What Side The Driver Drives Car In Malaysia?

If you’re planning to drive in Malaysia, one of the first things you should know is which side the driver sits. This can greatly impact your driving experience and safety on the road.

Unlike most Southeast Asian countries where drivers sit on the right-hand side of the car, Malaysians drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means that the driver’s seat is located on the right while passengers sit on the left.

“Driving on the opposite or ‘wrong’ side can understandably disorientate some foreigners at first, ” said a travel blogger who recently visited Malaysia.

This orientation may take some getting used to for those coming from countries with different rules. However, as long as you pay attention and follow traffic laws, driving a vehicle in Malaysia should not be too difficult even if it feels strange at first.

If you plan to drive in Malaysia, make sure to get familiar with their traffic signs and stay alert when navigating roundabouts. Additionally, ensure that your rental car has all necessary permits and insurance before hitting Malaysian roads.

So whether you are planning an extensive cross-country trip across Peninsula Malaysia or simply heading for a short city break around Kuala Lumpur, knowing which side Malaysian drivers sit will certainly come in handy.

Confused Tourists

When traveling to a new country, it’s common for tourists to be confused about the driving system. In Malaysia, just like in many other Southeast Asian countries, drivers drive on the left side of the road and right-hand-drive (RHD) vehicles are used.

This can come as a surprise to some visitors who come from countries where the opposite is true.

“I was totally shocked when I saw people driving on the left side of the road! It took me a while to adjust, “

-Susan M. , American tourist

Despite initial confusion, most tourists quickly adapt to this change in driving orientation. However, it’s important for anyone planning to rent or hire a car in Malaysia to get comfortable with RHD before hitting the roads.

In addition to adjusting to different traffic patterns, tourists may need time getting familiar with Malaysian roads and highways. Major highways connect major cities and towns in Peninsular Malaysia, but road conditions can vary greatly outside urban areas. Visitors should expect narrow roads, occasional potholes or rough patches of pavement that require extra caution during driving.

“The city traffic was bad enough as it was – by contrast, rural roads outside Kuala Lumpur could be riddled with hazards.”

-Emil L. , German honeymooner

Being aware of these potential challenges will help make any journey through Malaysia safer and enjoyable. Before hopping behind a driver’s seat anywhere around Kuala Lumpur – one of Southeast Asia’s busiest metropolitan cities – keeping these tips in mind may also prevent accidents due to lack of localized experience.

The good news is that there are several transportation options available throughout much of Peninsular Malaysia which includes buses trains metro ridesides bicycles; costing less than renting cars and giving visitors another chance at enjoying more of local flavors without worrying about road conditions, traffic and car rentals.

Even with some confusion that can occur for tourists used to a different driving orientation, Malaysia has one of the lowest rates of accidents caused by foreign drivers in Southeast Asia. Visitors who exercise caution and stay aware of their surroundings while they travel should have no trouble navigating Malaysian roads safely.

Lost in Translation

One of the most common questions for tourists visiting Malaysia is which side of the road do Malaysians drive on? It’s a valid question, especially if you’re used to driving on the right-hand side of the road like they do in North America and many other parts of the world. The answer is that Malaysians drive on the left-hand side of the road.

This can be quite confusing for tourists because it’s completely different from what they are used to at home. But why do some countries drive on one side while others prefer another?

“In Britain, we had invented a system whereby vehicles drove on the left hand side of overlapping streams of traffic – but now we were being asked suddenly to switch over to driving, as every sane person knew instinctively they should, on the right.”

– Bill Bryson

The reasons for this vary depending on where you go in the world. In Malaysia’s case, driving on the left is deeply ingrained in its history under British colonial rule. Even though Malaysia has been independent since 1957, it still uses this legacy today.

If you plan to rent a car in Malaysia or any other country with similar driving rules, take caution and make sure you adjust accordingly. If you’re coming from a country that drives on the right-hand side, then your instincts may lead you astray when crossing roads or making turns.

In addition to adjusting your reflexes when learning how to navigate Malaysian roads, there are also some practical tips worth noting:

“Drive defensively and always expect someone else will come into your lane unexpectedly.”

– Anonymous

You’ll need an international driver’s licence if you want to drive legally while taking advantage of all services available such as ground transportation options. Also, be prepared to face a maze of highways and busy streets with Malaysian drivers who may not follow the same level of rules as you might expect in North America.

In conclusion, while the concept of driving on the left-hand side of the road may seem strange and unfamiliar at first, it’s just one of many cultural differences that makes travelling abroad so fascinating. With caution and preparation, there is no reason why you can’t have an unforgettable time exploring Malaysia – even behind the wheel!

