tipping in Malaysia
The general rule is that in Malaysia, you are not expected to tip. However, if you offer one, it will not be refused. It depends entirely on if you want to tip, and how much you want to tip. If you receive good service, feel free to tip, but this will never be expected.
tipping etiquette for hotels in Malaysia
In Malaysia Tipping is not required at hotels
Tipping is not required, and a service charge is usually included in the price. You can tip RM 2-10 per bag to the porter, RM 2-10 for room service and RM 2-10 per day for the housekeeper, if you want. However, this is not expected, nor required. Some hotels, mostly higher end, will encourage tipping for the porter (bellhop) and for room service.
Some start tipping the housekeeper on the first day (leaving a small bill on the bed) hoping for better service during their stay.
5 Star Malaysian Hotels
There are many famous 5 star hotels including:
- The Datai in Langkawi.
- Cameron Highlands Resort in central Malaysia.
- Mandarin Oriental in Kuala Lumpur.
- Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Borneo.
tipping in restaurants in Malaysia
In Malaysia Don't tip at restaurants
In Malaysia tipping is not required and will not be expected. A 10% service charge will normally added to the bill and many locals round-up the bill and leave the change.
Famous Malaysian Restaurants
There are many top market restaurants in Malaysia, mostly found in Kuala Lumpur or in resorts. Popular joints in Kuala Lumpur include Sage Restaurant & Wine Bar, Sao Nam, Senses
tip etiquette at spas in Malaysia
In Malaysia Don't tipat spas
You are not expected to tip at spas in Malaysia. Some hotels add a ‘spa charge’.
Spa Ettiqette
In Malaysia Spa ettiquette isn’t different from most other countries. Be polite, don’t talk loudly, arrive early, and if in doubt just ask.
should you tip your tour guide?
for private tours TIP 20RM - 30RM per person per day
A private tour guide should receive RM 20 – 30 per day, per person. You aren’t expected to tip a group tour guide, but you can tip 10% of the price if you want.
Malaysian tour destinations
There will be guided tours available in each region including Kuala Lumpur, Borneo, Cameron highlands, Mount Kilibanu. For something a bit different, try a Wildlife tour or Rice field tour.
should you tip your taxi driver?
in Malaysia DON'T TIP taxi drivers
In Malaysia it is not requirde or expected to tip your taxi driver. However, if you hire the driver for a few days, it may be nice to tip RM 25-50.