Malaysia’s laws for immigrants seem to only end with the basics of obtaining a visa and entering the country. But you should know that behind these laws, there is a hidden world of traditions and regulations that will surprise every tourist and immigrant. For example, did you know that Malaysia is one of the strictest countries in the world in terms of drug use and even the slightest violation of these laws can lead to the death penalty? Or that in some states, Malaysian laws are extremely strict about public dress and behavior? All Malaysian laws are designed to increase the security and order of citizens and immigrants, which are planned in accordance with the multi-layered and diverse cultural atmosphere of this country. In this article, we will examine the general laws, including the laws of entry and residence in Malaysia , work, driving, and regulations related to religion and culture.

About the laws of Malaysia

As diverse and fascinating as it is, Malaysia's laws are often unfamiliar and full of surprises for many expats and tourists. From strict drug laws to carefully regulated religious freedoms, Malaysia's blend of Islamic and secular laws makes it a unique place to live and work.

If you are planning to immigrate to Malaysia , you should know that the Malaysian immigration laws are very simple and at the same time important. From work visas to study visas and special programs like Malaysia My Second Home, Malaysia offers many opportunities for immigrants. If you are looking for work, you must have a valid visa and violation of this can lead to fines or deportation. Also, if you are thinking of starting a business, Malaysia is a great option for investment with tax breaks and a fast company registration process. By complying with local laws, you can have a great experience living and working in this country.

The most important laws for immigrants	Description
Arrival and stay	Valid copyright, appropriate visa, compliance with residency rules, prohibition of certain activities
Work	copyright, work permit, compliance with labor laws, prohibition of working without a permit
Driving	International copyright, driving on the left, obeying speed limits, no alcohol while driving
Religion and culture	Islam is the official religion, respect for customs and traditions, observance of Islamic laws in some regions, prohibition of certain behaviors
Tourism	Compliance with local laws, prohibitions on certain activities, travel insurance, respect for culture
Education	Study visa, registration at reputable universities, compliance with university rules
Entrepreneurship	Business license, tax compliance, initial capital, entrepreneurial visa
Immigration	Residence visa, special immigration conditions, compliance with immigration laws

Malaysia's immigration and residency laws

Malaysia is a popular destination for immigrants from all over the world due to its growing economy, tourist attractions, and high quality of life. Malaysia’s immigration regulations are clear and transparent, supporting a variety of visa types for short-term to long-term stays. Popular options for residency in Malaysia include work visas, study visas, and the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program for investors and retirees. Each of these visas has its own terms and conditions, and specific documents must be provided to obtain them. Learn about the most common types of visas for immigration to Malaysia:

• Malaysian Tourist Visa :Issued for short-term trips and tourism.


• Malaysian student visa: Issued to students who intend to study at Malaysian universities.


• Malaysian copyright: Issued to people who intend to work in Malaysia.


• Malaysian Investment Visa: Issued to people who intend to invest in Malaysia.


• Malaysian Family Visa: Issued to family members of Malaysian citizens or permanent residents.

Visa type	Description
Employment Pass	For people who intend to work in Malaysia and have a job offer from a Malaysian company. This visa is usually valid for one to five years.
Student Visa (Student Pass)	For foreign students who intend to continue their studies at Malaysian universities, academic qualifications and acceptance from the university are essential.
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Program	For retirees and foreign investors who want to reside in Malaysia for a long term. Requires valid financial documents.
Social Visa (Social Visit Pass)	For short-term visits, tourism, and family visits, the duration of stay is usually up to 90 days with limited possibility of extension.

Malaysia's laws for working

Malaysia's labor laws are designed to create a safe and fair environment for workers. These laws are set and enforced by the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia https://www.mohr.gov.my/ .

• Employment Pass (EP): This permit is divided into three categories:

Category I: For managerial and professional jobs with a minimum salary of RM10,000. This type is valid for up to 5 years and allows family members to accompany them.
Category II: For jobs with a salary of RM5,000 to RM9,999, and the validity period of this category is up to 2 years.
Category III: For short-term jobs with a salary of less than RM5,000 (maximum validity of 12 months)

• Professional Visit Pass (PVP): This permit is for individuals who intend to provide temporary services in Malaysia, such as consultants or interns. This pass is valid for up to 12 months and is non-renewable.


