Transport Options in Malaysia - Types, Cost, and All You Need to Know

Looking to get around the city as an international student? This is a complete guide for you to explore the transport options in Malaysia in terms of types, cost, and more…

Overview of Transport Options in Malaysia

E-hailing Services

Grab / InDrive e-hailing rides are reliable options to get you from point A to point B. E-hailing services may be the fastest and most convenient transport options in Malaysiafor international students, as booking a ride can be done in a few clicks on your mobile phone.

MyRapid Bus 

MyRapid bus service is one of the tourist-y transport options in Malaysia that we recommend. This is a convenient transport option for foreign students as bus stops/terminals are all over the city. Taking the public bus is a chance for you to discover places while getting to your desired destination. 

Be sure to download the MyRapid Pulse mobile application to stay updated on all MyRapid bus routes and announcements. 

Additionally, you can refer to the Moovit website or mobile application for live tracking the location of your bus and the route to your destination. The application is available on AppleStore and GooglePlay

MRT - Mass Rapid Transit

MRT stations cover over 60 main areas in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya. You can buy your MRT ticket at the station. You will need to use your ticket to enter and exit the station.

This subway rail service is another fast transport option in Malaysia  to get to your destination. Take a look at the MRT’s official page for a complete list of all stations. 

LRT - Light Rail Transit

The LRT is an alternative option for the MRT as it has a lower capacity and covers less areas. This is a great transport option to get around the most attractive areas within the city. 

Similar to the MRT, you can buy the LRT ticket tide at the station itself.

One more advantage for using the LRT is that the trains operate at a 7-minute frequency, which makes it a suitable option for international students looking to get to/from their university classes.

Transport Discounts for Students

One great thing about transport options in Malaysia is that university students are eligible for a 50% discount for public transport such as MyRapid, MRT and LRT. 

This discount can be earned through a transport card called Concession Card. Concession cards are a great way for international students to save some cash while enjoying getting around the city.

 Learn more about the requirements to get a concession card in the following steps:

1. Passport Photo
2. Original Passport
3. Original Student Card
4. Original Student Confirmation Letter
5. Application must be made online via the https://myrapid.com.my/ official website.

Travel to Different States by Bus

You can explore Malaysia by traveling to different states by bus. Bus tickets can be bought online, which makes it the most common and convenient transport option for students. Take a look at the top bus travel companies below:

• Perdana Express
• Aerobus
• KKKL Express
• Plusliner
• Transnasional 

Visit the Bus Ticket Online website to get some vouchers and discounts on your next planned road trip ticket!

Tips for Taking Public Transport in Malaysia

1. Don’t panic if you miss a bus/subway. There will be another one coming your way in no time. 
2. Carry your valid student ID card along with you in case of any emergency. 
3. Be respectful towards the elderly and give up your seat to them if you can. 
4. Be sure to thank the bus driver or train operator if you get the chance. They will appreciate it!

A Summary on How to Use Transport in Malaysia

• Download the Grab/InDrive mobile application for private e-hailing rides
• Download the MyRapid Pulse or Moovit mobile application for commuting by bus
• Sign up for the discount card to enjoy 50% off for public transport options in Malaysia international students.