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Introduction:
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Although the government in Malaysia is dominated by ethnic Malays and the legal and educational community by Indians, the business in the country is dominated by ethnic Chinese.
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Greetings:
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Standard Malaysian handshake is rather limp and lasts 10 or 12 seconds. (Most North American handshakes only last 3 or 4 seconds.) Both hands are often used.
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Introductions:
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The traditional Malay forms of Mr./Mrs./Miss are:
Encik = Mr.
Puan = Mrs. (married woman)
Cik = Miss (unmarried woman)
These are used in front of an individual's name (e.g., "Mr. Said" would be addressed as "Encik Said.") You can use Puan ("Mrs.") for any adult female.
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Appointments:
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Malaysian executives are quite busy and travel frequently. Hence, try to schedule appointments at least two weeks in advance English is the language of business. However, Bahasa Malaysia, the official language is used when corresponding with government officials.
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Negotiating:
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It is unusual to complete a complicated deal in one trip to Malaysia due to the slow pace of negotiations . A person who loses his or her temper won't be trusted or respected therefore never express anger in public. The word "No" is considered rude in Malaysia. A "Yes" can mean "I agree" or "Maybe" or "I hope you can tell from my lack of enthusiasm that I really mean No."
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Business Entertaining:
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Take advantage of any invitations to social events although invitations may not come immediately. Let the Malaysians make the first invitation.
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