Visiting mosques
- Dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered for everyone; many mosques provide robes for visitors who need them
- Women may be asked to cover their hair when entering certain areas; a scarf is worth carrying
- Remove shoes before entering prayer areas
- Avoid visiting during prayer times unless you're specifically there to observe respectfully, and follow any guidance from staff
Visiting temples
Similar modesty applies at Hindu and Chinese temples — cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes where indicated, and be mindful around active worship rather than treating it purely as a photo opportunity. At Batu Caves specifically, this is an active place of worship as well as a tourist site — dress and behave accordingly.
Everyday customs
- The traditional greeting between men and women in more conservative settings may be a nod or a slight bow rather than a handshake — let the other person initiate physical greetings
- Use your right hand (or both hands) for giving and receiving items, especially with older people
- Public displays of affection are best kept modest
- During Ramadan, it's respectful to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during fasting hours, even though most restaurants continue serving visitors
Local tip
None of this is as strict as it can sound on paper — Malaysians are generally relaxed with visitors who make a genuine, respectful effort. A small amount of awareness goes a long way.