General:
Everyday etiquette is relaxed and straightforward. Visitors behaving courteously are unlikely to unintentionally give offense.
Seniority is greatly respected within Malay households. The eldest male of a family should be greeted first and frequently sits in the best or highest seat.
Pointing with a finger is considered to be extremely rude. Instead, the entire hand should be used to indicate a direction, but not a person.
Although no host will insist upon it, it is polite to remove one's shoes at the door of a house upon entering. It is also customary to do so upon entering a mosque or an Indian temple.
Comfortable and informal clothing is suitable during the day and recommended all year round because of the tropical climate. However, as Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, conservative dress is most appropriate. Women should not wear dresses, skirts or shorts that are too short. In cities, towns and villages, shorts are considered highly inappropriate. Do not dress in any manner that may give the impression that you are a "hippie," as "hippies" are banned from the country.
For formal occasions or evening wear, formal attire is expected. Men should wear a suit and tie or a long-sleeved batik shirt. Evening dresses or cocktail dresses are recommended for women.
Business:
Malaysians tend to be late for appointments yet expect others to be on time. Your contact will meet you at your hotel or at his or her office.
Meetings are often held during lunch or dinner.
Malaysians are usually called by their given names preceded by Mr., Mrs., or Miss. The Chinese use their family names preceded by Mr., Mrs., or Miss.
A firm handshake and a "hello" are suitable as a greeting. Muslims bring their hand to their chest after shaking hands, and you should follow suit.
Business cards are always exchanged and should be both given and received with both hands at all times. Study the card for a few moments before placing it in your pocket.
A suit and tie is suitable business attire for men, with the jacket removed on warmer days. Long-sleeved batik shirts are always acceptable. For women, a suit or blouse and skirt are best for daytime appointments.
The many cultures and religions of Malaysia may make giving a suitable gift a complicated issue. Never give liquor to a Muslim (alcoholic beverages are forbidden in the Muslim religion), or clocks, watches, knives or white flowers to a Chinese person (white flowers are associated with death in Chinese culture, and so are clocks, knives and watches - the word for time and death sound similar). A pen or a similar object having a company logo is probably the safest kind of gift.
