Social situations

Malaysia receives a large number of tourists and the Malay people are used to the different habits of foreigners. Although Malay people tend to be tolerant to cultural differences, it is important to remember that this is a conservative country and you should show respect by trying to follow the established customs.

Clothing:
Avoid showing too much skin when travelling in Malaysia. It is best to wear trousers rather than shorts and keep your shoulders covered. People who wear tight clothing, shorts and strappy tops will often be treated with distain and even refused admittance to certain places such as temples. Be sure to remove your shoes before entering temples or private houses and place them neatly outside the doorway.

Greetings:
Smile when you greet people. The traditional greeting is known as a salam and resembles a handshake with both hands but without making contact. The man will offer both hands, lightly touching his friend’s outstretched hands, and then bringing his hands to his chest, which means “I greet you from my heart”. The visitor should reciprocate the salam, but never shake hands unless someone initiates the gesture and don’t touch people on the head as this is seen as an insult.
Malay men are addressed as Encik, with or without their name afterwards Single Malay women should be called Che and married women Puan.

Eating etiquette:
Avoid eating with your left hand as it is considered unclean. Malays and Indians often eat with their right hand, while Chinese food is eaten with chopsticks. Knives aren’t usually used in Malaysia and a fork and spoon will often be provided. It is considered bad manners to put the fork in your mouth. Instead, use the fork to push food on to the spoon and lift the spoon to your mouth.

Showing Affection:
Sexual relations between people who aren’t married are actually illegal, and this extends to relationships between Lao people and foreigners. Public displays of affection such as kissing and holding hands can be offensive to Lao people, as is greeting them with a hug or kiss on the cheek.

Taboo Subjects:
Be careful not to criticize the Government and members of the Malay royal family. Avoid talking about homosexuality or ethnic relations.