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Anytime you explore a new place, the golden rule to keep in mind is “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. Malaysia is no exception. Knowing some basic Malaysian cultural etiquette can save you from awkward situations, judgmental looks from locals or worse, unintentionally breaking the law.
So whether you're planning your first visit or simply curious about what Malaysia has to offer, take a moment to read this article. Asia King Travel has put together a “dos and don’ts in Malaysia” guide, hope we can provide you with useful information about Malaysian customs for tourists.
Whenever you visit a new destination, it’s wise to follow the local customs and ways of life
Despite often being underrated compared to its neighboring countries, Malaysia remains a truly captivating destination that deserves a spot on any Southeast Asia travel itinerary. No matter what kind of traveler you are, this diverse country always has something to match your preference. And that’s not just an empty claim.
If you're an adventurous soul, head to Bako National Park for jungle trekking or explore the spectacular limestone caves of Taman Negara. For cultural and heritage lovers, the UNESCO-listed site, George Town in Penang is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and Peranakan culture. Meanwhile, foodies can indulge in Malaysia’s world-famous street food from Penang’s char kway teow to spicy laksa in Sarawak.
Malaysia remains a highlight of Southeast Asian travel
However, beyond the landscapes and flavors, traveling to Malaysia is also about understanding and respecting its rich culture and customs.
On the first hand, Malaysia is a multicultural nation made up of diverse ethnic groups, primarily Malays, Chinese, and Indians; each with their own traditions and beliefs. This rich blend makes the country a cultural mosaic where festivals, food, languages, and social practices vary widely.
On the other hand, a significant portion of the population is Muslim. So there is no doubt why Islam also plays an important role in shaping Malaysia’s social etiquette and values.
Understanding these cultural backdrops will help travelers a lot in avoiding unintentional offenses. You can use this dos and don’ts guide as a handy first step to prepare for your visit to Malaysia.
Read more: Malaysia tour 15 days: Cultural Exploration and Beach Relaxation
While traveling to Malaysia, don’t be surprised if you hear “the adhan”. This is a soulful Islamic call to prayer, often echoing from nearby mosques.
According to Malaysia’s religious etiquette, praying is a sacred moment, and out of respect, a kind gesture to lower the volume or pause any loud activities like karaoke and street performances is appreciated. Once the adhan ends, feel free to pick up where you left off.
In Malaysian cultural etiquette, it's polite to offer and receive items using both hands. If you need to use just one hand, make sure it’s the right hand, as the left is considered unclean here. This applies to everything from handing over money to giving a gift.
According to Malaysian cultural etiquette, you should give and take using both hands
Speaking of gifts, don’t be surprised if someone politely refuses your present at first, that’s a gesture to show humility, not rejection. And while you might be excited to see what’s inside, it’s customary not to open in front of the giver which helps both parties to save face in case the gift is not well received.
Bargaining is part of the fun when shopping in Malaysia’s street markets, roadside stalls, and souvenir shops. These informal setups often expect a bit of back-and-forth, and prices may even be slightly inflated with the assumption that you’ll haggle.
Don’t be shy, asking for a lower price isn’t rude, it’s normal! In fact, by negotiating, you’re helping keep prices fair for everyone, including locals who might otherwise get sidelined in favor of high-spending tourists. Just keep things friendly and respectful, make it a lighthearted exchange, and you’ll often walk away with a better deal and a fun travel story to tell.
Don’t be shy to negotiate with local sellers in Malaysia
If you’re lucky enough to visit Malaysia during the holy month of Ramadan, don’t miss the chance to wander through a local Ramadan bazaar. These evening markets come alive with mouthwatering smells, colorful stalls, and a festive yet respectful atmosphere as locals prepare to break their fast.
It’s the perfect place to sample a variety of traditional Malaysian dishes from juicy satay to sweet treats like kuih and air tebu (sugarcane juice). More than just a food market, it’s a cultural experience that showcases Malaysia’s diverse gastronomy and warm hospitality.
Visit a Ramadan food market for a taste of local culture
Heading to sunny Malaysia? Make sure to pack a good sunscreen since your skin will thank you a lot. With its warm tropical climate and endless sunshine, the UV rays here would be surprisingly intense, even when the sky is overcast.
As a result, a casual day strolling through colorful street markets or lounging on sandy beaches can easily turn into a sunburned memory if your skin isn’t protected. To fully enjoy the outdoor charm of Malaysia without the sting, choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and remember to reapply throughout the day.
Read more: 15 things you must not do in Malaysia
In Malaysian culture, giving sharp objects such as knives or scissors is generally discouraged, especially during special occasions like weddings, housewarmings, or anniversaries.
In terms of the superstitious side influenced by feng shui, it is suggested that sharp objects can bring negative energy and disrupt the balance of a living space. Hence, these items are often viewed as symbols of severed relationships as well as broken bonds. And that’s why they seem really inappropriate for events meant to celebrate unity and new beginnings.
On an emotional aspect, knives may be seen as cold or even threatening, making some people uncomfortable when receiving them as gifts.
Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country. Therefore, cultural norms around physical interaction between men and women who are not related are shaped by Islamic values which emphasize modesty and respect.
In many cases, physical contact such as handshakes with the opposite gender is discouraged. While some Malaysians may be more open, it's important not to assume everyone is comfortable with such gestures. Instead, a polite verbal greeting or a nod is always a safe alternative.
Locals often brings their hands to the chest as a sign of sincerity
Among the same gender, handshakes are acceptable, and locals often use both hands followed by bringing their hands to the chest as a sign of sincerity.
While durian holds the title of Malaysia’s national fruit, it is strictly banned in most hotels due to the persistent smell. This pungent aroma clings to everything it touches like carpets, curtains, furniture and can linger long after the fruit is gone.
Even many locals prefer to eat durian outdoors to avoid filling their homes with its strong scent. If you're a fan of this unique tropical delicacy, it's best to enjoy it in open-air spaces where its smell won't disturb others.
For a more travel-friendly option, consider durian-flavored snacks or desserts like pancakes or candies, which carry the flavor without the intense odor.
In Malaysia, pointing with your index finger is more than just bad manners; it's often seen as an aggressive gesture. This stems from the fact that people typically use this finger when scolding as well as trying to assert authority. Therefore, in Malaysian cultural etiquette, using your forefinger to point at someone is best avoided in public interactions.
Opt for your thumb or open palm when indicating something
If you still need to indicate a person or direction, go for more respectful gestures like using your thumb or doing it with an open palm.
When it comes to the dos and don’ts in Malaysia, one unspoken rule is: avoid comparing Malaysia to Singapore, especially in favor of the latter. While the two nations share historical roots (Singapore was part of Malaysia until 1965), they’ve taken very different paths.
It’s best not to compare Malaysia with its neighbor, Singapore
The relationship can sometimes feel like a sibling rivalry, friendly on the surface, but layered with national pride and sensitivity. Comments like “Singapore is cleaner” or “more developed” might seem harmless to you, but they can come across as offensive to locals.
Malaysians are proud of their own unique identity and achievements, and they’d much rather you appreciate their country on its own merits. So when you’re in Malaysia, focus on what makes it special, not how it compares to its neighbor.
In short, when traveling in Malaysia, everything becomes much smoother if you’re familiar with the country’s basic cultural etiquette. That way, you can avoid unnecessary trouble and ensure a positive impression with the locals. So if you’ve mastered every Malaysian custom for tourists, don’t hesitate to book your tour to Malaysia with Asia King Travel today!
Read more: Malaysia tour 14 days: Magnificent Adventure
