Clothes to Wear in Malaysia: The Ultimate Guide for Men & Women

Malaysia is known for its gorgeous landscapes, diverse culture and good food. From serene beaches to vibrant cities, there’s always an outfit for any occasion. If you’re looking for clothes to wear in Malaysia for various purposes, in this article, we detail the appropriate clothing for everyone. 

Clothes to Wear in Malaysia For Women 

As a woman, there are simply too many outfits to choose from. However, not all of them are appropriate, depending on the purpose. Here are some of the best clothes to wear in Malaysia for women: 

1. Casual, Daily Wear

Some of the casual clothes to wear in Malaysia as a woman would be loose-fitting or lightweight t-shirts, blouses, dresses, skirts or tops. Since the weather is usually humid and hot in Malaysia, wearing thin, light, and breathable tops is better. 

You can also wear short pants or skirts in non-conservative areas such as shopping malls or restaurants. As for dresses, you could opt for sleeveless or off-shoulder, depending on your preference. 

We don’t recommend heels for footwear as it can be hard to walk around with them. Instead, go for comfortable shoes or sandals that are light on your feet. 

2. Formal Events

If you’re in Malaysia for a formal event such as a wedding, business meeting or celebration, you can wear maxi dresses made from silk or satin. Alternatively, consider short cocktail dresses with details such as sequins and lace if you don’t fancy maxi dresses. It’s easier to walk in short-length dresses, especially if it’s outdoors. 

You can wear your prettiest heels during formal events as you’re only on your feet in a short time frame. You will most likely be seated most of the time. 

If the formal event is outdoors, consider bringing a shawl just in case the weather gets chilly. But if it’s indoors, don’t forget to bring a cardigan, jacket or blazer to keep you warm, especially if it’s an air-conditioned space. 

3. Religion or Cultural Spots

Malaysia's familiar religious or cultural landmarks are mosques, temples and churches. To be respectful, the recommended clothes to wear in Malaysia when visiting these spots would be non-revealing outfits. 

All clothing has to be below the knees, with no tight-fitting clothing. You can opt for a maxi, a loose-fitting dress or a short-sleeved top with long pants. Some women must cover their hair with a scarf when visiting certain religious spots such as mosques. 

4. Beach or Island

When you plan to visit the beach or any of the many islands in Malaysia, as a woman, you can wear bikinis, but it’s best to bring along some cover-up, especially in public areas. Opt for modest swimwear, if possible, that doesn’t reveal too much skin. 

Since you will be stepping on the sand and possibly wetting them thanks to the sea, it’s best to wear waterproof flip-flops or sandals. 

5. Outdoor or Nature Spots

While outdoors or in nature, you should opt for moisture-wicking or quick-drying t-shirts to prevent sweat from sticking to your skin. It’s not recommended to use sleeveless as you may get sunburned or bitten by mosquitoes.

Be sure to use appropriate footwear that has a firm grip, especially if you go hiking. It can be slippery outdoors, so wearing sturdy shoes is best to prevent slipping or falling. 

6. Cultural Outfits

You can consider clothes to wear in Malaysia that reflect the primary culture, such as Chinese, Malay or Indian. Each culture, religion, and race has its own traditional outfits. In Chinese culture, women can wear the traditional Cheongsam. The baju kurung reflects the Malay culture, and the saree reflects the Indian culture. 

Clothes to Wear in Malaysia For Men

There are various men's clothes to wear in Malaysia, but it also depends on the occasion, setting and place of visit. Here are some of the recommended clothes to wear based on different purposes:

1. Casual, Daily Wear

Men can wear the usual polo t-shirts or short-sleeved t-shirts that are lightweight and breathable. Due to the hot weather in Malaysia, it’s better to avoid heavyweight t-shirts or long sleeves. 

You can wear casual shorts or long pants such as jeans. The fabric should also be lightweight, such as cotton, so that you won’t feel too hot. Instead of tight-fitting bottoms, go for the loose-fitting ones that allow air to circulate. 

2. Formal Events

If you’re preparing for a formal event in Malaysia, you can go for collared shirts, either short or long-sleeved, with tailored pants. You may wear a suit if appropriate, but it also depends on the event type. Additionally, you can also pair a plain t-shirt with a blazer for your formal event. 

