As always a little goes along way so New Zealand companies should come to Malaysia knowing a few words of Bahasa Malaysia – it’s a great way to build your relationship.

Get general advice on handling language issues in the Export guide.

Prominent businessmen often have titles such as Tan Sri or Dato and you should use these titles when addressing them. (eg. Tan Sri or Dato Lim – where Lim is the surname). Otherwise Mr or Miss is normally used, even when the woman is married. For Malay business contacts, males are addressed as Encik (pronounced Inchik). Females are addressed as Cik (pronounced Chik) if they are not married and Puan if they are married.

The Malay handshake (salam) is a simple palm to palm touch followed by the hand touching the heart. This is meant to show that the greeting is sincere and from the heart.

In the Malay community courtesy is valued and you should never show irritation or impatience.

Never touch the head of a Malay – the head is considered sacred.

Women are well accepted in the business culture and there are a number of Malaysian female politicians and business leaders.

When meeting a Malay (Muslim) person, hand your card over with the right hand, placing your left hand on the right forearm. Try not to use the left hand only as it is considered unclean. If in doubt, it is acceptable to use both hands.

Also avoid using the left hand when passing food. Pork and alcohol are forbidden for Muslims, so exercise sensitivity when entertaining Muslim companions. Few Malays will drink alcohol or smoke publicly.

Get general advice on understanding cultures and how to negotiate in the Export guide.

When meeting a Chinese businessperson, use two hands to present your business card. This shows esteem for the person you are meeting. Look at their card for a short time before putting it down.

Gift giving in Malaysia is common. New Zealand companies may want to consider giving a small gift during the first meeting to show sincerity in building long-term relationship.

Get general advice on cultural differences in the workplace in the Export guide.

Interpretation and translation are generally not required in Malaysia because English is well versed in both public and private sectors, although Bahasa Malaysia is the official language at the governmental level.

Some sectors such as the timber and furniture manufacturing sector may require some translation (from English to Mandarin) given the strong Chinese influence in this sector.

Get general advice on interpreting and translating in the Export guide.