Malaysia: Current Travel and Safety Information for Visa Applicants

As of September 2, 2026, the travel and safety advisories for Malaysia were updated. The updates primarily concern safety and crime, general travel information, and legal considerations. Anyone planning a trip to Malaysia or who has already applied for a visa should take a close look at the current assessments, as they may affect travel planning and, in particular, itineraries within the country.

Of particular note is the ongoing warning against travel to the Sulu Archipelago and the adjacent maritime area between the southern Philippines and northeastern Sabah. Traveling along the coasts of northern and eastern Sabah in private sailboats is strongly discouraged. Likewise, non-essential travel to the islands and diving areas off the east coast of Sabah—such as the area between Terusan and Tawau, including Sandakan, Lahad Datu, and Semporna—is discouraged. Travel between Malaysia and Thailand by land is also strongly discouraged at this time.

These assessments are based on the ongoing threat of terrorist attacks as well as past incidents such as rebel incursions into eastern districts of Sabah and the kidnapping of tourists. For protection, the so-called Eastern Sabah Safety Zone has been established, which encompasses several districts as well as offshore islands such as Sipadan and where an increased police and military presence is to be expected. In this zone, a nighttime navigation ban between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. applies to all types of watercraft near the coast. Crossings between the coast of East Sabah and the offshore islands should only be made during the day and exclusively with established operators who cooperate with local authorities.

In addition, travelers are advised of the risk of piracy in the waters around Malaysia, particularly in the Strait of Malacca. Anyone planning a voyage through this area should obtain information in advance about safety and rescue equipment on board as well as the vessel’s seaworthiness and should refrain from undertaking individual excursions in this maritime area. The domestic political situation also warrants attention: Sporadic demonstrations may occur, during which violent clashes cannot be ruled out. Under Malaysian law, foreigners are expressly prohibited from participating in such gatherings.

In terms of practical travel planning, this means that destinations outside the aforementioned high-risk areas—such as Kuala Lumpur, Peninsular Malaysia, or the state of Sarawak—are not affected by these specific warnings and remain safe to visit. However, anyone planning trips to East Sabah, the diving areas off Semporna, or generally to regions bordering Thailand should carefully assess the current situation and consider alternative routes. Regardless of the destination within Malaysia, applying for entry documents correctly and in a timely manner remains a key part of travel preparation.

We help travelers easily organize the appropriate entry documents for Malaysia. Depending on the purpose of the trip and the length of stay, various options are available, ranging from the digital arrival card (MDAC) for short tourist stays to the standard tourist visa for Malaysia for longer or multiple stays. If you’re unsure which document is required for your planned trip, our visa overview for Malaysia provides a clear summary of all relevant options.