Speak Malay: Phrases Every Expat Should Know

Malaysia is a beautiful and vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and welcoming locals.

Learning some basic Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) phrases can make your trip more enjoyable. It also helps you connect with the locals.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to essential Malay phrases and their English translations that every expat should know before visiting Malaysia.

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Basic Greetings

Start with these common greetings to make a positive first impression:

• Selamat pagi – Good morning
• Selamat petang – Good afternoon
• Selamat malam – Good evening/night
• Apa khabar? – How are you?
• Terima kasih – Thank you
• Sama-sama – You’re welcome
• Maaf – Sorry/Excuse me

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Travel and Directions

Getting around Malaysia is easier when you know these phrases:

• Di mana… – Where is…? Example: Di mana hotel? (Where is the hotel?)
• Berapa harga? – How much is it?
• Tandas di mana? – Where is the toilet?
• Boleh saya dapatkan teksi? – Can I get a taxi?
• Bas ini ke mana? – Where is this bus going?
• Jalan terus – Go straight
• Belok kiri/kanan – Turn left/right

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At Restaurants

Food is a highlight in Malaysia. These phrases will help you navigate menus and orders:

• Menu, tolong? – Menu, please?
• Saya tidak makan daging. – I don’t eat meat.
• Ada pilihan vegetarian? – Is there a vegetarian option?
• Pedas tak? – Is it spicy?
• Air kosong – Plain water
• Berapa jumlah semua? – How much is the total?

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Shopping

Master these phrases for a smooth shopping experience:

• Boleh kurang harga? – Can you lower the price?
• Ada saiz lain? – Do you have another size?
• Resit, tolong. – Receipt, please.
• Bayar dengan kad atau tunai? – Pay with card or cash?

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Emergency

In case of emergencies, these phrases be lifesavers:

• Tolong! – Help!
• Saya sakit. – I’m sick.
• Hubungi ambulans. – Call an ambulance.
• Polis di mana? – Where is the police station?
• Pasport saya hilang. – I lost my passport.

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Cultural Phrases

Use these to express appreciation for Malaysian culture and connect with locals:

• Tak apa. – It’s okay.
• Boleh saya ambil gambar? – Can I take a photo?
• Saya suka makanan ini. – I like this food.
• Cantik sangat tempat ini. – This place is so beautiful.
• Selamat datang ke Malaysia! – Welcome to Malaysia!

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Travel and Directions

Getting around Malaysia is easier when you know these phrases:

• Di mana… – Where is…? Example: Di mana hotel? (Where is the hotel?)
• Berapa harga? – How much is it?
• Tandas di mana? – Where is the toilet?
• Boleh saya dapatkan teksi? – Can I get a taxi?
• Bas ini ke mana? – Where is this bus going?
• Jalan terus – Go straight
• Belok kiri/kanan – Turn left/right

💡 Pro Tip: Enhance your travel experience with Trip.com to book flights, accommodations, and transport options easily while traveling in Malaysia!

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Why Learn Malay?

Many Malaysians speak English. Still, knowing some Malay phrases shows respect for the local culture. It can also lead to more enriching interactions. You explore vibrant markets. You will dine on delicious local cuisine. Navigating through bustling cities is part of the adventure. These phrases will enhance your Malaysian experience.

💬 Take the next step: Start your Malay journey today with FluentU. It is an interactive platform that makes language learning fun and practical.

Start practicing these phrases today and get ready to immerse yourself in the warmth and hospitality of Malaysia. Selamat jalan! (Have a safe journey!)