The Malaysian Royal Police advise you and the general public to be cautious so as not to be cheated by Con-men in the following ways:
🔶 Do not answer the phone, no matter who they are, if the talk is about the bank card - Please hang up.
🔶 If they talk about you winning something - Please hang up.
🔶 If they talk about the Public Security Tax and the Inland Revenue Department - Immediately hang up.
🔶 On all the text messages, do not click on any link - Delete all.
🔶 All phone calls begin with 08-111 - Do not answer them.
Showing posts with label Local Advice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Local Advice. Show all posts
Thursday, June 28, 2018
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Leadership To Internship
During internship, one must possess the willingness to learn and adapt to a different situation. Feedback given by the team or supervisors are meant to improve your skills and help you to see other perspectives. Feedback should not be seen as a ‘personal attack’ to your ability, or an offense to you.
In the past, the following attributes prevented certain interns ( especially those who have limited working experience and from foreign cultures) from learning or maximizing their time to gain more knowledge:
- My country is more developed than yours, I know what is best for your organization.
- This is how we do this task in my country/my university, I am unwilling to amend my task with your feedback.
- Your perspective and mine are different, I insist on doing this task my way. I won’t amend my task even though it is going to be used by your organization. Take it or leave it.
- Why should I follow your organization’s policy and procedures? I do what I want and how I want to do it.
- I have a higher degree/more experience in this field than you, why should I listen to you?
- I am not a follower, I do it my way, I don’t listen to feedback.
- Why should I explain to you about my actions? I am me -- I demand freedom of speech, so my office and homestay behaviors are none of your business.
- Your other intern didn’t know how to do this task. I have done it very well for your organization. If you don’t like it, (foul words)!
- I won’t transfer the tasks ( such as videos on own channels, document on own google doc space) I have done during internship to your organization. It is my intellectual property, why should I follow office policy to transfer the ownership to your organization?
Interns who are relegated the responsibility to be team leader must read the article below to gain more perspective about leadership. Learn to manage diverse groups of people from different background, interests and with different levels of cooperation.
Thursday, June 14, 2018
Be Punctual
One of the hardest intern behaviors to change during the internship is ‘being punctual’ such as showing up at least 15 min before 9 am when the office opens, properly dressed in office attire and having eaten breakfast to start the day. Some interns are consistently late for office, jotting down attendance time which is earlier than the actual arrival and then arguing vehemently with the supervisors about attendance, leading to discontent and more unprofessional work behaviors. Some rush to the office without their morning baths and breakfasts, so they feel lethargic. While ‘curi makan’ ( local Malay term for ‘eating something when you should not be ‘eating’) can be done when no one is looking or in the toilet, the food crumbs left on tables, interns’ workstations, and the drops of fruit jam dripped onto the floor during the ‘rush hour’ have invited cockroaches and rats for parties in the office. The office becomes an unsanitary environment for the working team.
Research has shown that university students of the millennial age tend to sleep late because of social media and Net surfing. Many are also waking up very late, sometimes skipping classes. The tardiness for activities and events without much accountability can become a habit by the time a student graduates. This habit will not be a positive trait for a fresh graduate in the working world.
Still unconvinced? Watch this video and wake up early:
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Most Of Our Foreign Interns Go To These...
Special One Day Trip:
1. Sunway Lagoon - These days, it has expanded and encompasses a total of five different zones – the water park, Scream Park, Amusement Park, Extreme Park, Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon and Wildlife Park. You can enjoy 6 parks in RM180 for the foreigner ( International Traveller).
- Sunway Lagoon’s water park is its most popular zone. Beat the tropical heat in the Waters of Africa at Waterpark! Go for a spin in the loops of the African Pythons, or race your friends in an adrenalin-pumping ride head first down the Congo Challenge. You can also do the Cameroon Climb, get drop 15 metres then shoot back up 8 metres for prolonged fun.
- Scream Park is extremely popular due to its ‘after-hours’ feel – lots of scare zones, a vampire-centric horror theatre (Pontianak Theatre of Fear) and a ghost house.
- Sunway Lagoon Extreme Park- This is a shout out to all you adrenaline junkies, thrill seekers and extreme sports fans out there. Gear up for an aerial adventure on Malaysia’s longest Flying Fox and soar to great heights on incredible rides such as the Bungee Jump. Whether you conquer the circuit on a Go Kart or conquer the wild on an ATV, you are bound to get some heart-pumping action at the Sunway Lagoon Extreme Park!
- Sunway Lagoon Wildlife Park - A Malaysia’s zoo where you get up close and personal with more than 150 species of animals from around the world at the Wildlife Park. The fully interactive zoo attraction, from a journey of learning through our unique Wildlife Encounters, to getting entertained by our talented animal stars in the Wildlife Theatre and feeding our gentle animals in the Pet Village, there are various educational and interesting activities for the entire family!
- Sunway Lagoon Amusement Park - You don’t have to be soaking wet to have fun. Head over to the Sunway Lagoon Amusement Park for a seriously great adventure. See a view like no other when you walk on Malaysia’s Longest Pedestrian Suspension Bridge, or see the world upside down when you spin 360 degrees on the Tomahawk and Pirate’s Revenge. Excitement is the name of the game here!
- Asia's 1st Nickelodeon Themed Land - Enter its majestic gates of Nickelodeon Lost Lagoon and be enthralled by this lost civilization surrounded by lush, natural rainforest. Get ready for a wet and exciting adventure as you explore this fantasyland filled with colossal water rides and water playgrounds, canopy walks and meandering pathways, beautiful waterfalls and recreational campsites. Set amidst 10 acres of lush tropical rainforest with more than 12 rides and attractions provides a mix of thrill and family-friendly fun for fans and visitors of all ages. Behold, Asia’s 1st Nickelodeon Themed Land.
*Do not recommend going on weekends and public holiday. There will be a crowd of people around. Click here for more details: https://sunwaylagoon.com/
2. Jump Street Trampoline Parks Malaysia - Jump Street Trampoline Parks are your destination for jumping, bouncing, tumbling and other gravity-defying activities. Active fun for all ages. Their core attraction is Main Court, Foam Pit, The Wall, Slam Dunk, Dodgeball, Big Airbag, The Cage, High Performance, Party Rooms, and Jump Cafe.
3. Skytrex Shah Alam – Skytrex Adventure provides the first of its kind in Malaysia, a tree to tree ‘sky-trekking’ experience where you can fly, swing, glide and dangle on the various aerial obstacles suspended above the lush tropical Malaysian Rainforest. Take up the challenge and pump up the adrenaline on our many circuits at the various parks in which we are located and experience the best and most exciting forest adventure in Malaysia. Skytrex Shah Alam is our first park locate very close to the city of Kuala Lumpur. Our other two parks are in Melaka and Langkawi respectively. All tickets can be purchased online via any mobile devices. It is highly advisable to purchase the tickets online first before visiting as there are days when the park can be completely full.
