Greetings
Greeting someone is an important part of Malaysian culture and etiquette. In Malaysia, people usually greet one another with a handshake and say “Selamat Pagi” (good morning), “Selamat Petang” (good evening), or “Selamat Tinggal” (goodbye). Eye contact is also important in Malaysian culture, so looking the person in the eye when greeting them is crucial.
The language used when greeting someone can also be important – if you are in a more rural area, it is polite to greet someone in the local dialect.
Let’s look at some other forms of Malaysian greetings:
Handshakes
Handshakes are common in Malaysia and are almost a universal form of greeting. Giving a firm handshake and a friendly smile is polite when meeting someone. The handshake should be made with the right hand, never the left, as this is considered unclean.
People usually shake hands when they contact or leave each other’s company. Handshakes should never be too brief or too long; instead, they should be just right – not too limp, but also not overly tight or exaggeratedly firm. An appropriate handshake should follow the traditional ‘up-and-down’ motion and last no more than three seconds.
Suppose you’re speaking to someone of higher rank, age, or seniority. In that case, it’s important to show respect through your body language – maintain eye contact throughout the conversation and don’t slouch, as this could come across as impertinent or disrespectful in Malaysian culture. You will usually find those from Malaysia warm and willing to converse with visitors.
Bowing
Bowing, or salam is a traditional and culturally significant form of greeting that is extremely common in Malaysia, especially with the older generations. Bowing involves standing with both feet together and bending forward until your fingers (pointing down) touch the floor. In Malaysian informal settings, bowing may also be accompanied by hands smilingly pressed together. However, when bowing to someone older or of higher rank, the hand gesture should be left flat in line with the person’s shoulders and back straight.
An appropriate depth for a bow will depend on several factors, including the age of the people involved and their hierarchical relationship; however, it is common practice to show respect by bowing slightly deeper than what you receive from others (except when a much more senior elder greets you). For Muslims especially, saying ‘Selamat’ should follow any bow as an expression of respect and goodwill.
As a general rule for adults in respected positions such as teachers, bosses, or university lecturers, slight bows are expected whenever they come into contact with Malaysians, even if it’s just when you pass them in the hallway.
Dress Code
When visiting Malaysia, it is essential to know the country’s cultural customs and etiquette. Malaysia is a multicultural country, meaning each ethnic group has its own rules and customs.
Regarding the dress code, it is generally expected that visitors should dress modestly. However, depending on where you are visiting, there may be particular items of clothing you should or should not wear to show respect for local customs.
Men
When traveling to Malaysia, it is important to be mindful of the country’s cultural customs and etiquette. In particular, an unwritten dress code governs how men should dress in Malaysia. It applies both to daily life and particular occasions.
Men should generally opt for long shirts or t-shirts in public – and remember to cover up with a jacket or sweater if necessary. While shorts are okay for casual events, more formal gatherings, or special occasions (like weddings), men should stick with long-legged trousers instead. Shorts are usually only appropriate if the event states explicitly a smart casual dress code.
On top of this, shorts are considered inappropriate attire at almost all places of worship – regardless of religion – so make sure you pack an appropriate pair of trousers if you visit any religious sites while in Malaysia. Additionally, avoid wearing revealing tops or items with offensive slogans in public, as these may offend.
Overall, dressing conservatively and modestly is key while visiting Malaysia as a tourist: keep shoulders covered as much as possible and save the more revealing items for resort wear or poolside lounging. Make sure you check out any venue-specific regulations beforehand so that you can choose the right kind of attire for your intended destination!
Women
When it comes to women’s dress code, modesty is the key. In most situations, women should dress conservatively and avoid revealing clothing. It includes tops with low necklines and skirts or shorts shorter than knee-length. Additionally, tank tops, spaghetti straps, and shorts are not considered suitable for most occasions in Malaysia either.
Women should choose long-sleeved blouses for formal business meetings and job interviews; collared shirts are generally considered more appropriate. Pantsuits may also be worn when a professional appearance is necessary, but dresses should not be too tight-fitting or show too much cleavage. When wearing traditional attire like a sarong or cheongsam (tight-fitting Asian dress), longer lengths remain the best choice as they cover your shoulders to your feet— an important factor in maintaining modesty in Malaysian culture.
In more casual settings, attire such as t-shirts and jeans are generally accepted unless otherwise stated by the organizer or host of the event, where more formalwear may be expected. However, it is essential to remember that in Muslim areas like Kelantan, Terengganu, and Kedah, more conservative clothing should be adhered to, including covering your arms and legs at all times when in public (except on beaches).
Eating Etiquette
When dining in Malaysia, there are certain customs and etiquette to be aware of. Knowing these customs can help you better understand and appreciate the culture.
