Skinky's Guide to Driving all over Malaysia & Thailand (v3)

[Boyboy]

Bro , parents born me with this face not i want de leh...

 

btw i think its m16 rifle.

 

worst part when the officer pass me back my phone to let the manager speak to me , he said the officers suspect your female passenger

is an illegal prostitude. goodness..

 

she must look good then

 

excellent and very amusing guide by Stinky

[Scion]

Bro , parents born me with this face not i want de leh...

 

btw i think its m16 rifle.

 

worst part when the officer pass me back my phone to let the manager speak to me , he said the officers suspect your female passenger

is an illegal prostitude. goodness..

 

 

should secretly took the pics of them pointing rifles to you

then submit to their press or authority

blow the whole matter up

 

but then in the first place, were u KL with them? [sly]

[Gaybhari]

Bro , parents born me with this face not i want de leh...

 

btw i think its m16 rifle.

 

worst part when the officer pass me back my phone to let the manager speak to me , he said the officers suspect your female passenger

is an illegal prostitude. goodness..

 

Then your female passenger must have been either very chio or very slutty

[Skinky]

Update on Terengganu/Kuantan Drive

 

1. To drive to Terengganu or Kuantan, you have to bypass genting. It's a long uphill/windy drive so it's best to go during the day. At night / raining / foggy, it'll be quite tough if you drive a small car with bad wipers.

 

2. The road to kuantan is mostly big 2 -3 lane highways. From Kuantan to Terengganu, there is no big highways, mostly 1 lane roads. Becareful when you try and overtake. Remember to stop and buy the Keropok Lekor and the Nasi Daging.

 

KL to Kuantan, based on 110 - 130km/h, Approx 280km / about 3 hours

 

Kuantan to Tggu, Approx 150km / About 2 hours

[Dwoon]

You mean thru the Karak highway....

 

But if from Singapore, I'll go from the East Coast road all the way up. Kota Tinggi => Mersing => Kuantan, etc....

 

No tolls to pay and got small towns to stop along the way for food and some rest break.

 

Sgp to Trengannu (town) takes me about 12 hours in all (with stops for lunch and bio breaks). Could have been faster if not for the many slow trucks and vehicles.

 

Update on Terengganu/Kuantan Drive

 

1. To drive to Terengganu or Kuantan, you have to bypass genting. It's a long uphill/windy drive so it's best to go during the day. At night / raining / foggy, it'll be quite tough if you drive a small car with bad wipers.

 

2. The road to kuantan is mostly big 2 -3 lane highways. From Kuantan to Terengganu, there is no big highways, mostly 1 lane roads. Becareful when you try and overtake. Remember to stop and buy the Keropok Lekor and the Nasi Daging.

 

KL to Kuantan, based on 110 - 130km/h, Approx 280km / about 3 hours

 

Kuantan to Tggu, Approx 150km / About 2 hours

 

[Shor]

Brother Skinky,

 

 

thank you so much for the terrific advices. Newbies like me appreciate very much. Again , I was planning to have a long drive from Singapore to mae Hong Son....leisure driving tour. After reading your post, I decide to give it a try. I try not to stay in Msia but only a night at Penang.And I will be driving a SUV, it seems that Thailand is much safer than Malaysia ( no offence ) because I am more familiar with Thailand road.

 

It's just that I had not try driving from Singapore crossing the Msia Thai border before. My trip initially starts on July and I'll definitely post a Blog of my trip.

 

Brother Skinky, may I ask you some noob questions? A few worries before having such a LONG drive up North. The main worries is car break down, secondly it's the safety of the car parked. If I choose to stay over a Hotel which have a multi storey car park, is it safe? Apart from this two worries, I'm conclude with my trip planned. Or perhaps you have a few minutes to type me any recommendations or precautions......very much appreciate.

 

Your post printed out, bookmarked and copy paste in Wordpad and save in my document!!! Thank you soooooo much brother!

 

 

[Raymondism]

Updated Feb 14 2011

 

- Now with driving information to Southern Thailand (need some confirmation on prices) (Topic F2)

- Updated with experiences on break downs on the NSH (Topic K)

- How not to get robbed. (Topic L)

- Behaving in Msia (Topic M)

- Parking in KL (Topic N)

- What to do when police pull you over when you are not speeding. (Topic O)

- Updated with Pictures ! (bottom)

- Now with Bold fonts !

 

--------

 

Hi, I've been driving up to Msia the past few years, I would like to share some tips and driving experience with anyone who might be interested. Anyone wishing to add more tips, please add on.

 

A. Preparation

 

I think the most important things will be making sure your engine oil is topped up, lights completely working, tyres free from any foreign objects and of course, fully gassed up. Other things that I usually bring is spare ringgits, (1 50 and a few 10s). At the toll booth, if u dun have ringgit, the operator will offer to change SGD with MYR, but exchange rate is 1 is to 1. So pls bring Ringgit.