Click here for more details: https://www.skytrex-adventure.
Click here for more details: https://www.skytrex-adventure.
Friday, August 4, 2017
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Sunday, January 12, 2014
Superstitions in Malaysia
1. Don’t sit on recently-vacated seats.
The warmth from the last person’s posterior is supposed to be able to give you a boil on your own precious rear end. This taboo waned with the advent of minibuses which were so packed and careened around so precariously that sitting down was the safest and most comfortable thing to do, boil be damned.
2. Don’t whistle after dusk.
There were some variations on this one. While some remember being told it was a personal invitation for snakes to slither into one’s home, others recall being told it was a surefire way of attracting unwanted spiritual visitors.
3. Don’t kill butterflies, moths, or grasshoppers that are near or inside your house.
They are supposed to contain the spirit of a recently-departed loved one, so unless you harbored a particular dislike towards a deceased relative, it’s best to leave them alone or nudge them carefully out of your house.
4. Don’t wash your hair at night.
The dampness is supposed to give you black rings under your eyes. A more severe version of the taboo warns that the water will seep into your skull and water log your brain… or something like that.
5. Don’t eat fruit seeds; they will grow into trees inside you.
This is personal favorite. I accidentally swallowed rambutan seed when I was about four years old and spent the next few hours anxiously inspecting my ears and nostrils for shoots and leaves.
6. Don’t sing in the kitchen. You’ll never marry.
You could put a positive spin on this: sing in the kitchen and you’ll be free for life.
7. Don’t point at the moon; you’ll get a cut behind your ear.
I defiantly pointed at the moon the very first night I heard this as a kid and sure enough, woke up the morning with an itchy cut behind an ear that look days to heal. I tried it again several nights ago though, and nothing happened.
8. Don’t throw away rice or scrape the bottom of the rice pot.
Since it’s the cornerstone of our diet, rice is never to be wasted or hankered after for fear of provoking bad luck for future supply.
9. Don’t cut your nails or hair at night
One person said it would initiate hard code nightmares, while another claimed it was a call to evil spirits.
For More Information
Superstition in Malaysia.
Superstition of Malaysian Chinese.
Malaysian superstitions that we will not pass on to our kids.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Cultural Adaption Stages
INTEGRATING YOURSELF INTO THE HOST CULTURE
One of the ways that your experience may be described is in terms of general patterns of behavior: 1) culture entry adjustment; 2) culture learning, and 3) the re-entry process. Amore detailed sequence of these same development stages is:
1) Culture Entry Adjustment:
Stage I: Spectator
Stage I: Spectator
Stage II: Defensive Contact
Stage III: Recovery
2) Culture learning:
Stage IV: Establishing bona fide contacts
2) Culture learning:
Stage IV: Establishing bona fide contacts
Stage V: Sorting out meaning
Stage VI: Establishing a role
Stage VII: Knowledge of Self
Stage VIII: Development of Needed Attributes and Skills
Stage IX: Development of Meaningful Relationships
3) Re-Entry:
Stage X: Post-sojourn Re-entry
3) Re-Entry:
Stage X: Post-sojourn Re-entry
As you enter a new culture a period of adjustment is needed. All your familiar signs and symbols of social interaction are gone and you may begin to feel disorientated and anxious. In your journey overseas and as you read through and progress through these stages, it is important to remember the following points:
1) Development can be described in terms of a progression through a sequence of stages.
2) A stage is identified by a task or tasks which must be negotiated.
3) While the theme of one stage always predominates, several stages may be negotiated simultaneously as you shift back and forth within a certain range of exploration.
4) Your process will proceed at its own pace though norms may prescribe a time frame for negotiating individual stages or the entire developmental sequence.5) Although a specific task is identified with each stage in a developmental sequence, you will solve the task problem in your own unique way.
STAGE I: Spectator
During your first few days or weeks in a foreign culture you may be insulated from in-depth contact with host nationals and the new cultural environment. You may associate with people who speak your language and as a guest and tourist you may feel special and elated by the sights and newness of it all.
1) Development can be described in terms of a progression through a sequence of stages.
2) A stage is identified by a task or tasks which must be negotiated.
3) While the theme of one stage always predominates, several stages may be negotiated simultaneously as you shift back and forth within a certain range of exploration.
4) Your process will proceed at its own pace though norms may prescribe a time frame for negotiating individual stages or the entire developmental sequence.5) Although a specific task is identified with each stage in a developmental sequence, you will solve the task problem in your own unique way.
STAGE I: Spectator
During your first few days or weeks in a foreign culture you may be insulated from in-depth contact with host nationals and the new cultural environment. You may associate with people who speak your language and as a guest and tourist you may feel special and elated by the sights and newness of it all.
In addition to the cultural insulation which others provide, you too may be fascinated will all the new sights and attractions while inwardly you may be more attuned to noticing the similarities with home than perceiving the differences that contrast with your home culture. These similarities reinforce your sense of cultural identity. Your language facility may be minimal but perhaps adequate for the superficial interactions that are necessary.
STAGE II: Defensive Contact
After you have been in the new culture for a period of time and are less insulated and no longer treated as a guest there may be increasing demands on you to interact with host nationals and to find ways to cope with daily needs. At this point you will begin to notice differences between the home and host culture, your initial observations, excitement and curious interest now with more in-depth involvement in this second stage results in reactions of disbelief, alarm and amazement.
STAGE II: Defensive Contact
After you have been in the new culture for a period of time and are less insulated and no longer treated as a guest there may be increasing demands on you to interact with host nationals and to find ways to cope with daily needs. At this point you will begin to notice differences between the home and host culture, your initial observations, excitement and curious interest now with more in-depth involvement in this second stage results in reactions of disbelief, alarm and amazement.
The new culture may appear strange, bizarre and incomprehensible and social transactions may become confusing and ambiguous. The continual uncertainty regarding cultural norms and expectations may cause you to feel disorientated and personally inadequate and just when you need help in establishing interpersonal bonds your language fluency may decline and your ability to solve problems can be at a minimum.
As it becomes more difficult for you to cope will all these unpredictable and meaningless events you may develop a growing sense of being different and isolated. And you may reluctantly assume the role of “foreigner” with all the negative connotations of ostracism and loneliness that role signifies.
STAGE III: Recovery
Before entering this stage you are confronted with a choice, either reduce tension by involving yourself in the culture or reduce tension through retreat to more superficial levels of contact. If you choose to become more involved, then this stage is a period of intense emotions. Things which previously frustrated you and which you blamed on others must now be renowned as your own inner conflicts.
STAGE III: Recovery
Before entering this stage you are confronted with a choice, either reduce tension by involving yourself in the culture or reduce tension through retreat to more superficial levels of contact. If you choose to become more involved, then this stage is a period of intense emotions. Things which previously frustrated you and which you blamed on others must now be renowned as your own inner conflicts.
