market (free)
• Visit the Sabah State Museum (RM2)
• Take a stroll through the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront (free)
• Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village (RM60-80)

Sarawak:

• Visit the Mulu National Park (RM30-50)
• Explore the Niah National Park (RM30-50)
• Take a boat tour of the Santubong Peninsula (RM50-70)
• Visit the Sarawak Cultural Village (RM60-80)
• Explore the Kuching Waterfront (free)
• Visit the Sarawak Museum (RM2)
• Take a stroll through the Old Town (free)
• Visit the Bako National Park (RM20-30)
• Explore the Semenggoh Nature Reserve (RM10-20)
• Take a boat tour to the nearby islands (RM50-70)

Food:

When I stepped off the plane in Kuala Lumpur, my stomach growled in anticipation. I had heard tales of Malaysia’s diverse and vibrant food scene, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. With spicy street food to aromatic rice dishes, Malaysia’s food scene is an illustration of its true cultural heritage.
First, I visited the famous Jalan Alor night market in Kuala Lumpur, where every other smell seemed to be barbecue with steaming noodles on the side. I stopped at each and every food stall that came in my way-from char kway teow to hainanese chicken rice, every course was a flavor bomb: strong spices, fresh ingredients begged for more.
I then proceeded to Penang, known to be the food capital of Malaysia. Every other street in Georgetown features a hawker centre, each with its speciality dishes. I binged on spicy laksa, savoury rojak, sweet ais kacang-all so full of the island’s history.
But that is not all when it comes to Malaysia’s food scene. In the Cameron Highlands, I fell in love with the old, traditional plantation cuisine of tea estates, dainty sandwiches and scones matching steaming teapots. I went on to be treated like royalty with an endless variety of fresh seafood in Sabah-grilled to perfection and many a time served with spicy sambal.
I watched en route a gamut of ingredients at work, from fragrant lemongrass down to spicy chili peppers. Each of them was a lesson in balance and flavor, none overpowering their acting counterparts.
Food in Malaysia reflects the real meaning of Malaysian culture, as it contains a lot of Chinese, Indian, and Southeast Asian influences; yet it still does not lose its identity as Malaysian cuisine, offering a flavor and flair that is incomparable.
I left Malaysia with a full belly and my senses satisfied. The Malaysian food is just a foodie’s heaven-what with the variety of food to choose from to the ingredients used. Come hungry, come curious, and come with your taste buds ready!

Culture:

Malaysia, is a melting pot of diverse cultures, traditions, and beliefs. With a history dating back thousands of years, Malaysia has evolved into a unique blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures.

Malay Culture

The Malay culture is the dominant culture in Malaysia, with a strong emphasis on Islamic traditions and values. The Malay people are known for their warm hospitality, respect for elders, and love for festivals and celebrations. The Malay language, Bahasa Malaysia, is the national language and is widely spoken throughout the country.

Chinese Culture

Malaysia has a significant Chinese population, with many Chinese immigrants arriving in the country during the 15th century. The Chinese culture in Malaysia is a blend of different dialect groups, including Cantonese, Hokkien, and Hakka. Chinese festivals like Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival are widely celebrated in Malaysia.

Indian Culture

The Indian culture in Malaysia dates back to the 1st century AD, with many Indian traders and settlers arriving in the country. The Indian community in Malaysia is predominantly Tamil, with many practicing Hinduism. Indian festivals like Deepavali and Thaipusam are celebrated with great fervor in Malaysia.

Indigenous Cultures

Malaysia is home to many indigenous cultures, including the Orang Asli, Dayak, and Kadazan-Dusun. These communities have their own unique traditions, customs, and beliefs, with many living in rural areas and relying on agriculture and hunting for their livelihood.

Festivals and Celebrations

Malaysia is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which reflect its diverse cultural heritage. Some of the major festivals include:

• Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Malay)
• Chinese New Year (Chinese)
• Deepavali (Indian)
• Thaipusam (Indian)
• Gawai Dayak (Indigenous)

Traditions and Customs

Malaysian culture is rich in traditions and customs, with many still practiced today. Some of these include:

• Respect for elders
• Use of traditional clothing like the batik and sarong
• Traditional music and dance like the gamelan and joget
• Use of traditional medicine like jamu
• Respect for Islamic traditions and values

Accommodations:

Kuala Lumpur:

• Best Overall: Paper Plane Hostel (RM30-50 per night)
• Best Budget: Sungei Wang Hotel (RM20-30 per night)
• Best Luxury: The Explorers Guesthouse (RM50-70 per night)
• Best Social: Reggae Mansion (RM30-50 per night)
• Best for Solo Travelers: The Bed KLCC (RM30-50 per night)
• Best for Couples: The Nest (RM50-70 per night)

Cameron Highlands:

• Best Overall: Cameron Highlands Backpackers (RM20-30 per night)
• Best Budget: Father’s Guest House (RM15-25 per night)
• Best Luxury: The Lakehouse (RM50-70 per night)
• Best Social: Kang Travellers Lodge (RM25-35 per night)
• Best for Nature Lovers: The Green Hill (RM30-50 per night)

