Is Malaysia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Malaysia is generally safe for solo female travelers. There's a high level of security in the main cities and tourist areas. Malaysian people are generally friendly and hospitable towards foreigners. However, like all destinations, it's advisable to exercise caution, particularly when traveling alone. Stick to well-lit, populated places, especially at night, and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. While petty crime such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching can occur, this is not common, and vigilance can reduce risk significantly.

Safety rating

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How safe is Malaysia?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

While Malaysia maintains a generally safe environment, it is always important to stay cautious, especially while walking alone at night. Well-lit, crowded areas such as shopping destinations are generally safe, but less populated areas might be riskier. That being said, serious incidents are not common, but incidents like pickpocketing or theft can happen. To reduce such risks, avoid unlit and isolated places and always ensure someone knows about your whereabouts. Remember to book safe rides and avoid arguments with locals. Be aware, pay attention to your surroundings and follow your instincts – these are your most reliable safety tools.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Malaysia is generally safe, efficient and reliable. Whether you are traveling by train, bus, or taxi, providers prioritize passenger safety. Important caution must be taken during peak hours due to the large crowds and heightened risk of pickpocketing. As in any travel situation, always be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Malaysia is a relatively safe country for solo women travelers. The prevalence of street harassment is quite low in comparison to other countries. Respect for personal space is generally observed due to the blend of cultures and religions present. Nonetheless, during peak hours in crowded places like public transport, markets, or tourist spots, occasional instances might occur. Therefore, it's always crucial to stay cautious and aware of your surroundings. Be sure to dress conservatively, respecting local customs, to further minimize unwanted attention.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Whilst Malaysia is generally a safe place for solo female travelers, as with most destinations, petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft can occur particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Therefore, it is advised to always keep your belongings close to you, use secure bags and keep a cautious eye on your surroundings especially in public transportation and markets. Moreover, it's always a good idea to have copies of your important documents like passport, credit card, etc. stored somewhere safe in case you become a victim of such crimes.

Is Malaysia worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 32 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.4/5

Safety

4.1/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Pangkor Island, Group travel

Went there during weekdays and theres very little tourist on the island. We were tge only guest for our hotel. I get around by renting a car but renting bikes would be so much fun. luckily bcs theres bery little tourist, not much car on the road and that helps a lot since their road is very narrow. 2 full days is enough to explore the entire island but I stayed for 3 days just to chill. Most interesting activity is feeding the hornbills. i didnt do water activities, just went there to see the scenery.

Posted: March 17, 2025
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Langkawi, Solo travel

Langkawi is made for tourists. Although I hate these kinds of places, the island is amazing. It used to be a hippie-gathering place, so there's a lot of reggae and hippie vibe all over the island. For women who are traveling and looking for a hostel, check out Bunga Hostel. The owner is a friend of mine, and she has created a hotel only for women. It's a creative place for solo female travelers.

Posted: January 16, 2025Experienced: April, 2022
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Malaysia, Family travel

I don't have any pictures because my parents have them but the locals are absolutely friendly, very chill and harmless. They are very welcoming and the food is just delicious. I was in Kuantan btw. And the sunset is soooooo pretty on the beach

Posted: January 6, 2025
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Rhi

Rhi

Australia

Penang Island, Solo travel

I did a solo trip to Penang and it was a really nice spot to go. There was some cool museums. I did the the ghost museum and the upside down museum which were really cool. The easiest way to get around is either by walking or in a grab. I stayed on Chulia street which was such a good location for everything I wanted to do. I also went and did a hair treatment that I 10/10 recommend

Posted: December 27, 2024
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Kuala Lumpur, Solo travel

Stayed in a hostel for one week near Jalan Alor night market and was very safe and welcoming, meeting a lot of people of many backgrounds. Lots of activities for both nightlife, culture and sober activities.