Also, you may begin to rely less on fantasy reunion with those you love in your home culture and begin to acknowledge the gulf that accompanies the painful separations. As this mourning process occurs you will begin to re-examine relationships with your family and the meaning of previously unquestioned cultural values.
In contrast to the first three stages of cultural entry or “cultural shock” the six following stages of culture learning are an adaptive response which requires your active commitment and participation within the host culture. In general, culture learning refers to your process of evolving a new cultural identity as a result of integrating aspects of a new culture while retaining core aspects of your primary cultural identity.
STAGE IV: Establishing bona fide contacts
Once your basic survival needs are met your focus will shift to building relationships and social affiliations. You may experience a strong need to find a friendly host figure that accepts you despite your differentness and provides empathy, feedback and guidance. This feeling of belonging may cultivate a sense of willingness and optimism to initiate new behavior and sustain your morale in the face of failure and ridicule.
In contrast to the first three stages of cultural entry or “cultural shock” the six following stages of culture learning are an adaptive response which requires your active commitment and participation within the host culture. In general, culture learning refers to your process of evolving a new cultural identity as a result of integrating aspects of a new culture while retaining core aspects of your primary cultural identity.
STAGE IV: Establishing bona fide contacts
Once your basic survival needs are met your focus will shift to building relationships and social affiliations. You may experience a strong need to find a friendly host figure that accepts you despite your differentness and provides empathy, feedback and guidance. This feeling of belonging may cultivate a sense of willingness and optimism to initiate new behavior and sustain your morale in the face of failure and ridicule.
You need to feel worthy of friendship and take risks in reaching out to strangers.
STAGE V: Sorting out meaning
At this stage you become involved in the activities of the new culture and begin the slow process of developing an understanding of the host culture from the perspective of an insider. With the hope of gaining an inside perspective of an insider you deliberately enter new social interactions which may precipitate anxiety, failure and censure.
STAGE V: Sorting out meaning
At this stage you become involved in the activities of the new culture and begin the slow process of developing an understanding of the host culture from the perspective of an insider. With the hope of gaining an inside perspective of an insider you deliberately enter new social interactions which may precipitate anxiety, failure and censure.
To cope with the social blunders and errors which will inevitably occur, you’ll need humility, a sense of humor and self-confidence.
STAGE VI: Establishing a role
In order for you to become a participating member of the new culture you must assume a social role and this must be one acceptable within the new culture. To take on such a role you need to learn the appropriate behavior of that role and are forced with acquiring a new repertoire of behavior appropriate for the role you will assume.
STAGE VI: Establishing a role
In order for you to become a participating member of the new culture you must assume a social role and this must be one acceptable within the new culture. To take on such a role you need to learn the appropriate behavior of that role and are forced with acquiring a new repertoire of behavior appropriate for the role you will assume.
For example, as a participant in a homestay foreign exchange program you are faced with having to learn the appropriate behavior associated with being a son or daughter, and sister or brother, while living within the particular family system. You will also need to learn to cope with uncomfortable feelings associated with assuming new behaviors and with social pressure to conform as well as feelings of in-authenticity associated with unfamiliar behavior.
Aside from the difficulties associated with adopting a new role within the role structure of the second culture, you must also contend with the bi-cultural role. As you integrate aspects of the second culture and relinquish aspects of your native culture you may lose the ability to fit completely into any one culture for the moment and feel like a hybrid.
STAGE VII: Knowledge of self
Your advancement toward greater cultural learning at this point depends upon your ability to experience in depth personal growth. The following areas are components of this growth.1) Growth in awareness of a personal identity.
2) Growth in self awareness.
3) Growth in cultural self awareness.
4) Growth in personal responsibility.
STAGE VIII: Development of Needed Attributes and Skills
Once you are self-aware and able to function within the new culture, the next step is to begin internalizing attributes from the second culture which will facilitate participation. First you need to become aware of the skills that are needed and next, committed to the conscious development of the needed attributes and skills.Perhaps the most obvious of these skill areas might be the language dimension. You may need to progress in language fluency from a serviceable plateau into a realm where you can truly appreciate very subtle nuances.
STAGE IX: Developing Meaningful Relationships
Here you are aware of being the product of one primary culture while also being aware of being affected and enlarged by participation in a second culture. Your new skills and adaptive behavior become spontaneous, you feel as if you “belong” and you experience independence. You are able to accept and be nourished by the cultural differences and similarities and are able to view yourself and others as individual human beings who are influenced by culture and upbringing.
Your advancement toward greater cultural learning at this point depends upon your ability to experience in depth personal growth. The following areas are components of this growth.1) Growth in awareness of a personal identity.
2) Growth in self awareness.
3) Growth in cultural self awareness.
4) Growth in personal responsibility.
STAGE VIII: Development of Needed Attributes and Skills
Once you are self-aware and able to function within the new culture, the next step is to begin internalizing attributes from the second culture which will facilitate participation. First you need to become aware of the skills that are needed and next, committed to the conscious development of the needed attributes and skills.Perhaps the most obvious of these skill areas might be the language dimension. You may need to progress in language fluency from a serviceable plateau into a realm where you can truly appreciate very subtle nuances.
STAGE IX: Developing Meaningful Relationships
Here you are aware of being the product of one primary culture while also being aware of being affected and enlarged by participation in a second culture. Your new skills and adaptive behavior become spontaneous, you feel as if you “belong” and you experience independence. You are able to accept and be nourished by the cultural differences and similarities and are able to view yourself and others as individual human beings who are influenced by culture and upbringing.
Most importantly, you are capable of undergoing further transition experiences which enable you to continue exploring the diversity of human life.
STAGE X: Re-entry
You enter this stage at the point in your overseas experience, in which plans to return to your home culture become imminent. Because this re-entry phase is contingent upon departure plans, it will typically interrupt other stages.Upon returning home, you may experience an increase in self confidence combined with an inability to utilize or apply much of what was learned aboard. In re-adjusting to your native lifestyle you may experience role conflict, feelings of aimlessness, sense of disillusionment and inner discontent with popular culture values in your home country.
STAGE X: Re-entry
You enter this stage at the point in your overseas experience, in which plans to return to your home culture become imminent. Because this re-entry phase is contingent upon departure plans, it will typically interrupt other stages.Upon returning home, you may experience an increase in self confidence combined with an inability to utilize or apply much of what was learned aboard. In re-adjusting to your native lifestyle you may experience role conflict, feelings of aimlessness, sense of disillusionment and inner discontent with popular culture values in your home country.
Your re-entry period may be slightly more difficult than the initial entry adjustment and you may devise similar strategies to cope with the stress and the feeling “I’ll never fit in here again”.
