Is The Kidnapping Risk That High For Americans In Malaysia?

In last 9 years there are kidnappings with foreigners involved.

*a half Malaysian half Dutch boy was ransomed and returned safely and culprits jailed

*a French woman traveller hooked up with a local man and was found murdered and culprit apprehended

Otherwise, they are Malaysian adults and unfortunately 6-7 children.

VWC wrote:

Malaysia is apparently one of the top 35 countries.  I am somewhat surprised.

https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/10/politics … index.html

I'm surprised for two reasons:
Apart from one region that saw a kidnapping 19 years ago, it doesn't happen
I'm amazed your state department idiots are stupid enough to peddle obvious rubbish as truth

Malaysia is a beautiful country
Malaysia is, apart from a few really crap con artists and other assorted criminals you can easily avoid, a safe country.

Basically, the US state department are a set of blithering idiots so just ignore their ramblings and enjoy your time in Malaysia.
.

Thanks, Fred!  Well, again, I was surprised to see Malaysia mixed in there with some really questionable countries.  My wife is Malaysian Chinese and when I told her about the story she was surprised somewhat then that Indonesia or Thailand weren't also on there. 

I'm still coming...

VWC wrote:

Thanks, Fred!.

Welcome, and sorry I ranted but I hate uninformed crap, more so when it comes from officials that should know better.

VWC wrote:

questionable countries.

Plenty of them on the list, but most are war zones.

VWC wrote:

My wife is Malaysian Chinese and when I told her about the story she was surprised somewhat then that Indonesia or Thailand weren't also on there.

Most Americans that get into trouble in Thailand do it with disease from professional people, of at least three sexes.
Indonesia had a big problem but most of them were shot 10 years ago and that pretty much stopped the rest of their idiot minority from bombing people. We had an   ISIS   moron in Jakarta a few years back, but he also died, hopefully in serious pain as the lead poisoning took hold. Not sure how many police bullets caused the poisoning, but they worked a treat.
I was with a Malaysian Chinese lady (actually, I knew a few), them telling me how great Malaysia is, but I was reading the gutter press and pretty much soaked up their 'Muslim' stories as truth.
The first 'muslim' truth in Malaysia turned out to be a guy in a restaurant violently forcing me to sit down for lunch with him when he realised I was alone and unsure of KL, then forcing me to eat for free by insisting on paying. During that torture, he told me all the best places to visit, told me how to avoid the scammers and problem areas, then went on his way.

VWC wrote:

I'm still coming...

Visit the Batu caves (if you like stairs - you'll see) and a boys' toys paradise known as the police museum.
Other than that, enjoy the million shocks you'll get as you wander around a country that is nothing like anything you'll see in Europe or the states.

When you're in KL and a man walks up with his daughter and asks you where you're from, tell him Australia then, when he explains how his daughter is going to uni in Australia and needs some help, apologise and say you misunderstood him and you're going to Australian next, then tell him your British.
Gets you out of the scammer's way with no need for shouting.

Hope you have holidays as great and my many months in that wonderful country were.

Other than that, pack a mind open to new things - You're going to need it.

On second thoughts I think it may refer to Sabah where there have been some cases at remote destinations around Semporna. Again mainly locals taken (including police and servicemen) but a couple of high profile cases with Chinese tourists.

Some data https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia … ne/1208663https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/categ … d-captive/https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/article/ … nths-after

The last American kidnapped in that area was a lot of years ago.
I'd say avoid the back streets and your chances of a problem anywhere in West Mayasia are pretty much  zero.

Well, if only it was that easy....

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2019 … sia-k-list

It would be fairer to state where the kidnap threat is located rather than tar the whole of Malaysia with the same brush. Basically it's a small area in Sabah, which is a couple of hours flight away from kl and peninsular malaysia

VWC wrote:

Well, if only it was that easy....

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2019 … sia-k-list

link above wrote:

“The ministry strongly protests the decision of the US government to subject Malaysia in the newly-introduced ‘K’ indicator,” it said in a statement.