Wear your most stylish leather shoes or loafers with your formal outfit. If you need to bring along a blazer, consider lightweight ones so that you won’t be sweating buckets under the heat. 

3. Religion or Cultural Spots 

Men should not wear shorts above the knee to any cultural or religious places as it’s prohibited. Instead, wear long pants or as long as they’re below the knee. Your top shouldn’t be sleeveless as well. Men are allowed to wear short or long-sleeve t-shirts. 

4. Beach or Island

Though most men tend to be shirtless while at the beach or island, wearing a tank top in public areas is recommended. You can be shirtless in regions that are not within the public eye. Besides a tank top, you can also wear a lightweight and quick-dry loose-fitting t-shirt. Pair your top with swim shorts - avoid using swimming trunks as they can be considered too revealing. 

5. Outdoor or Nature Spots

The best clothes to wear in Malaysia for adventurous men or outdoors are moisture-wicking, loose-fitting clothing. The t-shirts should also be activewear to accommodate the sweat produced outdoors or in nature. Avoid being shirtless, as it’s inappropriate, and there’s a possibility of getting sunburnt. Ensure you use appropriate footwear, such as sturdy shoes with a good grip, to prevent accidents. 

6. Cultural Outfits

For men, there are several cultural outfits that can be worn based on the major cultures of Chinese, Indian, and Malay. Men can wear tang suits in Chinese culture or the kurta-pyjama in Indian culture. As for Malay culture, men can wear baju Melayu. Standard loafers or leather shoes can be worn in these traditional outfits. 

Clothes to Wear in Malaysia Based on Weather

Malaysia is hot and humid throughout the year, with occasional rainfall known as the monsoon season. Here are the recommended clothes to wear in Malaysia during the different weather: 

• Hot weather: Wear moisture-wicking, loose-fitting and breathable clothing. Avoid using black, as it can absorb heat.  
• Monsoon season: Try to use closed-toe footwear, quick-dry clothing and waterproof raincoats or jackets.  
• Cooling weather: This only applies to highlands such as Cameron Highlands or Genting Highlands. The weather can be cooling - as low as 15 degrees. You can bring outerwear such as jackets, long-sleeved tops, and long pants.

Clothes to Wear in Malaysia for Different Places

Depending on the place you’re visiting, we recommend some of these clothes to wear in Malaysia:

• Nature spots: Choose footwear that is stable and use clothing that is moisture-wicking. 
• Beaches: Use your preferred swimwear with appropriate cover-ups. 
• Places of worship: Cover your shoulders and knees, and use clothing that has sleeves and is below knee-length. 
• Government offices: You should not wear sleeveless or shorts while in government offices. Opt for pants below the knee and tops with sleeves. 

Must-have Accessories To Carry Along 

Aside from clothes to wear in Malaysia, you’ll have to bring some accessories to make your life easier. Here are the must-have items to carry in your bag:

• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes against the sun with sunglasses, especially if you’re at the beach. 
• Hats: Caps can also shield your face against the heat and protect against the rain.
• Portable fan: Bring the small battery-operated fans attached to a USB, such as your phone or power bank, to cool you during the hot weather.
• Raincoat or umbrella: Since it can rain unexpectedly, bringing a poncho, foldable raincoat or small umbrella is better. 
• Portable power bank: To prevent your electronic devices from running out of battery, carry along a portable power bank. 
• Sunscreen: Sunscreen protects your face against harmful UV rays and prevents you from getting sunburnt. 

F.A.Q 

1. How should I dress in Malaysia?

You should opt for moisture-wicking, lightweight and breathable clothing in Malaysia. This makes it more comfortable while getting used to the hot weather.

2. What to wear at the beach in Malaysia? 

Use appropriate and modest swimwear with cover-ups while in public places. 

3. Is it OK to wear shorts in Malaysia? 

Yes, you can, but it’s not allowed in certain places, such as religious landmarks or government offices. 

4. Can I wear sleeveless in Malaysia? 

You can wear sleeveless in Malaysia, but not in religious or government places. It’s best to carry along a cover-up whenever necessary. 

5. Do you need a jacket in Kuala Lumpur? 

Yes, you may be required to wear one to cover your skin or protect against the rain.