How to Travel Within the City and Between Cities in Malaysia?

One of the most common questions international students ask after arriving in Malaysia is: How can I travel within the city and between other cities? Transportation in Malaysia is diverse and suitable for all budgets, from buses and trains within the cities to fast domestic flights between states. This article explores the main modes of transportation, their benefits, costs, and tips to help you choose the best option for your daily commutes or intercity travel.

Travel Within the City
Transportation within major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru includes:

Trains (LRT / MRT / Monorail)
Trains are among the fastest ways to move around Kuala Lumpur. Ticket prices range from 1.5 to 6 MYR depending on the distance.

Buses
Buses are widely available and very cheap, with some being free like GoKL in Kuala Lumpur. However, they may be slower due to traffic.

Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab / AirAsia Ride)
A convenient option for short trips or when carrying luggage. Prices are slightly higher but still affordable for students.

Travel Between Cities
For intercity travel in Malaysia, you have multiple options depending on your budget and time:

Domestic Flights
Airlines like AirAsia offer cheap domestic flights between cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Kota Kinabalu. Tickets sometimes start as low as 60–100 MYR.

Intercity Trains
The ETS fast trains connect Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh and Penang. Prices range from 30–70 MYR, offering a comfortable and quiet journey.

Intercity Buses
Buses such as Transnasional and Plusliner connect almost all cities. Ticket prices range from 20–60 MYR depending on distance, making them the cheapest option.

Uni Counsel Advice
If you are a new student, we recommend using buses and trains within the city to save money. For intercity travel, choose trains or domestic flights depending on your budget and schedule. At Uni Counsel, our advisors can guide you to the best option based on your study timetable and personal needs.

In summary, traveling in Malaysia is easy and accessible for everyone. Within the cities, you can choose from trains, buses, or ride-hailing apps. Between cities, you can travel by plane, train, or bus. With Uni Counsel’s advice, you can plan your journeys smoothly and comfortably.