posted by Ademir on Dec 10
There’s no wonder any tourist wants to have a smooth travel that leaves only good memories. However, there are numerous things that can make you feel sad or confused. Difference between cultures is among these factors. Quite often behavior, style of clothing, body language or emotions that are common for Western civilization can be considered offensive or even adverse in other parts of the world. This particularly concerns eastern civilizations where tourist always should think what he says and how he behaves. Certainly, no one is expecting a tourist to know all local etiquette, but there are countries that are more loyal to tourists and there are ones that are more adverse to visitors, like Malaysia. Do not forget, this country belongs to Muslim regions and it has stringent rules where even tourists are not exempt, so if you plan to visit this country, make sure you will follow several simple hints.
Malaysia is a country where traditions yet mean a lot. It has a historical racial division, own culture and traditions. What’s more interesting, while other countries in Asian region tend to look to west and become more open, in Malaysia European or American influence is yet minimal and so tourists need to keep that in mind. Things that are essential for us may be not understood here and no one’s going to change their lifestyle or habits for you. To make sure you will have a wonderful vacation in this country spend some time reading about Malaysian traditions and culture.
In Malaysia the authority of the elders is still dominating. Whole country is divided into several racial groups with various cultures, but Malays make the largest one. Other people of Asian nationalities often come to work in Malaysia, but they usually cannot occupy top positions in both company’s management and in government.
Prepare to the fact you will hardly find anyone speaking English there, especially if you are going to visit countryside. In cities you can always hire an interpreter, but even if you do, try to learn several phrases in Malaysian. Even simplest words is local language will change the attitude to you and locals will be friendlier with you. Don’t be afraid to speak with all kinds of people, no matter how poorly they are, you can always get help from them.
Greeting is very important in Malaysia. Just like we use handshake to great each other, Malays do the same, but their handshake is slightly different as it’s mild and gentle unlike strong and energetic western handshaking. If you meet elderly people you want to greet or you want to show you respect to religious places, brief touching your chest will symbol this.
Always pay attention to what you wear in Malaysia. Too casual dressing is not recommended. By the way, to visit some temples and shrines you need to be dressed more formal as you simply won’t be let in. Never enter either religious buildings or houses without taking off your footwear otherwise you show disrespect to this country and its people. Do not smoke on the streets and at houses where you come as a guest. Smoking is considered rude and so the only place you can do it is a special area in your hotel. Finally, do not give tips. Even though it’s natural for our culture, Malays think of them the other way, so do not offend taxi drivers or waiters by giving them tips.
Following these simple rules will help you to spend nice time in Malaysia and you will see that this country can also be hospitable and is glad to greet its visitors.
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