Malaysia is a fascinating destination with its mix of diverse cultures, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. However, navigating the cultural and social norms in Malaysia can be tricky for tourists unfamiliar with the country’s customs.
Malaysia is an incredible destination with friendly locals, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll enjoy a smoother, more respectful, and memorable visit.
Here are 20 things NOT to do in Malaysia and tips on how to avoid common missteps.
Read Here Read here best Malaysian Food and about vegetarian food in Malaysia
Read Here Best Things to know about Malaysia and Is Kuala Lumpur worth visiting
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Things Not to Do in Malaysia
1. Don’t Forget to Remove Your Shoes
Why Not:
Malaysians consider it disrespectful to wear shoes inside homes, temples, or mosques.
What to Do Instead:
Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a place of worship.
Look for shoe racks outside entrances as a hint.
2. Don’t Touch Someone’s Head
Why Not:
In Malaysian culture, especially among Buddhists and Hindus, the head is considered sacred. Touching someone’s head is disrespectful.
What to Do Instead:
Avoid patting children or adults on the head.
3. Don’t Point with Your Finger
Why Not:
Pointing with your index finger is seen as rude in Malaysia.
What to Do Instead:
Use your thumb or the whole hand to gesture instead.
4. Don’t Dress Inappropriately
Why Not:
Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, and dressing modestly is expected, especially in rural areas and places of worship.
What to Do Instead:
Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or smaller towns.
Wear lightweight, modest clothing to respect cultural norms and stay cool in the tropical climate.
5. Don’t Publicly Criticize Religion
Why Not:
Religion is a sensitive topic in Malaysia, and public criticism of any faith can lead to offense or even legal consequences.
What to Do Instead:
Respect all religious practices and avoid making negative comments.
Observe local customs when visiting places of worship.
6. Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Eating or Giving
Why Not:
In Malaysian culture, the left hand is considered unclean as it is traditionally used for personal hygiene.
What to Do Instead:
Use your right hand when eating, giving, or receiving items.
7. Don’t Overlook Mosque Etiquette
Why Not:
Mosques are sacred spaces, and visitors are expected to adhere to proper behavior and dress codes.
What to Do Instead:
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and legs.
Remove your shoes before entering and remain quiet while inside.
8. Don’t Show Affection in Public
Why Not:
Public displays of affection (PDA) are frowned upon in Malaysia and can make locals uncomfortable.
What to Do Instead:
Keep physical affection to a minimum in public spaces.
Holding hands is generally fine, but avoid kissing or hugging.
9. Don’t Disrespect Local Food Customs
Why Not:
Eating customs differ, and showing ignorance can be seen as rude. For example, Malaysians typically don’t eat with their hands left dirty after a meal.
What to Do Instead:
Wash your hands before and after meals, especially if eating with your hands at a banana leaf restaurant.
Try not to waste food—finishing your plate is appreciated.
10. Don’t Ignore the Dress Code at Religious Sites
Why Not:
Places like mosques, temples, and shrines have strict dress codes that tourists must follow.
What to Do Instead:
Carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders.
Wear clothing that covers your knees when visiting these sites.
11. Don’t Mock or Dismiss Bahasa Malaysia
Why Not:
While many Malaysians speak English, dismissing or mocking the local language, Bahasa Malaysia, can come across as disrespectful.
What to Do Instead:
Learn a few basic phrases, like “Terima kasih” (Thank you) or “Selamat pagi” (Good morning).
12. Don’t Assume It’s Always Hot
Why Not:
Malaysia is tropical, but some areas, like the Cameron Highlands, have cooler climates.
What to Do Instead:
Pack light clothing for the heat and layers for cooler areas.
13. Don’t Ignore Road Crossing Rules
Why Not:
Traffic can be chaotic, and jaywalking can be dangerous in Malaysia.
What to Do Instead:
Use pedestrian crossings or overhead bridges when available.
Always check both ways before crossing.
14. Don’t Be Disrespectful During Ramadan
Why Not:
During the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, locals fast from sunrise to sunset, and eating or drinking in public can seem disrespectful.
What to Do Instead:
Be discreet when eating or drinking in public during Ramadan.
Respect fasting customs, especially in predominantly Muslim areas.
15. Don’t Forget to Bargain
Why Not:
Bargaining is expected at markets and small shops, and failing to negotiate might mean overpaying.
What to Do Instead:
Politely bargain with vendors at markets like Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur.
Always do so with a smile to keep things friendly.
16. Don’t Assume All Food Is Halal
Why Not:
While many restaurants serve halal food in Malaysia, not all places cater to Muslim dietary requirements.
What to Do Instead:
Look for halal certification if necessary or ask the staff about ingredients.
17. Don’t Assume Everyone Is Muslim
Why Not:
Malaysia is multicultural, with Malays, Chinese, and Indians making up the population, each with their own religions and traditions.
What to Do Instead:
Be respectful and aware of Malaysia’s diverse cultures.
Avoid stereotyping or making assumptions about someone’s religion.
18. Don’t Get Offended by Personal Questions
Why Not:
It’s common for Malaysians to ask personal questions like “Are you married?” or “How many children do you have?” as a form of polite conversation.
What to Do Instead:
Answer politely or deflect the question with a smile if you’re uncomfortable.
19. Don’t Ignore Smoking Restrictions
Why Not:
Smoking is banned in many public spaces in Malaysia, including restaurants and parks, with fines for violations.
What to Do Instead:
Only smoke in designated smoking areas.
20. Don’t Rely on Credit Cards Everywhere
Why Not:
While credit cards are accepted in cities, cash is still king in rural areas, markets, and small businesses.
What to Do Instead:
Carry enough cash in small denominations, especially when traveling outside urban areas.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.