Exercise normal precautions in Malaysia. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Exercise Increased Caution in:

• The eastern area of Sabah State due to kidnapping.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Malaysia.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined Malaysia has a high level of COVID-19. Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.  

If you decide to travel to Malaysia:

• Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Country Security Report for Malaysia.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 

Eastern Area of Sabah State – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

There is a threat of kidnappings-for-ransom from both terrorist and criminal groups. These groups may attack with little to no warning, targeting coastal resorts, island resorts, and boats ferrying tourists to resort islands.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in eastern Sabah as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to parts of eastern Sabah.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.