Nightlife

Kuala Lumpur has a selection of reputable nightclubs and discotheques, most belonging to the big hotels. Nightclubs generally stay open until 0400 or 0500 and usually request a cover charge which includes the first drink.  Due to the government rules, night club cannot sell alcoholic drink after 0200.

Many of Kuala Lumpur's bars have a 'Happy Hour', offering two drinks for the price of one, between 1700-2000 or 2100. Bintang Walk is a lively spot and has a good selection of al fresco bars and coffee shops. Penang is also lively at night, larger hotels having cocktail lounges, dining, dancing and cultural shows.

There are night markets in most towns, including both Kuala Lumpur and Penang Chinatown. Malay and Chinese films often have English subtitles and there are also English films. The national lottery and Malaysia's only casino at Genting Highlands is the only government-approved casino and no one supposed to gamble elsewhere. Keno and Chinese Tai- Sai (big- small), roulette, baccarat, french bull and blackjack are played at the casino. Dress is relatively formal and visitors must be over 21.

Shopping

Shopping in Malaysia ranges from exclusive department stores to street markets. Bargaining is expected in the markets, unless fixed prices are displayed. Kuala Lumpur is a popular shopping destination, rivalling Singapore and Hong Kong. Suria KLCC, a shopping mall with a spectacular fountain, gardens and a beautiful piazza, houses a great selection of leading couture outlets. Star Hill and Lot 10 are popular shopping malls and another new biggest mall in Malaysia which have a theme park inside the mall - Times Square.

The islands of Labuan, Tioman and Langkawi are duty-free zones. Cameras, pens, watches, cosmetics, perfume and electronic goods are available duty-free throughout Malaysia. Malaysian speciality goods include pewterware, silverware and brassware; batik; jewellery; pottery and songket. Enquire at Malaysian Royal Customs and Excise about claiming cashback on duty-free goods. Shopping hours: Most shops keep their own opening hours, usually within the range of 1000-2200.

Special Events

Annual Malaysian festivals, which celebrate significant religious events and public holidays are staged throughout the year and are magnificent spectacles, bursting with vibrancy and colour. Each of the different communities has its own customs, traditions and festivals, and to list all the events would take many pages.

Highlights include Chinese New Year, when the Lion Dance is performed, gifts are exchanged, visits to the temples are made and children are given Ang-pows - money placed in bright red envelopes. Hari Raya Puasa marks the end of the Muslim fasting month. Malaysian Muslims celebrate by holding 'open houses' for friends and relatives. Malaysia's Indian community decorate their homes with candles for Deepavali, the Hindu 'Festival of Lights'. Christmas is celebrated with lively carolling and more 'open houses'.

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