AI Library
The Age of Autonomous Scientific Discovery
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
AI Scientists and Self-Driving Labs
This book follows how AI scientists and self-driving labs are changing the way science generates and verifies claims. It covers literature-based discovery, natural-language protocols translated into robot commands, multi-agent research systems, closed-loop laboratories, materials search, the verification gap, chains of evidence, research harnesses, journal ethics, and legal responsibility.
AI Library
A New Era of Life Sciences Opened by Artificial Intelligence
Structural Proteomics, Genomic Foundation Models, Autonomous Laboratories, and Global Governance
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
This book is a research volume compiled with artificial intelligence. A human selected the materials and structured the work, while AI models drafted the sentences and cross-checked the facts.
AI Library
The Double Structure of Digital Sovereignty
Europe’s Departure from Palantir and the Chains of American Big Tech
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
This is a record of 2026, when European intelligence agencies and defense ministries began removing analytics tools from America’s Palantir. It covers the replacement decisions made by France’s General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI), Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), and the Netherlands Ministry of Defense; the incident in which US export controls severed an ally’s ac…
New English Edition
Artificial Intelligence in Horticulture
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Across five chapters and ten sections, this book examines computer vision for crop diagnosis, harvesting robots and autonomous field systems, smart greenhouses and digital twins, precision irrigation and supply-chain quality control, high-throughput phenotyping, and predictive breeding.
New English Edition
Artificial Intelligence in Food Crop Agriculture
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Across six chapters and eighteen sections, the book examines digital agricultural infrastructure, remote sensing, crop diagnosis, yield forecasting, precision irrigation, genomics, molecular breeding, agricultural robotics, climate-smart agriculture, and global food security.
New English Edition
The Future of Forestry and Agroforestry
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Driven by Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
Across five chapters and fifteen sections, the book follows satellites, drones, LiDAR, digital twins, forest-specific language models, wildfire and pest forecasting, forestry robotics, agroforestry, timber traceability, and forest carbon markets.
New English Edition
Smart Livestock Farming: AI Enters the Barn
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
Sensors listen, cameras watch, and artificial intelligence helps farmers decide.
Across five chapters and fifteen sections, the book follows precision livestock farming from animal health and reproduction to robotic milking, virtual fencing, digital twins, methane reduction, welfare, and data ownership.
Table of Contents
Han Dong-hoon, Busan Buk-gu Gap: A Record of the 100 Days Before and After the Election (Mar. 26-Jul. 3, 2026)
Kim Kyung-jin
Table of Contents and 13 sections
From March 26 to July 3, 2026, this record follows the spring after expulsion, the Busan Buk-gu Gap by-election, victory as an independent, and the first bill submitted in the National Assembly.
Table of Contents
Artificial Intelligence and Medicine
Kim Kyung-jin, Attorney at Law
AI in clinical care, hospitals, education, and research
AI in medical imaging, risk prediction, treatment planning, hospital operations, education, and research, with patient safety, privacy, and accountability.
[AI Library] Chapter 17: Practical Travel Information
Malaysia and the Malacca Strait: Whoever Controls It Controls the World
Chapter 17: Practical Travel Information
Kim Kyung-jin
Part IV: Major Cities and Tourism
Using the Transportation System
Malaysia has relatively developed transportation infrastructure, allowing travelers to visit diverse destinations easily. From moving within major cities to long-distance travel between cities, Malaysia's transportation system offers various options.
Kuala Lumpur has the most developed public transportation system in Malaysia. The system consists primarily of the LRT (light rail transit), MRT (mass rapid transit), monorail, KTM Commuter (suburban train), and buses. For travelers to use Kuala Lumpur's public transportation efficiently, it is recommended to purchase a 'Touch 'n Go' card or 'MyKad' (My Card). This prepaid card can be used on most public transportation and offers convenience and discounts compared to buying individual tickets with cash.
Rachel Lee, a travel blogger from Singapore, offers this advice on her blog "Malaysian Adventures": "The most useful public transportation line in Kuala Lumpur is the Kelana Jaya LRT line, which connects major tourist attractions such as KLCC (Petronas Twin Towers), Pasar Seni (near Chinatown), and KL Sentral (the main transportation hub). KL Sentral is the point where all city rail lines meet and also serves as the departure point for long-distance buses and trains to other cities in Malaysia."