• Entrepreneur Pass: For entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Malaysia and have a minimum investment of RM500,000. This permit is valid for 5 years and family members are allowed.


• Minimum Wage: Malaysia has a set minimum wage, which is set periodically by the government. This minimum wage applies to all workers, regardless of nationality.


• Working hours: The maximum working hours in Malaysia are 48 hours per week. Employers are required to give workers one day off per week.


• Overtime: Overtime must be paid by agreement between the worker and the employer at a specific rate.


• Leave: Workers have the right to take annual leave, sick leave, and other statutory leave.


• Social insurance: Workers are covered by social insurance, which includes health insurance, pension insurance, and other benefits.


• Labor Rights: Malaysian labor laws guarantee workers' rights in various areas, including occupational safety and health, gender discrimination, and workplace harassment.

License type	Conditions and benefits
Regular Work Permit (EP)	Job offer from a Malaysian company, minimum salary of 5,000 ringgit. Possibility of family support and extension up to 5 years.
Professional Work Permit (PVP)	Suitable for temporary services or internships, valid for up to 12 months and non-renewable.
Work permit for entrepreneurs (Entrepreneur Pass)	Minimum investment of 500,000 ringgit, 5-year validity, family support possible.
Tech Entrepreneur Pass	For tech entrepreneurs, 2-year validity with the possibility of renewal.
Temporary Employment Pass	Suitable for simple workers in specific sectors, valid for up to 2 years.
Research Pass	For international researchers, the validity period is project-based and renewable.

Malaysian driving laws

Driving in Malaysia is on the left side of the road, just like in the UK and many Commonwealth countries. Despite this similarity, there are many important differences between the driving laws in Malaysia and other countries. In this section, we will look at the driving laws in Malaysia to help you have a safe and enjoyable stay in the country.

General driving rules in Malaysia

• Driving on the left: As mentioned, driving in Malaysia is done on the left side of the road.


• copyright: To drive in Malaysia, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). If you plan to stay in Malaysia for a longer period of time, you may need to obtain a Malaysian copyright.


• Seat belts: Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers.


• Speed ​​Limit: Speed ​​limits in urban areas are usually between 60 and 80 km/h and on highways they can reach 110 km/h.


• Cell phone use: Using a cell phone while driving is strictly prohibited.


• Driving under the influence of alcohol: Driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime and carries severe penalties.


• Traffic signs: Traffic signs in Malaysia are in English and Malay and are usually identical to international signs.


• Monsoon: During the rainy season, roads become slippery and visibility decreases.


• Motorcycles: Motorcycles are very common in Malaysia and you should pay special attention when driving them.


• Wild animals: In some areas, especially outside of cities, you may encounter wild animals.


• Fines: Driving fines in Malaysia are heavy and if you violate the law, your license may be revoked.

Rules	Description
Minimum driving age	The minimum age to obtain a copyright in Malaysia is 18 years old.
Driving side	In Malaysia, driving is done on the left side of the road.
International copyright	A valid international copyright is acceptable for tourists, but you will need a Malaysian license for long-term stays.
Seat belt	The use of seat belts is mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Speed ​​limit	The speed limit in urban areas is 50 km/h and on highways is 110 km/h.
Alcohol consumption	The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05%.

Malaysia's laws for economic investment

When it comes to investing in Malaysia, the country provides a favorable environment for both domestic and foreign investors with numerous incentives and regulations designed to attract capital and stimulate economic growth. According to the website https://oosga.com/briefings/mys-incentives/  :

The Malaysian government offers various incentives to attract strategic projects of national importance. These incentives can include highly favorable tax breaks, up to 100 percent, for projects with heavy investment and advanced technology .

Overall, the Malaysian government is actively fostering a business-friendly ecosystem by offering competitive tax breaks and streamlining processes for high-impact industries, from aerospace.

