INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION

MPU 2243

INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT
CULTURAL ANALYSIS

FATIN NAJWA BT ZAKARIA

950027-05-5452
133011591

FOR MR MEOR DANIEL DANKER

FACULTY OF ARTS, COMMUNICATIONS & EDUCATION
SUBMISSION DATE : 14/04/2016

CONTENT

List
Introduction
Bussiness Etiquette in Malaysia
Issues
Literature Review
Conclusion
Reference
Appendix

Page

1.0

Introduction

Culture refers to the cumulative deposit of knowledge, experience, beliefs, values,

attitudes, meanings, hierarchies, religion, notions of time, roles, spatial relations, concepts
of the universe, and material objects and possessions acquired by a group of people in the
course of generations through individual and group striving. While, analysis is the detailed
examination of the elements or structure of something, typically as a basis for discussion
or interpretation. By combining, cultural analysis is based on using qualitive research
methods of the arts, humanities, social sciences, in particular ethnography and
anthrography, to collect data on cultural phenomena and to interpret cultural
representations and practices; in an effort to gain new knowledge or understanding
through analysis of that data and cultural processes. This is particularly useful for
understanding and mapping trends, influences, effects, and affects within cultures.

As to represent an important aspect of my culture, I choose the above picture as my

cultural artefact which is present the bussiness etiqutte in Malaysia. In addition this
bussiness etiquette affect my religion as a Malay that can create a good relationship with
other religion whether in a business job or else. As a introdcution, bussiness is an
organization or economic system where goods and services are exchanged for one
another or for money. Every business requires some form of investment and enough
customers to whom its output can be sold on a consistent basis in order to make a profit,
while etiquette one aspect of decorum, is a code that rules how everyone is expected to
behave, according to the social conventions and norms, in society, in a social class, or
group. It is usually unwritten, but it may be put in written form. Because they are a product
of the society's culture and history, the rules of etiquette are very different from time to
time, and from one place and social group to another and from country to country.

In general, bussiness etiquette is not just knowing what to discuss during a business
dinner or how to address colleagues; it is a way of presenting a person in such a way that
will be taken seriously. This involves demonstrating that have the self-control necessary to
be good in a job, expressing a knowledge of business situations and having the ability to
make other comfortable around. Poor business etiquette can cost the trust of ther
workers and your customers, and the loss of valuable business opportunities.

A key to being successful in business internationally is to understand the role of culture in

international business. Whatever sector you are operating in, cultural differences will have
a direct impact on your profitability. Improving your level of knowledge of international
cultural difference in business can aid in building international competencies as well as
enabling you to gain a competitive advantage.

Bussiness etiquette is differ from region to a region of from country to country. Thus,
bussiness etiquette can differentiates from others in a competitive job market. It also
enables a person to be more confident in a variety of settings with a variety of people. It
can make a person to exhibit the profesionalism that can develop into a polished image.

Attitudes and values from the basis of any culture that can reflect the ways where people
both think and behave. Knowledge of attitudes and values can therefore be of significant of
importance if you wish to communicate with your counterpants effectively.
Business etiquette is about building a good rrlationship in other words is to crreate a
bonding between different culture. Typical bussiness interaction are more effevtive if
someone consider some cultural differences such as tiltles and introduction, language
differences, differences in organization structure and philosophy. Bussiness etiquette
include two things which is thoughtful the consideration of the interests of feeling and
being able to minimise misunderstandings.

2.0 Business Etiquette in Malaysia

Since the beginning of its history, Malaysia has been a meeting place for a diverse range
of external cultures and religions. As a result of these external influences, a new unified
but distinguished Malay culture has emerged. Contemporary Malaysia represents a unique
fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions, creating a pluralistic and multicultural
nation that has its character strongly rooted in social harmony, religion and pride in its
ancestral background. With such a rich cultural heritage, acquiring the relevant skills and
cultural knowledge in order to conduct business in Malaysia is crucial to your success.

As Malaysia consists of the main of three races which is Malay, Chinese and India that
have retained their way of life, customs, and religions that is important to consider the
ethinicity of your bussiness associates when dealng with them. They are all have the
different rules of conduct and what might be seen as approciate by a group can be
considered as offensive by the other.

