Practical Information

Languages

Inhabitants of Kota speak a distinct Malay dialect that is peppered with a heavy Sabahan accent. There are several ethnic citizen groups who communicate in the language of their origin. The Chinese converse mainly in Mandarian and Huiyang Hakka. Kadazan, which was once a widely accepted patois of communication has been classified as an endangered language, and efforts are being made to revive it. English is also commonly spoken by a large section of the population, and several citizens have adopted it as their primary language.

Population

The main Kota Kinabalu town has a population of approximately 579,400 and the larger urban region has an estimated head count of 700,000. The urban center is the sixth largest city quarter in Malaysia and the largest in the Sabah State.

Currency

The currency of the nation is Malaysian Ringgit (RM) and the current conversion rate is $1 to 3.40 RM.

Visa Information

There are three types of visas that are issued by the Malaysian authorities to foreign nationals. The first is Single Entry Visa, which is required by the visitor to enter the country for a mainly business or social visit, and is valid for three months from the date of issue. The Multiple Entry Visa is required by foreign visitors for business or government matters and related trips. The validity is from three to twelve months. The Transit Visa is for visitors on transit to other nations to enter Malaysia. Foreign nationals who wish to visit Malaysia must apply for a Visa in advance at the Malaysian Representative Office.

Electricity

Electric current in the country is 240 volts and 50 Hz, with UK-type three-pin plugs being the most commonly used electrical outlets.

Health and Safety

There are a few tropical illnesses that are prevalent in Kota Kinabalu and visitors should consult medical practitioners about the required vaccinations before leaving for the town. Dengue fever, Hepatitis A and B are commonly found ailments. The Sabah region also has a year-round Malaria risk and it's wise to get medical insurance. Travelers should try and consume only bottled mineral water and avoid road-side food.

The area near Kota Kinabalu faces a few safety problems, especially the Eastern Sabah quarter that witnessed the kidnapping of foreign tourists by terrorists when they were traveling to diving sites. It is practical to put up in reputed and larger, crowded resorts and be on guard at all times. There are other petty crimes like pick-pocketing and bag snatching that have become a menace in the lonely walking trails of the region.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory or customary in Kota, since most high-end hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge to all bills.