Most Common Phrases in Malay (English Translations)

As a first-time expat in Malaysia, learning basic phrases in the local language is important to interact respectfully with the community. Here are 10 basic Malay phrases with English translations to politely interact with locals.

Key Takeaways:

• Learning basic Malay phrases is essential for effective communication and cultural understanding in Malaysia.
• Politeness and gratitude are highly valued in Malaysian culture, so remember to use phrases like “Terima kasih” (thank you) and “Sama-sama” (you’re welcome).
• Use the phrase “Apa khabar” (how are you) to greet friends and acquaintances, and respond with “khabar baik” (I am fine).
• When asking for help or requesting something, use the word “tolong” (please).
• To inquire about prices, ask “Berapa” (how much), and use hand gestures or a calculator for clarification.
• If you’re not familiar with many Malay words, ask “Bolehkah anda berbahasa Inggeris” (can you speak English) to find out if the person can converse in English.
• Easily locate public toilets by asking “Di mana tandas” (where is the toilet).

How are you?

When engaging with friends or new acquaintances in Malaysia, it’s important to use the phrase “Apa khabar” to show interest in their well-being. This common Malay greeting is used to ask “How are you?” in English.

Upon hearing “Apa khabar,” a typical response you might receive is “khabar baik,” which translates to “good news” but is understood as “I am fine.”

Engaging in friendly conversation and checking in on someone’s well-being is a great way to build rapport and show respect for Malaysian culture.

“Apa khabar” – How are you?
“khabar baik” – I am fine.

Use the phrase “Apa khabar” to check in with friends or greet new acquaintances. The common response, “khabar baik,” means “good news” but translates to “I am fine.”

Please

When you’re in Malaysia and need to ask someone a question or request their assistance, it’s important to show respect by using the word “tolong,” which means “please” in Malay. This simple yet powerful term conveys your polite intentions and is an essential part of effective communication.

The word “tolong” doubles as the Malay term for “help,” making it even more versatile in various situations. Whether you’re asking for directions, ordering food, or seeking advice, incorporating “tolong” into your queries will ensure that you’re conveying politeness and consideration.

Additionally, “tolong” can be used to express gratitude when someone offers their assistance or performs a kind gesture for you. It’s always appreciated to say “tolong” as a way of thanking them for their help.

Examples:

“Tolong beritahu saya di mana saya boleh mencari restoran yang baik?”

“Please tell me where I can find a good restaurant?”

How to use “Tolong”

1. Use “tolong” at the beginning or end of your sentence when making a request or asking for help. For example, “Tolong” or “Bolehkah anda tolong…” (Can you please help…).
2. Combine “tolong” with other polite phrases or gestures to enhance your communication. For instance, saying “Tolong” followed by “terima kasih” (thank you) shows gratitude and courtesy.
3. Remember to use a respectful tone and maintain eye contact when using “tolong.” This will demonstrate your sincerity and appreciation for others’ assistance.

Incorporating “tolong” into your interactions will help you foster positive relationships with Malaysians and show your willingness to embrace their culture.

“Tolong beritahu saya beberapa restoran yang popular di kawasan ini?”

“Please tell me some popular restaurants in this area?”

How much

Inquiring about prices is an essential part of shopping and making transactions. In Malay, you can ask “Berapa” to find out the cost of an item or service. This simple phrase allows you to communicate effectively with locals and navigate the shopping experience smoothly.

When you ask “Berapa,” the person you’re interacting with will respond by showing you the price using hand gestures or a calculator. This visual exchange helps overcome any language barriers and ensures you understand the cost accurately.

For example, imagine you’re visiting a local market and interested in buying a beautiful piece of artwork. You can approach the vendor and ask, “Berapa?” They will then show you the price, allowing you to assess whether it fits within your budget.

“Berapa” is a versatile phrase that can be used in various situations. From bargaining in markets to inquiring about taxi fares or restaurant bills, this phrase makes it easy to navigate the world of prices and expenses in Malaysia.

Useful phrases:

Here are a few useful phrases related to pricing:

• “Berapa harga ini?” – What is the price of this?
• “Berapa kosnya?” – How much does it cost?
• “Mahal” – Expensive
• “Murah” – Cheap

Being able to confidently ask “Berapa” and understand the responses will make your shopping experiences in Malaysia more enjoyable and efficient.

Can you speak English?

If you find yourself in Malaysia and are not familiar with many Malay words, it can be helpful to know if the person you are speaking to can understand and converse in English. To find out, simply ask, “Bolehkah anda berbahasa Inggeris?” which translates to “Can you speak English?” This phrase will come in handy when you need to communicate effectively in English.

Where is the toilet?

Easily locate public toilets by asking “Di mana tandas.” This basic Malay phrase will come in handy when you’re in need of a restroom.

Importance of Knowing Where to Find a Toilet

When traveling or exploring new places, it’s essential to know the location of public toilets. Whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or enjoying local attractions, knowing where to find a restroom can be a lifesaver. In Malaysia, asking “Di mana tandas” is the most effective way to inquire about toilet facilities.

It’s worth noting that not all public places have visible signs indicating the location of toilets. Therefore, it’s helpful to confidently ask locals for directions.

Maintaining Hygiene and Comfort

Public toilets in Malaysia are generally clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable experience for visitors. However, it’s always advisable to carry tissues or hand sanitizer for personal hygiene, as amenities may vary from one facility to another.

