Are you travelling to Malaysia? If so, don’t forget to drink Milo and take selfies in front of the Twin Towers.
Adults and babies, locals and expats, human beings and monkeys all get together over Milo. This is a chocolate-and-malt drink which is considered as an important part of Malaysian culture. In Malaysia, most of the coffee shops and local food courts serve Milo, not chocolate. It comes in different forms, too- caked, jellied, cocktails, and iced.
Rain is not considered a problem in Malaysia. A “storm” for foreigners is “rain” for Malaysians. When the rain starts, it seems like as if a thousand bullets are hitting on the roof. The roaring of thunder, howling of the wind, and the lightening covers half of the sky. And all this time, the people of Malaysia will remain extremely cool.
Here, most of the people speak English. What to expect from a nation that was colonized by British more than 1000 years and has continued to be an important part of Commonwealth since the year 1957. These people possibly speak much better English than people from other parts of the world. In this country, it is everything about the biggest, tallest, longest, and highest.
From the tallest twin towers and the 3rd largest sleeping Buddha in this world to the lengthiest bridge and the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, this is a culture that reclines in its superlatives. It does not matter that the Internet here is slower when compared to the ones in India because Malaysia is the seventh-tallest freestanding communications tower in this world.
You will find squat toilets in Malaysia in almost all shopping malls. Some areas, like the Penang Tropical Fruit Farm, have squat toilets only. It is better to work on your thighs and knees before you start your trip to Malaysia.
If this country is popular for its cultural diversity, then it is the cuisine that validates this claim. Ranging from Nyonya dishes to the Mamak food, people of Malaysia knows how to enjoy a feat while practising the Muhibah.
You will love shopping in Malaysia. Literally, you can shop till you sleep. Here, the shopping malls are open till 10 p.m. during the weekdays, and even late during the weekends. It is not unusual to find shopping malls that are closed at midnight. This is applicable to cafe’s too- as people of Malaysia like their Milo and coffee, no matter what the time is.
As far as safety is concerned, Malaysia is a friendly, honest, and safe place. This means that you will not be cheated by the food vendors. People of Malaysia are very expressive. They believe in expressing what they think about you.
Malaysians don’t wear shoes inside their houses. They believe that by wearing shoes indoors, there will be no difference between a freeway and home. Wearing footwear inside the house is considered offensive, rude, and dirty.
In Malaysia, it is considered normal to eat with a bare hand as with using spoon and fork. Roti Canai, crispy prawn crackers, and Nasi Lemak are all finger foods that you can enjoy with your right hand. Your left hand is reserved for less-tasty things.
Food Is a Celebration of Diversity
Malaysia’s cultural diversity is beautifully reflected in its cuisine. Every meal tells a story — a delicious blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous influences.
From spicy Nyonya dishes and Indian Mamak food stalls to Chinese hawker fare, food is the heartbeat of Malaysian life. Meals aren’t just about eating — they’re about sharing, connecting, and celebrating community, a concept Malaysians refer to as “Muhibah”, meaning harmony and goodwill among people.
Don’t miss out on classics like Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, Char Kway Teow, and Satay — and of course, wash it all down with iced Milo or Teh Tarik (pulled tea).
Shopping Never Sleeps
Shopping in Malaysia is more than a pastime — it’s almost a national sport!
Malls in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru stay open until 10 p.m. on weekdays, and even later on weekends. It’s not unusual to see shopping centers buzzing past midnight. Cafes, too, follow the trend — Malaysians love their coffee and Milo at any hour.
So, if you’re a night owl, you’ll fit right in.
A Safe and Welcoming Destination
When it comes to safety, Malaysia is generally honest, friendly, and secure for travelers. Locals are known for their hospitality and genuine helpfulness — you’re unlikely to be scammed by street vendors or taxi drivers.
Malaysians are also very expressive. They’ll tell you honestly what they think, often with humor and warmth. This openness is part of what makes the country so easy to connect with