Dress in Kuala Lumpur and Other Local Customs (2024)

FAQs

Dress in Kuala Lumpur and Other Local Customs? ›

Islamic tradition suffuses the dress code for locals, Muslim or otherwise, and dictates that both men and women should keep torsos covered; shirt sleeves, if short, should come down to the elbow (for women, long-sleeved tops are preferable), while shorts or skirts should extend down to the knee (long trousers are ideal ...

Malaysia Style Tips

When deciding what to wear in Malaysia, it is good to know that Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city where there is no particular dress code and you will find all fashions.

While you're not going to get arrested for dressing inappropriately in KL, it is respectful to the local culture to cover up. Malaysia is a multicultural country; however, its majority is Muslim. As such, clothing items such as short skirts and singlets should be avoided.

Contrary to popular beliefs, you can wear anything you like in Malaysia as long as it is considered decent. If you are going to religious places like temples & mosques do wear something more appropriate – sleeveless & shorts are out of the question.

Originally, the term baju kurung was used to refer to both the men's and women's outfits. However, in modern Malaysia, the men's outfit was renamed Baju Melayu as it was chosen to be the national costume of Malaysia.

Some men prefer wearing batik shirts with trousers. Women: The ancient traditional dress for Malay women was kemban, which included sarongs tied above the chest. The current traditional dress for women is baju kurung, which comprises of a knee-length, full-sleeved blouse and a long skirt called kain.

Islamic tradition suffuses the dress code for locals, Muslim or otherwise, and dictates that both men and women should keep torsos covered; shirt sleeves, if short, should come down to the elbow (for women, long-sleeved tops are preferable), while shorts or skirts should extend down to the knee (long trousers are ideal ...

Due to the predominantly Muslim culture, tourists should dress in a conservative manner, particularly in more rural areas and always when entering a mosque. Women should wear loose clothing that covers the legs, arms and shoulders. A headscarf can also be worn to show further respect for the culture.

Yellow clothing is banned in Malaysia

If yellow is your favorite color, it won't make a fashion statement in Malaysia, unfortunately.

Is Kuala Lumpur safe for female tourists? ›

In short, yes Kuala Lumpur is safe for solo travellers.

Even in more rural areas. Just because Kuala Lumpur is safe, doesn't mean there aren't things you need to be aware of. There are definitely things you need to know before your trip to Kuala Lumpur to make sure you're staying safe and protecting yourself.

Public spaces and services

Mask wearing is a voluntary practice. However, the Ministry of Health continues to recommend that you must wear a mask in a crowded or badly ventilated area such as public transportation, medical facilities and elderly care homes.

In 2016, the Malaysian government banned yellow clothing after thousands of protestors wearing yellow t-shirts flooded the streets of Kuala Lumpur and demanded the resignation of the Prime Minister. Since then, anyone wearing yellow can be arrested, under the assumption that they're also protesting.

Traditionally, Malay men may opt to wear the Pending and Baju Sikap in order to complete the Malay "suit six". On the other hand, Malay women wear the Baju Kurung. Baju Kurung is a knee-length blouse worn over a long skirt, known as sarong.

Nasi lemak is a dish originating in Malay cuisine that consists of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf. It is commonly found in Malaysia, where it is considered the national dish.

While it is preferable to wear pants in Kuala Lumpur, it is fine to wear skirts and shorts. Just don't wear “short shorts” or mini skirts. Mid-thigh shorts and skirts are generally sufficient.

All major currencies are accepted, and there is never a problem with the U.S. dollar, except for dirty or old notes. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are found throughout the country, especially where tourists frequent.