 

Other things I usually put in my car include torch, warning triangle, wet wipes, water, first aid kit, spare clothes, toilet paper lining, tissue paper etc etc. As I go up every week, I tend to be abit more kiasu. So far I am lucky, I don't need to stop for any emergency. But who knows.

 

B. Toll Booths

 

You may choose to purchase a touch and go card at all 'PLUS' highway offices or tollbooths. If you see "TAMBAH NILAI" that means you can buy/top up your touch and go at these places. If you wanna buy the smart tag, visit the office and buy the smart tag machine. Last time I bought was about 80rm I think.

 

*Touch n Go cards are a must from October 09 onwards ! I lost mine and managed to purchase at the first toll I saw after SG customs.

 

Find out more here http://www.touchngo.com.my

 

C. Speed/Time

 

The speed limit is 110 most of the way, sometimes dropping to 90 (on windy roads but not on NS highway). There are speed cameras deployed here and there. Out of my 100 trips up and down per year, I get on average 3 - 5 speeding tickets at RM300 each (camera kind).

 

I am not condoning speeding but it is up to each individual how fast they wish to finish the journey. I have completed the SG > KL journey at 90km before, at 110km and at speeds way above the limit. 90KM took me about 4 hours plus to complete as my lights failed, and I was following behind this station wagon the entire nite. 110 took about 3 & 1/2 hours. I shall not discuss my record here yes ? haha.

 

 

If you happen to be caught my cops for speeding (even when ure not speeding). Pass him ur passport and smile at him. Call him encik and show your shoulders if u are female (or male with sexy shoulders). At this junction, you can either 1. Accept the ticket he will offer you 2. Talk kok with him till he gets bored and leaves you alone with no ticket or 3. Negotiate another option which again I shall not be so explicit about.

 

But what I would like to mention is that 50 ringgit that you have prepared should come in handy somewhere about now.

 

 

D. Weather vs Time vs Traffic

 

Best times to leave SG or KL

 

4 - 6am

Best time If you leave at 5am, ur car will get cold air and it'll feel much more smoother, youcan even switch off the aircon I hardly feel sleepy at this time.

 

10 - 11am

Sun is slowly rising, not that hot, but you will get the cops around these times.

 

2pm - 3pm

Depature sg is ok only, but trust me, you will get sleepy. Not much cops around cause they are sleeping, traffic is so-so.

 

Try to avoid hitting sg or kl anytime above 6(KL) or 7(SG). Cause all hell breaks loose and everyone comes out to play.

 

 

D1. Day driving

 

Usually, day driving esp afternoon, you will get abit sleepy. The roads are quite straight and boring. Wat I do to keep awake is to slap myself in the face really hard, or stop the car and wash my face. I remember one incident where my passenger was sleeping next to me, i also fell asleep for awhile. In my dream I realised i was driving and when i suddenly woke up, i was thankful my car was still going straight or else abes. Remember the wet wipes i ask u to prepare ? not for cleaning up your spunk but for wiping your face.

 

Remember to switch on your headlights If you are driving fast, you can also switch on ur high beam. Cars from afar will see you and you dun even need to signal right. It is not irritating to them at all, so dun worry. I tested before.

 

Day driving got more buses than trucks. Also expect army trucks and super slow cars on the right lane.

 

 

D2. Night Driving

 

Night driving will be more fun. You tend to be more alert but of course is more dangerous. Those cars that change to white light, sorry brothers, it wont' work very well in night/rainy/foggy weathers. So please take extra care. The torchlight u bring come in handy now, can shine at them and shine out if your light can't reach. Hahaha

 

There was one incident where i slowed down near some construction area, i saw one slab of concrete in front of me. I was very lucky to have seen it and managed to swerve in time. If i was driving my usual speed, i would most probably be using my mouth to type out this post. So conclusion is slow your ass down near work sites (quite alot), u wun know what the hell will pop out.

 

Night driving you will encounter more trucks vs buses. Some of these trucks no light so please bring some eye drops or clean the crap from ur eyes. Two pairs of eyes will be best, and I am not refering to spectacles. Ask your passenger dun be lazy and help keep a watch out. Cars tend to turn out for no rhyme or reason without signalling. Cars that have all kinds of weird lights all over the car, finally you have a good and valid reason to use it. Its better to be safe and sorry, make sure the lorries and kancils see your batmobile when you overtake them.

 

D3. Wet Weather

 

Expect rain to happen anytime of the day. When that happens, Pray your tyres have enough grip on the road. For cars with tyres width >225, hold your steering wheel tight because aquaplanning will happen. FYI Aquaplanning is not planning activities with transvestites for a day out. It happens when too much water forms an extra layer onthe road and not enough water can be flushed out by the tyre grooves. You will loose control but counter steer slightly and continue driving on. If you plan to slow down to 80 -90, please for goodness sake move to the left lane. Don't be a hogger.