The ministry noted that Malaysia’s inclusion was announced in a travel advisory issued by the US State Department on April 9.

Malaysia is absolutely right to protest this idiocy. It's clear the US state department are a set of clueless morons.
For any Americans reading this who might be tempted to forget their holiday in Malaysia because of this pathetic stupidity, stick your middle finger up at your foolish, uneducated state department. then book the holiday and experience the many amazing delights Malaysia has to offer.

This is the advisory by the British Foreign office

Safety and security
Local travel - Sabah
In February 2013, around 100 armed men from the Sulu archipelago landed on the eastern coast of Sabah and occupied the small village of Kampung Tanduo approximately 100 km east of Lahad Datu. On 1 March 2013 there was an exchange of fire and a number of fatalities. On 3 March 2013 there were reports of further incidents on the coast between Lahad Datu and Semporna. Additional Malaysian security forces were sent to the area on 4 March 2013 and on 5 March 2013 airstrikes and other military action was reported against locations held by the armed group from Sulu around Kampung Tanduo.

The Malaysian authorities have designated the entire eastern portion of Sabah (extending from the town of Kudat in northern Sabah to Tawau district near the border with Indonesia) as the Eastern Sabah Security Zone, and established the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) to co-ordinate security forces’ activity in the area. The Malaysian security forces have strengthened their presence in the area and introduced measures to reduce the risk of unauthorised boat landings.

The local authorities have imposed restrictions on travel by water in some coastal districts of eastern Sabah and in the coastal waters off eastern Sabah, including a night-time curfew. For more information, visit the Sabah Tourism website.

Crime
Take sensible precautions to protect yourself from petty crime. Avoid carrying valuables and take particular care of your passport whilst walking, in aircraft, cafes, airport and railway terminals, and hotel rooms. Don’t open your hotel room door to strangers, especially late at night. This applies particularly to women travelling alone. Credit card and ATM fraud is widespread. Take great care when using your card.

Incidents of bag snatching are common, particularly in major cities and including by thieves on motorbikes. Bags with shoulder straps should either be carried with the bag towards the pavement rather than the road, or tucked under the arm. Don’t wrap the strap around your arm or shoulder and do not try to hold on to your bag. People have been injured or killed by being pulled to the ground by their bag straps.

Taxi coupon systems are in place at airports. In other areas, taxis should use a meter.

Be careful if you’re offered a drink by a stranger, even in a reputable bar or restaurant. These approaches can involve spiked drinks, and have resulted in cases of robbery and assault.

If you are a victim of crime, inform the local police and get a police report.

Road travel
You can drive in Malaysia with an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year from your date of entry into Malaysia. From 1 February 2019, you can only get IDPs over the counter from 2,500 UK Post Offices. You will not be able to buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

After a year, you will need to get a Malaysian driving licence. Further information is available from the Malaysian Road Transport Department.

British nationals already in possession of a Malaysian driving licence can continue to renew their Malaysian driving licence as before.

Road conditions in Peninsular Malaysia are generally good, but less so in East Malaysia. Vehicles (particularly motorcycles) don’t always stop at traffic lights or pedestrian crossings. If you are involved in a road accident you are obliged by law to stay at the scene until the police have arrived. If a crowd gathers, it may be safer to leave the scene and report to the nearest police station.

There have been a number of fatal bus crashes, particularly on overnight journeys. Choose a reputable operator for your journey.

If you rent a motorbike you should take the same safety precautions as in the UK. Malaysian law states that helmets must be worn.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence and the traffic police regularly carry out breath tests. Anyone over the legal limit can face a heavy fine and/or a jail sentence and deportation.

Sea and river travel
Piracy in South East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. There have been a number of attacks against ships in and around Malaysian waters, particularly in the Strait of Malacca and the waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines. Be vigilant and take appropriate precautions. Reduce opportunities for theft, establish secure areas on board and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.

Some passenger boats have sunk due to overloading and/or poor maintenance. Take care at all times when travelling by passenger ferry or speedboat and avoid travelling on vessels that are clearly overloaded or in poor condition. Make sure life jackets are available.

