There are severe penalties for all drug offences including, in some cases, the death penalty, or, in the case of possession, whipping in addition to any custodial sentence imposed. This also includes the possession of or trafficking in Amphetamine-type stimulants. Travellers should be aware that there is a possibility that they could be asked to take a urine test on arrival in Malaysia if they are suspected of having used drugs prior to their visit. Should the test prove positive, the person concerned could be referred for rehabilitation treatment or deported. The importation of unlicensed firearms and ammunition into Malaysia is prohibited.
Possession can carry the death penalty.
We believe that Malaysia is one of a number of countries where there is an increased threat to British interests from global terrorism. Twenty one people, including foreign tourists, were kidnapped on 23 April from the diving resort of Sipadan off the coast of Sabah, East Malaysia and taken to the Philippnes. They have yet to be released. The Malaysian authorities have increased security in the area and we are not advising against travel at present. Entry to Malaysia is normally refused to visitors holding passports with less than six months validity.