Flying to an exotic destination like Malaysia can be both exciting and overwhelming—what to do, where to stay, what to explore, and just as importantly, what not to do. A bit of research and understanding of local customs can go a long way in helping you avoid awkward or even problematic situations. Staying true to the theme, this article highlights the essential things not to do in Malaysia for travelers.
Malaysia is a vibrant country known for its diverse culture, warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and unique traditions. When you apply for a Malaysia Visa, you’re signing up for an adventure through wildlife-rich jungles, thrilling activities, and palm-fringed islands. Despite its laid-back vibe, the blend of customs and social norms can be tricky for first-time visitors. With a cultural mix of Malay, Indian, and Chinese influences, newcomers are often confused about which practices to follow.
To help you out, here is a list of 12 important things you should never do in Malaysia.
Important Things Not to Do In Malaysia
1. Showing inappropriate gestures
Now, a gesture that is appropriate in one country could be obscene in another nation. Talking about Malaysia, here are a few gestures that you should forget doing here, even if it’s your habit:
- You must have heard several times that the head is considered a sacred part of the body, as it lies on the top. Following this ideology, Malaysians do not like touching an adult’s head or transferring an object overhead.
- Often, while showing a direction or pointing at someone, you might take out a finger and point towards someone. This gesture is unacceptable here, so instead, get into the habit of using a fist with the thumb put over the fingers. Or you could find people giving directions with an open palm.
- Many locals get offended by the gesture of pounding your fist into the other hand.
- Do not eat with your left hand, as it is related to bathroom behaviors.
2. Carrying drugs
The most serious of all is carrying drugs into the country. Passing the drugs through international borders in here is a non-negotiable offense. Even if you are not consuming it, simply keeping it in your personal belongings could land you in jail, slap you with a hefty fine, or treat you with a merciless penalty.
3. Public display of affection
Excessive affection in public, like kissing and hugging, is an indecorous act. Signs and boards are put around telling people to refrain from all such intimate make-out sessions, even if you are in trains, buses or taxis. Locals, especially conservative ones, would give you an eye if you do not take the gender-based considerations into account, which also includes not shaking hands with the opposite gender unless they offer to do so. And thus, the best way to address the opposite sex is to smile and greet with hands on the side.
4. Hiring an unmetered taxi
The taxis are the budget travel options in Malaysia. However, you may encounter certain cabbies who are unwilling to turn on the metre. Make sure they turn it on before you sit inside the taxi and are ready to travel. If they resist, drop the idea of travelling with them. As a choice, you can make the process easier by buying the taxi coupons at counters within Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), KL Sentral station and bus terminals or else installing a taxi app.
5. Criticising the local cuisine
Malaysians are proud of their food. From the quintessential dish of rice, prawn, eggs, cucumber Nasi lemak to mountain-like dessert Ais Kacang. The country has a vast array of cuisine. There is a lot of dedication that goes behind in cooking these rich dishes. And when it comes to giving feedback on the taste and flavours, do not be harsh. Because they love their food, and an insult to it would mean hurting their national pride.
6. Travelling alone at night
The country is safe, except in cases where you are careless and could be an easy target for muggers. Beware of the pickpockets while shopping or strolling in markets. Especially at night, see that you travel with your family, friends or a trusted one. Choose to travel in well-lit and crowded paths. And instead of walking, opt to travel by a vehicle.
7. Sightseeing without an umbrella
Thanks to the tropical location of the country, the rains come short, sudden and heavy. So, if you are a traveller who prefers exploring the cities on foot and trying different food items, an umbrella could save you from the wrath of monsoon.
8. Talking about religion or race
Malaysia is comprised of three main races – Malays, Chinese and Indians. It is their beauty that all of them blend and live harmoniously without any differences. They do not discuss the variance, and thus religion is considered a sensitive topic. So, do not put yourself into the spotlight by bringing out the topic of religion and stirring up racial tension.
9. Speaking ill of the government
This is another concern when you are in Malaysia, and that is not to question the Prime Minister or the government. There are several incidents in the past where you can witness how people have faced charges and punishments for expressing sad opinions on the government. Even a few popular websites are blocked in the nation for dissenting from the local politics. You can surely discuss amongst yourselves but don’t be too vocal in public.
10. Taking durian to hotels
This tropical oval fruit is banned at hotels and airports of Malaysia because of its strong, pungent, and lingering smell. The stench stays on for a longer time and on everything, it comes in contact with. But if you are fond of these, grab a Durian dish like pancakes, which have a decent scent and are good to carry as a souvenir.
11. Getting into houses with shoes on
Drop your shoes outside the doors; this is an etiquette that is followed around households or places of worship. People find it rude to wear shoes inside and carry the dirt on fresh mats. Contact the Airbnb owner for any such implications if they have them in their homes.
12. Underestimating the time on the road
It might look like that with such widespread and efficient transport system, you can reach airports in the wee time of the night. But that’s not the case. At peak hours, Malaysia is infamous for its congested roads. So, to avoid delays like missed flights, we would suggest taking a cab hours before, calculating the traffic time.
While you ignore certain habits and abide by a few rules, Malaysia promises a holiday of adventure and excitement. So, pack your bags and enjoy this gorgeous land filled with high-spirited energy.
FAQ’s About Things Not to Do In Malaysia
1) What are the most common things not to do in Malaysia as a tourist?
Travelers should refrain from offending the royal family, wearing skimpy attire at places of worship, pointing with their index finger, and making public shows of affection. Additionally, it is considered impolite in Malaysian society to touch someone’s head or raise your voice in public.
2) Is it okay to wear shorts or sleeveless clothes in Malaysia?
You should wear modest clothing when visiting mosques, temples, and rural regions. However, you can wear shorts or sleeveless clothes in cities and on beaches. Always keep a sarong or scarf on hand in case you need to cover up.
3) Is it legal for me to consume alcohol in Malaysian public areas?
Alcohol consumption is allowed in specific locations, such as pubs and restaurants that have licenses. However, drinking in public or while intoxicated is discouraged and may result in penalties or unwelcome attention.
4) Why is it considered impolite in Malaysia to point with the index finger?
It is considered insulting in Malaysian culture, particularly among the Malay people, to point with the index finger. Making a gesture with your thumb or entire hand is more courteous.
5) Is discussing politics or religion taboo in Malaysia?
Indeed, talking about delicate subjects like politics, religion, or race can result in awkward circumstances. You can even face legal problems. It is advisable to steer clear of contentious topics and concentrate on having neutral and friendly conversations.