Etiquette and Behavior in Penang
Malaysia - Langkawi - Kuala Lumpur - Penang
Penang is the melting pot of different cultures and races. So, it is important to recognize certain different cultural and religious characteristics in Penang as various cultures might have their specific etiquette and behavior in Penang.
Cultural Etiquette and Behavior in Penang
Cultural etiquette and behavior in Penang has been described as the unspoken but assumed behavior that conveys politeness. Especially tourists must know about the etiquette and behavior in Penang before they come to visit the island. In Malaysia, especially in east coast of the peninsula where there are more conservative (devout) Muslims. The visitors to this island should abide by certain etiquette and behavior in Penang that include:
- Greet each other with a less than firm handshake and may then place the right hand over their heart after greeting
- It is also considered impolite to hand or receives anything to a Malaysian with your left hand.
- To beckon someone, especially someone who is older, simply refer to him or her as "uncle" (pakcik) or "aunty" (makcik).
- Most locals will bow towards the elderly as they walk past them as a sign of respect
- Physical signs of affection in public are frowned upon and on the East Coast of Malaysia, men and women keep a safe distance from each other in public.
- There are certain areas of mosques that should not be entered by non-Muslims. Conservative dress codes will need to be adhering to when entering such places.
- If invited to a Malaysian home, it will be best if you come with a gift. Even amongst Malaysians themselves, this practice is observed. Bringing a gift is known as carrying buah tangan, which literally means "fruit of the hands".
- Malaysians are hospitable and will go out their way to offer guests a drink or snack - it would be impolite not to abide by the etiquette and behavior in Penang.
| Hotels in Penang | |
| Tanjung Bungah Beach Hotel | Grand Continental Hotel |
| Shangri-la Rasa Sayang Hotel | Eastern And Oriental Hotel |
| Grand Plaza Parkroyal Hotel | Shangri-la Golden Sands Hotel |