 

Sometimes, the rain comes down so bad that it's better to pull at a rest stop before continuing on journey.

 

I keep a pair of yellow sunglasses that helps me see during rainy/foggy weather. Yellow spectrum penetrates rain/fog much better.

 

 

E. Driving Etiquette

 

There are some unwritten rules about driving on the north south highways. Most msian cars simply hate singaporen cars, nothing we can do about that because we complain about their cars when they come in. I'm not exactly an angel, but I try my best to adhere to the below rules (when i can)

 

 

E1. Signalling

Signal right if you wish to overtake. If bugger refuses to move, overtake from left. No point being upset. Some of these cars have no side view mirrors, dirty rear view mirrors. They may have no idea you are even there. You may horn but dun over horn. Slight tap will be good. First course of action is signal right. High beam (if at nite), then horn is last.

 

E2. Flashing

Keep it to a minimum as the opposite traffic really gets blinded by your highbeam. Don't do a long irritating high beam. Do 2 quick ones like how you use your mouse to double left click. Those who wish to flash their body can do so at their own discretion.

 

E3. Horning

Seriously, on such long highways and speeds, your horn wun really matter much unless you're directly behind them, horning a poor kelisa that decided to overtake you. So keep that to a minimum unless its an emergency.

 

E4. Cursing

Cursing is very much accepted in msia, so long you do it in your own car. At the end fo the day, is there a point slowing down to the offending car and letting off profanities ? After so many years of driving up and down, i just tap my horn to show my displeasure or give a sexy stare.

 

E4i. When all else fails, and the receiver of your cursing doesn't understand what you are trying to bring across, use the universal sign of bad faith.

 

To do a good finger, wind down window, extend arm and twist wrist. Slowly unleash the bird and jerk it once to show you mean it. Once point has been brought across (make sure he/she sees it) then bring arm back into the car. Use this only when cursing under breath has failed, or the receiver is 100% wrong (who are we to judge *shrugs). But use it sparingly, we are only allowed to use it 7 times in our lifetime before it's no longer cool.

 

Do take note, by doing the above, you may be getting yourself into more trouble than you probably wish for. It's sometimes best just to walk away unscathed.

 

 

E5. Racing

 

If you tend to drive at high speeds, or you are driving any car that looks fast (or faster that it actually is), expect to get raced by all kinds of cars. I have had Porsche GT2s, F430s, Wajas, civics (funniest one was a bike) try and race (play punk) with me because simply I was driving fast. Just ignore and continue at ur own pace. If they come up fast behind you, just move over to the left and let them pass. Slow down if you have to. It's not worth it. Once they leave, you may chooose to do E4i.

 

 

E6. Hogging

If you drive anywhere from 0 - 250km/h on the right lane, and insist on keeping on the right lane even when someone comes up behind you, you are a hogger. Hoggers are drivers who have brains the size of my left testicle, who most probably can't score a screw with a hooker, who probably jerks off to the picture of elmo. In Msia, or even SG, just activate your signal, signal left then move left swiftly. Avoid straddling lanes as cars will just prepare to pass you as you are moving left. That may cause an accident so dun straddle !

 

 

E7. Tailgating

If someone is tailgating you, and you are in the first lane. Hit yourself in the balls. That means you're hogging ! Same thing, Signal left, then move left swiftly. If you're in the slow lane, and someone is tailgating you with no rhyme or reason, you may chooose to do E4i.

 

 

E8 Roads/Obstacles/Animals

Through out your journey, if you are travelling at high speed, expect to see various forms of insects, bugs and slightly smaller animals stuck in your intercooler. For those turbo charged cars, you may wish to install some kind of additional filter.

 

I have had cats, dead dogs, legs, arms, blood, stones, ROCKS !!, tyres, bugs, insects, HUGE insects hit my car. During your petrol stop, you can spend the time while waiting for your refuel by trying to identify the names of the insects, bugs or what not that have collided with your windscreen, intercooler, bumper, side view mirrors. If you have kids or children in the car, bring them out and have a nice family activity at the petrol station !

 

Obstacles are far too many on the NS highway. Avoid hitting carcasses (dead animals)as they stick to the undercarriage and cause a stink when cooked. Wash it off quickly when that happens unless you want to smell like bbq at your destination. It's good to bring some bug spray or some water to get rid of the insects that hit your car. Wash it off quick because they become stubborn when left out too long.

 

You may meet various forms of wildlife on your trip up north. It's not exactly meeting them, but rather your bumper will have a bonding session with them. These include but are not limited to monitor lizards (abt 2m long), snakes, dogs, cats, monkeys, squirrels, birds, wild boar etc etc. Slow down and horn to chase them away, if you are driving at speeds above 100, just hit them and drive straight through. If you hit the brakes and swirve, you will get into an accident. Remember to say a small prayer for them when you pass.

