8 Tips On How To Speak Like A Local In Malaysia

January 8, 2020


With the various languages that comes from the diverse culture and population of Malaysia, we needless to say, have developed an unofficial language known as ‘Manglish’. Having a unique blend and slang of various words from the languages spoken in Malaysia such as English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil, it can sometimes result in a single sentence containing three languages! Travellers coming to Malaysia often get confused, but here are some of the most popular slang words to start your journey into this creative and amusing language.   


1. Lah 

The infamous and ultimate Malaysian slang word, ‘lah’ is added to the end of practically any sentence - you can’t go wrong. The word itself doesn’t really mean anything. We use it to spice up our sentences and emphasize what we’re trying to say. It also makes you sound more friendly and convincing. Use it correctly and you’ll immediately sound like a Malaysian.

Examples: “Ok lah.” / “No lah.” / “I’m so hungry lah.

 

2. Jom 

A popular catchphrase that came from the Malay language, it just means ‘let’s’ or ‘let’s go’. Although it’s Malay, the term is widely used and shared amongst all races. It’s mostly used as an invitation.

Examples: “Guys, Maroon 5 is coming to Malaysia - jom?” / “Do you have plans tonight? Jom dinner together!”


3. Yum Cha 

The word is derived from the Cantonese language and its literal translation is ‘drink tea’. And of course, we Malaysians have taken the word and evolved it into something else. To us, ‘yum cha’ means ‘to hang out’.

Examples: “Want to go yum cha?” / “How about we catch up over a yum cha session?”


4. Boss 

This might be a strange one for some. You will hear this term said a lot at a restaurant or more commonly in a ‘mamak’ by both customers and waiters. Waiters will refer to their customers as ‘boss’ but customers too will shout out ‘boss’ when trying to get the waiter's attention. I mean, who doesn’t like being called ‘boss’ for a little pick me up, huh?

Examples: “Boss! Teh tarik satu!” / “Ok boss!”

 

5. Ang Moh / Guai Lou / Mat Salleh 

All of which is used to describe Caucasian people. ‘Ang Moh’ and ‘Guai Lou’ is more often used by the Chinese whilst ‘Mat Salleh’ is more popular among the Malays and Indians.

Examples: “Look! That guai lou is using his hands to eat like a true Malaysian!’ / “Eh check out that mat salleh over there, so handsome!”

 

6. Walao / Walao-eh 

A slang word used to describe disbelief or a feeling of surprise. It can also be used to express your annoyance towards something or someone. The closest English term to it is ‘OMG’. Just like ‘OMG’, ‘walao’ doesn’t necessarily have to be used in a full sentence and can mean different things depending on how it’s pronounced.

Examples: “Walao! AirAsia is giving away free flights!” / “Walao-eh, how can he be so stupid?”

 

7. Tapao / Bungkus 

Now, this is a really handy slang to remember. If you’re eating in a restaurant and would like to pack your food to go, this is the word to use. The two words mean the same thing except ‘tapao’ is Cantonese while ‘bungkus’ is Malay. Both can be used anywhere as everybody understands them - living in a multicultural country does have its perks. You can literally walk into an Indian restaurant and ask the waiter to ‘tapao’ your food.

Examples: “Eh bro, can you help me tapao one roti canai?” / “Boss, tapau nasi lemak satu!”

 

8. Aunty / Uncle 

We Asians are very big into respecting our elders no matter if they are related to us or not. We refer to anybody older than us as ‘aunty’ or ‘uncle’ and almost never call them using their first name unless requested. Even then, it would feel really weird, so we just stick to ‘aunty’ and ‘uncle’. No matter if they’re friends of our parents or even the people serving you food at hawker stalls.

Examples: “Oh hi aunty, long time no see!” / “Uncle, how have you been?”


Learn it, memorize it and use it on your next trip to Malaysia. You’ll be earning all the street cred and blending in like a local! 

_____________________

Buddyz is a travel platform powered by locals, a.k.a. the most knowledgeable and interesting experts, the ones that know the country best! We want to encourage people to travel more meaningfully, to immerse themselves in local culture, and to connect with people from the places they visit.

So on our platform, you will find what we call ‘Experiences’ for every interest - ranging from cultural walks, intimate meals at secluded local eateries to creative workshops and classes. All of which are led by locals and are vetted for quality.

Sign up to our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and promos. It would also make us really happy if you can simply follow us on Facebook and Instagram, your support means the world to us.

If you like this article, share it to your friends and family on Facebook too!



SHARE
查看其他快讯
January 2, 2020
Sustainable Tourism: 8 Practical Ways You Can Help

When deciding to venture into sustainable tourism and adding aspects of it to your trip means being responsible and making smarter choice... 显示更多

May 11, 2020
7 Lessons Learned From Travelling That Are Useful During The Covid19 Pandemic

The year 2020 has been full of surprises and challenges, and we’re not even half-way there. Some of us are taking a harder hit than other... 显示更多

March 24, 2020
10 Exotic Malaysian Fruits You Must Try

Here’s a handy list of exotic fruits with unique tastes and textures that you must try when you’re visiting Malaysia. Located near the eq... 显示更多

March 11, 2020
Preserving Local Culture & Tradition Through Tourism

Cultural preservation simply means the act of maintaining ancient culture whether it’s of large nations or small indigenous tribes. It ca... 显示更多

January 29, 2020
7 Islands In Malaysia You Must Visit At Least Once

With over 800 islands spread throughout the peninsula and Borneo, Malaysian islands are filled with world-class diving sites and untouche... 显示更多

热门