Penang:

• Best Overall: Ryokan Muntri (RM30-50 per night)
• Best Budget: Sim Lim Hostel (RM20-30 per night)
• Best Luxury: The Gurney Resort (RM50-70 per night)
• Best Social: The 80’s Guesthouse (RM30-50 per night)
• Best for Foodies: The Frame Guesthouse (RM30-50 per night)

Langkawi:

• Best Overall: Langkawi Dormitorio (RM25-35 per night)
• Best Budget: Gecko Guest House (RM20-30 per night)
• Best Luxury: The Andaman Resort (RM50-70 per night)
• Best Social: Sunba Hostel (RM30-50 per night)
• Best for Beach Lovers: The Beach House (RM40-60 per night)

Sabah:

• Best Overall: Borneo Backpackers (RM30-50 per night)
• Best Budget: Kinabalu Backpackers (RM25-35 per night)
• Best Luxury: The Magellan Sutera Resort (RM50-70 per night)
• Best Social: The Bunk Hostel (RM30-50 per night)
• Best for Adventure Seekers: The Mountain Lodge (RM40-60 per night)

Sarawak:

• Best Overall: Kuching Backpackers (RM25-35 per night)
• Best Budget: Singgahsana Lodge (RM20-30 per night)
• Best Luxury: The Pullman Kuching (RM50-70 per night)
• Best Social: The Room (RM30-50 per night)
• Best for Cultural Enthusiasts: The Kuching Heritage (RM30-50 per night)

Nightlife:

Kuala Lumpur:

• Best Rooftop Bar: Marini’s on 57 (RM50-100 per drink)
• Best Cocktail Bar: Omakase + Appreciate (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Club: Zouk KL (RM50-100 per entry)
• Best Lounge: The Ritz-Carlton’s Lobby Lounge (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Speakeasy: PS150 (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Live Music Venue: No Black Tie (RM20-30 per drink)

Penang:

• Best Beach Bar: Batu Ferringhi Beach Bar (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Night Market: Pasar Malam Night Market (free entry)
• Best Club: Soho Free House (RM30-50 per entry)
• Best Live Music Venue: The Canteen (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Jazz Bar: The Jazz Club (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Pub: The Penang Times Square Pub (RM20-30 per drink)

Langkawi:

• Best Beach Club: Naam Beach Club (RM30-50 per entry)
• Best Sunset Bar: The Cliff Restaurant and Bar (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Nightlife Area: Pantai Cenang Nightlife Strip (free entry)
• Best Karaoke Bar: Red Tomato (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Wine Bar: The Wine Shop (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Bistro: The Bistro (RM30-50 per drink)

Sabah:

• Best Rooftop Bar: The Pacific Sutera’s Rooftop Bar (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Club: BED KL Sabah (RM50-100 per entry)
• Best Live Music Venue: The Loft (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Pub: The Shamrock Irish Pub (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Sports Bar: The Sports Bar (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Lounge: The Magellan Sutera’s Lounge (RM30-50 per drink)

Sarawak:

• Best Nightlife Area: Kuching Waterfront Nightlife Strip (free entry)
• Best Club: The Room (RM30-50 per entry)
• Best Live Music Venue: The Junk Restaurant and Bar (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Pub: The James Brooke Bistro and Pub (RM20-30 per drink)
• Best Wine Bar: The Wine Cellar (RM30-50 per drink)
• Best Bistro: The Bistro (RM30-50 per drink)

Backpacking Malaysia costs:

Daily Budget:

• Accommodation: RM10-20 ( approx. $2.50-$5 USD) per night (hostel or budget hotel)
• Food: RM15-30 (approx. $3.75-$7.50 USD) per day (street food and local eateries)
• Transportation: RM5-10 (approx. $1.25-$2.50 USD) per day (public transportation)
• Attractions: RM10-20 (approx. $2.50-$5 USD) per day (free or low-cost attractions)
• Total: RM40-80 (approx. $10-$20 USD) per day

Weekly Budget:

• Accommodation: RM70-140 (approx. $17.50-$35 USD) per week
• Food: RM105-210 (approx. $26.25-$52.50 USD) per week
• Transportation: RM35-70 (approx. $8.75-$17.50 USD) per week
• Attractions: RM70-140 (approx. $17.50-$35 USD) per week
• Total: RM280-560 (approx. $70-$140 USD) per week

Backacking around Malaysia requires a little bit of give and take, but it will be totally worth your time. From chaotic KL streets to the stunning beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia can truly offer something to every kind of traveler. You will be able to see all Malaysia has to offer without breaking the bank by staying in hostels, eating at street food stalls, and using public transportation.
Remember, it is not about how much money you spend, but about experiences and the people along the way. A little creativity and resourcefulness go a long way in ensuring you will have a fabulous time in Malaysia, even on the tightest of budgets.