 

Yesterday, I came across a cat lying in the middle of the road at a petrol station licking itself (Such a cool cat). It just totally ignored me as a I neared. I had to stop my car, horn and rev my engine before it even looked up. Finally, a petrol attendant ran over and took him out of the way.

 

Watch out for exploded tyres from lorries, and lorries that just stop in the middle of the road. I happened to hit an exploded tyre doing about 160 and my right bumper just disintegrated, luckily my car didnt change direction or i would have crashed. Thanks to Yew Lip, my car is back to its pristine condition.

 

I just heard from my friend that her aunt died when their car hit a stationery lorry that just broke down on the road without any lights. Even while driving at the speed limit the driver died, so just keep that in mind.

 

 

F. Driving further up to Ipoh/Kuantan/Penang/Terrengganu

 

For those driving up to KL, you may stop here. Your drives are comfortable and the roads are well made. You have nothing to fear and it is rather safe.

 

To East Coast

For those venturing further, to the east coast of KL, good luck. You need it. Big highways become single lane trunk roads. You will spend alot of time overtaking in fear and anticipation that another car doesnt suddenly come face to face with you. Or you will spend alot of time waiting behind a lorry. Try and avoid doing this trip at nite.

 

To penang/Ipoh

From KL to Ipoh/Penang, the roads become winding and there are lots of slight turns. These turns can accomodate speeds at up to 180 - 190 and remember not to brake or panic when you enter these turns. Just let your car turn in slowly. The views here become wonderful. Ask your passenger to prepare a camera as some of the views are just breathtaking, esp before ipoh. When you are heading to Penang, remember to stop n have the wonderful ipoh hor fun. I cant describe how wonderful it is. Ipoh Hor Fun turns me on and gives me wet dreams.

 

F2. Driving up to Thailand

 

I have gone up to Southern Thailand till Hat Yai from Penang, and it is a pretty much easy to commute trip.

 

From Penang to the Thai border, it is a straight road all the way up, bypassing Alor Star (stop by and have a meal there !) and should take you approximately 2 hours+. 1 Hr + for faster cars. Funnily I have not gotten caught for speeding before from penang onwards.

 

Before you near the customs, there will be many insurance outlets around the area before the customs side. Keep an eye out and stop at the first ones. There, you can buy your insurance for very little money and they will prepare all the forms and everything for you. Ensure you bring your log card.

 

Once that is done, head on up to the Msia customs (as per normal like sg into msia) and drive to the thai/msia side. You will bypass a duty free shopping center where you can buy all your alcohol and other stuffs. It's quite cheap so dun forget to buy em there.

 

After that, head on towards the thai customs but do not drive through. You have to park at the left side of the customs (big outdoor carpark) but take note don't park anywhere with signs saying "NO PARKING" or you will have a handcuff cuffed to your door and may have to pay the fine. (Yes, we kena)

 

After parking, go queue at the customs booth and pay RM1 for your passport to be chopped. Drivers must go to another side to get their cars validated. Once everything is done, drive the car through that same counter and get a piece of paper from the officer who will be holding it.

 

If you are lazy and don't wish to do any of the above, you will realise that you can actually drive through without doing any of the above. But of course, you are illegally entering thailand. It is a risk that some do take and you can opt to do it too, but do remember your butthole can only get poked so many times in jail before it runs out of warranty.

 

So once you are done, welcome to the town of danok, thailand. This town is perfect for guys as they have various bars where men can test drive different boobs. Now, this is a different story all together and I am not claiming I have test driven any boobs. It was told to me by a friend of a friend, of a friend. I continued driving to Hat Yai, a more palatable and bigger town in my opinion where you can grab amazing food and get the most wonderful foot massages at a reasonable price.

 

Going back is exactly the opposite. If you are lost as to what I mean, proceed to read from this paragraph backwards to the first paragraph. You will find yourself back in malaysia.

 

Take note - You can't take any alcohol back into malaysia and don't try it. (yes, we got caught). Once you get back to the msia side, you will find yourself at an M'sian Army Roadblock. Put on your best ugly smile and call the nice officer encik, and he will wave you on. They are checking for drug addicts, and suspicious people.

 

There are some great photo journals of many forum members into Thailand that I have read up on. Please do a search and refer to those for photos and a more accurate dollar and cents read through.

 

 

G. East Coast Driving

 

For those who are slightly more adventurous, you can choose to drive from SG to Mersing to Kuantan to Terrengganu. This will take you approximately 10 hours (I finished in about 8 - 9 hours from Tggu to SG). From Kuantan to SG, the coastal roads are beautiful. The trees are green (and red) and the roads are almost completely empty. You can choose to take photos near Cherating area and Mersing town area especially for those with modern looking cars (on a backdrop of a fishing village.)

 

Do remember the drive (after 4 hours) becomes slightly tedious because the roads are very windy and there are cows that wander onto the roads.

 

 

H. Special tools

 

When I hit the tyre, my bumper came lose and it was hanging on one side. Thanks to the bandages on my first aid kit, i managed to tie it up onto my fender and it wasnt too bad. It was flapping around when I did over 150 so i added more bandages. It was quite funny. But the tools that come in handy would be

 

1. 1 - 2 Screwdrivers, small and big

2. Pliers

3. Cutters

4. Some simple wires and strings.

5. Torch

6. Tape

 

These would be the most basic things that anyone have in the car, it will help no matter what the problems are, unless of course ur car flip upside down.

 

I. Checking your car.

 

I cant emphasize how important it is to check your tyres, please do that. If you don't know your tyre pressure, go ask your tyre shop guy, write it down somewhere. In the meantime, check your thread depths to see whether it is too bald, if its bald, go change your tyres, you don't want to be caught in the cross winds + heavy rain + poor visibility.

 

Other things that I try (i do try when i remember) to check is my oil, you don't want to suddenly have a shortage of oil while driving as ur engine will be damaged. Keep a small 1litre bottle in the boot at all times.

 

J. Petrol Stations

 

Toll Booth Amounts (Touch n Go Payable only)

 

From SG > KL

 

Customs > SGD4.80

 

First Toll - Rm 10.80

Second Toll - Rm 3.10

Third Toll (at KL) - Rm 36.70

 

 

For Petrol Kiosk Locations

 

SG to KL (on E2 highway)

 

33km, 75km, 146km, 205km, 225km, 271km, 308km

 

KL to SG

 

274km, 210km, 136km, 74km

 

 

K. Breaking Down on the North South Highway

 

I have broken down a few times in Malaysia. With a bmw, landrover and a proton, both in the middle of the night and during the day. Oddly, it was the breaking down during the day which was slightly abit more scary than the night. Here are a few things that I think everyone should take note.

 

1. Try and get to the shoulder as fast as possible, or if you feel the car is gonna break down, get off to the rest stop, take note of the KM number on the center divider or on the left.

2. Once you have stopped on the shoulder, avoid putting up your bonnet or your trunk as that will signal to people that you have broken down. Try to pretend you are parked at your will and you can move off anytime. When I broke down, there were many guys that stopped and asked if I needed a workshop, some of them actually turned aggressive when I told them I was just waiting for a friend or when I didn't need their help. Just do not converse with them if possible and wave them off and not look at them. They may just hang around but do not start any form of conversation no matter what.

3. Call the Plus Toll line @ 1800 88 0000. The plus toll hotline will send a pickup truck that will help with the below:

- Battery, Tyre puncture, overheating, loss of oil/fuel and other simple things.

- Other matters, they will probably give you the number for a tow truck to call. Different sections of the highway is taken care of different companies. If you call a JB firm, they may charge you much more for their trip up, and also you have to wait for them to go all the way up to reach you. So ask the TollPlus guys the nearest tow truck company number. If you are driving a FWD car, it should be easier as the normal tow truck can pick you up. 4WD & RWD cars may require a tow truck with a bed that puts your entire car on their truck. They may also charge you additional if you wanna hitch a ride. I have paid from RM250 (for short distance) to RM600 for 100km + distance to the nearest town with lompang. Bargain on the phone and don't sound too desperate, say you'll call others as there really are alot of companies. If you are alone (lady or a wuss), you can give some money to the tollplus guys to hang around so no other people will bug you. If you are a guy, just act tough, smoke a ciggy or if u haf tattoos just show it so those annoying 'workshop middlemen' wont really try and do anything.

4. If there are no body around, I will recommend you leaving your car and sitting behind it a few meters away. Traffic is heavy and anything might happen with people banging into your car from the back. Sitting in front of the car may prove dangerous. If you notice someone stopping, go back to the car and sit inside till he leaves.

5. Nighttime breakdowns are slightly more intimidating, but really, nobody stops to bug you and all the bad guys are sleeping. There are alot of trucks though. Switch on all your lights and hazard lights and sit way back. Enjoy the jungle and the cool breeze and quickly call the toll plus guys.

 

I will recommend before setting off any journey, try and find some tow truck company numbers near JB, Malacca and Kuala Lumpur to keep with in case of any emergency. For BMW or other premium car drivers, you can call ur emergency service and they will send down a tow truck.

 

Near JB/SG

 

Call Mr Yeoh from Faster Transport & Crane Services Sdn Bhd, +6017 351 8816 / +6012 780 8913

 

For tyre/wheel problems in KL.

 

Call Mr Wong, From Heap Wo Tyre & Battery Services, Open on Sundays !

 

+603 6257 5492 / +603 6257 1902

 

L. How not to get robbed.

 

1. While driving in KL, i have experience first hand people around me getting robbed. I have been lucky not to have gotten robbed because I follow the following rules.

a. Do not place your valuables on your seat, backseat, center console or anywhere else, while driving and not driving.

b. Do not leave your GPS holder stuck on your windscreen. This basically tells the person you have a GPS in your car

c. Take out your cashcard, and leave the little cover open, so ppl can see it's empty.

d. Cover with a piece of cloth if you have any thing that is stuck on your dashboard. Position it such that you are using to protect your dashboard.

e. Going to a shop ? Try and get parking as close to it as possible, and keep an eye out. Look out for any lingering people that are looking at you or your car. Look out for sudden accelerating motorcyles. Leave a buddy near the car if possible.

f. Have a flashy car ? Pick and choose the place you shop, eat or visit. Most of KL is safe, just be more attentive.

g. Most parking at the major shopping malls or tourist areas are very safe, if you are more worried, park at the valet. It's not that expensive.

 

Generally, Malaysia (JB northwards) is pretty safe. I have visited the most ulu places and I just park my car anywhere. Just avoid break ins. If the person really wanna steal your car, you don't have much a choice. But you can prevent break-ins. I can't say the same for JB though, it's a cesspool of crime so avoid it at all cost.

 

 

M. Behaving in Msia

 

Remember one thing my fellow singaporeans. You may not like Malaysians or may look down on them for one reason or another. But they are like us, just people with families and stuff. If you treat them with respect, they will do so with you. Act like a typical singaporean, and trust me, you will get the brunt of their anger. We are visitors in their country, follow and respect their rules as best as you can. Like wise, if you visit your friend's home, you don't just decide to s--t on their couch if you know what I mean.

 

I have some Malaysian friends, and their only gripe with us is when we visit their country and we act like we are better than them. Just a dose of reality check guys, how would you feel when foreigners come to our country and they think they are better than us. Msians are cool, smart (they speak 4 languages minimum) and generally friendlier (try saying hello on the streets to a fellow singaporean) than us. So let's keep that in mind when we head over.

 

N. Parking in KL

 

Some parking areas in melaka, penang, ipoh and kl have 'parking helpers' that help you with lots. They don't really do much but they just point out empty lots for you and maybe help those who are bad in parking park properly. Give them RM1 and don't be a stinge with them. Some of them will help take care of your car for you and keep the robbers away so help them out as well.

 

Some other places have lot parkings. Just remember to park as close as possible to populated areas and not at the far end where there is shade.

 

Avoid parking at the side of major roads as these places have heavy traffic. I have seen cars getting scratched by motorcycles so just park at the designated areas. As I said, most places in KL, Ipoh, PG & Malacca, Tggu, Kuantan are pretty safe.

 

O. What to do when pulled over by the cops (in the city)

 

Singapore plate cars take note. Sometimes you will get pulled over for no reason (esp at night). They say they are doing a routine check but sometimes they just wanna disturb you.

When they switch on their blinkers, you don't need to stop immediately, put on your hazard light and try and drive until you see a good populated area or a petrol kiosk. With witnesses around, they wouldn't dare do anything. do not at any cost stop at the side of the road alone.

 

Remember, the cops can do anything to you. Do not try and outsmart them by talking too much (in KL itself). Be polite and call them encik. Don't be a smart aleck by probing their intentions, they are not stupid. Don't offer outright any money, as you are just insulting them. Wait for them to start any conversation.

 

--------------

 

I'll update this post as I gather more adventures.

 

I would like to offer all my forum members my email - [email protected]

 

Please feel free to drop me an email if you need any help in KL (i stay near mt kiara, and I visit malaysia once every 2 weeks). If you need someone to bring you up, I will be more than happy to, if our timing coincides. Or if you need any advise, I will be happy to as well.

 

I'm waiting for my new car to arrive, I have sold my old one so i will be flying up for the time being. But once i get it, I may start driving up again.

 

Till then, safe driving !

 

The pictures don't seem to load. Please right click and open image in new window :(

 

 

wow... thks for the info...

 

i am toying with the idea of driving from Singapore to Krabi in one day.... possible?

[Siewss]

Very good pointers.

 

Main problem remains with compliance

[Cdior]

My grandma want to see turtle lay egg. I know at east coast hv. But where.

Thanks !

[Topspin]

Updated Feb 14 2011

 

 

 

 

C. Speed/Time

 

The speed limit is 110 most of the way, sometimes dropping to 90 (on windy roads but not on NS highway). There are speed cameras deployed here and there. Out of my 100 trips up and down per year, I get on average 3 - 5 speeding tickets at RM300 each (camera kind).

 

I am not condoning speeding but it is up to each individual how fast they wish to finish the journey. I have completed the SG > KL journey at 90km before, at 110km and at speeds way above the limit. 90KM took me about 4 hours plus to complete as my lights failed, and I was following behind this station wagon the entire nite. 110 took about 3 & 1/2 hours. I shall not discuss my record here yes ? haha.

 

 

If you happen to be caught my cops for speeding (even when ure not speeding). Pass him ur passport and smile at him. Call him encik and show your shoulders if u are female (or male with sexy shoulders). At this junction, you can either 1. Accept the ticket he will offer you 2. Talk kok with him till he gets bored and leaves you alone with no ticket or 3. Negotiate another option which again I shall not be so explicit about.

 

But what I would like to mention is that 50 ringgit that you have prepared should come in handy somewhere about now.

 

Thanks for sharing your experience. It must have been a labour of love for you to type that many words.

 

From your wealth of driving experience outside Singapore and I believe many do read your thread, it would have been good if you took the opportunity to take an even stronger position about the dangers of speeding to the first timers or season drivers alike. I am sure you have seen many traffic accidents due to speeding. Sadly many are "encouraged" to push the limit of the operating envelope of their car after reading MCF without being told about the consequence.

 

I myself have clocked in about 20K+ kms of driving outside Singapore ever since I got my license 20 years ago. It may not be much compared to others but I am glad to say that I have NEVER once been stopped by a traffic police, not here in Singapore or anywhere. The secret is very very simple...I keep to the speed limits and follow traffic rules. I never have to keep RM50 for "emergencies". No one have broken in to my car thus far.

 

Many who claims that they are stopped by the TP for no reason may not be telling the truth. Only they themselves know why they were stopped and only their hearts will know what attracted the attention of the TP.

 

One thing I do have in common with the TS is that I also have not been to JB for the last 10 years but won't hesitate to go beyond JB anytime. I don't think I will ever visit JB again until the security situation improves.

 

Since I have never been stopped by one, I never had the "privilege" to chit chat with that encik. Anyway, if I do get stopped in future, I will probably just ask for the official ticket. At least I am contributing to road building or better schools somewhere.

 

It is disgusting to hear about corrupted TP but it is just equally disgusting if we have a part to play in it.

 

Just my 2 cents.

Edited February 5, 2012 by Topspin

[Raymondism]

would like to know where else can we drive to..

 

i know one bro who drove up to Chiang Mai...

 

 

[Topspin]

deleted. Repeated post

Edited February 5, 2012 by Topspin

[Whisper_2000]

Bro, Thumbs Up . If got chance, i will go M'sia with you. Sticky please!

[Nainar]

Very nicely written article mate! Quiet humorous to read as well.

 

I being an Indian, having come to Singapore a year back, and bought a car two months back, have done trips to Penang and KL. I echo your sentiments completely on treating people with respect. Entered the wrong lane at the Malaysian immigration counter and on apologizing to the officer, he was kind enough to let me go through as well as gave instructions to get a Touch & Go card. And he was pleasantly surprised when I said I am driving to Penang, all alone. And you are bang on TP stopping people. On my return trip from Penang, after the NS Highyway exit, there was a road block set by Malaysian police, and have stopped two Singapore cars, but they just waved me to go. I have no idea why they stopped them, but all I can say is I was within 110km/h speed limit in that road which was empty and tempting to speed.

 

And I was not stopped by any one, and one patrol car was doing rounds in the NS highway and tagged along for more than 60 kms. Had to be careful in not speeding but beyond that, did not find anything alarming. Rest areas were nicely marked, me being vegetarian had difficulty getting the food of my choice but it was ok.

 

Never did roadside parking in either KL but in Penang did parking near Snake Temple. The car was intact. Always inside malls, parking lots. They are not that expensive, RM5.0 per entry and can park as long as you want. KL had some parking lots that charge RM10.0 per entry.

 

Overall, I think the fear of unknown is what makes people scared of driving in Malaysia and beyond. Good to see people like you sharing your experiences. I am not new to road trips, having done most of them in India, Italy and the US. My goal is to explore SE Asia by road before choosing another destination.

 

I bumped into this forum only today and has wealth of information. Hope to keep in touch with fellow road warriors.

 

BTW, am planning a 17-18 day trip to Northern Thailand, and drive along Mekong river. Have read the blog by Shor! Preparing the plan. Any inputs will be appreciated. And I intend to drive my Singapore car all the way.

 

Nainar

Edited July 16, 2012 by Nainar

[Maka]

Very nicely written article mate! Quiet humorous to read as well.

 

I being an Indian, having come to Singapore a year back, and bought a car two months back, have done trips to Penang and KL. I echo your sentiments completely on treating people with respect. Entered the wrong lane at the Malaysian immigration counter and on apologizing to the officer, he was kind enough to let me go through as well as gave instructions to get a Touch & Go card. And he was pleasantly surprised when I said I am driving to Penang, all alone. And you are bang on TP stopping people. On my return trip from Penang, after the NS Highyway exit, there was a road block set by Malaysian police, and have stopped two Singapore cars, but they just waved me to go. I have no idea why they stopped them, but all I can say is I was within 110km/h speed limit in that road which was empty and tempting to speed.

 

And I was not stopped by any one, and one patrol car was doing rounds in the NS highway and tagged along for more than 60 kms. Had to be careful in not speeding but beyond that, did not find anything alarming. Rest areas were nicely marked, me being vegetarian had difficulty getting the food of my choice but it was ok.

 

Never did roadside parking in either KL but in Penang did parking near Snake Temple. The car was intact. Always inside malls, parking lots. They are not that expensive, RM5.0 per entry and can park as long as you want. KL had some parking lots that charge RM10.0 per entry.

 

Overall, I think the fear of unknown is what makes people scared of driving in Malaysia and beyond. Good to see people like you sharing your experiences. I am not new to road trips, having done most of them in India, Italy and the US. My goal is to explore SE Asia by road before choosing another destination.

 

I bumped into this forum only today and has wealth of information. Hope to keep in touch with fellow road warriors.

 

BTW, am planning a 17-18 day trip to Northern Thailand, and drive along Mekong river. Have read the blog by Shor! Preparing the plan. Any inputs will be appreciated. And I intend to drive my Singapore car all the way.

 

Nainar

 

Great. Try to avoid huge motor bikers as they love to travel on the center of 2 lanes which till date i still cant figure out why. And for those that travels on NSH, PLEASE DON'T ANYHOW BRAKE! Judge the braking of your front car or try to over take or even move away from them if possible. I've met lots of crazy Singaporean drivers on NSH whom somehow do not know what the stupid brake is for... I guess thats one of the countless reason why Malaysian hate most Singaporean drivers whom travels on NSH.

 

Great write up.

Edited July 16, 2012 by Maka

[TameDriver]

Cost of Kopi $ to put in passport at Thai immigration has gone up to RM$2.

 

In Thailand, if ur vehicle is using petrol, look out for 95 on Orange background sign.

Should u pump in diesel by mistake, DO NOT Start car engine!

Edited July 16, 2012 by TameDriver

[Nainar]

Great. Try to avoid huge motor bikers as they love to travel on the center of 2 lanes which till date i still cant figure out why. And for those that travels on NSH, PLEASE DON'T ANYHOW BRAKE! Judge the braking of your front car or try to over take or even move away from them if possible. I've met lots of crazy Singaporean drivers on NSH whom somehow do not know what the stupid brake is for... I guess thats one of the countless reason why Malaysian hate most Singaporean drivers whom travels on NSH.

 

Great write up.

 

I know, came across a group of motor cyclists, zipping past me, probably at 200+kmph. But I am quiet disciplined and if I see some one growing bigger on my rear view mirror because of them being much faster than me, I politely indicate left and move to the left lane. I also saw some kids doing tricks on motorcycles. Took some pictures as well, as I was amused as well as outraged, but it was a bummer, of them lying down on the motorcycle and riding. All this on a free way with vehicles whizzing past at 100+ kmph. Uploaded a couple of photos taken about the motor cyclists..

 

Without being prejudiced, defensive driving is not a known philosophy I guess. Anyone who does that will not feel threatened or intimidated in Malaysia or beyond. Have seen morons intimidating in freeways of Italy but being polite and staying away from their way always pays dividends.

 

I think people have to overcome their anxiety of driving in countries beyond their comfort zone to explore more by road. And it is not that unsafe as being projected or written about.

 

For northern Thailand trip am trying to cajole my colleagues to join me. If no one is interested might do that trip all by myself in Decembe 2012r. Don't know if it is wise or not, but will do it anyway. If any one is planning to do that trip, drop me a line here or to [email protected].

 

Nainar

[Nainar]

Cost of Kopi $ to put in passport at Thai immigration has gone up to RM$2.

 

In Thailand, if ur vehicle is using petrol, look out for 95 on Orange background sign.

Should u pump in diesel by mistake, DO NOT Start car engine!

 

This is bang on! In one of the pumps in Thailand, the attendant thought mine is a diesel car( Honda CRV ) and pointed me to a diesel pump. Had I not been cautious he would have pumped diesel. I had to tell him that I need Gasohol.

 

Thai Immigration did not ask me money while going, but asked for MYR 10 while leaving Thailand. They called it Staff Service on questioning and no receipt. And this is only for countries that need Visa on arrival ( I hold Indian passport ). They did not stamp at the counter, but asked me to go to the office, pay the Staff service charge before letting me out of the country. Repulsive, but cant do anything except just pay up.

 

Nainar