Another useful transportation option for travelers visiting Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas is ride-hailing services such as Grab. Often described as Southeast Asia's version of Uber, Grab offers convenient transportation at reasonable prices through an easy-to-use app. It is useful for visiting destinations not served by public transportation, traveling late at night, or when carrying multiple bags.
Travel between cities on the Malaysian peninsula is mainly done by bus, train, or domestic air service. Long-distance buses are the most economical option and have an extensive network connecting most cities and towns. Major bus companies include Transnational, PLUS Liner, and Nice Imperial, and tickets can be reserved in advance through online booking platforms such as Easybook or CatchThatBus.
Travelers who prefer train travel can use the services of KTM (Keretapi Tanah Melayu), Malaysia's national railway company. KTM operates a route that starts in Singapore and extends along the Malaysian peninsula to the Thai border. KTM's ETS (Electric Train Service) is a fast and comfortable way to travel from Kuala Lumpur to northern cities such as Ipoh, Penang, and Padang Besar.
When traveling to the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo, domestic air service is the most efficient means of transportation. Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia operate regular flights from Kuala Lumpur to major cities on Borneo such as Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri, and Sibu. Pre-booking online often makes special discount fares available.
Malaysian travel writer Azman Ghani provides the following advice in his book "Backpacking Malaysia": "AirAsia, a major domestic airline, often has prices cheaper than long-distance buses or trains, so always compare prices among various transportation options. Also, since transportation prices and availability can vary significantly depending on the tourist season in Malaysia, it is advisable to book transportation at least a few weeks in advance during major holidays such as Hari Raya festivals and Chinese New Year."
Ferry and boat services are important means of transportation for travelers visiting island regions. Popular islands such as Langkawi, Penang, Tioman, and Perhentian are connected from the mainland by regular ferry service. For example, Langkawi is connected to Penang and Satun (Thailand) through the Kuah ferry terminal, and Penang is regularly connected to Butterworth.
It is also possible to rent a car in Malaysia, though it is primarily available at major tourist destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi. When driving in Malaysia, remember that traffic moves on the left side of the road and an international driver's license is required. Additionally, traffic congestion can be severe in urban areas, and road conditions can vary in rural areas, requiring caution.
British travel writer Simon Fletcher wrote on his blog about traveling in Malaysia: "While Malaysia's transportation system is generally efficient and easy to use, it is important to always plan with plenty of time. During monsoon season, weather-related delays can occur, and all forms of transportation can be very congested during major holidays. Also, since the development of public transportation varies by region in Malaysia, it is good to research transportation options for the regions you plan to visit in advance."
By using Malaysia's transportation system efficiently, travelers can explore various destinations in this diverse and attractive country easily and comfortably. By appropriately combining various transportation options,public transportation, ride-hailing services, long-distance buses and trains, domestic air service, and ferry service,travelers can create optimal travel plans suited to their individual travel style and budget.
Tips for Using Google Maps
Google Maps is a very useful tool in Malaysia travel, but using it efficiently according to local conditions requires a few special tips. Google Maps offers more than simple route-finding, providing public transportation information, restaurant and tourist attraction recommendations, and offline navigation functions.
The first thing to know when using Google Maps in Malaysia is that information about some remote areas or recently developed areas may not be completely updated. The accuracy of Google Maps can be lower in some areas of the island of Borneo or in rural areas of the Malaysian peninsula.
Jason Chen, an Australian travel blogger, offers this advice on his blog "Southeast Asia Travel Notes": "When using Google Maps in Malaysia, always update the app to get the latest information. It is also good to search using the place name in addition to the address to confirm that the destination is marked accurately. For example, to visit the Kek Lok Si temple in Penang, you can search for 'Kek Lok Si Temple' to confirm the exact location."
One useful Google Maps feature in Malaysia is public transportation information. In major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, Google Maps provides routes and schedules for public transportation such as buses, trains, and light rail. After entering your destination and selecting the public transportation icon, it provides detailed guidance on various transportation options, estimated travel time, and walking routes.
If internet connection is unstable during your Malaysia trip or you are concerned about data roaming costs, it is good to use Google Maps' offline function. When connected to Wi-Fi at a hotel or cafe, downloading maps of areas you plan to visit in advance allows you to check your location through GPS and find routes without internet.
The method for downloading offline maps is simple. In the Google Maps app, tap your profile icon, select 'Offline Maps', and tap 'Select Your Own Map'. Then adjust the area you want to download on the screen and press the 'Download' button. Downloading maps by major city or tourist area in Malaysia can be very useful during travel.