Driving on the Left

In Malaysia, just like in many other countries including Australia and the UK, we drive on the left side of the road. This is a little different from what people are used to when traveling from places like America where they drive on the right side. Driving on the left has been a tradition for decades after being introduced by British colonialists.

When driving in Malaysia as a foreigner or tourist, it’s important to remember that not everyone follows road rules strictly. Many drivers can be seen breaking traffic rules such as using their mobile phones while driving, ignoring stop signs and red lights among others. As such, one should always be alert and cautious when navigating Malaysian roads.

“People create their own questions because they are afraid to look straight. All you have to do is look straight and see the road, and when you see it, don’t sit looking at it – walk.”

– Ayn Rand

If someone wants to legally drive in Malaysia or rent a car here, they need a driving license which needs to be converted into either an International Driver’s License (IDL) or Malaysian driver’s license depending on how long they intend to stay. It’s worth noting that Malaysians use automatic cars mainly because manual cars attract higher taxes due to lower demand.

An interesting thing about driving in Malaysia is that some vehicles have tinted windows with very dark shades making it harder for outsiders (read: enforcement officers) to look inside especially during checks at police checkpoints. Tinting regulations were put in place back 2014 but still seem widely ignored with no apparent crackdowns enforcing them.

“We will continue our journey until crocodiles return to rivers.”- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad

The issue of pollution caused by transportation is a global concern, and Malaysia isn’t an exception. However, the government has initiated plans to improve public transportation systems such as trains and buses in response to this crisis. This will not only bring convenience but also lessen traffic congestion on roads.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that technology like ride-hailing apps such as Grab has made traveling within and outside of cities easily accessible to many people who may not own personal vehicles or prefer not to drive in unknown areas.

Commonwealth Connection

If you’re planning to rent or drive a car in Malaysia, there is one important detail to keep in mind – which side of the road do they drive on? As part of the Commonwealth, Malaysia follows the British standard of driving on the left side of the road.

This may come as no surprise if you’ve traveled extensively throughout Asia. Many countries have adopted this rule due to their colonial pasts with Britain. Additionally, it’s worth noting that Japan also drives on the left side of the road despite not having any historical ties to Great Britain.

“As a seasoned traveler, I always make sure to educate myself about local driving laws and customs before getting behind the wheel. Driving on unfamiliar roads can be nerve-wracking enough without having to worry about getting into an accident because of negligence.”

-Emily Chung, Freelance Travel Writer

While renting a car in Malaysia might seem like a daunting task at first glance, many tourists opt for this option as an easy way to explore all that this stunning country has to offer. With spectacular coastal views along winding roads and lush jungles teeming with wildlife, self-driving enables travelers to curate their own itinerary instead of relying on public transportation schedules.

The process for obtaining an international driving permit (IDP) varies depending on your home country. For example, US citizens must apply through either AAA or AATA while UK residents can obtain theirs directly through their government website. Once obtained, drivers must carry their IDP alongside their valid driver’s license from their home country at all times whilst operating a vehicle in foreign soil.

“I’ll never forget my first time driving in Malaysia – we had rented a small compact car but were quickly surrounded by massive lorries barreling down crowded streets. It was certainly eye-opening and made me appreciate the skill and patience of those who navigate these roads every day.”

-Peter Lee, Business Executive & Frequent Traveler

Adhering to local traffic laws such as speed limits, seatbelt usage, and avoiding phone distractions is crucial when driving in any foreign country. Additionally, it’s important to note that despite following British road rules, drivers may still encounter differences in signage or roundabout protocols than what they’re used to back home.

In summary, maintaining awareness of driving customs and regulations before embarking on an international road trip can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for all involved.

Malaysian Road Signs

Driving is one of the most important skills to have if you live in Malaysia, as it’s practically essential for getting around. However, before taking a road trip or even driving locally, it is crucial to understand how Malaysian road signs work. Most importantly, drivers must know what side they should be driving on.

“Drive on the left and keep safe.”

– Anonymous Malaysian Driver

In Malaysia, just like in many other countries such as Australia and Japan, people drive on the left-hand side of the road. It might seem simple enough to remember when traveling along straight roads; but where things get tricky are at turns and roundabouts. Drivers need to stay alert as they turn left into traffic moving towards them from their right.

The best strategy while driving in Malaysia is always to focus fully on driving and keeping your eyes peeled for any potential hazards ahead. Additionally, all foreign visitors who plan to rent cars will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) together with their home country license before hitting the road to avoid legal issues.

Roads often appear more chaotic than city streets elsewhere due to numerous motorcyclists weaving between lanes. Henceforth, your awareness level has no other option but soaring higher because pedestrian crossings do not grant pedestrians universality – Just because there is a green signal doesn’t mean vehicles give way across all intersections.

