4. Gift Giving and Accepting Gifts
DON'T open a gift until later.
DO use both hands when presenting a gift.
DON'T wrap gifts in white. White is a mourning color. Red is considered a happy color, so you may wish to wrap a present in red.
DO understand that gift giving etiquette varies depending on the ethnic background of the individual. See below for gift giving etiquette for those of Chinese, Indian, or Malay descent.
Exchanging gifts to someone of Chinese descent:
DON'T give cutting utensils to someone, such as a pair of scissors or a set of knives. It represents severing the relationship.
DON'T give clocks or handkerchiefs. They are associated with death.
DON'T give flowers. They are traditionally reserved for the ill and for funerals.
DO refuse a gift three times before accepting to show that you're not greedy.
Exchanging gifts with someone of Malay descent:
DON'T give alcohol.
DON'T give anything made of pigskin, as most Malays are Muslim.
DO give the gift upon departing, not arriving.
DO use your right hand to give or receive presents. If it's large, you may use both. Never use only your left.
Exchanging gifts with someone of Indian descent:
DON'T give frangipani if you wish to give flowers. They are for funerals.
DO use your right hand to give or receive presents and not your left. If it's large, you may use both hands.
DON'T give something made of leather to a Hindu.
DON'T give alcohol unless you're sure the recipient drinks