Malaysia, like many other countries, allows the import of pets, but subject to special rules. If you dream of visiting Malaysia with a pet, make sure that your pet is completely healthy and has the necessary documents. In this case, the trip will be successful, and you will have only positive impressions.

In order for your pet to enter Malaysia, the following requirements must be met:

• The pet is at least 3 months old;

• You have to obtain an import permit from the Malaysian Veterinary Services Department. If you are travelling to the states of Sabah and Sarawak, the permit application must be submitted directly to those states. The import permit for pets is valid for 30 days;

• The owner needs to pay a mandatory fee of RM5 for an import permit;

• It is important to submit a veterinary certificate completed and issued by an authorized veterinarian in your country. The certificate, as any other documents, must be completed in Malaysian or English language;

• The pet must have a microchip to identify it;

• All animals must be vaccinated against rabies;

• It is recommended to provide your flight details (arrival time, flight number) to the quarantine station staff in order to expedite the procedure for processing your pet;

• Animals must go through customs at one of the specially equipped entry points. Your point of entry is selected in advance and indicated on your entry permit. The owner of the pet is obliged to pay the customs clearance fee;

• Upon arrival, dogs and cats must undergo mandatory quarantine for a minimum of 7 days. During quarantine, owners can visit their pets subject to sanitary standards. Animals from Australia, Brunei, Ireland, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, and the UK are exempt from quarantine if the pet's documents are accepted.

Malaysia does not have a limit on the number of pets that can be imported, but restrictions may apply if certain breeds are imported. Pets can travel accompanied by a trusted person with the appropriate documents.

The following breeds of dogs are prohibited from being imported into Malaysia: Bull Mastiff, Bull Terrier, Doberman, German Shepherd, Perro de Presa Canario (Canary dog), Rottweiler, Akita, American Bulldog, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasilliero (Brazilian Fila), Japanese Tosa, Neapolitan mastiff, Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire terrier.

In case of non-compliance with veterinary requirements, the pet may be denied entry into Malaysia, or other measures may be taken.

If you still have questions, you can contact the Malaysian Department of Veterinary Services at 03-88701619 or email: feedback.maqis@moa.gov.my.