English is widely spoken in Malaysia, particularly in places popular with tourists or backpackers. However, it is still useful (and respectful) to be able to use a little of the Malay language in conversation. The Malay language is not a difficult language to pick up compared to other Asian languages. If you’ve been to Indonesia, you will notice it is an extremely similar language to Malay.
Thank you= Terima Kasih (pronounced te-ree-ma ka-see)
If you only learn one basic phrase in the Malay language, make sure it’s thank you! While almost every local understood “thank you” in English, saying it in Malay brought a smile to their faces. Fun fact, the direct translation for “Terima Kasih” is “receive kindness”. So when you say this, you literally wish kindness on the other person.
You’re welcome= Sama Sama (pronounced sah-mah sah-mah)
Another Malay phrase you will hear and use countless times is “Sama Sama”, commonly used in response to somebody saying “thank you”.
Where is the toilet?= Di Mana Tandas (pronounced dee mahnah tan-das)
This is the phrase you’ll wish you learnt by heart for those sticky situations when you’re in the middle of nowhere, busting to go to the toilet. “Di Mana” as a phrase itself is also helpful to remember if asking for directions. For example, you can say “Di mana pantai” (where is the beach) or “Di mana restoran” (where is the restaurant).
Delicious= Sedap (pronounced se-dahp)
I used this one every time I ate to compliment the cook. There’s so much delicious food to eat in Malaysia, and the locals love the compliment of their local food in their native tongue. Want to learn more about Malaysian cuisine? I have a complete guide to the best dishes to try here.
How much is this= Berapa (pronounced be-rah-pah)
You will use this all the time when shopping or haggling with street sellers. The one downside to this one is usually locals will assume you speak more Malay than you do and reply with the price in Malay. I often wished I had learnt basic prices and numbers so I didn’t feel silly after I asked how much.
Too expensive= Terlalu Mahal (pronounced Ter-La-Loo Mah-hal)
This a great phrase to use when haggling or shopping! Haggling is a cultural norm in many countries throughout South East Asia, particularly with street vendors. Being able to bargain in the local language rather than in English helped me secure better prices for goods and services.
Help= Toolong (pronounced Toh-long)
Hopefully not a phrase you ever have to use, but super helpful to rattle off the top of your head should you run into any trouble in Malaysia.
Spicy= Pedas (pronounced Pe-Das)
Really good to know when ordering food at a restaurant or from a street vendor. You can ask for it “No Pedas” if you do not want the food to be spicy. Alternatively, you can ask for “Pedas” if you prefer they use chilli.
Excuse me= Maafkan Saya (pronounced mah-haf-can sai-yah)
This a helpful phrase that you can use to grab the attention of a server or street seller to enquire after the bill or ask the price. It is also super helpful when moving through a crowd at a busy local market to politely ask someone to move out of your way.
Want to learn more Malay language than just the basics for travel? Duolingo is my favourite language learning app due to its user-friendly and enjoyable use! Alternatively, there are many language exchange programs in Malaysia (due to the high expat numbers), and some hostels run casual language classes or events.
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