Is Petaling Jaya Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Petaling Jaya universally referred to as PJ, is a satellite city in the state of Selangor to the west of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

It attained city status in 2006.

PJ was founded in 1954 and was the first planned city in Malaysia. Gradually, it became an independent commercial and residential center with a population of more than 450,000 people.

We can say that there is no particular tourist value in this city.

However, it is convenient to get to other parts of Malaysia from it, and if you want to stay in this town, you can see: Kota Darul Ehsan Arch – huge marble arch, the gateway into Petaling Jaya; Wat Chetawan Temple; Taman Jaya – a spot for those in search of outdoor activities, a favorite recreational hub for residents with its shady trees and lake.

Warnings & Dangers in Petaling Jaya

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Common sense and a particular attitude to your safety can help you stay in PJ calmly. Do not carry valuables with you, watch your pockets and bags, always lock the door of the hotel or home where you live.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Public transport is safe during the day, but it is not recommended in the dark, as there are cases of robbery of passengers on buses. Taxis are a convenient and safe way to get home, especially at night. Be careful - there is a lot of fraud without a taximeter on and with overpriced fares. Always ask to turn on the taximeter.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketers in Petaling Jaya is enough. You should know that this is one of the main types of the most common crimes here. Make sure your valuables are kept in a safe place. it is preferable to wear an anti-thief backpack and hold your bags tight especially near the road.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Floods, storms, and droughts from extremely high temperatures occur in the region. But in Petaling Jaya, there are usually not many problems with this.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

The risk of armed robberies and even kidnapping exists in the city. You need to be on alert, especially at night. Try to move around the city in groups and do not use public transport when returning home late.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Malaysia. Attacks could happen anywhere, including in places visited by foreigners. Be vigilant, monitor local media, and follow the advice of the local authorities.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Most often, scams occur via SMS mailing, with tourist excursions, and in a taxi. Buy tickets only at licensed locations. Do not take anything from the street's sellers. Bargain if you feel that the price is too high.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women are better off walking in the company and not attract too much-unwanted attention. Dress modestly and don't stay in bars late at night. In the daytime, you can walk around the city even by yourself.

So... How Safe Is Petaling Jaya Really?

Petaling Jaya is a reasonably calm city.

Although you should be careful not to be robbed.

There is also a high level of vandalism and general corruption in the city.

However, these things rarely affect tourists.

Walking in the streets of the city in the evening will most likely also be safe, but you should always be on the alert.

Take all measures for your safety: walk only on illuminated and busy roads and streets.

Be sure to lock the door of your hotel or home and store valuables in a safe.

Usually, house robberies are shared here.

Also, watch your bag or backpack – it very often happens when a thief on a scooter drives past you and grabs your bag at speed.

If you return home late – it is preferable to take a taxi.

Be vigilant on the road – road users do not always follow the rules of the way.

At the pedestrian crossing, it is better to give way to the car – it is unlikely to let you walk.

Women are better off walking in the company and not attract too much-unwanted attention.

Dress modestly and don’t stay in bars late at night.

In PJ, you can be safe and enjoy your stay if you use common sense and increased measures for your safety.

How Does Petaling Jaya Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Visitors to Malaysia must obtain a visa from one of the Malaysian diplomatic missions unless they are a citizen of one of the visa-exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months.

Currency

The Malaysian ringgit is the currency of Malaysia. It is divided into 100 sen (cents). It has a symbol: RM and currency code: MYR. The word ringgit is an obsolete term for "jagged" in Malay and was initially used to refer to the serrated edges of silver Spanish dollars, which circulated widely in the area during the 16th and 17th-century Portuguese colonial era.

Weather

The best times to visit Petaling Jaya for ideal weather are from June to September. Average temperatures in Petaling Jaya vary barely at all. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot all year with a chance of rain throughout most of the year.

Airports

Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport often called Subang Airport or Subang Skypark is an airport located in Subang, Petaling District, Selangor, Malaysia. It located 7 km from the city center. Also, you can get to Petaling Jaya from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, which is located 52 km from the city.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Petaling Jaya Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Malaysia - Safety by City