Business Etiquette in Malaysia
Schedule business appointments for Monday through Thursday. Many offices and stores are closed by noon on Friday.
The business dress code in Malaysia for the office is lightweight formal clothing. If you see that others are going without a jacket or tie, remove these casually. Business attire for women in Malaysia is knee-length skirts and long-sleeved blouses. Evening functions can be more informal.
Be on time for business meetings but expect your Malay counterparts to be more relaxed about punctuality. Meetings can be lengthy with a great deal small talk. Relationships must be firmly established before business negotiations can begin. [5]
In Malaysian business culture, a handshake between men is normal. However, you should only shake hands with a Malaysian businesswoman if she initiates the gesture. Otherwise, a nod or a single bow is appropriate.