Settling-in Tips from Staff at Crown Penang

What is special or unique about your city?

Founded in 1786 by an adventurous English Trader, Captain Francis Light, the island of Penang is known as "The Pearl of the Orient" and sits off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Today, Penang is comprised of Penang Island and a strip of the mainland on the adjacent coastal area known as Seberang Prai (Province Wellesley). It is the oldest British settlement, rich with history, and its tropical beaches, cultural diversity and famous cuisine add to its allure. Its name (pronounced "Pinang" in Malay language) was derived from betel nut trees growing in abundance before the British set their feet on the island.

Penang's state capital, Georgetown, is the largest city in Penang with a population of 250,000 people and is considered the "pulse" of Penang. It is a vibrant city with lots to do and it too, is full of history and culture. Here you can visit the State Museum and Art Gallery located on Farquhar Street, which is the perfect starting point to many of the town's heritage sites.

Penang is also known as the Malaysian food haven, because you can enjoy cuisine from all parts of the world. In a couple of words, Penang food is both famous and fabulous. With a large amount of daily fish and seafood at its fingertips, Penang is a natural leader when it comes to seafood. There are many unique restaurants to try, but you have not truly enjoyed Penang food until you have tried the local hawker food stalls. Penang hawker food can be broken down into several varieties: Nyonya, Chinese, vegetarian, Indian, Malay, Hakka-styled Western, seafood and desserts. A couple of the main favorites are Malay style chicken rice and char koay teow and Chinese satay and nasi lemak. Another great thing is prices are cheap and reasonable!

Once you get settled here and find your way around, we think you're going to love it!

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Locals are taken back by Penang's beauty, but also by the friendliness of the locals, the perfect weather and the delicious food.

One thing they are usually unprepared for is the abundance of motorcycles (small ones at that) that are fast and unpredictable - squeezing their way through the narrowest spaces (including cars) to get ahead.

Are these impressions likely to change?

In the future, their impressions of the traffic congestion may change because there are plans to build elevated highways to ease the traffic situation in Georgetown. Penang state government also has near future plans to introduce a light rail system within Georgetown. Both of these things will help a lot!

What is the local language?

The official language is Bahasa Melayu. However, English is widely spoken, written and understood and is the language used in business. Other major languages are Hokkien and Tamil. Quite a number of Penangites are able to speak three or four languages. Many rural areas may have fewer people that can converse well in English, so knowing a few words in the local language is always appreciated by the residents.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

The majority of the shopkeepers and owners of food establishments speak and understand English, so Bahasa Malaysia is not really necessary. Most taxi drivers understand English, but when a driver with limited English is encountered, some local phrases/directions would be helpful to know.

Here are some simple phrases in Malay:

Selamat datang - Welcome
Terima kasih - Thank you
Selamat pagi - Good morning
Selamat tengah hari - Good afternoon
Selamat petang - Good evening
Selamat malam - Good night
Jumpa lagi - See you again
Apa khabar? - How are you?
Baik - Fine

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Some tips to avoid offending residents of Penang are:

Always take your shoes off when entering someone’s home.
Do not point with your index finger.
Do not raise your voice or get angry when trying to communicate with Malaysians.
With the exception of handshakes, there is no public contact between the sexes.
Kissing in public is frowned upon and should be confined to your home. This includes even husbands and wives.
When introducing a man and a woman, it is recommended that the female's name be said first.
Keep your hands out of your pockets in public.
When passing an object, or touching someone (such as shaking hands), do so with your right hand as the left is considered unclean.
Feet are also believed to be unclean, so do not show the soles of your feet or point them towards another person in public.
Be aware that in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, there are very harsh penalties against littering.
Drug trafficking is a mandatory death penalty.
You are not expected to tip a taxi driver but you are expected to tip porters.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Penang is a tropical island and the climate is uniformly warm and humid throughout the year. If you are not used to the humidity, this might be hard at first, but before you know it, you will get used to it. Temperatures range from about 27 degrees Celsius in the morning to about 32 degrees Celsius during mid-day. Afternoon thunderstorms are common throughout the year, although September to November are considered the wettest months. Most offices and modern shopping malls are equipped with air conditioning, as are the apartments and houses that expats live in. If walking or shopping on the streets of Georgetown, light cotton clothing and a hat are recommended.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Living in Penang is very relaxed and most residents are pretty laid back. So much so, when making appointments with contractors, don't expect them to show up at the agreed time.