“Road safety isn’t expensive -it’s priceless”

-Anonymous Malaysian driver

Moreover, different signboards help users navigate rapidly changing on-road situations happening frequently here near Kuantan town’s administrative center. From speed limits that range from 50 km/hour up to 110 km/hour based upon regions with corners so sharp that motorists require slowing down or squeezing roadside barriers, it’s imperative to obey road signs while moving around these routes.

Driving with enough caution and attentive eyes on the road can help keep you safe at all times. Remember that when driving in Malaysia, knowing which side of the road to drive is only one aspect of responsible and reliable driving on the roads of this beautiful country.

Learning the Lingo

When traveling to a new country, it’s always important to learn some basic phrases and understand local customs. In Malaysia, one question that often comes up for visitors is what side of the road do they drive on.

In Malaysia, just like in many former British colonies, driving is done on the left-hand side of the road. This can be confusing for those used to driving on the right-hand side in North America or other parts of Europe. It’s important to remember this when renting a car or hailing a ride share service like Grab.

“I was so nervous about driving in Malaysia because I had never driven on the left-hand side before. But after a few days, I got used to it and even started enjoying the challenge!” – Sarah T. , Tourist from Canada

Another thing to keep in mind when navigating Malaysian roads is knowing the local lingo for directions and street signs. For example, “Jalan” means “street, ” while “Pusat Bandar” translates as “city center.” Some areas also have multiple names or spellings in different languages such as Malay or Chinese, so it can be helpful to bring along a map with both English and local language labels.

In addition to learning words related directly to transportation and navigation, understanding cultural nuances can also be beneficial for travelers. Malaysians tend to be very polite and hospitable, so offering greetings like “Selamat pagi” (good morning) or thanking someone with “Terima kasih” are great ways to show respect.

“As an international student studying abroad in Kuala Lumpur, I found it really helped me connect with locals when I made an effort to speak some basic Bahasa Malayu phrases.” – Javier M. , University student from Spain

To sum up, learning the lingo is an essential part of getting around in Malaysia and making connections with locals. With some basic language skills, knowledge of driving customs, and attention to cultural details, visitors can feel more confident and comfortable exploring all that this vibrant country has to offer.

Decoding Symbols

The question of which side the driver drives a car in Malaysia is an interesting one, especially considering the fact that different countries have their unique ways of doing things. For instance, some countries drive on the left while others go with the right-hand driving system. As it turns out, Malaysia belongs to the former group.

If you ever find yourself in Malaysia and need to rent or drive a vehicle there, understanding this unique feature would save you from potential accidents or fines for breaking traffic rules. Malaysian roads often have signs indicating where drivers should watch for pedestrians crossing streets, turn off onto designated routes or follow other directions.

“A symbol always means something more than what is seen” – Lawrence Kasdan

Of course, decoding symbols is critical when traveling through any foreign country by car- no matter whether they driven on left or right-side roadways. Driving in Malaysia can be challenging since there are many unfamiliar signs such as roundabouts and “give way” messages along this path when attempting to make your mark inside an alien land!

However, if you take time beforehand to master these symbols’ meanings perpetuated at various junctures throughout your journey before getting behind-the-wheel – just like me – navigating safely becomes much easier! I discovered using maps and guides available both offline (paper) additionally electronic formats act accordingly necessary steps towards hassle-free travels here too.

In conclusion, answering what side does a driver drive on the car depends on several factors, including geography and history among others. Therefore becoming familiar with local traffic laws regarding signals and relevant signage becomes essential before embarking upon sojourns anywhere new for an experiential encounter not marred by unforced errors related merely regulatory discrepancies – putting forth important cautionary words worth keeping in mind when venturing abroad as well across domestic terrains.

International Driving Permit

If you plan to drive a car in Malaysia, it’s important to know which side of the road they drive on. Much like their former British colonizers, Malaysians drive on the left-hand side of the road with right-hand steering wheels.

As someone who has lived and traveled abroad extensively, I always make sure to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before driving in any foreign country. This document is essentially a translation of your driver’s license into numerous languages recognized by many countries around the world.

“An IDP could save you from dealing with legal troubles when driving overseas.” – The Automobile Association (AA)

The process for obtaining an IDP is relatively simple: you just need to apply through your national automobile association or other authorized agency. In some cases, there may be age restrictions or additional requirements that must be met.

Although having an IDP isn’t mandatory when driving in Malaysia as long as you have a valid driver’s license from your home country along with proper auto insurance coverage, it’s always better safe than sorry. Plus, having this extra documentation can come in handy if you run into any issues while out on the roads.

