Every country has its own unique customs that may seem perfectly normal to locals but leave visitors puzzled. Malaysia is no exception.
From the distinctive way we order drinks at mamak stalls to our love for "politely” cutting queues, some of our habits can be downright confusing to outsiders.
However, for Malaysians, these little gestures are second nature and often serve as expressions of friendliness, efficiency or even gratitude.
One of the most surprising customs for foreigners is our use of the car horn.
While honking is often associated with frustration or road rage elsewhere, in Malaysia, a light tap of the horn is a way of saying "thank you."
It’s just one example of the many everyday habits that may bewilder outsiders but are deeply cherished by locals.
Here’s a look at some other Malaysian habits that may leave you scratching your head, but are loved by those who call this vibrant country home.
TAPPING THE CAR HORN AS A ‘THANK YOU’
In many parts of the world, honking is a sign of impatience or a warning to avoid an accident.
However, in Malaysia, a brief, gentle tap of the car horn is often used to convey gratitude.
Whether it’s thanking another driver for letting you merge into a busy lane or acknowledging a kind gesture, this small act is part of our driving etiquette.
While foreigners might initially mistake it for aggression, they soon realise that it’s a charming part of Malaysian road culture, fostering a sense of camaraderie among drive
CALLING WAITERS "BOSS" OR "MACHA"
In restaurants or mamak stalls, Malaysians don’t wait quietly for service.
Instead, we often call out "Boss!” or "Macha!” to get the attention of waitstaff.
While this might seem rude in other countries, here it is completely acceptable and even considered a friendly, respectful way to address service staff.
Some foreigners may hesitate to adopt this practice for fear of offending someone, but locals know it’s all in good spirits!
EATING WITH OUR HANDS (EVEN WHEN CUTLERY IS AVAILABLE)
Malaysians have a strong cultural connection to eating with our hands, especially when enjoying dishes like nasi lemak, banana leaf rice or roti canai.
While this may seem unusual or unhygienic to some, eating with our hands is deeply ingrained in our culture and can even enhance the flavour of the meal.
There’s also a proper technique, using only the fingertips to scoop up the food, which helps ensure minimal mess.
THE "CAN" AND "CANNOT" WAY OF SPEAKING
Instead of elaborating with "Yes, that’s possible” or "No, I don’t think so,” Malaysians often simplify communication by saying just "Can” or "Cannot.”
This direct, efficient manner of responding is common but can be confusing for foreigners accustomed to more formal or detailed replies.
It's not meant to be rude—it's simply a no-nonsense, practical approach to communication.
LEAVING SHOES OUTSIDE THE HOUSE
In Malaysia, it’s customary to leave your shoes outside when entering someone’s home, as a sign of respect and to maintain cleanliness.
While this is second nature to Malaysians, foreigners, especially those from Western countries where wearing indoor shoes is normal, may find this practice unusual or even awkward.
However, for locals, it’s a way to keep dirt and germs from entering the house.
DRINKING HOT MILO AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY
While hot chocolate or malt drinks like Milo are often linked to childhood in many countries, Malaysians of all ages enjoy a warm cup of Milo at any time of day—be it morning, noon, or night.
Whether at a kopitiam, a mamak stall, or before bed, Milo remains a national favourite, often leaving foreigners puzzled who might assume it's only a drink for children. To us, it’s the ultimate comfort beverage!
QUEUING IN A ‘FLEXIBLE’ MANNER
While queues do exist in Malaysia, they are often more of a suggestion than a strict rule.
Whether at an LRT station, a festival or a food stall, you’ll frequently see "queue clusters,” where people gradually inch forward instead of standing in a neat line.
To foreigners who are used to more rigid queue systems, this may seem chaotic.
However, Malaysians understand the unspoken order within the apparent disarray.
ASKING "HAVE YOU EATEN?" INSTEAD OF "HOW ARE YOU?"
One of the most iconic Malaysian greetings is not "How are you?” but rather "Sudah makan?” (Have you eaten?).
This isn’t just small talk—it's a genuine expression of care and concern.
Sharing meals is central to Malaysian culture, so asking about food is as meaningful as inquiring about someone’s well-being.
Foreigners who are asked this by someone they’ve just met might be surprised, but to Malaysians, food is a language of love!
Malaysia’s unique customs may seem perplexing to outsiders, but they are an integral part of what makes the country so warm and vibrant.
Whether it’s a quick honk of appreciation, the unspoken rules for claiming a table, or the casual greeting over a meal, these quirks create a sense of identity and unity.
Though some foreigners may need time to get used to them, many eventually embrace these habits.
After all, they reflect the heart and soul of Malaysian culture.
So, the next time you see a Malaysian tapping their car horn in gratitude or calling a waiter "Boss,” just know—it’s all part of the charm!