Many cities in Malaysia have complex one-way streets and sudden road changes, so it is good to use Google Maps' 'Live Traffic Updates' feature. This function displays current traffic conditions in color (green for smooth, red for congested) to help select the most efficient route.
British travel writer Emma Wilson shares the following useful tip in her travel guide "Malaysia A Budget Traveler's Guide": "When using Google Maps in Malaysia, frequently check the 'Walking' option. Car routes often follow one-way streets or elevated highways, which can be impossible or very inefficient for walking. In Kuala Lumpur, walking routes often provide faster shortcuts and pleasant air-conditioned paths through shopping malls or pedestrian bridges."
Google Maps is also very helpful in discovering good restaurants and hidden food establishments in Malaysia. Using the 'Nearby' feature allows you to find restaurants, cafes, food stalls, and other establishments near your current location, and you can gauge quality and popularity through user reviews and ratings.
Malaysian local travel guide Nur Azizah offers this advice: "If you want to experience authentic Malaysian cuisine, search for local restaurants with high ratings on Google Maps. It is good to choose places with many reviews and many reviews from locals. Foreign tourists often focus only on restaurants near famous tourist sites, but venturing a little further through Google Maps allows you to discover more authentic and affordable local food establishments. In areas such as 'Old Town' in Ipoh or 'Georgetown' in Penang, Google Maps' recommendation feature is useful for finding hidden gem restaurants."
Another thing to be aware of when using Google Maps is that Malaysia's street names and building number systems may differ from Western countries. Sometimes locating places based on landmarks or well-known buildings can be more efficient than using exact addresses. For example, when finding a specific restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, searching for 'next to Petronas Twin Towers' or 'inside Suria KLCC mall' can yield more accurate results than using a precise address.
Michael Jordans, a digital nomad from Canada, shares this unique tip on his blog "Digital Traveler": "The secret to maximizing Google Maps in Malaysia is the 'Save Pin' function. Before your trip, save all the places you want to visit and classify them by color. For example, you can mark restaurants in red, shopping places in blue, and tourist attractions in green. This allows you to see at a glance what interesting places are nearby during your actual travel and helps you use time efficiently."
Considering Malaysia's tropical climate, it is important to keep in mind that Google Maps' distance and travel time estimates may not account for hot weather and sudden showers. Walking times may actually take longer, so it is good to plan with extra time.
Singapore travel blogger Tai Mei Ling offers this advice: "In Malaysia, always add 20-30% extra time to Google Maps' estimated walking times. In large cities like Kuala Lumpur, travel may take longer than expected due to waiting times at crosswalks, crowded sidewalks, and unexpected detours. Additionally, during the hottest hours between 2-4 p.m., you will walk more slowly, requiring more time."
In parts of Malaysia, particularly rural areas on the island of Borneo and national parks, GPS signals may be weak or absent. If you plan to visit such areas, it is good to prepare offline maps or paper maps in addition to Google Maps. It is also important to seek help from local guides or obtain information in advance from accommodation staff.
If you plan to visit religious facilities such as mosques or temples, it is good to check visiting hours and dress codes in advance. Google Maps' place information often includes these details, but current information may not always be reflected, so it is good to confirm with locals or check official websites.
Local Food Recommendations
Malaysia is known for rich and diverse cuisine influenced by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and various indigenous cultures. For travelers, experiencing local food is an important part of understanding Malaysian culture and an opportunity to feel the true flavors and aromas of this country.
Nasi Lemak
This is a dish you must taste. Featuring fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk served with sambal (spicy chili sauce), boiled eggs, roasted peanuts, anchovies (ikan bilis), and cucumber slices, this dish is popular for breakfast but can be enjoyed anytime during the day. Village Park in Kuala Lumpur and Ali Nasi Lemak in Penang are well-known places to taste authentic nasi lemak.
American food critic Anthony Bourdain once said about Malaysian cuisine: "Nasi lemak is not just a dish. It is cuisine that captures the soul of Malaysia. The fragrant rice soaked in coconut milk, with a touch of sweetness and saltiness, and the spiciness of sambal combine perfectly. And the most remarkable thing is that this dish can be enjoyed anywhere, from simple food stalls to upscale restaurants."