Also, sometimes the locals may say "yes" to you even though they may mean "no." This is because they don’t like to disappoint and try to avoid conflict at all costs. When interacting with Malaysians, be firm but friendly with requests, and don’t point out their mistakes.

Useful Links

Malaysia - general tourism info:
www.tourism.gov.my

Information on attractions, maps, and recommendations on what to do in Penang:
www.penang.ws

The Star - popular local newspaper:
www.thestar.com.my

Information on Penang:
http://emasholiday.com/penang/penang.php
www.visitpenang.com
www.penang.ws

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

All persons entering Malaysia must possess a valid national passport or other internationally recognized travel documents valid for travel to Malaysia. These passports or travel documents must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Malaysia.

Commonwealth citizens (except for India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka), British protected persons or citizens of the Republic of Ireland and citizens of Switzerland, the Netherlands, San Marino and Liechtenstein do not need a visa to enter Malaysia.

Citizens of certain countries which include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Japan, Republic of Korea, Luxembourg, Norway, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Turkey, Italy, United Arab Emirates and the United States of America do not require a visa for a visit not exceeding three months.

Citizens of European Countries, Baltic and Commonwealth of Independent States, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Romania and Syria do not need a visa for a visit not exceeding two weeks.

When your flight arrives in Malaysia, you will be given an Embarkation Card to complete and present to immigration authorities. The immigration authorities retain a portion of this card and a portion is given to you. You must keep this card with your passport, as it will be required the next time you leave Malaysia.

A Social or Business Pass will be granted at the port of entry into Malaysia. These passes allow an individual to stay in Malaysia for a period of one to three months and may be extended for one month upon application to the immigration department.

What kinds of visas are available?

No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

The visa is an endorsement or sticker on a passport to indicate that permission has been granted to enter Malaysia. A visa can be obtained from Malaysian Overseas Missions before arrival, but it must be used within its validity period (normally 3 months). However, for a permission to stay, a pass for an approved period will be stamped in the passport at the point of entry.

Do Note: Citizens of Israel, Serbia and Montenegro are not allowed to enter Malaysia for any purpose without prior approval from the Malaysian Government.

There are three (3) types of visas issued by the Malaysian Government to foreign nationals:

Single Entry Visa: Issued to foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Malaysia mainly for a social or business visit. This is normally valid for a single entry and for a period of three (3) months from the date of issue.

Multiple Entry Visa: Issued to foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Malaysia mainly for business or government-to-government matters. This is normally valid for a period within three (3) months to five (5) years, from the date of issue.

Transit Visa: Issued to foreign nationals who require a visa to enter Malaysia on transit to other countries. Foreign Nationals on transit without leaving the airport precincts and who continue their journey to the next destination with the same flight do not require a transit visa.

The types of passes issued are as follows:

Visit Pass (Temporary Employment): This is issued to persons who enter the country to take up temporary employment.

Employment Pass: This is issued to any foreigner who enters the country to take up a contract of employment with a minimum period of two years.

Visit Pass (Professional): This is issued to foreigners for the purpose of engaging in short-term contract with any agencies. The validity of the pass varies but does not exceed twelve months at any one time.

Dependent’s Pass: This is issued to the wife and children of any foreigner who has been issued with an Employment Pass. This pass may be applied together with the application of Employment Pass or after the Employment Pass is approved. The wife and children of any person who enters the country on a visit pass (temporary employment or professional) will be issued a visit pass (social).

Student’s Pass: This is issued to any foreigner who enters the country for the purpose of taking up studies in any approved educational institution

Training Pass: This is issued to any expat who is in Malaysia for any type of training.

What is required to obtain these visas?

The Malaysian immigration authorities issue Employment, Professional, Dependant, Student and Training Passes. The expat’s employer who acts as his or her sponsoring organization must obtain these passes. Documents that the expat will have to provide for the application of the Employment and Dependant Passes are:

Four passport-sized photographs.
Employment contract which details job title, functions, salary and duration of contract.
Two copies of expat's resume, academic certificates, testimonials (all copies must be certified true and stamped with company stamp).
Two copies of the main pages of passport, including page with entry stamp and Embarkation Card. If the spouse's passport does not carry the married surname, a certified true copy of the marriage certificate will be required. Please note that Chinese, Indian and Philippine nationals must provide certified true copies of the whole passport.
Marriage certificate -- if printed in a language other than English, you'll need to provide a translated copy with proper attestation by the respective embassy in Malaysia.
Birth certificate of accompanying children -- if printed in a language other than English, please provide translated copy with proper attestation by respective embassy in Malaysia. If applicant has stepchildren, custody letter or letter of adoption must be provided with proper attestation by the respective embassy in Malaysia.
Proof of sufficient funds

