CLIMATE

Malaysia has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 40°C, or 70°F to 100°F. Humidity is usually high (60-70%) though at various times during the year it may be slightly drier. Legend has it that there are two distinct rainy seasons in Malaysia, although no one can agree on when they begin or end.

PEOPLE

The people of Malaysia come from a wide variety of ethnic groups. The primary three are Chinese, Indian, and the indigenous Malay, but there are other tribal and minority groups represented as well. The variety this brings to the culture is reflected in the incredible diversity of religion, art, customs, food, architecture, and language. Although Bahasa Malaysia is the official national language, English is widely spoken and often serves as the common language of Malaysia. (This is largely due to the British influence here during the past century).

Although freedom of religion is permitted in Malaysia, Islam is the official state religion and it is illegal to attempt to convert a Muslim to any other faith. The indigenous Malay are almost entirely Muslim, while the Chinese tend to be Buddhist, Taoist, or Christian. The Indians are generally Hindu, but some are Muslim, Christian, or Sikhs.

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

Base staff and students will be picked up at the airport/train station/bus terminal upon their first arrival in Penang. Students will also be returned to the airport/train station/bus terminal at the completion of their school. The base may not be able to provide this transportation for students staying in Penang for several days after their school.

Base vehicles may be signed out by staff and used for appropriate school activities. Bus, taxi, or personal vehicles are available for personal errands.

Base vehicles are to be driven by authorized drivers. To obtain authorization, please see the Housing Manager.

Shopping Trips: The base often schedules weekly shopping trips to a local shopping mall. When these trips are not possible staff and students will need to find their own way to and from shopping areas. The 8-9 seats are available on a first come first serve basis. Please sign up for van runs. Everyone wishing to use this service contributes toward use of the van.

Buses in Penang are safe and affordable. The closest bus stop is a twenty-five minute walk and the forty-five minute trip into the island's main city of Georgetown costs about 80 sen. Taxis can easily be summoned to the base with fares ranging from RM 10 ($3 US) to RM 40 ($12 US) depending on the destination. Telephone numbers for the local taxi companies are posted at each house.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

A passport valid for at least six months is required to enter Malaysia. SMC Penang is not able to provide visas or visa sponsorships so all international staff and students should enter of a tourist visa. There is no fee for tourist visas and there is no need to apply in advance, however, please check with your local consulate to make sure that you will be eligible for at least a one-month tourist visa upon arrival. Tourist visas are only good for one to three months (depending upon your citizenship), so many staff and students decide to visit neighboring countries at least once during their school. Those planning to do so should budget at least RM 150 ($50 US) per person for transportation and lodging expenses.

When you enter Malaysia, mark your reason for entry as social/visiting friends. For the address where you'll be staying, simply write Penang. If asked, explain that you have friends who will be picking you up.