Rendang
This is a beef dish cooked slowly in coconut milk and spices. Though originally from the Minangkabau region of Sumatra in Indonesia, rendang is widely loved in Malaysia as well. It is a special dish often eaten during Hari Raya (the Islamic festival). Rendang, characterized by rich spices and tender meat, is served with nasi (rice) or ketupat (rice cake).
Malaysian local food expert Noraini Othman explains in her cookbook "Flavours of Malaysia": "Authentic rendang is cooked slowly for at least four hours or more. Through this process, the meat juices, coconut milk, and various spices blend perfectly to create a unique taste and texture. Good rendang should have the meat juices completely reduced and coating the meat, with a spicy flavor accompanied by subtle sweetness and rich aroma."
Laksa
This is a popular noodle soup enjoyed in different versions across various regions of Malaysia. The two most well-known varieties are Penang Asam Laksa and Sarawak Laksa. Penang Asam Laksa features thick rice noodles in a tangy fish-based broth, topped with mint, pineapple, onion, and chili. Sarawak Laksa, on the other hand, consists of thin rice noodles topped with shrimp, chicken, and egg in a broth made with coconut milk, sambal, galangal, and lemongrass.
Lee Chin Kee, a well-known food blogger in Penang, explains on his blog "Penang Food Safari": "Penang Asam Laksa is a harmonious blend of complex flavors. Sourness, saltiness, spiciness, and sweetness come together in a single bowl, accompanied by the aromas of mint and fish, creating a truly unique experience. The best asam laksa can be tasted at a food stall in Air Itam that has been making this dish the same way for decades."
Char Koay Teow
A popular stir-fried rice noodle dish from Penang, Malaysia. Wide rice noodles are quickly stir-fried in a high-heat wok with soy sauce, chili, and shrimp paste, then combined with Chinese sausage (lap cheong), shrimp, clams, bean sprouts, eggs, and more. The dish's distinctive flavor comes from what is called 'wok hei', a unique smoky taste that emerges when cooking at extremely high heat.
Satay
A skewered meat dish popular throughout Malaysia. Marinated small pieces of meat, primarily chicken, beef, or lamb, are threaded on skewers, grilled over charcoal, and served with peanut sauce. It is typically eaten with ketupuh (compressed rice cake), cucumber, and onions. Jalan Alor Street Food in Kuala Lumpur and the Kajang area are known for delicious satay.
Roti Canai
A signature breakfast dish in Malaysia, this is a thin, layered flatbread influenced by Indian cuisine. The bread is served with dhal (lentil curry) or various curries, and is eaten by tearing pieces off by hand and dipping them in sauce. Beyond the basic roti canai, there are many variations including egg (roti telur), onion (roti bombay), and banana (roti pisan).
Peranakan or Nyonya Cuisine
A distinctive fusion cuisine found in Malacca and Penang, Malaysia. Combining Chinese cooking methods with Malay and Indonesian spices and techniques, this cuisine forms an important part of Malaysia's food culture. Representative nyonya dishes include asam pedas (spicy shrimp or fish curry), ayam buah keluak (steamed pork or chicken dish), and nyonya bak wan (spinach and chili cooked in coconut milk).
Peranakan cuisine expert Linda Lee explains in her cookbook 'Secrets of Nyonya Flavours': "Peranakan cuisine is among the most complex and sophisticated cooking styles in Malaysian cuisine. Each dish demands a perfect balance of multiple spices and ingredients, and preparation often requires more than a day. These dishes are made from secret family recipes passed down through generations in Peranakan households, and each family takes pride in their unique version."
In Malaysia, street food and night markets, known locally as 'Pasar Malam', offer an unforgettable culinary experience. In these markets, you can taste a variety of local dishes at affordable prices, ranging from asam laksa and char koay teow to numerous snacks and desserts. Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur, Gurney Drive Hawker Centre in Penang, and Jonker Street Night Market in Malacca are must-visit food destinations.
For dessert, you can enjoy various local treats including cendol, ice kacang, and tau fu fah. Cendol is a cooling dessert made with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup (gula melaka) with green jelly noodles and ice, while ice kacang is a shaved ice dessert topped with various syrups, condensed milk, jelly, and fruit.
To experience local food to the fullest during your Malaysia trip, seek out restaurants and street stalls where locals gather. Consulting Google Maps reviews or local food blogs is helpful, as is asking hotel staff or local residents for recommendations. Joining a food tour allows you to discover hidden gems with a local guide and learn about each dish's history and cultural background.
