MALAYSIA 101
Welcome to Malaysia 101! Let’s kick things off with a crash course in who we are and how to fit in.
Who Are We?
Malaysia is a vibrant, diverse country with a mix of numerous races. The main ones are Malays, Chinese, and Indians. Our history began with the Malacca Malay Sultanate, which was so influential that its legacy spread throughout the region. Malacca was founded by Parameswara, a prince from Palembang who fled from a Majapahit attack. So, are the Malays in Malaysia of Indonesian descent? Yes, which is why we’re called “Melayu serumpun,” meaning we share common ancestral roots. The Malay race isn’t just found in Malaysia; it’s also in Indonesia, Singapore, and Brunei. That’s why you can speak Malay in these countries (except Singapore, where English is more dominant despite Malay being an official language).
A Brief History Lesson
We achieved independence on August 31, 1957, initially known as “The Federation of Malaya.” In 1963, facing communist threats, Singapore suggested merging with Malaya. Our Prime Minister agreed, but only if Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei joined too. Brunei declined, so the other three states joined. On September 16, 1963, we became Malaysia. In 1965, Singapore and Malaysia parted ways due to differing economic and political views, shaping Malaysia as we know it today.
The Love-Hate Relationship
Now, let’s dive into the love-hate relationship between Malaysians, Indonesians, and Singaporeans.
Football Feuds: We pretty much hate each other when it comes to football and badminton. Just like any other countries… so yeah, pretty basic, huh?
Cultural Claims: Indonesians often claim Malaysians steal their culture, like Batik and the Kuda Kepang dance. But hey, we don’t steal; we’re just part of the same cultural heritage. We put a lot of effort into preserving it, even having ministries and departments dedicated to crafts. Malaysian-styled Batik is different from Indonesian Batik, so both identities are still protected.
Singaporean Stereotypes: Malaysians get annoyed with Singaporeans coming to Malaysia, acting cocky but still buying our cheap groceries and fuel. On the flip side, Singaporeans see Malaysians as low-wage workers doing jobs they wouldn’t take, and they think Malaysia is overrun by Indonesian immigrants. Oh, and younger Malaysians are too busy trying to become influencers. Wait, what?
And Brunei?: Imagine a little sibling who stays in their room, avoids fights, studies hard, and is usually the family ace… that’s Brunei.
The Don’ts in Malaysia
Modesty is Key: No public kissing, making out, overly revealing clothing, or drunken antics. Bikinis are okay at commercialized beaches like Pulau Sipadan, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Perhentian, Tioman, and Redang. But at local spots like Port Dickson, don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Respect Religion: No making fun of Islam. It’s the official religion, and Malays are deeply attached to it. Respect all cultures and religions. Don’t add to the political mess we’re already dealing with.
Food Etiquette: Don’t offer alcohol or pork to Muslims. And don’t ask Muslims to pet dogs. They can, but it’s a religious thing about cleanliness, not meanness. If you see a Muslim vet handling dogs, that’s their job.
We’re Not Arabs: Malays are not Arabs. We don’t speak Arabic, so don’t lump us together.
Shoe Sensitivity: Don’t show off your pig-skin shoes to non-Muslim friends. Yes, even if they’re your fancy New Balance 45s.
Indian Heritage: Don’t talk about the caste system with our Indian friends. In Malaysia, everyone has equal rights, and many top professionals are Indian. Our Indians are next level, and we’re proud.
Durian Drama: If you don’t like durian, just walk away. Nobody cares about your wimpy taste buds.
Beauty Questions: Don’t ask Sabahan and Sarawakian girls if they’ve had plastic surgery. They’re naturally beautiful without it. Any K-Pop fans here?
Political Opinions: Don’t act like a political science expert (even if you are) in Malaysia. We don’t care about your opinion.
LGBTQXYZALLTHELETTERS: NO.
Palestine vs. Israel: Don’t bother. It’s Palestine.
Feminism: Our women are bikers, business owners, and more. We don’t have “housewives,” we have “Queens of the House.” Respect for women is high here, as shown by our proverb: “Tangan yang menggoncang buaian, mampu menggoncang dunia” – The hands that rock the cradle can shake the world.