Water sports and scuba diving
If you rent jet skis or any other type of water sports equipment, make sure adequate safety precautions are in place. Only use reputable licensed operators, insist on training before use and make sure you’re insured.

Check dive operators’ credentials carefully and make sure you’re insured. Check that safety equipment is available on the boat, including oxygen. Ask about contingency plans, which should include the ability to call for help while at sea and to evacuate divers to the nearest hyperbaric chamber if necessary.

You should take great care if you’re diving the sites of HMS Repulse and HMS Prince of Wales, which lie in international waters off Kuantan. They have been declared ‘protected places’ under the Protection of Military Remains Act 1986. You should only dive there on a ‘look not touch’ basis. Don’t attempt to penetrate the wrecks, which lie in deep water. A British diver died in November 2011 while diving on HMS Repulse. Make sure any boat operator you use holds a licence for diving at the wreck site.

Political Situation
Police have sometimes used tear gas and water cannons to control public protests. Monitor local and international media and avoid all demonstrations. Under Malaysian law it’s illegal for foreign nationals to take part in demonstrations.

© Crown copyright

Looks like the British foreign office have larger brains than the US state department.

Generally speaking Americans seem to find Malaysia a bit alien. Singapore is more their style. But there is no retirement visa in SG.

But the British and Australians are fine here, especially in Penang, because of the tenuous links to Colonialism (where I cringe every time the era is mentioned locally in terms of "our former Masters")

I didn't really take to Penang but I absolutely loved visiting Padang Gerus,

Explain what you didn't take to in Penang? By your preferred visit was it too "western" on the island (although the mainland is quite different)

Gravitas wrote:

Explain what you didn't take to in Penang? By your preferred visit was it too "western" on the island (although the mainland is quite different)

It just wasn't my cup of tea.
That's not that I can't see how many would love the place, but it's too easy and boring for my tastes. Get your bums up to Lengkong and the old Chinese "communist" villages, or over to Taiping and explore the mangrove swamps - but NEVER on mass tours.

Ok reading this thread.....I think US is not referring to dangers to americans per se but the past scene on the east side in which there have been kidnappings of foreigners from resorts for ransom. The perps are the Mindanao separatists raising money for that Islamic cause.

On the west side, I have never heard of a kidnapping of an american but that doesnt mean its entirely safe either. Malaysia is home to simple, nice people mixed in with Muslim extremists who despise America. Its the full spectrum, together with all sorts of assorted Muslims from regions in India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, etc. Recently I was at a beach in Penang and saw a muslim group/family wandering on the sand. I looked at them for a long time and couldnt figure out where they came from because their clothes were so foreign, even for the usual tourists.

My point is that as to the normal, average Malaysian, one is safe here. As to others, outsiders, extremists, anything can happen. Why would it? If USA's disposition towards the Islamic world deteriorates, one could reasonably expect retaliation, at least I would. There isnt anyone I know back home who doesnt worry for me and who often suggest I leave here before trouble. Do I worry? Worry isnt the right word, its more like being aware of the potential for trouble and doing my best to never get into world affairs with people I meet. When strangers ask, I choose another country to be from than USA and that immediately diffuses the situation. When I say I am USA, they look me up and down uncomfortably.

I think the bottom line is the word PEACE. Malaysia is peaceful and wants to be, so you be peaceful and kind too, not loud or arrogant. Stay low.

PS....a prior post reminded me. Once, long ago, I met an Indian man in my hotel and said I was from USA. Long story short, he insisted I help his four children into USA colleges and pay for it too since without my help they would never have a chance at an education. When I declined, he said USA was a rich country and owes this to the world. Luckily I never saw him after that but Ive always been asked for something--school, jobs, contacts, anything. I decline personal help but steer them to the resources they can use to help themselves and they lose interest in the whole thing. Malaysians like to be hand fed.

I can say I have never felt unsafe anywhere in Asia. I feel lucky there hasnt been any trouble because I doubt I could talk my way out of a bad situation and one cant fully depend on the authorities for help. Its a wild place with its own rules. Not being deaf to the use of ordinary care goes a long way.

