Malaysia: Public Behaviour
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Public Behaviour
General Dos and Dont's
When visiting Malaysia, visitors should observe local customs and practices. Some common courtesies and customs are as follows:
Shoes must always be removed when entering a Malaysian home.
Drinks are generally offered to guests. It is polite to accept.
It is polite to call before visiting a home.
The right hand is always used when eating with one's hand or 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 four fingers folded under is the preferred usage.
Shoes must be removed when entering places of worship such as mosques and temples. Some mosques provide robes and scarves for female visitors. Taking photographs at places of worship is usually permitted but always ask for permission beforehand.
Toasting is not a common practice in Malaysia. The country's large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.
Public behaviour is 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.
Some Malaysians, like Thais, also regard the head as the most important part of the human body. If you touch anyone's head, offer an apology.
Crossing your legs in the presence of elderly people is sometimes considered impolite.
A majority of Muslim women wear garments that fully cover their bodies. The usage of headscarves is also common. Visitors are encouraged to take note of local sensitivities and dress modestly.
Many Indians and Malays (esp. in rural communities) eat with their hands - if you are in that circumstance, it is customary to follow their lead, using only your right hand to eat. Using the left hand to handle food is impolite, as it is considered unclean.
Muslims consume halal food (permissible by Muslim law) and only dine in restaurants which are certified halal. Pork and alcohol are not consumed by Muslims.
