Is Kuala Lumpur safe? Generally, Malaysia is safe if you take ordinary precautions, stay alert to petty theft, use caution with taxis, and take care around road traffic. Keep valuables secure and choose trusted transport after dark.
In short
- Save the Kuala Lumpur police emergency contact number 03-21460585/0584 before going out at night.
- For advice on filing a police report in Kuala Lumpur, call +60-3-2115-9999.
- Report taxi complaints through Malaysia’s hotline at 1 800 88 7723, with trip details ready.
Manage everyday security
Safety in Malaysia
Malaysia is generally a safe destination for travelers, though you should take normal security precautions. Be aware of your surroundings in public places.
Theft risks
Petty crime is common in Malaysia, and thieves on motorcycles frequently grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, sometimes causing injury. Keep your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, secure at all times.
Bag precautions
Near busy pedestrian crossings by major shopping malls, including in the KLCC area, hold your bag on the side away from traffic. Keep your purse facing away from the street.
Public place alerts
There is a risk of terrorism in Malaysia, so stay alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Report suspicious activity or items to the police.
Make safer night plans
Going out together
At parties, bars, nightclubs and in taxis, stay with trusted people.
Food and drinks
Drink spiking can happen anywhere, so don't leave food or drinks unattended.
Taxi risks
In central Kuala Lumpur, violent crimes against passengers have been committed by taxi drivers.
After-dark rides
Use official taxis or reputable rideshares. For pickups, don't hail taxis after dark; choose a reputable rideshare instead.
Choose safer transport
Airport taxis
At Kuala Lumpur International Airport, take registered airport taxis only. Before leaving the customs and arrivals hall, obtain a coupon from the airport taxi booth near the exit.
Taxi fares
In Malaysia, either agree on a rate before entering or look for another taxi.
Taxi complaints
For a taxi-related complaint in Malaysia, call the Malaysia taxi hotline at 1 800 88 7723 and provide the vehicle number, company name, time, date and location of the incident, and the driver’s name if known. You can also report taxi-related problems to SPAD at 1 800 88 7732.
Bus journeys
If you're taking a long-distance tour bus in Malaysia, choose a reputable tour company. Avoid overnight routes.
Stay alert on streets and trains
Crossing roads
Drivers may not yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, so stay alert when crossing roads in Malaysia.
Watching your belongings
Watch your personal belongings when travelling in Malaysia.
Access on transit
Kuala Lumpur’s trains and buses have priority seating for people with disabilities. Not all train stations have elevators, so you may need to plan your route around station access.
Know how to get help
Police contacts
For the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre, call 321 159 999 or 322 662 222. If you are in Kuala Lumpur and need advice on filing a police report, call the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP) Operations Center on +60-3-2115-9999 or +60-3-2266-2222; the Kuala Lumpur police emergency contact is 03-21460585/0584.
Talian Bilik Gerakan is available 24 hours for emergencies.
Emergency contact numbers
For emergencies outside office hours, contact the emergency service. The High Commission of Canada in Kuala Lumpur can be reached on (60-3) 2718-3333.
If you need to contact the FCDO in London, call 020 7008 5000, a line available 24 hours.
Times checked November 2026.