Social Etiquette in Malaysia

In Malaysia, introductions are normally acknowledged with a handshake. In the Muslim culture, handshakes are generally exchanged between people of the same gender. Some Muslim ladies may acknowledge an introduction to a gentleman with a nod of her head and a smile. A handshake can be reciprocated if the lady offers her hand first to a man.

The traditional Malay greeting or salam resembles a handshake, but with both hands outstretched and without the grasp. The man offers both hands, lightly touches his friend’s hands, and then brings his hands back to his chest to mean, “I greet you from my heart”. The visitor should reciprocate the salam.

o     Addressing a Person
Malay men and women can be addressed by their first names. For instance, Amirul bin Yusof should be addressed as Mr Amirul and not Mr Yusof, as the latter is his father’s name. The term Bin means ‘son of’ and binte means ‘daughter of’. Hence, they need not be mentioned.

Chinese people have surnames which precede their given names. For instance, a lady whose name is Chia Wei Li con be addressed as Ms Chia. Some Chinese people have English names, such as James Wong. It would be proper to address him as Mr Wong.

Indians can be addressed with their given names. For instance. Anand a/l Ravindran should be addressed as Mr Anand. The abbreviation ‘a/l’ stands for ‘anak lelaki’, meaning ‘son of’ and ‘a/p’ means ‘anak perempuan’ or ‘daughter of’.

Sometimes, names are preceded by the terms Encik, Puan or Cik. These are Malay terms for Mr. Mrs and Miss, respectively.

o     Titles
A number of Malaysians have been conferred titles by the Malaysian Government. Among these titles are Tun, Tan Sri, Dato’ and Datuk. It is appropriate to address them by their titles. Political dignitaries are conferred titles such as Yang Berhormat (YB) and Yang Amat Berhormat (YAB). The term Mr or Encik will not be necessary when addressing a person who has been conferred titles.

o     Social Visits
Before visiting a home, it is polite to call and inform of one’s arrival. Shoes must always be removed when entering a Malaysian home. Drinks are generally offered to guests. It would be polite to accept.

o     Gestures
The right hand is always used when eating with one’s fingers or when giving and receiving objects. The right forefinger is not used to point at places, objects or persons. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with the four fingers folded under is the preferred usage.

o     Conduct
Public behaviour is especially important in Malaysian culture. Most Malaysians refrain from displaying affection (i.e. embracing or kissing) in public. It would be appropriate for visitors to do the same.