Tax laws in Malaysia

The Malaysian tax system is relatively simple and transparent. Some of the most important tax laws in Malaysia are:

• Corporate Income Tax: The corporate income tax rate in Malaysia depends on the company's profit and is calculated on a sliding scale.


• Personal Income Tax: The personal income tax rate also depends on the amount of an individual's annual income.


• Value Added Tax (GST): Similar to many countries, Malaysia imposes a value added tax on many goods and services.


• Property Tax: Malaysia imposes property tax on residential and commercial properties.

Malaysia is an attractive environment for investment and business. However, to succeed in this country, a thorough understanding of its economic and financial laws is essential. It is recommended that you consult a legal or financial advisor who is familiar with Malaysian affairs before making any decisions.

Section	Rules and incentives
Manufacturing industry	5-year tax exemption and investment allowance of up to 60%
Information Technology (ICT)	200% tax exemption for capital expenditures
Oil & Gas	Requires permission from PETRONAS and collaboration with local partners
Green Technology	100% exemption from taxable income for 3 years

Malaysia's laws for tourists

If you are planning to travel to Malaysia, it is essential for tourists to be familiar with the laws of Malaysia to avoid potential problems. You should know that Malaysia has strict laws regarding the carrying of drugs, respecting local culture, and using personal medications. Following these laws and etiquette will give you an enjoyable and worry-free experience of traveling and staying in Malaysia. Having accurate information about visas, permitted items for entry, and behavior in public places will help you make the most of your trip to Malaysia. Get to know these laws:

1. Rules for transporting medicines and medical supplies

Personal Medicines: Tourists are allowed to carry a limited amount of medication for their personal use (up to one month’s supply). These medications must be accompanied by a doctor’s prescription.
Narcotics: Carrying and possessing any narcotics is prohibited and may result in long-term imprisonment or even death.
Dietary Supplements: Carrying dietary supplements should be done with caution and with a doctor’s prescription.

2. Prohibitions and restrictions on entry into Malaysia

Prohibited items: Drugs, weapons, ammunition, and certain animal and plant products are prohibited from entering Malaysia.
Printed materials: Any printed materials, images, or films that are against Islamic or moral laws of Malaysia are prohibited from entering.

3. Rules regarding public dress and behavior

Appropriate Dress: In religious and public places, respectful and modest clothing is required; women should cover their shoulders and knees.
Polite Behavior: Respect for elders and adherence to local etiquette are of utmost importance.
Alcohol Consumption: Consumption of alcohol is prohibited in public places, especially during Ramadan.

4. Entry and Visa Rules

Tourists from many countries can stay in Malaysia for up to 90 days without a visa. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months.
Pets require health documentation and special approvals.

Respect for local culture: Obeying the laws and respecting local culture and religion is very important and can provide you with a peaceful and enjoyable trip.
Travel insurance: Appropriate insurance is recommended to cover medical expenses and other possible expenses.
Taking care of personal belongings: Take care of your personal belongings and keep them in safe places.

5. Drug laws

Imprisonment and execution: Smuggling or transporting even a small amount of drugs can lead to long prison sentences or execution.
Fines: Any production, purchase, or sale of drugs is a crime and carries heavy fines.

Rules	Description
General rules	Respect for local culture and observance of dress code in religious places
Drug laws	Heavy penalties for carrying or using drugs
Portable materials	Restrictions on the import of medicines, alcohol and food
Entry visa	Visa-free stay up to 90 days for many countries

A memorable journey studying in Malaysia

It is essential for tourists and expats to be familiar with the laws of Malaysia to avoid any legal problems. The laws related to carrying personal medication, drugs, respecting local culture and religion, and observing appropriate clothing in public places are of particular importance.

By following these rules and with the support of Study in Malaysia to obtain a visa and stay in Malaysia, experience a safe, worry-free trip. Study in Malaysia services for a comfortable and worry-free trip to Malaysia:

• Obtaining all types of visas in the shortest possible time


• Introducing the best scientific and educational centers in Malaysia.
  Admission and registration of children in Malaysian schools and universities.


• Providing services for family immigration to Malaysia
  Services related to copyright in Malaysia


• And…