The following issues or tasks might be areas of difficulty for you:
a) Cultural identity,
a) Cultural identity,
b) adjustment to changes in lifestyle,
c) Pressures to conform,
d) feelings of superiority due to international experience,
e) uncertainty in interpersonal relationships,
f) social alienation as a result of the sojourn,
g) dissatisfaction with local customs and ritualized patterns,
h) frustrations as a result of conflicting attitudes,
i) feelings of strangeness,
j) feelings of isolation,
k) unfamiliarity with new styles,
l) inability to communicate or apply what has been learned while overseas.
Perhaps those skills which you developed in adjusting to the new culture overseas are just the skills you need to help you re-adjust to your home culture.
ADJUSTING TO THE HOST CULTURE
Your experiment is made up of a series of ups and downs, highs and lows. Knowing that this is part of the experience may make it easier to understand. It is important to remember that the ups and downs are normal and healthy. Everyone has some problems. The important thing is to learn and deal with those problems. Not everyone experiences all of the stages or in the same intensity. Your own adjustment cycle may look much different from the one below.
The Honeymoon
· The newness is exciting. It’s all an adventure. Optimistic.
Culture shock
· The excitement is gone. School and family life are so different. Questions about how to relate to the opposite sex, to the host family, to people in general.
Surface Adjustment
· It’s starting to make sense. Can communicate basic ideas and feelings. Making some friends and feeling more comfortable with family.
Unresolved problems
· The year seems so long. Unresolved problems with friends or family may surface or there may be conflicts about activities, may feel bored, frustrated and isolated.
I feel at home
· Accept new culture as just another way of living. May not approve of it always but accept and understand differences. Have made real friends.
Departure concern
· Begin to sense personal changes. Mixed feelings about returning home –excitement and concern.
Think about your own ups and downs while you are in the host culture. What caused them? How did changes come about? What personal changes were involved? What could you have done to turn a low into a high? In the space which follows try to graph your experience, labeling your highs, lows, emotions, reactions, changes, growth, events, disappointments, successes, problems, etc.
ADJUSTING TO THE HOST CULTURE
Your experiment is made up of a series of ups and downs, highs and lows. Knowing that this is part of the experience may make it easier to understand. It is important to remember that the ups and downs are normal and healthy. Everyone has some problems. The important thing is to learn and deal with those problems. Not everyone experiences all of the stages or in the same intensity. Your own adjustment cycle may look much different from the one below.
The Honeymoon
· The newness is exciting. It’s all an adventure. Optimistic.
Culture shock
· The excitement is gone. School and family life are so different. Questions about how to relate to the opposite sex, to the host family, to people in general.
Surface Adjustment
· It’s starting to make sense. Can communicate basic ideas and feelings. Making some friends and feeling more comfortable with family.
Unresolved problems
· The year seems so long. Unresolved problems with friends or family may surface or there may be conflicts about activities, may feel bored, frustrated and isolated.
I feel at home
· Accept new culture as just another way of living. May not approve of it always but accept and understand differences. Have made real friends.
Departure concern
· Begin to sense personal changes. Mixed feelings about returning home –excitement and concern.
Think about your own ups and downs while you are in the host culture. What caused them? How did changes come about? What personal changes were involved? What could you have done to turn a low into a high? In the space which follows try to graph your experience, labeling your highs, lows, emotions, reactions, changes, growth, events, disappointments, successes, problems, etc.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Understanding Cross-Cultural Communication
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Monday, January 21, 2013
Uncle Don's Advice
By: Don
Miller (lived in Malaysia for over 30 years)
VERBAL
Laughter is
used as a great easer of discomfort. Sometimes the person laughing is not at
all happy. Do not be misled.
Jokes.
Western type jokes are seldom heard. Don’t
be surprised if your attempts to break the ice by telling a western joke don’t
work.
“Comparisons
are odious”. You may mentally compare things here with how they are back at home. “We have that too”. “Ours are bigger” or even “Ours are different”. Best to keep these thoughts to yourself. Of course it’s OK to say how good or nice the
Malaysian things are, but be very sparing with any negatives or comparisons.
Never take “Yes”
for an answer. Malaysians have a huge need to please and to be polite. This means
that they find it very difficult to say the word “No” to your request, even if
that is what they really mean. So they sometimes find themselves committing to
things that they already know are impossible. This always ends in miscommunications.
The need to
be polite also means that Malaysian will always reply “No” to all your invitations
or offers of help. You will have to repeat the invitation a number of times and
insist, before they will agree. And then of course they may only be saying
“Yes” to be polite. (Tricky isn’t it?)
Multilingual.
You won’t earn many brownie points if you say hello to a Chinese Malaysian
using the Bahasa Malaysia term “Selamat Pagi”. Similarly to an Indian
Malaysian. Better to start contact with a neutral “Hello”. If you can quickly figure out the ethnicity of
the person, and then use a simple Chinese or Indian phrase accordingly, they
will be very pleased. Ladies’ dressing
will generally tell you right away their ethnic roots, and even with men there are
dress clues.
Special
note to North Americans: Please try to say “Please” and “Thank You”, whenever
the opportunity arises. Thank You.
BEHAVIORAL
It’s OK for
you to complain about your own mother, or brother etc., but if someone else
also criticizes them, that is quite another thing, and you will get mad. And so
it is with Malaysia. OK for the locals to complain about the government, the
crazy drivers, the police etc. But don’t try to join in the fun.
Breaking
the ice with alcohol. A high proportion
of Malaysians have an adverse physical reaction to even small quantities of
alcohol – a bright red face or wild behavior.
This is due to the lack of hydrogenase, the enzyme which digests alcohol.
You will be
using your hands in close proximity to food and other materials. Your finger
nails should be kept as short as possible and trimmed twice weekly at least.
This includes ladies.
While
outside footwear is banned in the house, the tile or marble floors can be too
cold for the bare feet of some folk, and dedicated indoor house slippers may be
used.
AWARENESS
Conservative. Malaysians are generally more conservative,
even old fashioned. Strict disciplines
for children. No swearing even by adults. If food is
really spicy and you want to cool off, take something sweet. Water generally
does not help much.
To avoid
being bothered by mosquitos, take a bath after you sweat. While the
floors are kept “clean enough to eat off”, anything above the floor is frequently allowed to gather dust and dirt. No one can explain to me why this is so.
FAQ
1. What is a 'Splash Bath'?
A 'Splash Bath' is a method of taking a shower using a small container to scoop water out of a large container (a tong) before pouring it over the body, in such a way the water does not go back into the large container. This is a traditional method of bathing which is called mandi in Indonesia and Malaysia.
2. What is a 'Wet Kitchen'?
A 'Wet Kitchen' is where most Malaysian do their 'dirty jobs' e.g. food preparation, cooking, frying where there is a fair element of fluids flying around i.e. water, oil, soup or gravy. The 'Wet Kitchen' is normally located near the laundry and washing machine and separated from the dry kitchen (what we call the conventional kitchen we see in modern households). Most cooking utensils and seasonings/ spices/ sauces are kept in this part of the kitchen. The refrigerator however is kept in the dry kitchen together with most of the other electrical appliances.
