So, you’ve made it to Malaysia — a glorious mix of skyscrapers, rainforests, street food and cultures that blend more beautifully than a cup of teh tarik. You’re having the time of your life until… you accidentally commit a cultural faux pas that earns you a few raised eyebrows and a polite-but-deadly “tsk” from a local auntie.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Here are ten things you absolutely shouldn’t do in Malaysia if you’d like to stay on everyone’s good side and not end up in a viral “tourist gone rogue” TikTok.
1. Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head
🧠 In Malaysia, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Even if that kid looks adorable, resist the urge to pat their head. You’re not in a shampoo commercial.
💡 Hack: Compliment instead — “So cute lah!” always works better than a head pat.
2. Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Giving or Eating
✋ The left hand is traditionally seen as unclean. Using it to hand over money, food or gifts can seem rude.
💡 Hack: Always use your right hand or both hands for extra politeness. It’s the Malaysian way of saying, “I’ve got manners and I know it.”
3. Don’t Be Too Touchy in Public
💏 PDA might be fine in some countries, but in Malaysia, it can make people uncomfortable, especially in more conservative areas.
💡 Hack: Save the smooching for private moments. Holding hands is fine — passionate make-out sessions at the mall, not so much.
4. Don’t Disrespect Religious Sites
🕌 Temples, mosques and churches are sacred spaces, not photo backdrops for your new yoga pose.
💡 Hack: Dress modestly, remove shoes when required and be quiet. And maybe skip the selfies during prayer time.
5. Don’t Complain About the Weather
🌦️ Yes, it’s hot. Yes, it’s humid. No, it’s not going to change.
💡 Hack: Embrace the sweat. Carry a fan, hydrate and think of it as your tropical detox — the world’s most natural spa treatment.
6. Don’t Mock or Misuse Local Languages
🗣️ Malaysia has multiple languages — Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, Tamil and Manglish (a glorious mix of them all). Don’t imitate accents or make jokes about it.
💡 Hack: Learn a few words instead. Locals will love your effort and forgive your mispronunciations.
7. Don’t Eat or Drink Before Everyone Is Served
🍽️ At local gatherings or family-style meals, it’s polite to wait until everyone has their food before digging in.
💡 Hack: When in doubt, watch what the locals do. If no one’s started eating yet, neither should you — even if the satay smells like heaven.
8. Don’t Refuse Food Rudely
🍛 Malaysians take food very seriously. Refusing a meal or a snack can be seen as rejecting hospitality itself.
💡 Hack: If you’re full, say “Maybe later, thank you” instead of “No.” Trust me, “later” could mean five minutes — and that’s okay.
9. Don’t Assume Everyone Drinks Alcohol or Eats Pork
🍺 Malaysia is multicultural and dietary restrictions are common, especially among Muslim locals.
💡 Hack: Be mindful. Don’t pressure anyone to join your happy hour or offer them bacon. Just enjoy your drink quietly and respectfully.
10. Don’t Forget to Take Off Your Shoes
👟 In Malaysian homes and some shops or temples, shoes stay at the door. Walking inside with them is like bringing mud to a tea party.
💡 Hack: Wear shoes that slip off easily — bonus points if your socks don’t have holes.
✨ Final Word of Wisdom:
Malaysia runs on respect, warmth and a shared love for good food. If you’re kind, curious and considerate, you’ll fit right in. So, keep your shoes by the door, your manners intact and your right hand ready — you’re about to enjoy one of the most welcoming countries on Earth.
