Even if you’ve visited parts of South East Asia before, you may be pleasantly surprised by Malaysian culture. As well as being decidedly more modern and developed than many other countries in the region, the country’s strong multicultural make-up also means you can look forward to a range of different experiences during your visit.
English is widely spoken in Malaysia, not only to communicate with foreign visitors but also as a de facto second language between Malaysians of different ethnic backgrounds. You should therefore have no problem communicating with the locals, even in more remote parts of the country, when ordering food or booking accommodation and travel.
The ethnic groups that make up the bulk of Malaysia’s population are the Malay, who predominantly follow the religion of Islam, as well as a large proportion of Chinese and Indian immigrants. Some areas of the country boast a greater density of certain populations, and even within cities there are typically ‘Chinatown’ and ‘Little India’ type districts where one culture is most prominent. That doesn’t mean Malaysia is an ethnically divided country however, and it’s a common sight to see Malay, Chinese and Indian locals socialising and working together.
When dealing with such a melting pot of cultures, it’s essential to show appropriate respect as a visitor. That doesn’t mean you have to go out of your way to dress and behave like the locals, especially as Malaysia is a very cosmopolitan and modern country, but keeping in mind cultural taboos can help you avoid accidentally causing offence – for example, not entering mosques with bare arms or legs.
If you’re keen to get insights into the local culture during your Malaysia holidays, you’ll have lots of opportunities – from sampling the wide range of food to attending music events. Food in particular is a cornerstone of Malaysian culture, and trying as many different dishes as you can is one of the most appealing aspects of a trip to Malaysia.
Malaysia is divided into a number of states, each of which retains a distinct identity. So you can expect to be pointed towards local dishes and new culinary experiences wherever you travel, from durian fruits in Penang to bean sprout chicken in Perak and rice balls in Malacca. You’ll even have the chance to meet Malaysia’s indigenous tribes people – known as the Orang Asli – when heading to highland and jungle regions in the interior, such as the Cameron Highlands and Taman Negara National Park.
Bob Taggart writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content. Image by pixelsandme