Travel Precautions and Tips
Malaysia is generally a safe travel destination, but as with all overseas travel, keeping several precautions in mind helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable journey. Below are cultural, practical tips and safety information that travelers should know.
Malaysia is a country where Islam is the primary religion, so appropriate dress is important when visiting rural or conservative areas. Female travelers should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, and when visiting mosques or religious sites, it is wise to prepare a headscarf and long pants or a long skirt. Men should similarly wear long pants rather than shorts when visiting religious sites.
Malaysia travel expert Sarah Wilson advises in her guidebook 'Malaysia Travel Essentials': "Malaysia is a country where diverse cultures and religions coexist. In major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, dress is relatively relaxed, but when visiting conservative states like Kelantan or Terengganu, more modest clothing is advisable. During Ramadan, refrain from eating or drinking in public places and show respect for local culture."
Malaysia's weather is hot and humid year-round, with sudden showers frequent. Travelers should always carry a small umbrella or rain jacket. It is also important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration from heat and humidity, and to apply sunscreen regularly.
Travel blogger Jason Lee from Australia wrote on his blog about Malaysia travel: "Adapting to Malaysia's tropical climate takes time. If planning outdoor activities, it is best to schedule them for early morning or late afternoon. From noon to 3 p.m. is the hottest and most humid time, so it is wise to plan indoor activities or rest during these hours. Also, do not forget to carry insect repellent at all times. In natural or rural areas, mosquito bites are quite likely."
In Malaysia, it is not recommended to drink tap water directly. It is best to purchase bottled water or drink filtered water provided by hotels. Regarding food, street food is often tasty and safe, but it is wise to check hygiene standards carefully and eat where many local people gather.
In terms of safety, Malaysia generally has a low crime rate, but in major cities, one should be cautious of pickpockets and motorcycle snatching. Keep valuables in a hotel safe, and carry a copy of your passport separately. Avoid walking alone late at night, and be especially careful in sparsely populated areas.
Ram Chandran, a former tourism police officer with Malaysia's police department, offers the following safety tips: "The most common crime targeting tourists in Malaysia is motorcycle snatching. When walking near the road, carry your handbag or bag on the side away from traffic, and be aware of your surroundings when using a smartphone. When using taxis, use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab. And as with all travel, it is important to purchase travel insurance."
If you plan to visit any national parks or nature reserves, it is wise to check and prepare any required permits or entrance fees in advance. Some popular national parks limit visitor numbers, so advance booking is essential. In these areas, stay on designated trails and do not approach wildlife or feed them.
Maintaining cultural sensitivity during your trip is also important. When visiting mosques or temples, remove your shoes and avoid disturbing religious ceremonies or prayer times. Respect for Malaysia's diverse ethnic groups and religions is essential. It is best to avoid sensitive topics related to religion or politics.
Travel writer Lisa Tan from Singapore advises in her book 'Southeast Asian Travel Etiquette': "In Malaysia, always use your right hand when passing food or shaking hands. The left hand is traditionally considered the one used in the bathroom. Touching someone's head is also impolite, and pointing your feet at another person or placing them on furniture is considered disrespectful. Understanding and respecting these small cultural differences enables more meaningful interaction with local people."
There are also things to note when using transportation during your Malaysia trip. In major cities like Kuala Lumpur, traffic congestion can be heavy, so it is wise to plan travel time with flexibility. When using long-distance buses or trains, advance ticket booking is important, especially during holidays or weekends when early reservations are crucial.
While English is widely spoken in Malaysia, learning basic Malay greetings and expressions of gratitude helps with communication. It is good to know basic phrases such as 'Selamat pagi' (Good morning), 'Terima kasih' (Thank you), and 'Silakan' (Welcome).
Finally, before traveling to Malaysia, it is essential to purchase travel insurance, keep copies of your passport and important documents stored separately, and note emergency contact numbers (embassy, consulate, local police). It is also wise to pack basic medicines (digestants, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, etc.) in case you are unaccustomed to local food and water.
Keeping these precautions and tips in mind during your travels will help ensure a safer and richer experience in Malaysia. Malaysia is a captivating country offering diverse culture, history, nature, and cuisine, and will leave travelers with unforgettable memories.
Kim Kyung-jin
Attorney · Former Member of the National Assembly · AI Policy Researcher
© 2026 Kim Kyung-jin. All rights reserved.