Malaysia

A Multi-Cultural Society
 Malaysia is a multi-cultural society. The main ethnic groups are the
native Malays as well as large populations of Chinese, and Indians.
When visiting the country it is clear that the ethnicities retain their
religions, customs and way of life. The most important festivals of
each group are public holidays.
 Although growing up, children are educated in the same schools
and will eventually work in the same offices, few marry outside their
own ethnicity. Families tend to socialize within their own ethnic
group – all part of retaining their individual traditions and lifestyles.
 Despite the ethnic differences there are commonalities culturally
speaking.
Verbal Communication
 Indirect Communication
Malaysians rely on indirect communication.
Great consideration is made to ensure that what is
said, how it is said and how much is said does not
offend the other person in the interaction. Words are
chosen to be polite and not assertive. Speech can
be ambiguous as they often understate their point.
 Language Style
The Malay language uses many similes, idioms,
proverbs (peribahasa), short evocative verses
(pantun) and poems (syair). Figurative language
allows people to express their point indirectly.
 Refusals
A Malaysian person’s preoccupation with
saving face and politeness means they will seldom
give a flat ‘no’ or negative response, even when
they do not agree with you. Therefore, focus on hints
of hesitation, listening for what they say but also
paying careful attention to what they may subtly
allude to.
 Soft Voices
Speaking loudly is generally interpreted
negatively as ‘kasar’ (crass/coarse) in Malaysia.
Instead, it is expected that people speak gently and
softly regardless of the nature of the conversation.
That being said, Malaysians are not so cautious about
this that they never speak loudly.
 Laughter
Malaysians may laugh when they are
embarrassed as a defense mechanism. The timing
may seem inappropriate or awkward in certain
scenarios. Consider that it can indicate their unease.
Non-Verbal Communication
 Physical Contact
It is generally inappropriate to touch strangers in
Malaysia. Avoid backslapping or putting your arm
around people's shoulders. Incidental touching is
permitted. However, generally people are not very
accustomed to physical affection from anyone that
isn’t a close friend or family member.
 Silence
Silence is an important and purposeful tool
used in Asian communication. Pausing before giving
a response indicates that someone has applied
appropriate thought and consideration to the
question. This signifies politeness and respect.
 The Head
Malaysians consider the head to be the most
sacred part of one’s body. Therefore, it is
considered very rude and inconsiderate to touch
another person’s head.
 Pointing
Avoid pointing with your index finger and use
your open hand instead.

 Beckoning
Beckoning is done by facing the palm of the
hand to the ground and waving the fingers towards
oneself. Individual fingers should not be used in this
gesture.
 Feet
The feet are considered the lowliest and
dirtiest parts of the body. Do not move objects with
them or display the soles of your feet to someone
else.
 Hands
There is a separation of function of the hands in
Malaysia, influenced by Islamic culture. The left
hand is considered unclean and is used for the
removal of dirt and for cleaning. It is not used for
actions such as waving, eating or offering items.
 Eye Contact
Malaysians generally avoid holding direct eye
contact with people of the opposite gender out of
modesty. They may also lower their gaze when
talking to someone older than them.
 Bow
People non-verbally say ‘excuse me’ when
entering/leaving/passing people by bowing slightly.

 Body Language
Placing one’s hands on their hips or in their
pockets during conversation indicates anger.