A few details may change before April, especially prices and travel requirements. Check the linked official sources again before you leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Last reviewed: September 3, 2026.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Start with the important paperwork:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can check the latest visa requirements for Malaysia<\/a> and submit your MDAC through the official portal<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The MDAC is free. Some travellers are exempt, so check the official guide if you\u2019re unsure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Malaysia uses ringgit, written as RM (Ringgit Malaysia) or MYR (Malaysian Ringgit).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cards are widely accepted at hotels, shopping malls, convenience stores, and larger restaurants. Ensure that you have enabled overseas spending<\/strong> for your card. Smaller shops and hawker stalls can be less predictable, so it\u2019s worth carrying RM50 to RM100 in small notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Money changers are available at the airport, in shopping malls, and around George Town. Check the displayed rate before exchanging money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Touch \u2019n Go (TNG) eWallet is commonly used across Malaysia. Visitors from 21 supported countries and regions<\/a> can currently register with a foreign mobile number and passport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ll need WhatsApp to receive the registration code. The app will also ask you to verify your identity using your passport and a selfie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Supported international cards can be used to add money. You can also link a compatible physical Touch \u2019n Go card for supported public transportation and toll payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check whether your country is supported in the TNG eWallet guide for international visitors<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some overseas banking and eWallet apps can also pay at participating DuitNow QR merchants. Check the supported countries and providers<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even with an eWallet, it\u2019s good to have card and some cash with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Grab<\/a> is one of the easiest ways to travel from Penang International Airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can install the app and add your payment card before leaving home. At the airport, follow the signs to the e-hailing pickup point on Level 1 of the multilevel car park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Always check the vehicle\u2019s registration number before getting in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The journey to George Town usually takes about 35 minutes. However, do expect longer travelling time during rain and peak-hour traffic. Your fare will be shown in the app before you confirm the booking. Additional charges may sometimes apply (example, if the journey goes through the toll).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Rapid Penang runs buses across the island and mainland, including services from the airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The free Central Area Transit (CAT) bus is useful for getting around central George Town. It travels between Weld Quay, Komtar, and several stops near the heritage area. Bus frequency is about 10 to 15 minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check the latest routes and times on the Rapid Penang website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The passenger ferry connects Penang Sentral in Butterworth with George Town. The current adult fare from Butterworth is RM2.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s a practical way to cross the channel, with a good view of the island as you approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check the latest timetable and fares on the Penang Port Commission website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Electric Train Service (ETS) trains connect Butterworth with Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur. The journey to Kuala Lumpur takes about four hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can check schedules and book tickets through the official KTMB website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If your phone supports an eSIM, get one for your mobile data usage in Malaysia before flying. Malaysian providers such as CelcomDigi and Maxis offer prepaid options, while there are also other international travel eSIM providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compare the data allowance, coverage, validity, and tethering rules before buying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you need your usual number for banking codes, check your local provider\u2019s roaming settings and charges before leaving home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You don\u2019t need a complicated itinerary to enjoy George Town. You can explore Penang heritage area on foot. The weather is usually warm and humid. Carry water, wear sun protection, and bring an umbrella or a cap\/hat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A few places to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Opening hours, ticket requirements, and trail conditions may change. Check each place before setting out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Penang is also a good place to arrive hungry. Char kway teow and assam laksa are two local dishes worth trying among many other dishes. Hawker centers are great for you to try several dishes in one seating. Small cash notes will be handy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have a few extra days to explore beyond Penang, Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur are accessible by train from Butterworth. Langkawi, another island popular for tourists, is also within reach from Penang. Do plan your journey ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Redang, Sabah, and Sarawak are much farther away and deserve more leisurely time than a rushed side trip. We\u2019ll cover them in separate guides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before leaving home:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Smoking and vaping are prohibited in designated smoke-free areas, including food premises. Look out for the signs and permitted areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Malaysia also applies severe penalties to drug offences. Authorities may require a drug screening if drug use is suspected. A positive result can lead to detention or deportation, even if the substance was taken somewhere it is legal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re bringing prescription medication, check Malaysia\u2019s rules before travelling. Some controlled medicines must be declared when you arrive. The Malaysian Ministry of Health provides guidance for travellers carrying medication<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For questions about WordCamp Asia, please contact the organizing team<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBefore you travel<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Paying for things<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Going cashless with TNG eWallet<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Getting around Penang<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
From the airport<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Buses around Penang<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Take the ferry<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Travelling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Staying connected<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Spending time in Penang<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Going beyond Penang<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A quick packing checklist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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A note about local laws<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Still have questions?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n