General

Jurisdiction

BUSINESS CULTURE OF MALAYSIA

  • Malaysian’s only do business with people they know and like, so a strong relationship is important.

  • Most businesses operate 7 hours a day Monday to Thursday, 6 hours on Fridays, and half a day on Saturday mornings.
     
  • Majority of Malaysia’s population are Muslims and they don’t like alcohol served during business meetings.
     
  • You will need to be patient in the negotiation process.

  • Malaysians prefer businesses that show signs of long-term commitment.
     
  • Malaysians expect polite and respectful behavior in public.

 

          What you should do  

·        Always accept other’s business cards with two hands.  

·        Be sure to include your education, professional qualifications, and business title in your business card.

·        Only shake a Malaysian woman’s hand if she volunteers first, otherwise a nod and smile will work. 

·        Clothing: Long sleeved, cotton shirts are recommended for men. Although jackets and ties are often removed in the office, they are normally worn at official meetings. For women it is advisable to wear light weight modest clothing.

·        Be sure to remain calm under any circumstances.

·        Handshakes are usually 10-12 seconds and you must use both hands.

·        Ask to be excused followed by a small bow.

   What you should not do

·        Do not point at someone or something with the index finger, point with the thumb and fingers folded into the palm.

·        On receiving business cards, don’t immediately put them away; take a second to look at them instead.

·        Do not write on other people’s business cards. 

·        Do not show anger (this means you have no control and you gain no respect or trust).

·        Never touch someone's head or pat small children on the head.

·        Do not smoke or wear sunglasses when talking to elders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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