The medusa phase of S. malayensis is distinguished from other related species by having 32 marginal lappets at the edge of the transparent bell, and 16 tentacles alternating with 16 rhopalia.

Its range includes the Red Sea and Suez Canal, Pakistan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Japan.

[6] S. malayensis is believed to be a venomous species of jellyfish with reports stating that it causes injury to humans.

One report from the Persian Gulf near Kuwait stated that it caused severe stings with necrosis of the skin.

First aid treatment includes removing any still-adhering tissue; this is of a very glutinous nature indicating that the nematocytes are continuing to discharge.