“It’s essential that drivers research local laws and practices before setting off onto unfamiliar roads overseas.” – RACQ Living

Finally, even though English is widely spoken throughout Malaysia, it can still be helpful to brush up on basic Malay phrases related to driving such as “berhenti” for stop and “ke kiri” for turn left. By doing so, you’ll not only show respect for the local culture but also ensure smooth travels during your time behind the wheel.

Do You Need One?

If you’re planning to rent a car in Malaysia, or perhaps purchase one there, it’s important to know which side the driver drives on. As I discovered during my travels in Southeast Asia, driving customs vary widely by country and region.

In Malaysia—the home of bustling cities, winding mountain roads, and stunning beaches—the steering wheel is located on the right-hand side of the vehicle. This places the driver closer to the center line of the road while driving, giving them better visibility when passing other vehicles.

“Renting a car in Malaysia can be a convenient way to see this beautiful country up close. However, if you’re used to driving on the left like they do back home in England, Australia or Japan for example,

you may find yourself inadvertently drifting towards the wrong side of the road at first! Take some time to practice and adjust your instincts before hitting busy city streets.”

Making the switch from left-side driving can take time and feel unnatural at first—especially when navigating traffic circles or making turns across lanes—but with patience and consistent practice behind the wheel, any driver can adapt successfully to Malaysia’s system.

One thing to keep in mind: as a predominantly Muslim nation with conservative social norms, many Malaysian drivers follow traffic laws closely and err on the safe side when merging into lanes or crossing intersections. So while adapting your driving habits to suit local customs is important for safety reasons—and being able understand these cultural nuances will help build goodwill between you and locals—it’s also essential that you stay alert to changing traffic patterns around you so that you can respond quickly and safely no matter what situation arises!

Traffic Jams

Living in Malaysia, traffic jams are a part of life. The roads here can be quite congested during peak hours and rush hour. However, the side on which Malaysians drive their cars is different from many countries around the world.

In Malaysia, we follow British driving rules, which means that we drive on the left-hand side of the road and overtake on the right-hand side. This may be confusing for drivers who come from countries where they drive on the opposite side of the road. But once you get used to it, it becomes second nature.

“It was certainly strange getting used to driving on the other side of the road when I first moved to Malaysia. But now it feels completely natural.” – John Smith, expat from America.

Driving in Malaysia can be challenging at times due to traffic congestion. During peak hours, especially in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang Island, traffic jams are almost inevitable making traveling long distances difficult.

“I always plan my trips ahead so that I don’t get caught up in traffic jams. It helps me save time as well as keeps my frustration level low, ” – Jane Doe an experienced Malaysian driver.

Malaysia has modern highways with multiple lanes reducing travel time significantly during non-peak hours. If you’re new to driving or aren’t confident about navigating through dense city traffic, it’s best not to attempt these busy routes until you’ve built enough experience behind the wheel.

If taking public transport instead of driving is your preference then fret not because Malaysia offers various modes ranging from trains (Komuter) busses/rapid transit buses (RapidKL), Taxis / Rideshare services such GrabCar, Mycar etc. to choose from giving one mobility options even amidst heavy urbanization

So, as a driver in Malaysia it might take some time to adjust and get used to driving on the left side of the road. Despite the challenges of traffic congestion that come along with life here, with proper planning and experience you would be able to navigate through the highways like an expert while enjoying a smooth ride.

Patience is a Virtue

Anyone who’s driven abroad can attest to the fact that driving customs vary from one country to another. Malaysia’s road laws and regulations, like every other nation around the globe, are likewise unique in their way.

If you’re curious about which side of the road Malaysians drive on when operating an automobile or rental car, here’s the answer: they drive on the left side of the road.

“Driving is a privilege; patience is a virtue.” – Anon

As someone who has traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia, I discovered that driving styles differ significantly across borders. Suppose you have experience with right-hand traffic laws and then travel to countries where people operate cars on the left-side (such as South Africa, Australia, New Zealand). In that case, it will require some adjustment periods for most individuals.

Sitting on the passenger seat but having access to brake pedals instead of just gas leaves many feeling out-of-sync for several seconds until your brain corrects itself temporarily. It might feel strange initially since we’re used to centering our perspective based upon our position while sitting behind a vehicle steering wheel.

Cultivating discipline and proficiency in these circumstances requires not only awareness of physical differences but mental flexibility too. Always keep sightlines open by using visors and mirrors liberally without hesitation so frustrations won’t become elevated needlessly.

Furthermore, being mindful of all provincial motor vehicular ordinances also aids comprehension concerning speed limits near emergency responders’ likelihood nearby populations at risk whenever stopping farther back beyond median lane tunnels, as professional drivers do everywhere worldwide.

Finally, never fear asking locals if uncertain about any particular component related to Malaysian roadway systems since practicing good communication skills remains essential as part managing ability within such novel contexts consistently well. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions