Currency:

Our currency is Malaysian Ringgit, divided into 100 sen.
Notes - RM 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100
Coins - Sen 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and RM 1
The exchange rate is approximately US$1.00 = RM3.80 subject to currency fluctuation.

Note:

1. Please be informed that the RM500 & RM1,000 currency notes issued by BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA will continue to be legal tender until 30 June 1999
2. Effective 1 July 1999 the RM500 and RM1,000 currency notes will cease to be legal tender

Banks:

Business Hour:-
Mondays to Fridays:	10.00 am - 3.00 pm
Saturdays:	9.30 am - 11.30 am
Sundays & Public Holidays:	Closed

Climate and Clothing

Sabah has an equatorial climate with a fairly uniform temperature throughout the year. In the lowlands, temperatures range from 32°C to 25°C at night. Relative humidity is high (85% to 95%) especially in the coastal region. In the hill country temperature can drop to 10°C. Rainfall is common throughout the year, averaging 200-250 cm. per year with the highest concentration in November for the West Coast and December for the East Coast of Sabah.
Being tropical, we dress very informally. For dinners and night spots, smart casual wear is the norm.

Access and Transportation

Taxis are easily available at the airports and hotels. Kota Kinabalu airport has a taxi service counter with fixed prices. Elsewhere, you are advised to fix the fare before getting into the taxi.
A number of local car rentals operate in Kota Kinabalu and are represented in most of the major hotels.

Utilities

The electricity supply is 220 volts 50 cycle system. Most hotels provide adaptors for minor 110 volts appliances. Tap water comes from rainwater reservoirs and rivers which undergoes purification and treatment. The tap water is safe for oral cleaning but you are advised not to consume it directly from the tap.

Languages

Bahasa Malaysia is the National language. English is widely spoken and understood. Being a multi-racial community you will notice dozens of other languages being used.

Shopping

Please bargain except at departmental stores. There are many good buys especially for local items. Shopping hours are 10.00 am to 9.00 pm daily.

Medical Services

Malaria has been mainly eliminated in the larger towns, however, if you intend to travel up country, it is advisable to take anti-malaria medication. Those with sensitive digestion should avoid drinking unboiled water. Most towns have state-run hospitals of a reasonably high standard. There are several private hospitals and clinics in most major towns.