TRAVEL GUIDE

• To ensure a smooth journey to Kota Kinabalu, delegates are advised to have a valid passport and obtain the necessary visa (if required) before travelling to Malaysia. 

• International delegates attending this conference in person are encouraged to check the latest entry requirements, visa regulations, and travel guidelines with the relevant authorities before departure. Please ensure all required travel documents are prepared prior to your arrival. 

• For detail visa information by country, please visit the official Malaysian Immigration Department website:
  https://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/main-services/visa/visa-requirement-by-country/ 

• Kota Kinabalu experiences a tropical rainforest climate, with warm and humid weather throughout the year. Temperatures generally range from 23°C to 32°C
  (73°F to 90°F), making light and breathable clothing ideal for visitors. Rain showers may occur at any time of the year, with November to January typically experiencing higher rainfall. Visitor are advised to carry an umbrella or raincoat, as brief afternoon showers are common. 

• Kota Kinabalu follows Malaysia Standard Time (MYT), UTC +8, with no daylight saving time.

• Electrical voltage in Kota Kinabalu is 230-240v, 50 Hz. Power outlets typically accept British-style Type G plugs, so visitors may need an adapter for other plug types. 

• High-speed internet is widely available in hotels, cafes, shopping malls, and public areas across the city. 

• The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia, while English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Due to Malaysia’s diverse multicultural society, many locals also communicate in various Chinese dialects, such as Mandarin, Hakka, and Cantonese, as well as indigenous languages of Sabah, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.

• The official currency used in Kota Kinabalu and throughout Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) commonly represented as RM. Coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent, while banknotes are issued in RM 1, RM 5, RM 10, RM 20, RM 50, and RM 100. Currency exchange services are widely available at banks and licensed money changers across the city. Visitors are advised to check the latest exchange rates before making currency conversions. 

• Banking hours in Sabah are generally from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Some banks may open on Saturdays. ATMs are widely available, and most major credit cards are accepted in hotels, malls, and may restaurants. 

• Public transport in Kota Kinabalu includes city buses (BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu), minibuses (van sapu), and taxis. Ride-hailing services such as Grab and Maxim are commonly used and are a convenient option for getting around. 

• For those exploring, long-distance buses connect Kota Kinabalu to other towns across Sabah are available at Easybook.com. While the public transport system is not as extensive as in Peninsular cities, navigation within the city remains accessible and tourist-friendly. 

• Car rental is available at the airport and downtown which requires a valid international driving licence. Remember: drive on the left.

• Sabah State Railway: The western Line runs commuter services from Tanjung Aru to Tenom, with a heritage steam train option from Tanjung Aru to Kinarut. Please visit website for more info. 

• Travel timeline & planning tips:

1. Airport to City Centre

— Taxi or Grab: ~15–20 minutes; fixed fare ~MYR 30.

— Private shuttle: door-to-door comfort with luggage handling.

2. Intercity Travel

— KK Sentral buses provide regular routes to key Sabah towns.

— Rail services offer a scenic alternative, especially the historic train.

3. On-the-Go City Travel

— Grab & taxis: convenient for most destinations, including malls, hotels, and tourist spots.

— Buses and shared vans are cheaper, though less predictable.

• Tips for Visitors: 

1. Pre-book airport transfers for a smoother arrival experience.

2. Always confirm meter usage or fare before departing in taxis.

3. Download Grab—reliable for most trip types.

4. Use KK Sentral for intercity bus routes.

5. Try the heritage railway for a unique Sabah experience.

• The conference has identified The Pacific Sutera Hotel as the main conference hotel. Please see the hotel page in Venue . A variety of accommodation options are available near the city centre, waterfront, and airport area, ranging from budget to luxury stays. More details can be found online.