Posted: November 10, 2024
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Semporna, Solo travel

I took the bus from Semporna to Tawau, when I was the last passenger, the driver asked me to wait for him a few minutes on the car, he said he just need to do something, but he stopped his car at somewhere is nothing around, I told him I would call police, he said no you don't have to, you're safe, I won't touch you, then he took off his pants and started to touch his dick 😭😭😭😭😭Everyone please be careful, don't talk to any stranger easily and prepare spicy spray anytime 😭

Posted: October 28, 2024Experienced: September, 2024
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Malaysia, Couple travel

Kuala Lumpur is so nice and the food is so delicious. I tried many kinds of Malaysian food, very unique. The building is so nice and vibrant. Hope someday I will be there again soon.. Love from Cambodia

Posted: October 12, 2024Experienced: October, 2023
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Anna

Anna

Malaysia

Perak, Solo travel

* Taiping is safe for solo traveller * Things to do : Visit Zoo , jog at Lake garden, hiking at Maxwell hill * things to skip : dont walk at midnight * Restaurants recommended: The warehouse 1957 * Budget to spent about less than 100 Myr per day

Posted: October 10, 2024
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Yasmine

Yasmine

Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Solo travel

Recently arrived in KL and so far so good. Stayed at 3 kinds of services apartments and they were great! Many food options here both western and eastern, and quite cheap. Transportation via metro/train/grab cab is very affordable. Will be here for the next few months and would love to meet up!

Posted: August 12, 2024
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Maggie

Maggie

Australia

Langkawi, Solo travel

Beautiful time in Langkawi - I was volunteering so can't comment on price of accommodation - food was ok - local cuisine not compatible with vegetarians - malay desserts are incredible - sweet and coconutty - best beach is tanjung rhu

Posted: August 5, 2024Experienced: June, 2024
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Is Malaysia safe for women?

Safety index

3.9 /5

Based on 59 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 59 local experiences

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is safe overall. But like most cities, caution is required. Don't walk down empty streets at night. Don't openly flex cash or expensive jewelry on the streets. Don't dress overly provocatively and not expect stares.

Posted: April 2, 2025
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Christen

Christen

Kuala Lumpur

Being in the city area definitely makes it safer - just be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings safe and you should be alright! Use e-hailing or the MRT for transportation and you should get by pretty well!

Posted: March 25, 2025
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Meet locals in Malaysia

Tini

Tini

About Me

Hey, I’m Tini! I’m an architecture student from Sungai Petani, Kedah, who’s super into art, design, and traveling. I’ve been to a bunch of places and love meeting new people, trying out cool stuff, and soaking in all kinds of vibes from different cultures. I speak Tamil, BM, and English, so chatting and making friends is a breeze. Let’s hang out and make some awesome travel memories together!

Speaking

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Syaza

Syaza

About Me

Hi! My name is Syaza. I design and teach, from Penang, Malaysia!

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Malaysia

Tini

Tini

Sungai Petani

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey, I’m Tini! I’m an architecture student from Sungai Petani, Kedah, who’s super into art, design, and traveling. I’ve been to a bunch of places and love meeting new people, trying out cool stuff, and soaking in all kinds of vibes from different cultures. I speak Tamil, BM, and English, so chatting and making friends is a breeze. Let’s hang out and make some awesome travel memories together!

Speaking

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Aaqilah

Aaqilah

Penang Island

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey! I'm a Malaysian woman who came back from a life changing first ever solo backpacking trip around Chile pre-Covid and is ready to be packing once more to explore the world! I've been lucky enough to be able to couchsurf and hosted by so many great individuals. I've hosted many sisters on Host A Sister (FB group) ever since CF became a paid service. I've now downloaded this app to connect with incredible women from all over! I'm an easy going person. I enjoy knowing the cultural similarities (and differences) between people with a simple conversation. I'm a lover of all things that give me a sense of escapism - music, nature, movies etc. I've grown to enjoy solo travelling and I can't wait to get acquainted with you!

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Malaysia

Rona

Rona

About Me

Hi 🙂 I am an adventurous girl on a solo sabbatical this year. I have taken time off to travel while I write and build my online business, as well as learning and growing spiritually. I am currently in India for another two months before coming to Malaysia for three months 🤩 I love meeting new people, learning about the local culture and going on fun outings.💃🏻

Speaking

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Safety in Malaysia