Malaysia is a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-religious, and multi-lingual country. It is made up of mostly Malay, Chinese, Indian and other ethnic groups.
Most Malaysians are Muslim, Chinese maybe believe in Buddhist, Christian or Taoism, and the Indians are generally Hindus. The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia. English, Chinese dialects and Tamil are also widely spoken. Malaysians live in a harmonic and peaceful environment, enjoying various cultural and religious festivals around the year. Therefore, understand the cultures of different ethnic groups is essential in doing business. According to Jodie R.
Gorrill, in Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country, a businessperson should perceive to understand Malay's customs and taboos. For example, Fridays are a particularly religious day of the week for Malays and the business meeting should not be arranged at this tim
...e. Instead of this, when entertaining Malay associates (who are Muslim), avoid conducting business on Friday or during the Ramadan month. Pork and alcohol also are taboos for Malays.
So, avoid products made from pig and alcohol as these goods conflict the law of Islam. Besides that, remember to always accept things from Malaysians using the right hand.Muslims regard that left hand as unclean, and thus it has become a custom for Malaysians of all religions and races to accept gift using the right hand. A businessperson should also respect to Chinese business etiquette in order to success in business.
From the article, "Doing Business with Chinese", the author mentions that punctuality is extremely important when doing business with a business partner. Chinese appreciates punctuality compared to Malays and Indians. As a result, being on time is essential. On the other hand, Chinese only deal
with those they know or trust. A proper introduction with them is vital before entering the business.Small talk is very important before entering a business meeting.
One should be prepared to answer the questions that are quite personal. It is important to learn more about Indian business culture before one starts dealing with them. Jodie R. Gorrill also says that just like the Malays and Chinese, punctuality is important for Indian when doing business. So, one should make appointment and confirm one week before and be arrive on time for the appointment.
When having a meeting with Indian, small talk or conversation can be generally begin. Personal questions about family may be included.So, do not be shocked when the Indians ask about private questions. They do not like people to say "No" as "No" can be considered being rude in Indian culture.
So, "we will try our best" may be used instead of "No". Besides these, one should not point with finger as it is treated as rude. As a conclusion, it is important to understand the different business culture of different ethnics in the country which a businesspeople wants to conduct the business. In order to succeed in doing business, the preparation is vital. Besides these, it also can improve the knowledge of a businessperson while conducting business.
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