PEMANGGIL ISLAND

History and Culture	There is a strong interlink between the country’s multi-racial and multicultural make-up and its history. Besides the local Malays and the native tribes, the immigrants from China, India, Indonesia and other countries have all contributed to the multiracial composition of its population. Its interesting cultural diversity can be largely attributed to the country’s long and on-going interaction with the outside world and colonial rule by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. Consequently, the evolution of the country into a cultural melting pot is evident in the unique blend of religions, socio-cultural activities and traditions, dressing, languages and food.
Entry Requirements	Visitors to Malaysia must be in possession of a valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months beyond the intended visiting period. Most nationalities do not require visas for social or business visits. For further information, please check with the nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission or Tourism Malaysia office. More immigration and Visa info.
When to go	From March to October. The climate is tropical, with warm weather all year round. Temperatures range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm and the rainy season is from November to March. Check out the weather. Try to avoid public and school holidays.
Where to stay	Accommodation ranges from five star hotels to delightful wooden beach chalet.
Language	Bahasa Malaysia is the official language but English is widely spoken and understood.
Currency	The Malaysian currency unit is Ringgit (RM) and sen, where 100 sen equals one Ringgit. Most establishments accept major travelers’ cheques and credit cards. US$ 1 is roughly RM 3.20 (Check www.oanda.com for up to date exchange rates). Foreign currency can be converted at banks and money changers. Visitors are not permitted to take more than RM 1000 in Malaysian currency out of the country and no more in foreign currency than was brought in.
Time	Malaysia is 8 hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.
Electricity	Malaysian electricity voltage is on a 240 volt 50-cycle system and uses a UK-style three-pin plug. European two-pin plugs can be used with a simple plastic adaptor, freely available.
Telephones	Local calls can be made from public phones using coins or pre-paid cards. International calls can be made from public phones with card phone facilities or at any Telekom offices
Water	Tap water is safe for drinking in Malaysia, provided that it is boiled first. Hotels usually provide bottled water for guests in their rooms.
Eating out	Local food is usually hot and spicy. Before you eat specifically ask the waiter not to give you any spicy food.
Tipping	Tipping is not mandatory but is sometimes practised. RM1-RM3
Health	The only vaccination requirements are yellow fever for those from infected areas. Cholera, smallpox and malaria have largely been eliminated.
Driving	Visitors will need an international driving licence. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road and it is advisable to observe the speed limits, which are generally 50km/h in the city or residential areas and 80km/h or 110km/h on the highway and expressway.
Useful words	Basic English to Malay dictionary.
Before you go	Make sure you make copies of important documents. Confirm your reservation with your travel agent. Get important telephone numbers like your local travel agent and embassy.
More info	Contact us.