Malaysia is a country that celebrates its diversity. Whereas in most other countries there is a trend towards creating a homogeneous society for the purpose of national unity, in Malaysia the various races are allowed to keep their ethnic names, their languages, to practise their respective religions and the freedom to celebrate their own cultures. All this has served to create a vibrant multi-cultural society.
You will see multi-cultural aspects everywhere you look due to the multi-racial nature of Malaysia. It is most evident in Kuala Lumpur than other smaller cities in the country. To some. it is most obvious in terms of food. If you are a food lover, you are in the right place. Kuala Lumpur must be one of the best places to enjoy a huge variety of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other food.
Malaysia is very unique in the sense of its culture. People of different religions and backgrounds mix easily together, respect and live with each other peacefully. The outcome is a spectacular mix of people, food, traditions and culture. Malaysians are generally a very happy and cheerful people, but most of them will not tolerate bad manners and rudeness. Manners are important in this city; always say "thank you" and "excuse me" when you are interacting with people. Like most Asians, the people here can be introverted and a little shy. Ocaasionally you may be lucky to meet an outspoken person with whom you can have an insightful chat about Malaysian or world issues. Tell them you find Malaysia lovely, they will smile broadly!
Malaysia has a large population of Malays, who are Muslims, so you will see a lot of ladies with headscarves. Try not to stare as it is considered rude. Muslims in Malaysia are generally friendly, there is no need to be afraid of them. Muslims do not eat pork and have an aversion to dogs. Drinking alcohol or gambling is considered a sin by muslims, so be wise when you try to buy them presents especially when it is a food hamper. The second largest race are the Chinese, who mainly live in the urban areas and are principally involved in business and commerce. The Chinese are predominantly Buddhist, Christian or free-thinkers. Indians are the third major race, they tend to be either Hindu, Christian or Muslim (Mamaks). In addition, there are many other races in this multi-racial country, such as the Iban from Sarawak and the Kadazan from Sabah.
If you are to visit a Malaysian house, temple, mosque or similar religious places, remove your shoes, wear long pants and keep the conversation down. Dress sensibly and appropriately in rural areas, in the urban town centres, the young and trendy are up-to-date and wearing most types of clothes and the latest fashions would not cause any offence.
Kuala Lumpur and Penang are the two most well-known cities and are a mix of different cultures. You will most probably find a very friendly-and-maybe-nosy taxi driver/tour operator that usually starts up a conversation with the sentence "Where do you come from, Sir/ Madam?" Just tell them the country of where you come from, or make up something, and they will be happy enough to talk about anything. They will either talk to you all the way till the end of your ride, or say nothing at all. Just don't forget to keep your eye on the taxi meter!
The Chinese and Indian population are high here in the cities, and people speak a kaleidoscope of languages. Food varies; if you were to land in a food court, you will most probably find a mixed variety of food. Don't worry, because these cities are "modernised", if you hanker for western or fast food, McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut or Starbucks are easily found. Burgers, chips and fries; and steaks, are all over the place . No matter how adventurous an eater you are or not, you won't starve here.
The East Coast and the North have a mostly large Malay population. The people in these parts are very religious, as anywhere else in the world, avoid discussing religion or politics! Instead, focus on the lovely untainted natural surroundings. The people here are generally less extrovert compared to those in the larger cities, and they are rather shy and keep to themselves. Dress properly and decently when travelling through these parts of the country.
Other notes to remember:
Friday Prayers
Islam is the official religion, come any friday, there would be a extended lunch break for friday prayers at all goverment departments, avoid doing any official business during this time .All work comes to a stand still. (except for essential services)
Drugs :
Possession of Heroin or other prohibited drugs(over the stipulated amount) carries the mandatory death penalty.
Firearm:
Civilian are not allow to be in possesion of firearm,you need to have a license to carry and use
