Useful information for sending a parcel to Malaysia
As a stable Asian country, Malaysia is an important trading partner for British businesses. Import regulations will determine which direction to go in shipping to this country.
Malaysia can be described as a country of contrasts. The nation has a strong economy, a stable political climate and beautiful landscapes. However, the different ethnic groups in the nation are not treated equally, with political favouritism shown to ethnic Malays, creating an income gap between various classes that is noticeable. In addition, the country does not excel at human rights, often holding people without charge or trial. Finally, the government does not protect its vital natural resources as well as it should, despite their draw for tourists. Still, there is little outward conflict surrounding these issues, making Malaysia a good fit for British investors and businesses.
Malaysia is a nation consisting of an isthmus and surrounding islands. The government is based upon the British monarchy system, a holdover from when Malaysia was a British colony. The king, or sultan, however, holds a mainly ceremonial role, with most of the decision making made in the elected legislatures. Malaysia maintains political neutrality in foreign relations and is focused strongly on its relations with immediate Asian neighbours; however, British relations remain strong.
Though relatively small, Malaysia is a strong economic force. It ranks number three in the immediate region in overall GDP. Economic diversification that began in the 1970s and 1980s has proved a successful strategy for the country, making the economy very resilient. Manufacturing is still an important part of the economy, with strong production of petroleum products, rubber, palm oil and tin. Malaysia also has a strong financial sector and relies heavily on the tourism trade.
Import Restrictions
Malaysia promotes free trade but also prohibits some items that it does not wish to have within its borders. These prohibited items include:
- coin reproductions,
- specific crops from the Philippines and Indonesia,
- obscene items,
- turtle eggs,
- daggers,
- some alcohol products,
- unprocessed coral.
- and fabric imprinted with text from the Quran.
Other shipments are subject to restrictions, including the need for special licensing. Restrictions may apply to:
- animal products,
- plants,
- coral,
- pests,
- sugar,
- drugs,
- soil,
- rice products,
- hazardous waste,
- pesticides,
- certain household appliances,
- toy weapons,
- body armour,
- sarongs,
- some electronics
- and anything made in Israel.
Malaysia publishes a website that is administered by the Royal Malaysian Customs Department. While the main language of business in Malaysia is English, the site is not available in an English version. In order to glean information from this resource, it is necessary to translate the website. A translated version of the Malaysian site can be found
here.
Useful Information
Malaysia has strong connections with other Asian nations. The majority of Malaysia's trade group memberships are in Asian-specific organizations, providing favouritism to other Asian trading partners. Still, British partners are given fair treatment. If differences and problems do arise when shipping to Malaysia, it is also good to know that the country belongs to the World Trade Organization, which is available to settle issues between member nations.
If you're wondering, we deliver to all cities and towns in Malaysia within the same time-scope. This includes: Subang Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Klang, Johor Bahru, Ampang Jaya, Ipoh, Shah Alam, Kuching, Kota Bharu, Kota Kinabalu, Batu Sembilan Cheras, Sandakan, Kajang-Sungai Chua, Seremban, Petaling Jaya, Tawau, Alor Setar, Kuantan, Miri and Kuala Terengganu.
Image © khalzuri
