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Malaysia’s Culture & Language

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People & Culture

• Malaysia has a combined population of over 26 million people.

• The multi-cultural and multi-racial population consists of Malays, Chinese, Indians and numerous natives.

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People & Culture (cont’)

• Malay is the official language but English is widely spoken, especially in business.

• Official religion is Islam, but its people are free to observe any religion of their choice. It is common to see temples, mosques and churches located in close proximity.

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People & Culture (cont’)

• Ethnic Groups: 59% Malay and other indigenous, 32% Chinese and 9% Indian.

• Languages: Malay, English, Chinese, Tamil and other tribal languages.

• Religion: Muslim (primarily Malays), Buddhism (Chinese), Hindu (Indian), Christianity.

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Local Customs

• Handshakes generally suffice when greeting someone. Muslim ladies may greet with a nod of her head and smile.

• Traditional greeting of "salam" resembles a handshake whereby the man offers both hands, lightly touches the visitor’s outstretched hands, and then brings his hands to his chest to mean, “I greet you from my heart".

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Local Customs (cont’)

• Greeting by hugging and kissing is not generally practiced in Malaysia. However, this is becoming more common amongst the western educated and young.

• Shoes must be removed when entering a Mosque or an Indian temple. It is also customary to remove one’s shoes when entering a Malaysian home.

• The right hand is always used when giving and receiving objects.

• Pointing is normally done using the thumb as using the forefinger is considered rude.