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Unfortunately, there are not many work possibilities for accompanying spouses in Malaysia. However, a spouse is permitted to work if he/she can find an employer who is willing to be the sponsoring organization.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

Every Malaysian is issued an Identification Card (IC). The IC number is often requested as a form of identification. An expat who is issued an Employment Pass will also be issued an IC card.

For other foreigners, a passport number is sufficient. In fact, you'll be required by law to carry a copy of your passport with you all the times.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

All foreigners are encouraged to register at their respective embassies. This will enable the embassy to contact you without delay in case of an emergency. It will also help you network with other people from your country of origin.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Avoid bringing in the following items into the country:

Firearms/dangerous weapons/limitation firearms (Note that there is a mandatory death sentence for illegal possession)

Antique goods (these require a national museum permit)

Swords (require an import permit)

Obscene and pornographic materials

Narcotics (there is a mandatory death sentence if convicted)

Toys resembling firearms

Fireworks

Also note that alcohol is subject to high duties/taxes in Malaysia -- between 150 to 250 percent of the estimated value of goods, depending on the alcoholic content.

Importation of videotapes is subject to approval by the Film Censorship Board, which will view and edit the tapes before releasing them to the owners. A fee will also be levied for each tape.

Importation of fax machines, cordless phones, cellular phones, modems, the Standard Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM) must approve answering machines and similar items. You'll be issued a permit by SIRIM, which should take about a month.

Please contact Crown Penang for the most comprehensive, up-to-date list of restricted and prohibited items.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Keep in mind: every foreigner entering Malaysia must possess a passport that will remain valid for at least six months after arrival.

Useful Links

Malaysian government links/information:
www.mcsl.mampu.gov.my

What is the local currency?

The local currency is the Malaysian ringgit (RM or MYR), which is divided into 100 sen.

What denominations does it come in?

Bank Notes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000RM
Coins: 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents and 50 cents

The value of the ringgit is currently around RM3.75 to US($)1.00 dollar. (Rates are subject to change without prior notice)

What is the best way to exchange currency?

There are numerous banks in Penang, both local and international. Currency can be exchanged at any of these banks or at licensed foreign money changers. Traveler's cheques can only be exchanged for Malaysian ringgit at some authorized money changers, as well as at commercial banks or hotels.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash is most commonly used, but credit card purchases can be made at most major grocery chains, department stores.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Credit cards are accepted at most department stores, hotels, gas stations, larger restaurants and large supermarkets. Keep in mind that some smaller stores that accept credit cards will charge an extra two to four percent for the purchase.

Also, if you pay with cash, many times you will receive a discount for doing so. In addition, taxis only take cash, as do the street markets and stalls.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Payment is made directly to the provider/landlord by either cash or check, or at the post office. Some utility companies have phone and internet banking access (through a local bank account).

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

To open a bank account, you must furnish a valid passport and a letter of employment confirmation. It is best to open the account as soon as possible after arrival. Foreign currency accounts are available at major local banks and international banks.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Yes, there are major international banks that offer services in English and other languages.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Some utility accounts (i.e. telephone) require a refundable deposit from a foreign resident in order to establish the service.

What are typical banking hours?

Hours vary from bank to bank, but generally they are as follows:

Monday - Friday: 9:30AM to 4PM

Saturday (second and forth of the month only): 9:30AM to 12:00PM

Sunday: CLOSED

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes, you can find ATM machines all over the city as well as at most large supermarkets.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Things to keep in mind:

Traveler's cheques can sometimes be difficult to cash if you're not in an urban center and some currencies are only cashed through the banks.

Currently there is a large amount of credit card fraud in Malaysia, so it is wise to limit the use of your credit card and be wary of having the card removed from your sight (i.e. by a restaurant employee, shopkeeper, etc).

The Touch N’ Go card is a stored value card that is very useful for toll roads and transport on the light rail system. The card can be purchased at the designated stations located at various toll booths around the city and can also be topped up at these stations or at the ATM machines of certain banks.

The debit card system is not currently used for purchases in Malaysia.

