Equatorial/Tropical-the climate is generally hot and sunny all year round; visitors need to wear comfortable clothing to avoid heatstroke. We also have scattered unpredictable rains, therefore, it's advisable to always bring an umbrella in case it rains.
Sarawak has a hot and humid climate, with temperatures generally between 27°C and 34°C. It's cooler up in the hills, especially in the Kelabit Highlands. The heaviest rainfall occurs with the northeast monsoon from November to February, though it rains throughout the year. There's an average annual rainfall of about 350mm to 450mm.
Malaysian Ringgit (RM) - Travelers' cheques and foreign currencies can be changed for Malaysian Ringgit at banks and hotels. However, there are also money changer kiosks available at major shopping complexes and airport. Most major hotels charge a nominal fee for currency conversion.
Standard Malaysian Time is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+8)
Monday through Friday from 9:30am to 3pm
Monday to Friday from 8am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm; Saturday from 8am - 1pm
Shopping centres, supermarkets, restaurants and mini markets are generally open daily from 10am to 10pm. As for tipping; food and beverages in exclusive restaurants, cafes and clubs as well as accommodations normally include 5 per cent service charges. Tipping is not obligatory in most places.
Electricity is on the 240 volts AC/50-Cycle system; treated pipe water is available in most areas.
Bahasa Malaysia (National Language) and English is widely spoken; Mandarin and some Chinese dialects are also widely spoken.
Mobile telecommunications cover many parts of Sabah with the exception of some remote areas. Public phones are scarcely available in most places.
Government hospitals, clinics and dispensaries are available in all towns. The list of private medical practitioners and pharmacies are available in the local phone directory. However, those with specific medical needs are advised to have a good supply of medications.
In Sarawak, we greet people by saying "selamat Datang" (welcome) and/or "terima kasih" (thank you) with a smile. Due to religious reasons, some may prefer not to have physical contact with others. However, a handshake is generally acceptable as way of introducing oneself.