10 Things You Must NOT Do in Malaysia
- #1 Insult the Local Food.
- #2 Compare Malaysia with Singapore.
- #3 Point with Your Forefinger.
- #4 Trust the Traffic Lights.
- #5 Use Taxis.
- #6 Bring Up Race or Religion.
- #7 Give Money to Beggars.
- #8 Shake Hands with Members of the Opposite Sex. How to Shake Hands the Malaysian Way.
In this post
What are the do’s and don’ts in Malaysia?
Top 10 Cultural do’s and Don’t’s for Malaysia.
- DO – Wear Appropriate Clothing!
- Do – Ask Before, taking photos of locals.
- Do – The ” Salam” Rather than a Normal Handshake!
- Do – Take your Hat off!
- Don’t – Touch Anyones Head!
- Don’t – show the souls of your feet.
- Don’t – show anger or frustration.
What is considered rude in Malaysia?
Pointing with the finger is considered rude in Malaysia so directions are often given using an open hand or using the thumb. It is also considered rude to sit opposite a host with your legs crossed (especially for women).
Can you kiss in Malaysia?
While public affection between partners is normal in Western society, it is considered inappropriate in Malaysia. In fact, it is not uncommon to see signs in public places that forbid it. A small hand hold or kiss on the cheek is fine, but avoid too much kissing, hugging and touching in public places.
What are the dangers of Malaysia?
Warnings & Dangers in Malaysia
- OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM. Malaysia is generally a safe country to visit.
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM.
- PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH.
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM.
- MUGGING RISK : HIGH.
- TERRORISM RISK : HIGH.
- SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM.
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM.
Is it okay to wear shorts in Malaysia?
Islamic tradition suffuses the dress code for locals, Muslim or otherwise, and dictates that both men and women should keep torsos covered; shirt sleeves, if short, should come down to the elbow (for women, long-sleeved tops are preferable), while shorts or skirts should extend down to the knee (long trousers are ideal
Can I drink water in Malaysia?
The answer is simply yes. Malaysian tap water is safe and clean to drink, only when it comes straight out of the water treatment plant.
Can you wear revealing clothes in Malaysia?
T-shirts and shorts are perfectly acceptable, but avoid skimpy or revealing clothes or you will get unwanted attention. Hotels, restaurants and shopping malls are usually air conditioned and at times this can be pretty fierce, so be sure to carry a sweater or pashmina in your bag.
Is Malaysia a strict country?
Malaysia has some strict rules in place for its inhabitants, and most also apply to tourists. Obviously, all forms of public indecency are strictly forbidden and punishable by law. Do not engage in public sex acts ever, it could open up a world of trouble.
How do Malaysians show respect?
The common Malay verbal greeting is “Salaam”. Elders may be address as “pakcik” (uncle) or “makcik” (aunty) out of respect. You may similarly be referred to in this way by people younger than yourself. The common greeting across all ethnicities is a handshake.
Can you be naked in Malaysia?
But do take note that anyone caught stripping in public in Malaysia can be charged for public nudity, and may be subjected to a fine or jail time. Similar to section 294 of the Penal Code where you can be charged for singing obscene songs, you will charged according to the same law for public nudity.
Is hugging illegal in Malaysia?
Now is the public kissing and hugging, which though accepted by most non-Muslim Malaysians as a normal expression of affection, now found to be indecent. What was previously accepted by many Malaysians as normal is now treated as immoral and indecent.
Is there a dress code in Malaysia?
There is no specific dress code for tourists and visitors in Malaysia – as long as you are decently dressed, there are other women dressed in shorter skirts, fitted tops, and heels.
Is Malaysia safe for female Travellers?
Malaysia should top your list of places to visit, especially if you’re nervous about traveling alone as a woman. Malaysia is a very safe country, and you should feel very comfortable moving around the country on your own.
What should I know before visiting Malaysia?
19 Things You Need to Know Before Going to Malaysia
- Malaysia has a tropical climate.
- Malaysia consists of two regions.
- Check if you need a visa for Malaysia.
- Internet and Wifi are widely available.
- You might need vaccinations.
- Don’t drink the tap water.
- Don’t Forget to Pack The Essentials.
- Shop till you drop.
Is Malaysia safe for foreigners?
You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.
Is Christianity allowed in Malaysia?
Churches are allowed in Malaysia, though there are restrictions on construction of new churches through discriminatory zoning laws. No pre-existing churches have been closed down by the government and no standing congregations have been disbanded. However, it is difficult to build new churches.
What should I bring to Malaysia?
Travelling To Malaysia: 11 Things To Take Note When You Finally Cross The Causeway
- #1 Have A Valid Passport.
- #2 Change Your Currency.
- #3 Download MySejahtera App.
- #4 No Pre-Departure And On-Arrival Testing Required.
- #5 No Need To Have COVID-19 Travel Insurance.
- #6 You Can Cross The Causeway By Bus, Private Transport Or Walk.
What is Malaysian etiquette?
Basic Etiquette. Give or receive anything with two hands. If something must be passed with one hand, use the right hand. In accordance with Islamic principles, the left hand is reserved for cleansing one’s body and should not be used alone to give or receive objects.
Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Malaysia?
Can You Brush Your Teeth With Tap Water In Malaysia? There are many examples of countries where people do not recommend using tap water to brush their teeth, including Malaysia. If you’re going to drink directly from the tap, you should do it with boiled water.
Is tipping common in Malaysia?
Tipping is not as common in Malaysia as in other countries in Southeast Asia. In some tourist hot spots, you may notice 10% service charge added to your restaurant bill. Otherwise tipping will be discretionary although guides and drivers do rely on tips to top their wages up.