Malaysians generally eat with their right hand and rarely use utensils such as knives and forks. You may also find that Malaysians usually do not share food from the same plate; instead, each diner has its plate.
Keep reading to learn more about Malaysian eating etiquette.
Use of Utensils
Utensils should be used for all meals. It is customary to use the fork in the left hand and spoon in the right, although some cultural food is eaten with hands. Finger licking is generally unacceptable, although acceptable if eating spicy food with fingers.
The contents of one’s plate should not be an ‘album mix’ as it is considered rude to mix everything (Malay rice dishes like Nasi Lemak are an exception). Foods should generally be eaten with a combination of utensils; this shows appreciation for each dish’s range of flavors and textures.
When finished eating, it is polite to leave a small amount of food on the plate or bowl to indicate that you enjoyed your meal. If at someone else’s home, remember to:
- Clear up after yourself as it is seen as good manners; and
- Leaving too much behind can be construed as rude or ungrateful.
Sharing Dishes
Sharing dishes is standard and customary in Malaysian culture. The plate is usually placed in the center of the table, allowing you to pick out what you are comfortable eating. Chopsticks are not always used; eating with your hands or a spoon is more common. Seating etiquette varies from place to place but if you are unfamiliar with the norm, follow your host’s lead.
When eating together, be aware that traditionally, Malaysians do not use utensils on dishes served in their juices or sauces. You may also opt out of communal dishes that require using hands if you feel uncomfortable sharing food with others.
It is also important to note that having one dish per person when ordering side or accompaniment dishes is considered wasteful and varies greatly from Malaysian eating customs. It may be seen as rude if you do not follow local dining etiquette when sharing food in Malaysia.
Table Manners
Table manners in Malaysia follow the same basic rules of etiquette as in any other part of the world. People must be polite, courteous, and respectful towards their hosts, guests, and other diners.
Malaysians use their right hand to put food in their mouth. However, using your left may be misunderstood as offensive; therefore, it is best to use your right hand while dining at a Malaysian table.
It is also good manners to leave some food on your plate when eating, as this shows you have had enough. You should accept meals that are offered even if you are not particularly hungry. To show appreciation for the meal, say “terima kasih” (thank you).
- Before eating in a traditional Malay home, wait until everyone else has started before touching the food.
- Once seated at the table, begin eating after others have finished saying grace or finishing a toast if the host or guest of honor proposes one.
- Do not start eating before anyone else does, and avoid talking with your mouth full or making loud noises while eating.
- It is also customary to keep both hands above the table and off of the top of the table while enjoying the meal.
- During meals, try not to waste your food by taking more than what you can eat, as this can come off as rude and greedy.
- If invited into someone’s home, try not to refuse drinks or food offered to you; this may cause offense and embarrassment for both parties involved.
- Lastly, when sharing someone’s meal, try offering others around a taste of what you have rather than just taking from other plates, which is considered impolite in Malaysian culture.
Gift Giving
In Malaysia, giving and receiving gifts is a common cultural practice. It is seen as a way of expressing respect to the recipient and gratitude for any favors that may have been received. Malaysians generally prefer to give practical gifts such as household items, food items, or clothing as opposed to extravagant offerings.
It is also important to understand the cultural customs and etiquette of gift-giving in Malaysia to avoid potential pitfalls.
Respectful Gifts
In Malaysia, gift-giving is an essential part of Malaysian culture, representing respect and graciousness between the giver and receiver. The most respectful gifts to give are those that demonstrate an understanding of the other person’s culture or traditions, or if these are unknown, objects that have a general meaning of thoughtfulness. In addition, understanding the significance of specific colors is important for gift-giving in Malaysia; for instance, white symbolizes death, brown is associated with mourning periods, green stands for harmony and prosperity, and yellow stands for peace.
When selecting appropriate gifts to bring someone from out of town in Malaysia, it is crucial to keep in mind the different cultures within the country. Monetary gifts are generally not accepted as Malaysians regard this as impolite and do not usually receive money as a gesture of respect. Presents that represent good luck but match their traditional customs will work best. Other possible items could include souvenirs from your hometown, like edibles or handicrafts, or something specially made or personalized, such as artwork commissioned by locals or ordered online.
For more formal events such as weddings or funerals, it is considered polite to bring a small token item like fresh fruit baskets or desserts in addition to a card expressing condolences/ well wishes towards the host family.
Avoiding Taboo Gifts
When giving gifts in Malaysia, it’s important to know the cultural customs and etiquette to avoid giving gifts that may have a negative meaning. It is customary for Malaysians not to show their true feelings when receiving a gift, instead expressing thanks and gratitude for the giver-receiver relationship to be harmonious. However, some items are considered taboo and should not be given as a sign of respect.