Remember to always flush the toilet and dispose of waste properly to help maintain a clean and pleasant environment for all users.

Knowing how to ask “Di mana tandas” ensures that you can quickly find a restroom whenever the need arises during your time in Malaysia.

Common Phrases for Navigating Public Spaces in Malay

Thank you

In Malaysian culture, expressing gratitude is highly valued and is considered an important gesture to show appreciation. The phrase “Terima kasih” is used to say “thank you” in Malay. Whether it’s receiving help, receiving a gift, or simply showing appreciation, using “Terima kasih” will help you connect with Malaysians on a deeper level.

Gratitude is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries, and by using this simple phrase, you can leave a positive impression on the people you interact with in Malaysia. Taking the time to express your thanks can go a long way in fostering friendly and respectful relationships.

Here is an example of how you can use “Terima kasih” in a conversation:

Friend: “Here’s a little something I bought for you.”

You: “Terima kasih! I really appreciate it.”

As the image implies, gratitude is the key to forging meaningful connections with the people you meet in Malaysia. Remember to always say “Terima kasih” whenever the situation calls for it, be it with friends, colleagues, or even strangers.

You’re welcome

Politeness and gratitude are highly valued in Malaysian culture. When someone says “Terima kasih” (thank you), it’s important to respond with equal courtesy. In Malay, you can reply with “Sama-sama” or simply “sama,” which means “you’re welcome” or “it’s the same.” This shows your appreciation for their gratitude and creates a friendly atmosphere.

To emphasize the importance of express gratitude in Malaysian culture, remember that saying “sama-sama” reflects your understanding and respect for their appreciation. It’s a simple phrase that goes a long way in maintaining positive interactions and building meaningful connections.

Sama-sama is a term that signifies the spirit of reciprocity and mutual respect in Malaysian society. It signifies the importance of acknowledging each other’s actions and maintaining a sense of harmony in interpersonal relationships. By using this phrase, you show that you understand and appreciate the gratitude given to you.

So the next time someone thanks you, respond with a warm “Sama-sama” to enhance your communication and cultural understanding in Malaysia.

Here’s a useful table summarizing the essential Malay phrases:

Learning these essential Malay phrases will pave the way for meaningful conversations and cultural exchanges during your time in Malaysia. Stay polite, show gratitude, and keep building bridges of understanding with the locals.

I don’t understand

When communicating with individuals who don’t speak English, it’s essential to politely express your lack of understanding. Use the Malay phrase Saya tidak faham to convey this message. By using this phrase, you can let others know that you need further clarification or assistance.

It’s natural to encounter language barriers when communicating in a foreign country. However, by being respectful and using phrases like Saya tidak faham, you can foster understanding and create a more inclusive environment.

If you find yourself in a situation where you don’t understand what someone is saying, don’t hesitate to use this phrase:

Saya tidak faham.

This simple phrase can help facilitate clear communication, allowing both parties to find alternative ways to understand each other. It’s important to remain patient and open to different forms of communication to bridge the language gap.

Example:

In a conversation with a local store owner:

Customer: Saya tidak faham. Bolehkah anda berbahasa Inggeris?

Store owner: Ya, saya boleh berbahasa Inggeris. How can I assist you?

As seen in the example above, using Saya tidak faham can help initiate a discussion about language capabilities and enable effective communication.

Remember, learning basic Malay phrases is a valuable asset when navigating the Malaysian language landscape. By being considerate and using phrases like Saya tidak faham, you can create meaningful connections and engage in more productive conversations.

Yes/No

When communicating in Malay, it’s important to be able to respond with a simple “yes” or “no.” These two words, “ya” and “tidak,” can come in handy throughout the day. Take a look at how they are used:

Now that you know how to say “yes” and “no” in Malay, you’ll be able to respond clearly and confidently in various situations.

Goodbye

Saying goodbye is an important part of any interaction, and in Malaysia, the phrase “Selamat tinggal” is commonly used. This formal and respectful farewell is a way to show your gratitude and bid farewell to the people you’ve connected with.

Whether you’re leaving a social gathering, a business meeting, or saying goodbye to a new friend, using “Selamat tinggal” will leave a lasting positive impression. It’s a way to express your appreciation for the time spent together and shows respect for the local culture.

Remember to say “Selamat tinggal” with a warm smile and a friendly tone. It’s a simple yet powerful phrase that will help you forge meaningful connections and leave a positive impact on the people you meet in Malaysia.

Conclusion

Learning essential Malay phrases translated to English is crucial for effective communication and cultural understanding in Malaysia. By familiarizing yourself with these basic translations, you can interact respectfully with locals and deepen your experiences in the country.

Whether you’re greeting someone with “Apa khabar” or expressing gratitude with “Terima kasih,” these phrases not only demonstrate politeness but also show your willingness to engage with the local community. The simple act of using the correct Malay words can make a significant difference in building meaningful connections.

Additionally, knowing phrases like “Tolong” and “Saya tidak faham” allows you to navigate common situations, such as asking for help or clarifying misunderstandings. Building this foundation of communication will undoubtedly enhance your stay in Malaysia and make your time here more enjoyable.

So, take the initiative to learn and practice these essential Malay phrases. Embrace the language and culture of Malaysia, and you’ll find yourself immersing in unforgettable experiences that go beyond mere words.