Oh! PS PS....leaving this on a happy note, there was one chinese-malaysian kidnapped on the east side and held hostage for six months (i think six). As they fed him only water and a bit of fish, when they finally let him go he had lost 30KG and was very happy! He said he had so much trouble losing weight in his life and was finally free of the burden!

Interesting post there. A lot to comment on....

1) Come on, just because someone is from the US does not mean it is ok to hit him/her up for everything from schooling for your kids to a job opportunity.  Let's be honest, we are there in Malaysia for one of the many reasons everyone else is flocking there for, the lower cost of living.  Not every American is loaded and has deep pockets.  I just happen to have inlaws in Malaysia, so this MM2H program serves a greater purpose for our respective families.  If anything, shouldn't people there be hitting up the folks from China or Singapore (Crazy Rich Asians)?

2) I am somewhat bothered by the "need" to lie about coming from America.  I get it, that it would diffuse the situation that much faster but I am a proud American citizen.  Despite the current administration and the past, the USA has absolutely nothing to be ashamed about in the world arena.  We've given plenty at the office and/or contributed to many human advances.  But I get it,  I will not be flying the red,white and blue at my future Malaysian residence...

3) With respect to the great extreme Weight Watchers story, I prefer to not give my wife any ideas.....

On the cost of living - it's only lower if adopting the local lifestyle. Otherwise its actually higher because of the cost to import products. Generally speaking COL has at least doubled in the past 10 years. What remain relatively inexpensive are services such as electricity, water, sewerage, etc. Finally broadband has been significantly reduced in cost. I don't know about telecoms as I have never changed to postpaid from prepaid. However as ability to pay based on rising salaries increases then COL will rise with it. Tourism also pushes up prices.

Why people seem to come to Malaysia is two-fold. Firstly they have a previous link with the region. Secondly their pensions or incomes are low and continuing to live in their home country would mean a drop in living standard.

Apart from economics, Malaysia has a less frenetic pace of life and this gives time to explore quality persuits and socialize widely. Any Caucasian is often thought automatically to be Australian and accents are not well recognised. It's also a widely diverse ecoculture so internal tourism is available. Plus easy access to neighbouring countries. It's more a humanistic experience than in many countries. But everyone goes have a Plan B for when and if things change.

Despite the current administration and the past, the USA has absolutely nothing to be ashamed about in the world arena.

The reason many Americans feel the need to lie is the above isn't true.
However, most of the world realizes  individuals aren't responsible for their government's actions.
If you're unaware of your country's many massive crimes and terrorist atrocities,  take this to PM and I'll be happy to explain. PM only as politics are an unwelcome topic on the open forums.

Likewise all Colonialism is appreciated instead of successes but by its failings and residual global problems. The difference in attitude is better education and a longer time perspective. Asia is like it's elephants - never forgets.

Fred wrote:

Despite the current administration and the past, the USA has absolutely nothing to be ashamed about in the world arena.

The reason many Americans feel the need to lie is the above isn't true.
However, most of the world realizes  individuals aren't responsible for their government's actions.
If you're unaware of your country's many massive crimes and terrorist atrocities,  take this to PM and I'll be happy to explain. PM only as politics are an unwelcome topic on the open forums.

Whatever, Fred.  You're from England, correct?  Boy, England never did anything to any country ever...

Im a proud american too but I never said so after my first week and i believe that to have been a good decision. One thing to remember in Malaysia is that nobody cares what you or I think, only what they think and that makes the difference. Looking back, I wouldnt dare come here as a proud anything.

About my post, i bumped into this video which explains it. I like this TV series and they did one about my post. I believe this is what US State Dept would be talking about on the topic of safety. Take a look and consider the good of telling those guys about american pride.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzgEqhmKh7k

No, I get it.  I am visiting/staying at a foreign country and must adhere to the norms there.  The last thing anyone wants to do is cause any problems with the locals or especially government types.  With that said, if someone asks me where I am from I am not going to lie about it.