As the majority of Malays practice Islam and the traditional cultures are mostly Chinese-influenced, here is a list of some items that should be avoided:
- Anything related to death, such as black or white clothing (colors associated with mourning)
- Clocks or watches are seen as symbols of cutting off your friendship as time passes quickly.
- Straw sandals; they’re seen as gifts given by beggars.
- Knives and scissors; they’re seen cutting ties between people
- Umbrellas; after you have used them, these items might suggest you’d like them to leave soon.
- Roses of different colors; specific colors have different meanings in Malaysian culture – yellow is associated with separations.
Instead, safe, popular options are usually small knick-knacks or practical items that can be used around the house, such as books.
Language
Malaysia is a multicultural society, and a wide variety of languages are spoken. The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Melayu, but English is widely spoken in urban areas. Other spoken languages include Mandarin, Tamil, Hindi, and several tribal languages.
Knowing the local language is important for navigating the country and understanding the customs and culture of the locals.
Common Phrases
When speaking with people in Malaysia, it’s important to remember that the two main languages spoken are Malay and English, with Malay being the national language. There are also a few tribal languages spoken in the region, and many Chinese and Indian expatriates may even speak various dialects of their native languages. Therefore, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with some basic common phrases before visiting to communicate politely and respectfully. Speak slowly and enunciate when speaking Malay or English, as it can be difficult for native speakers to understand speed talking.
Commonly-used phrases include:
- “Selamat pagi” (Good morning)
- “Selamat petang” (Good afternoon)
- “Selamat malam” (Good evening)
- “Terima kasih” (Thank you)
- “Sila/Tolong” (Please/Help me)
- “Maafkan saya” (Excuse me)
- “ya/bukan” (yes/no)
Respectful Language
Malaysians value politeness and respectful language, both in speech and written communications. It is common practice to address people with titles such as Mr., Mrs., Dr., or their full job titles (e.g., Head of Accounting). Making a favorable first impression is very important, and people may be more likely to open up and share their stories if they feel respected.
Using formal language, rather than slang or informal words, is another way Malaysians like to show respect for one another. For example, using words such as “please” or “thank you” are essential for any conversation; using the plural form, such as “apps” instead of “app,” also indicates respect. Additionally, many Malaysians will avoid curse words or sayings to avoid offending someone else – it would be considered impolite to use these types of terms in almost any setting.
Malaysia also has its unique language called Bahasa Melayu (Malay language), which is widely spoken throughout the country. Although many business owners often use English, it can still be helpful to learn some basic phrases before visiting Malaysia – this will help locals recognize that you are trying to understand their culture. Moreover, while speaking, Malaysians prefer direct speech (away from being too indirect) but simultaneously express it in polite manners that emphasize respect across different ages and genders within society.
Social Interaction
Social interaction in Malaysia is an important part of the culture. Respect and politeness are essential when speaking to someone for the first time. It is customary to greet each other with a handshake and a smile, and it’s polite to call the other person by their name or title. Malaysians expect others to treat them with respect and will appreciate it if you show that you are open to learning about their culture.
Respect for Elders
In Malaysia, due to the cultural values and extended family system, respect elders by addressing them using honorific titles. It includes calling an elder “Uncle” and “Aunty.”
Malaysians respect their parents, relatives, teachers, and religious leaders; consequently, visitors are expected to do the same. In addition, respect for elders is shown in the manner of speaking – deferential speech and a lowered voice are used when addressing older people.
Respect is usually shown in other ways, such as:
- not sitting higher than or with one’s legs crossed in front of an elder;
- offering the senior family members to eat first;
- asking for permission before performing certain actions;
- not interfering in conversations among elderly persons;
- not being rude or disrespectful, even in jest.
Elders usually make decisions on behalf of their families, ensuring this responsibility is respected by younger generations. Particular attention should be devoted to seniors from different ethnic backgrounds as they may have unique customs, which visitors should be aware of.
Interaction with Strangers
In Malaysia, it is generally considered polite to maintain respect and politeness when interacting with strangers. People usually are expected to introduce themselves when meeting for the first time and maintain a friendly but professional manner. It is important to shake hands when greeting someone, although this custom isn’t necessarily followed in some cases if the person being greeted is older or if they are of the same gender, in which case a bow is more appropriate.
It’s also considered polite to wait until you are invited before entering another person’s home. Refraining from profane language, especially in public settings, and following social conventions such as leaving shoes at the doorstep when entering someone else’s home is appreciated. Most importantly, it is essential to exude genuine respect and politeness — regardless of how relaxed one feels — when interacting with people who are unfamiliar or not as close friends or family members.