Malaysia
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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Drug laws are very strict in Malaysia; penalties for using, having, or selling illegal drugs include the death penalty, long jail sentences, or heavy fines.
Death penalty, long jail sentences, or heavy fines.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaCannabis
Cannabis, marijuana, and CBD products — including those prescribed as medication in the US — are strictly prohibited; Malaysia does not allow importing CBD or THC products.
Bringing drugs into Malaysia — including marijuana, cannabis, or CBD products — can bring the death penalty, long prison sentences, or fines of roughly $1,000–$5,000.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaMedications
Prescription medications must be in original packaging with a prescription; controlled substances need a written prescription and a 30-day limit, and CBD/THC products are absolutely prohibited even with a US prescription.
Cannabis-related medications fall under severe drug penalties.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaWeapons
It is illegal to bring guns, ammunition, and even spent shells or casings into Malaysia.
Up to 7 years in prison or fines up to $2,500 for bringing guns, ammunition, or even spent shells or casings into Malaysia.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaCustoms & Cash
Cash exceeding USD 10,000 (or equivalent in Ringgit) must be declared on both entry and exit.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaDriving
You may drive in Malaysia only with both a valid International Driving Permit (obtained before arrival) and a valid US license; traffic drives on the left.
Driving without an IDP is against local law and can bring fines.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaPhotography & Drones
It is illegal to photograph certain buildings in Malaysia, including military and government buildings and Ministry of Health facilities such as public hospitals and clinics.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaConnectivity
Drone use is restricted (check the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia) and satellite phone use is restricted (check the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission).
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaLGBTQ+ Safety
Homosexual acts are illegal under Malaysian law; police sometimes raid venues popular with LGBTQ travelers, and some states add separate Sharia penalties for Muslims.
Punishments can include up to 20 years in prison or caning; some states' Sharia laws add up to 3 years plus caning for Muslims.
§ US State Dept — MalaysiaPublic Conduct
It is illegal to proselytize another faith to Malaysian Muslims; religious police and authorities sometimes raid nightspots and hotels to enforce rules against activities contrary to Muslim custom.
Criminal penalties apply.
§ US State Dept — Malaysia