3. How do I use a 'Squat Toilet'?
Here is a link that explains how to use a 'Squat Toilet'.
4. Why should I not wear shoes inside the house?
Here are four reasons to you question.
5. Why should I lock the gate and the door of the house when I leave?
Here is an article to ponder on why Malaysians take extra precautions on security.
6. What is a 'Kedai Kopi', 'Kopitiam' or 'Mamak'?
- In Malaysia, 'Kopitiam' is our slang for Chinese coffee shop. A kopitiam consists of hawker stalls which offer a variety of Chinese cuisine. Recently there is a new 'breed' of kopitiams which are modernized with air-conditioning. These are more hygienic and upscaled compared to classic kopitiams.
- 'Kedai Kopi' is the Malay slang for coffee shop. This is very similar to a kopitiam but serves more of a local Malay cuisine such as 'nasi lemak'.
- 'Mamak' on the other hand is an Indian-Muslim version of a kopitiam. They sell a mixed variety of Indian-Muslim food such as thosai, murtabak and mee mamak.
7. What are table manners with Indian/ Chinese/ Malay families?
Here is a good link to understanding our Malaysian Dining Etiquette.
8. What normally offends local Malaysians?
Please read these articles in the weblink provided.
-The Concept of Face
-Etiquette and Customs in Malaysia
A 'Splash Bath' is a method of taking a shower using a small container to scoop water out of a large container (a tong) before pouring it over the body, in such a way the water does not go back into the large container. This is a traditional method of bathing which is called mandi in Indonesia and Malaysia.
2. What is a 'Wet Kitchen'?
A 'Wet Kitchen' is where most Malaysian do their 'dirty jobs' e.g. food preparation, cooking, frying where there is a fair element of fluids flying around i.e. water, oil, soup or gravy. The 'Wet Kitchen' is normally located near the laundry and washing machine and separated from the dry kitchen (what we call the conventional kitchen we see in modern households). Most cooking utensils and seasonings/ spices/ sauces are kept in this part of the kitchen. The refrigerator however is kept in the dry kitchen together with most of the other electrical appliances.
3. How do I use a 'Squat Toilet'?
Here is a link that explains how to use a 'Squat Toilet'.
4. Why should I not wear shoes inside the house?
Here are four reasons to you question.
5. Why should I lock the gate and the door of the house when I leave?
Here is an article to ponder on why Malaysians take extra precautions on security.
6. What is a 'Kedai Kopi', 'Kopitiam' or 'Mamak'?
- In Malaysia, 'Kopitiam' is our slang for Chinese coffee shop. A kopitiam consists of hawker stalls which offer a variety of Chinese cuisine. Recently there is a new 'breed' of kopitiams which are modernized with air-conditioning. These are more hygienic and upscaled compared to classic kopitiams.
- 'Kedai Kopi' is the Malay slang for coffee shop. This is very similar to a kopitiam but serves more of a local Malay cuisine such as 'nasi lemak'.
- 'Mamak' on the other hand is an Indian-Muslim version of a kopitiam. They sell a mixed variety of Indian-Muslim food such as thosai, murtabak and mee mamak.
7. What are table manners with Indian/ Chinese/ Malay families?
Here is a good link to understanding our Malaysian Dining Etiquette.
8. What normally offends local Malaysians?
Please read these articles in the weblink provided.
-The Concept of Face
-Etiquette and Customs in Malaysia
Monday, October 22, 2012
Issues on Salaam Wanita
Many single mothers have it tough. They have to take care of their children, household as well as become the sole breadwinner of the family. It is not easy juggling the three main task as it takes a lot of patience, time, endurance and commitment . Hence, it is not surprising that many cannot manage it themselves. These are a few recent events that illustrate why single mothers are in need of dire help:
Runaway Maid Establishes a Prima Facie
Son Fell to His Death
These are just two cases published in the newspapers about single mothers having trouble to cope with their lives. This can be greatly avoided if we can help them to merge any two of the tasks together in the most efficient way. We at eHomemakers encourage single mothers to work from their homes as they would be close by to care for their children, able to work with more flexible hours as well as able to manage the housework. It is our aim to help the single mothers out there to cope with their lives, to live better lives.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Long Lasting Relationships
©
Corpcom Services Sdn. Bhd. 2009
Here are some
tips to get more local friends and hospitality, and post-internship long-lasting
warm ties with locals:
The rule is simple: Don’t do unto
others what you don’t want others to do unto you.
· Keep highest confidentiality of local political situations mentioned by the locals. Openly blogging about it or listing names of the locals who give you the information will pose potential trouble for them. Keep the learning to yourself and take the locals’ fear of the ISA (Internal Security Act) VERY seriously.
· Keep mum, smile and be non-committal when locals especially strangers openly discuss local racial/religious/political issues.
· Remember reciprocity and not take locals’ hospitality for granted. Your homestay family, local friends and eH staff may take you out to restaurants, festivals, visits to tourist sites, short local trips where they pay for your accommodation and foods. Bring a gift, express gratitude with a call or an email, or take them out to the restaurants when you can.
· When locals take you out for trips, make them feel appreciated as your great hosts instead of your unpaid drivers and guides. Being too task-oriented, reading while they drive, stopping the car frequently for you to snap photos regardless of their time constraints will not gain you friends. ‘Missing in action’ and make them search for you everywhere, or making them wait under the hot sun so you can take pictures or browse around, are not advisable. Stay by your hosts and listen to the stories/histories of the place, make small talks, and most of all treat them with respect. Offer to pay for your meal when the bill comes. Or pay for a meal for everyone.
· Asian cultures value relationship-building with harmony for all over task-orientation, beware of not appearing as a tourist who just wants to get things for himself or herself at other people’s costs.
· Aggressive and rude behaviours especially towards someone older than you or of higher status than you are unappreciated. Call them by the right titles, do the appropriate greetings and non-verbal gestures besides showing respect with polite talks and interactions. Keeping mum or smile when you don’t agree with something is better than hotly arguing with the locals to prove that you are right.
· Show up on time and bring a gift for the family when you are invited for dinners especially when there are elders. Even if others are late, do not compare their behaviours to yours.
· If you are invited for functions weeks ahead of the date, call the day before to check if the locals are indeed bringing you to the functions. Do not wait for them to call you as they can be very buzy people who forget about their invitations to you.
· If you read a lot in the university and feel that you are more knowledgeable than them, you can explain some points if you are asked but do refrain from lecturing them for hours especially on issues they live with such as their religions and cultures. No one in the world likes to mix with someone who keeps ranting about things as if he/she is the ‘know-all’. Listening and finding out more about the locals will make you more friends.
