Malaysia is a vibrant mix of cultures, traditions, and natural beauty, but respecting local customs is key to enjoying a trip. From dress codes to dining etiquette, here are 8 essential dos and don’ts every traveller should know while in Malaysia.
1. Do Learn Malaysian Dining Etiquette
There are three major ethnicities in Malaysia, so there are three different dining practices. At local stalls, visitors often use forks and spoons to eat dishes like nasi lemak or mee goreng. In Chinese Malaysian restaurants, chopsticks are provided for meals such as char kway teow or dim sum, but forks are available if needed. At Indian Malaysian restaurants, while forks and spoons are offered for dishes like banana leaf rice or roti canai, eating with the right hand is customary. Observe local practices and adjust accordingly.
2. Do Dress Respectfully
As a traveller, everyone is free to wear anything they desire, but it’s best to keep things respectful. Depending on the religious practices of those who are different, women dress differently, some very conservatively, while others dress very openly. However, it’s easy to face judgement as a traveller or foreigner wearing clothes that are too revealing. Consider the area being visited and dress appropriately, and make sure to take a few clothes that are modest as well, especially if visiting a temple or a small village.
3. Do Eat the Local Food
It is often customary to eat out, especially the street food sold by local vendors, which is relatively cheap. The dishes are pretty authentic and are a good representation of the Malaysian culture. It can also be seen as respectful and friendly to eat from these spots, and it’s always good to form bonds with the local community.
4. Do Talk Slowly
When conversing with the locals, it’s always best to remember that English is not their main language but is actually their third or fourth preferred language. So remember to talk slowly and not speak louder as well, because it’s not that they can’t hear you, but they may just not understand you. So make sure not to speak fast and be a bit more considerate during conversations. If you run into any communication issues, your hotel or resort might be able to help. The best resorts in Penang even offer their own guided excursions and experiences, including PARKROYAL Penang Resort.
5. Don’t Confuse the Words ‘Malay’ and ‘Malaysian’
These two words, although they sound the same, have completely different meanings. Everyone who lives in Malaysia is referred to as Malaysian, but they aren’t always Malays. Malays are people who are a part of the largest ethnic group in Malaysia and have different cultural and religious observations. In the late 1700s, Chinese and Indian communities moved to Malaysia; they are Malaysian, but they aren’t ethnically Malay.
6. Don’t Go There to Party
Malaysia is a proud Muslim nation, and although they aren’t extremely conservative, party culture isn’t that big here. Booze is available, yet is often heavily taxed; visitors may end up spending more money on alcohol rather than food and accommodation. If you do want an extensive, duty-free party experience, however, the best place to visit is Langkawi.
7. Don’t engage in Extreme PDA
Holding hands, a light hug, or a quick peck on the cheek is fine; however, public displays of extreme affection are frowned upon and are even deemed disrespectful. Be sure to keep things private, and stay respectful of the local culture and customs.
8. Don’t Expect Pork Bacon
As Malaysia is a Muslim country, pork bacon isn’t very common. You’ll most likely find alternatives to pork, such as chicken or beef. Almost all meat in Malaysia is also halal certified. If you do want authentic pork-based dishes, you might be able to find food in Chinese-majority or non-Muslim areas.
