Since 2024, foreign visitors entering Malaysia must submit the MDAC (Malaysia Digital Arrival Card) online in advance. Visa-free travellers are no exception. It replaces the old paper form and takes three minutes on your phone, so fill it in at home before you leave.
What is the MDAC?
The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card. It's the online pre-arrival declaration that replaced the old paper arrival card. Complete it on the official website within 3 days of your expected arrival (before you travel). It's free, and screenshotting the confirmation page speeds up your entry.
| When to file | From 3 days before arrival until just before departure (too early isn't allowed) |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free (beware agency and paid sites — use the official one only) |
| Official site | The Malaysian Immigration Department MDAC portal (imigresen-online / MDAC) — when searching, check for the official 'gov.my' domain |
| What you'll need | Passport details · flight numbers · arrival date · Malaysia accommodation address (Nexus Resort, Karambunai) |
How to fill it in
- Go to the official MDAC site → choose 'Register'
- Enter passport details (name·passport number·nationality·date of birth — spelled exactly as in your passport)
- Enter travel details (arrival and departure flight numbers, arrival date, airport of entry: Kota Kinabalu (BKI))
- Enter your accommodation (Nexus Resort & Spa, Karambunai, Sabah)
- Submit → screenshot or print the Acknowledgement page
The MDAC is free. Unofficial agency sites that charge a 'fee' often appear at the top of search ads. Always complete it on the official Malaysian Immigration Department domain. Family members and travelling companions each need to file their own.
Your route through immigration at the airport
- Arrive at BKI → follow the Immigration signs
- Join the Foreign Passport line → present your passport (the MDAC is linked in the system; showing your screenshot is even quicker)
- Fingerprint and face scan (if requested) → entry stamp or automated processing
- Collect your luggage at Baggage Claim — check the separate oversized-baggage belt for golf bags
- Clear Customs → out to the Arrival Hall
Malaysia Standard Time (MYT) is UTC+8, which is one hour behind Korea (UTC+9). Set your watch back an hour when you arrive — and mind any mix-up over your tee time.
MDAC policy and the site address may change. Just before you travel, search for the official 'Malaysia Digital Arrival Card' and complete it on the latest official portal.