· Keep mum about bad spoken English, do not correct them unless you are requested to do so. Even so, do it politely or humorously. Embarrassing people in the public and showing that you are better than them will not earn you friends.
· Keep highest confidentiality of local political situations mentioned by the locals. Openly blogging about it or listing names of the locals who give you the information will pose potential trouble for them. Keep the learning to yourself and take the locals’ fear of the ISA (Internal Security Act) VERY seriously.
· Keep mum, smile and be non-committal when locals especially strangers openly discuss local racial/religious/political issues.
· Remember reciprocity and not take locals’ hospitality for granted. Your homestay family, local friends and eH staff may take you out to restaurants, festivals, visits to tourist sites, short local trips where they pay for your accommodation and foods. Bring a gift, express gratitude with a call or an email, or take them out to the restaurants when you can.
· When locals take you out for trips, make them feel appreciated as your great hosts instead of your unpaid drivers and guides. Being too task-oriented, reading while they drive, stopping the car frequently for you to snap photos regardless of their time constraints will not gain you friends. ‘Missing in action’ and make them search for you everywhere, or making them wait under the hot sun so you can take pictures or browse around, are not advisable. Stay by your hosts and listen to the stories/histories of the place, make small talks, and most of all treat them with respect. Offer to pay for your meal when the bill comes. Or pay for a meal for everyone.
· Asian cultures value relationship-building with harmony for all over task-orientation, beware of not appearing as a tourist who just wants to get things for himself or herself at other people’s costs.
· Aggressive and rude behaviours especially towards someone older than you or of higher status than you are unappreciated. Call them by the right titles, do the appropriate greetings and non-verbal gestures besides showing respect with polite talks and interactions. Keeping mum or smile when you don’t agree with something is better than hotly arguing with the locals to prove that you are right.
· Show up on time and bring a gift for the family when you are invited for dinners especially when there are elders. Even if others are late, do not compare their behaviours to yours.
· If you are invited for functions weeks ahead of the date, call the day before to check if the locals are indeed bringing you to the functions. Do not wait for them to call you as they can be very buzy people who forget about their invitations to you.
· If you read a lot in the university and feel that you are more knowledgeable than them, you can explain some points if you are asked but do refrain from lecturing them for hours especially on issues they live with such as their religions and cultures. No one in the world likes to mix with someone who keeps ranting about things as if he/she is the ‘know-all’. Listening and finding out more about the locals will make you more friends.
· Keep mum about bad spoken English, do not correct them unless you are requested to do so. Even so, do it politely or humorously. Embarrassing people in the public and showing that you are better than them will not earn you friends.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Household Tips
©
Corpcom Services Sdn. Bhd. 2007
Author: Usha Krishnan
Author: Usha Krishnan
- Don’t wear shoes inside the house.
- The downstairs back toilet is usually a wet toilet for families to wash their feet or do laundry.
- In tropical countries, toilets could often smell mouldy.
- Always remember to wear mosquito repellent when you go out after 5 pm, especially jogging.
- Don't leave bags visible when you leave the car unattended as this can increase the risk of getting car jacked.
- Switch off room lights, household appliances and air-conditioning when not in use.
- Immediately dry your clothes on the line after the washing machine is finished with your load, do not leave it inside the machine as it will smell after more than 6 hours.
- As you are one of the occupants in the house, beware of the laundry queue especially during the weekends. Don’t hog the laundry machine and lines.
- Don’t leave crumbs around the house as this will attract rats.
- Try to go out and not stay in an air-conditioned room all day especially during weekends, you will get sick.
- Wash fruits and vegetables carefully if they are not organic produce and even if it is, wash carefully as the local labeling law was just enforced in 2011.
- Don’t tip the maids, a small token of appreciation is OK.
- Offer to mop the floor if you walk in with your shoes, or sweep the floor.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Malaysian Culture Overview
© Corpcom Services Sdn. Bhd. 2007
Author: Usha Krishnan
Since the beginning of its history, Malaysia has been a meeting place for a diverse range of external cultures and religions. As a result of these external influences, a new unified but distinguished Malay culture has emerged. Contemporary Malaysia represents a unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions, creating a pluralistic and multicultural nation that has its character strongly rooted in social harmony, religion and pride in its ancestral background. With such a rich cultural heritage, acquiring the relevant skills and cultural knowledge in order to conduct business in Malaysia is crucial to your success.
Face
A vital element of Malaysian culture, as with most Asian cultures, is the concept of face. In Malaysian society to “lose face”, that is to lose control of one’s emotions or to show embarrassment in public, is perceived as a negative display of behaviour. Malaysians will use a number of methods in order to “save face”. Laughter, for instance, is often used to mask one’s true feelings and can reveal numerous emotions including nervousness, shyness or disapproval. Saving face is particularly crucial in business contexts as causing your Malaysian counterpart to lose face may influence the outcome of your future business dealings.
In high context cultures such as Malaysia meaning is often more explicit and less direct than in many Western cultures. This means that words are less important and greater attention must be given to additional forms of communication such as voice tone, body language, eye-contact and facial expressions. In Malaysia, because business is personal and based on trust, developing relationships rather than exchanging facts and information is the main objective of communication. This also relates to the Malay cultural values of courtesy, tolerance, harmony and face. Direct answers, particularly negative ones, are avoided in order to prevent disagreement and preserve harmony; two very important aspects of Malaysian culture.
Malaysian culture is centred on the diverse religious values of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam and as such relies heavily on the concept of fatalism. Fatalism is the belief that success, failures, opportunities and misfortunes result from fate or the will of God. In a business context, when formulating ideas and making decisions Malays, who are predominantly Muslim, will tend not to rely on empirical evidence or hard facts, but prefer to be guided by subjective feelings combined with the Islamic faith. Your Chinese and Indian colleagues will also take a similar approach since feelings and emotions play a significant part in their business culture. Consequently, negotiations may take longer than expected and your Malaysian counterparts will view decision making in a more personal light.
Author: Usha Krishnan
Since the beginning of its history, Malaysia has been a meeting place for a diverse range of external cultures and religions. As a result of these external influences, a new unified but distinguished Malay culture has emerged. Contemporary Malaysia represents a unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions, creating a pluralistic and multicultural nation that has its character strongly rooted in social harmony, religion and pride in its ancestral background. With such a rich cultural heritage, acquiring the relevant skills and cultural knowledge in order to conduct business in Malaysia is crucial to your success.
Following years of confrontation in search of
independence, Malaysia was established in September 1963 through the union of
the Independent Federation of Malay, the former British colonies of Singapore
and the East Malaysian States of Sabah and Sarawak. Over the last few decades
the country has evolved from a successful producer of raw materials to a
multi-sector economy. Today, Malaysia offers a unique blend of old traditional
culture and new technological innovations. As the Malaysian market continues to
develop and prosper, it is becoming increasingly valuable for those entering
into business in Malaysia to be aware of the cultural dimensions that shape the
fabric of this country.
