Selamat Datang ke Malaysia

Passport. Check. Tickets. Check. Camera. Check. These are must for your travel to Malaysia but didn’t you forget something important – The language. Knowing a few words or phrases in Malay (sole official language of Malaysia and Brunei) wouldn’t hurt anybody. Without the language everything can just seem so alien and unfamiliar. Here are 10 basic Malay word & phrases that can help you get along with locals.

13 Malay Words & Phrases Every Traveler Should Know

Hello – Halo / Selamat Siang!

Most of the greeting in Malaysia start with the word selamat (pronounced as “suh-lah-mat”) which means “safe.”

Please – Sila

A “Please” adds value and humbleness to your sentences.

Excuse me- tumpang lalu

One word to help you through out your trip.

Yes – Ya (YUH)

Common word that can be used for food, clothes, things to do, and everything else.

No – Tidak

Common word that can be used for food, clothes, things to do, and everything else.

My name is – Nama saya…

Introducing yourself is a good idea to make some Malay friends.

Thank you – Terima kasih

You should thank who helped you and when you say it in their language, it feels good.

How much? – Berapa harga

This will come in handy for your shopping trips.

Where is the toilet – Di mana tandas…?

When it’s really needed and you cannot find one 🙂

Help  – Tolong

This would help you whenever you are in trouble.

I am happy to meet you. – Saya gembira jumpa awak.

Bring a smile on someone’s face.

See you again – Jumpa lagi

Never say good bye. 

Bye – Selamat tinggal

When leaving to meet again.

Which word you liked the most in Malay?