Useful Links

Currency converter:
www.oanda.com

www.circleofasia.com/guide/malaysia-currency.asp

HSBC bank:
www.hsbc.com.my

Citibank:
www.citibank.com.my

Maybank:
www.maybank2u.com.my

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you may want to find a place close to work, school, shops, medical facilities and most importantly an area that is secure and safe. Choosing the right place to live is essential to having a pleasant and safe stay in Penang. Also, it’s important to select an area that suits your lifestyle.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Most expatriates moving to Penang choose to live in one of the following areas:

Persiaran Gurney (Gurney Drive)

- This area is facing the sea that makes it a prime choice amongst the expats. There are plenty of apartments and condominiums available here with facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts and saunas. It is close to the town center, international schools and food outlets.

Jesselton Heights -

This area is filled with houses with large gardens, which makes them suitable for families with pets. It is close to international schools and shopping centers.

Bukit Jambul

- Also known as the Millionaire's Row, these houses are large and can be up to three stories high. This area is close to the industrial area where most of the expats work.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expatriates usually rent rather than buy. If you do wish to buy a house as a foreigner, the property will have to have a value of more than RM250,000. You will need approval from the Foreign Investment Committee. Banks provide foreigners housing loans up to 60% of the property value.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

When renting, it is normally expected to pay a two-month deposit in advance. This does not include the first month's rent.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Typically, utilities are not included in the rent (unless you are residing in a serviced apartment). Water, electricity and gas are all extra. Deposits of about 40 to 50 percent of the month’s rental price are also required for the utilities.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Living in Penang is generally safe. However, you may want to take the same precautions you would take back home. For example, if you are living in a house, it may be advisable to install a security system. Robberies, although not too common, do occur.

It is recommended that you check out local police reports before deciding on an area to live. These reports provide factual information on types of crimes and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor on whether you choose to live in a certain neighborhood or not.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current in Penang is 220 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50.

The socket types are generally the UK-style three-prong with occasional two round pin socket styles. Any appliances from countries with 110V and 120Hz will require transformers.

The TVs operate on PAL, so if you are coming from a country that runs on a different system (i.e. NTSC), your TV and DVD/VCR sets should be multi-system.

Type G - Rectangular blade plug

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Please contact Crown Penang for help with your home search.

Useful Links

Sri Sayang Resort Condo:
www.srisayangresort.com

Aurora Court Service Apartment:
www.auroracourt.com

Equatorial Hotel:
www.equatorial.com/pen

Century Bay Service Apartment:
http://www.centuryone.net/penang-centurybay-index.htm

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Most expats tend to send their children to private schools. Keep in mind that there is usually a waiting list. It is recommended that you contact the school of your choice as soon as you arrive so you are able to obtain a spot on the list.

What are some examples of these schools?

There are a number of private foreign schools available in Penang such as:

The Dalat School

- American curriculum for grades 1 to 12 and there is a boarding facility available.

St Christopher’s Primary School

- British curriculum; International primary school and Malaysian children from the ages of 3 to 11.

Uplands School

- British and International curriculum; nursery to sixth form and boarding facility available.

Penang Japanese School -

Japanese curriculum

Penang Taiwanese School

- Taiwan curriculum

For more information on schools and their availabilities contact Crown Penang.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Due to the many options available, getting a spot in either your first or second choice is feasible. However, it is recommended that you contact the school of your choice as soon as you arrive so you are able to guarantee a spot on the list.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Outside of the programs available for 3 to 4 year olds in the international schools, there are not a large variety of pre-schools for English-speaking children in Penang. The most popular one is Montessori, but it has only a few locations. There is a lot of competition for placement spots so it is recommended that you contact the pre-school of your choice as soon as you get settled. For more assistance contact Crown Penang.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

The international schools usually arrange school buses. Sometimes, there are fees. These fees vary depending on the distance to the schools. Also, private bus services are available at most schools and arrangements for these are usually made through the schools. It is recommended that you contact the school of your choice to find out more information. Also, many parents form carpools and take turns driving the children.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The international school year usually begins in mid-August or early September and ends in June or July. However, this depends on each school so it is advised that you contact your child's school for exact dates.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

All international schools require application fees, which are non-refundable. Please contact Crown Penang with any questions about admissions and fees or to arrange a school search.

Useful Links

Uplands International School: www.uplands.org

Dalat International School: www.dalat.org

St. Christopher's International Primary School: www.scips.org.my