Malaysian
culture – Key concepts and values
Face
A vital element of Malaysian culture, as with most Asian cultures, is the concept of face. In Malaysian society to “lose face”, that is to lose control of one’s emotions or to show embarrassment in public, is perceived as a negative display of behaviour. Malaysians will use a number of methods in order to “save face”. Laughter, for instance, is often used to mask one’s true feelings and can reveal numerous emotions including nervousness, shyness or disapproval. Saving face is particularly crucial in business contexts as causing your Malaysian counterpart to lose face may influence the outcome of your future business dealings.
High context culture
In high context cultures such as Malaysia meaning is often more explicit and less direct than in many Western cultures. This means that words are less important and greater attention must be given to additional forms of communication such as voice tone, body language, eye-contact and facial expressions. In Malaysia, because business is personal and based on trust, developing relationships rather than exchanging facts and information is the main objective of communication. This also relates to the Malay cultural values of courtesy, tolerance, harmony and face. Direct answers, particularly negative ones, are avoided in order to prevent disagreement and preserve harmony; two very important aspects of Malaysian culture.
Fatalism
Malaysian culture is centred on the diverse religious values of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam and as such relies heavily on the concept of fatalism. Fatalism is the belief that success, failures, opportunities and misfortunes result from fate or the will of God. In a business context, when formulating ideas and making decisions Malays, who are predominantly Muslim, will tend not to rely on empirical evidence or hard facts, but prefer to be guided by subjective feelings combined with the Islamic faith. Your Chinese and Indian colleagues will also take a similar approach since feelings and emotions play a significant part in their business culture. Consequently, negotiations may take longer than expected and your Malaysian counterparts will view decision making in a more personal light.
Dress Codes
© Corpcom Services Sdn. Bhd. 2007
Author: Usha Krishnan
Author: Usha Krishnan
Malaysians
are predominantly Muslim, so dress fairly modestly.
It is also important to remember that as a
volunteer/intern, you are a eHomemakers team member, so you must maintain a
professional dress code at all times. Whether it is a normal day of work at the
Executive Director’s home or a few hours outside the office at a meeting,
anyone representing eHomemakers must not wear clothing that reveals too much
cleavage, back, chest, stomach or underwear, or any bra straps. Such attire is
not appropriate for a place of work, even in a home setting.
Even
in a casual work environment, clothing should be pressed and never wrinkled.
Torn, dirty, or frayed clothing is unacceptable. Any clothing that has words,
terms, or pictures that may be offensive to others is unacceptable.
Inappropriate attire for work includes tank tops; midriff tops; shirts with
potentially offensive words, terms, logos, pictures, cartoons, or slogans;
halter-tops and tops with bare shoulders unless worn under another blouse,
shirt, jacket, or dress. Dress and skirt length should be at a length at which
you can sit comfortably in public. Short, tight skirts that ride halfway up the
thigh are inappropriate for work. Mini-skirts and spaghetti-strap dresses are
discouraged.
Please note:
Please note:
- Beachwear should be restricted to the beach and topless sunbathing is never acceptable.
- Away from the beach, clothes should not be too short and the shoulders should be covered. Avoid halter necks, tube tops when you jog. Spaghetti straps should be worn only in a home that is open to this or only in city shopping complexes unless they are worn underneath informal jackets. Do not wear blouses without the bra thus revealing the nipples underneath the cloth. Wear clothes that are not too revealing; liberal behaviour causes some unease with locals, especially those in rural areas.
- Many Malay women are covered from head to toe with only the face and hands showing. As a foreigner, you do not need to cover your head, but you will find that you are more readily welcomed if you wear long sleeves and a longer length dress or skirt when you visit with Malays.
- When visiting government offices be sure to dress smartly, as casual dress will be taken as an affront. Short skirts, sleeveless tops and shorts are seen on the streets; however, these are not approved of by the Malay authorities, so avoid wearing them to government departments and official meetings.
- A
long sleeve shirt and tie with dress trousers is the recommended business
attire. Jackets are also advisable for more formal meetings. Women should
dress conservatively.
When
dealing with people from a shared culture, everyone knows the rules and there
is not much to think about. Those that lack etiquette are branded as uncouth
and rude. However, this is not the same when working on the international
stage. Someone may very well come across as being rude through a lack of
etiquette but this may be because in their culture, that behaviour is normal.
As a result, international etiquette is a key skill for those wanting to be
successful when working abroad.
Working Practices
©
Corpcom Services Sdn. Bhd. 2007
Scheduling and Punctuality
· When scheduling business meetings in Malaysia, one must take into consideration the importance of prayer times in this predominantly Muslim country. Fridays are a particularly religious day of the week and, if possible, meetings should not be scheduled for this time. If you need to meet on a Friday, schedule the meeting either early in the morning or after 3 in the afternoon. Beware that traveling around 12 pm – 2.30 pm could mean tremendous traffic jam.
· Attitude to punctuality varies according to which race you are doing business with. The city Chinese for example expect punctuality, whereas both ethnic Malays and Indian business people have a more relaxed attitude towards time. As a general rule, you will be expected to be punctual; therefore it is advisable to arrive to business appointments on time.
Language for Communication
· If your work in Malaysia requires interaction with Malaysian government officials, ensure that all written communication takes place in Bahasa Malaysia. If you have to fill in forms at these places, it's a good idea to bring along a local friend as all the forms are in Bahasa Malaysia.
· The majority of transactions and correspondence with Malaysian companies however, will generally be conducted in English.
Addressing Your Malaysian Counterparts
· Unless it is a start-up company whose founders are young adults in their 20s, regardless of the size or nature of the company, hierarchy is an integral part of Malaysian business culture. Malaysian companies generally follow a vertical hierarchical structure where authority is directed from the top.
· In keeping with Malaysian culture, titles and job descriptions play a significant part in many Malaysian companies. They are important for employees in order to emphasize the line of authority within the business.
· Malaysians’ respect for authority is evident in most business dealings. The relationship between subordinates and their superiors for example is distinct and highly official. Malaysians do not address their bosses by their first name, but use titles such as “Mr” and “Madam” followed by their honorific form of address. It is different in eH and most NGOs where such hierarchical structures are absent and you can call the senior people by names.
· Relationships between Malaysian business colleagues are based on mutual respect and, as such, the same procedure used when addressing their superiors is also applied with their Malaysian business colleagues.
· When meeting your Malaysian counterparts for the first time, a firm handshake is the standard form of greeting. However, you should only shake hands with a Malay businesswoman if she initiates the gesture. Otherwise a nod or a single bow is appropriate.
· With such an array of cultures in Malaysia, addressing Malaysians properly can be difficult. Find out in advance how you should address the person you are to meet. Many Malaysians also have federal and state titles. If a person has a title, it should be used, as Malaysians attach great importance to the respect of both the age and title.
