Malaysia Travel Do's
- Dress appropriately. Malaysians are generally accepting of hotpants, slippers and tank tops, but in the right locations and for the right occasions
- Shake hand with men when greeting them, but not women unless they offer to do so first.
- Do follow simple rules when visiting places of worship. Show respect and remove your hat and shoes and dress accordingly
- Insist on metered taxis. Dont try haggling because you will end up paying a heftier price if you try to bargain.
- Do use right hand to receive or give something. The right hand should also be used for eating. It is considered discourteous in Malay custom to use your left hand when you hand over or receive things.
Malaysia Travel Dont's
- Do not point forefinger at things. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with four fingers folded under is the preferred way.
- Do not wear hot pants and vests at mainland beaches if you are female. Topless sunbathing is a no-no. Malay women usually go swimming fully dressed and some keep their scarves on.
- Do not kiss in public. Public behavior is important in Malaysian culture. Most Malaysians refrain from displaying affection such as embracing or kissing in public.
- Do not discuss ethnic relations or the political system. They are both sensitive subjects.
- Do not drink alcohol in public. The country large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.
- Eat in front of Malays during Ramadan. It is respectful to eat in private where you cannot be seen unless after or before sunrise.