· Don’t be surprised if your Malaysian counterparts ask what you may consider to be personal questions. In Malaysia, asking people about their weight, income and marital status for example, is not uncommon and is viewed as an acceptable approach to initial conversations.
Names
· Generally speaking, a Malay’s first name is individually given, while the second and third name indicate those of the father and the grandfather. The words “bin” (son of) or “binti” (daughter of), when used, indicate gender of the person.
· A Chinese name is written with the family name first and the given name next. For example, a person named Tan Mei Ling should be addressed as Miss Tan and not Miss Ling. Calling someone by the surname is generally considered rude unless the person insists on being called this way.
· For the Indians, it’s best to stick to the Western convention of first names followed by the surnames, even though many variations can be found.
Gifts and Business Cards
· Gifts are not usually exchanged as they may be perceived as a bribe. However, in the event that you are presented with a gift, it is customary to accept it with both hands and wait until you have left your Malaysian colleagues before opening it. Be sure to reciprocate with a gift of equal value in order to avoid loss of face.
· Business cards are customarily exchanged after an initial introduction in Malaysia. Since a large proportion of Malaysian SMI business people are Chinese, it will be useful if your card is printed in both English and Chinese and that details of your education, professional qualifications, and business title are included. Cards should be presented and received with both hands, and time should always be spent examining the information before placing it on the table or in a briefcase.
(Do's and Don'ts)
1. DO be patient with your Malaysian counterparts during business negotiations. The process is often a long and detailed one that should not be hastened.
2. DO remain polite and demonstrate good etiquette at all times. Elderly Malaysian business people for example should be treated with respect and always acknowledged before younger members of the organisation. This is an essential part of achieving successful business dealings in Malaysia.
3. DO take time to establish productive business relationships with your Malaysian colleagues. Initial meetings are generally orientated towards developing such relationships and will be maintained throughout and beyond the negotiations. Without them, your business plans may be fruitless.
4. DON’T assume that a signed contract signifies a final agreement. It is common for negotiations to continue after a contract has been signed.
5. DON’T enter into business with a Malaysian company without a letter of introduction from a bank or mutual acquaintance. This will help your request for a future meeting, as Malaysians prefer to conduct business with those they are familiar with.
Author: Usha Krishnan
Scheduling and Punctuality
· When scheduling business meetings in Malaysia, one must take into consideration the importance of prayer times in this predominantly Muslim country. Fridays are a particularly religious day of the week and, if possible, meetings should not be scheduled for this time. If you need to meet on a Friday, schedule the meeting either early in the morning or after 3 in the afternoon. Beware that traveling around 12 pm – 2.30 pm could mean tremendous traffic jam.
· Attitude to punctuality varies according to which race you are doing business with. The city Chinese for example expect punctuality, whereas both ethnic Malays and Indian business people have a more relaxed attitude towards time. As a general rule, you will be expected to be punctual; therefore it is advisable to arrive to business appointments on time.
Language for Communication
· If your work in Malaysia requires interaction with Malaysian government officials, ensure that all written communication takes place in Bahasa Malaysia. If you have to fill in forms at these places, it's a good idea to bring along a local friend as all the forms are in Bahasa Malaysia.
· The majority of transactions and correspondence with Malaysian companies however, will generally be conducted in English.
Addressing Your Malaysian Counterparts
· Unless it is a start-up company whose founders are young adults in their 20s, regardless of the size or nature of the company, hierarchy is an integral part of Malaysian business culture. Malaysian companies generally follow a vertical hierarchical structure where authority is directed from the top.
· In keeping with Malaysian culture, titles and job descriptions play a significant part in many Malaysian companies. They are important for employees in order to emphasize the line of authority within the business.
· Malaysians’ respect for authority is evident in most business dealings. The relationship between subordinates and their superiors for example is distinct and highly official. Malaysians do not address their bosses by their first name, but use titles such as “Mr” and “Madam” followed by their honorific form of address. It is different in eH and most NGOs where such hierarchical structures are absent and you can call the senior people by names.
· Relationships between Malaysian business colleagues are based on mutual respect and, as such, the same procedure used when addressing their superiors is also applied with their Malaysian business colleagues.
· When meeting your Malaysian counterparts for the first time, a firm handshake is the standard form of greeting. However, you should only shake hands with a Malay businesswoman if she initiates the gesture. Otherwise a nod or a single bow is appropriate.
· With such an array of cultures in Malaysia, addressing Malaysians properly can be difficult. Find out in advance how you should address the person you are to meet. Many Malaysians also have federal and state titles. If a person has a title, it should be used, as Malaysians attach great importance to the respect of both the age and title.
· Don’t be surprised if your Malaysian counterparts ask what you may consider to be personal questions. In Malaysia, asking people about their weight, income and marital status for example, is not uncommon and is viewed as an acceptable approach to initial conversations.
Names
· Generally speaking, a Malay’s first name is individually given, while the second and third name indicate those of the father and the grandfather. The words “bin” (son of) or “binti” (daughter of), when used, indicate gender of the person.
· A Chinese name is written with the family name first and the given name next. For example, a person named Tan Mei Ling should be addressed as Miss Tan and not Miss Ling. Calling someone by the surname is generally considered rude unless the person insists on being called this way.
· For the Indians, it’s best to stick to the Western convention of first names followed by the surnames, even though many variations can be found.
Gifts and Business Cards
· Gifts are not usually exchanged as they may be perceived as a bribe. However, in the event that you are presented with a gift, it is customary to accept it with both hands and wait until you have left your Malaysian colleagues before opening it. Be sure to reciprocate with a gift of equal value in order to avoid loss of face.
· Business cards are customarily exchanged after an initial introduction in Malaysia. Since a large proportion of Malaysian SMI business people are Chinese, it will be useful if your card is printed in both English and Chinese and that details of your education, professional qualifications, and business title are included. Cards should be presented and received with both hands, and time should always be spent examining the information before placing it on the table or in a briefcase.
(Do's and Don'ts)
1. DO be patient with your Malaysian counterparts during business negotiations. The process is often a long and detailed one that should not be hastened.
2. DO remain polite and demonstrate good etiquette at all times. Elderly Malaysian business people for example should be treated with respect and always acknowledged before younger members of the organisation. This is an essential part of achieving successful business dealings in Malaysia.
3. DO take time to establish productive business relationships with your Malaysian colleagues. Initial meetings are generally orientated towards developing such relationships and will be maintained throughout and beyond the negotiations. Without them, your business plans may be fruitless.
4. DON’T assume that a signed contract signifies a final agreement. It is common for negotiations to continue after a contract has been signed.
5. DON’T enter into business with a Malaysian company without a letter of introduction from a bank or mutual acquaintance. This will help your request for a future meeting, as Malaysians prefer to conduct business with those they are familiar with.
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