2.1

Example

Many Malaysians greet each other with a light handshake, and may place their right hand
over their heart after greeting someone. Most Malaysian business professionals are
culturally-savvy and the best approach depends on their ethnic background, status, age
and sex. A formal greeting is desirable: when in a group, introduce the most important
person first.Professional and honorific titles are used in business.
Address Malay men by adding their fathers name to their personal name with the word bin
(son of). For women, use binti (daughter of). While, traditional Chinese have three names.
Address them surname first and then followed by the two personal names.
Indians do not use their surnames. They use their fathers name before their personal
name using a/l (son of) for men and a/p (daughter of) for women. Wait for your business
associate to extend his hand for a handshake, more so in the case of women. It is an
accepted norm to shake hands with men at social events and business meetings. You may
shake the hands of a business associate with the traditional Malay greeting of Salam.
When greeting a woman or an old person, a slight bow of the head is appreciated.
Greetings in a social context will depend upon the ethnicity of the person you are meeting.
In general, most Malays are aware of Western ways so the handshake is normal. There
may be slight differences though and a few things to bear in mind include Malay women
may not shake hands with men. Women can of course shake hands with women. Men
may also not shake hands with women and may bow instead while placing their hand on
their heart. The Chinese handshake is light and may be rather prolonged. Men and women
may shake hands, although the woman must extend her hand first. Many older Chinese
lower their eyes during the greeting as a sign of respect. Indians shake hands with
members of the same sex. When being introduced to someone of the opposite sex,
nodding the head and smiling is usually sufficient. Among all cultures, there is a general
tendency to introduce. The most important person to the lower ranking person isthe older
person to the younger person.

As for the culture in which I raised, Malays greet each other with a salam word which two
individuals each extend both hands and graps their hands with a double handshake. For a
women that not allow to shake hand with the man (unless the woman extend their hand
first) may replace the shake hand with just salam words.
Meanwhile in bussiness culture, it is necessary for the presentation of business cards or
name cards often follows an introduction. It is considered polite to inspect a card carefully
before putting it away, and in meetings these are often placed neatly on the table in front of
the recipient. It is your perogative whether you give out your card and to whom; use your
discretion and excuse yourself for not carrying any of your own if you feel you'd rather not
share your contact details.
It is customary for Malay business professionals to exchange business cards after the
initial introductions. Use two hands or the right hand when presenting the business card. If
you are meeting a Chinese businessman, have one side of your card in Chinese with gold
characters. If you are meeting with a government official, have one side of your card in
Bahasa. Browse the business card before putting it in your pocket or wallet to show
respect.Be punctual for business meetings and social events. If you are delayed, call your
host. A letter of introduction from a mutual friend or a bank helps establish a business
relationship. Do not be offended if your business associate asks you personal questions.

Malay business professionals prefer to know their business counterparts personally before
doing business with them. Be patient. Malay businessmen have the tendency to take it
slow in making decisions. They may want to converse lengthily before getting down to
business. In most Malay business meetings, discussions are long and very detailed.
Sometimes, renegotiation is demanded even after the contract has been signed. For
Malays, personal trust is more important than written contracts. It may take several
business meetings before an agreement is closed. An escape clause might be requested
to be included in the contract.

In addition in business etiquette include the communication that based on how a company
dealing with other company. Good communication may avoid from misunderstanding and
can create a good relationship that enable a project or any discussion can be fully
succeed.

As an extension to the need to maintain harmonious relations, Malaysians rely on nonverbal communication (i.e. facial expressions, tone of voice, body language, etc). Such a
communication style tends to be subtle, indirect and. Malays may hint at a point rather
than making a direct statement, since that might cause the other person to lose face.
Rather than say "no", they might say, "I will try", or "Ill see what I can do". This allows the
person making the request and the person turning it down to save face and maintain
harmony in their relationship.

If you are unsure about the affirmative response you received, you may want to continue
the discussion, re-phrasing the question in several different ways so that you may
compare responses. If the response was given because the Malaysian did not know how
to respond in the negative without causing offense, this may come out. Alternatively, they
may have someone else give you the bad news.

Silence is an important element of Malaysian communication. Pausing before responding

to a question indicates that they have given the question appropriate thought and
considered their response carefully. Many Malaysians do not understand the Western
propensity to respond to a question hastily and can consider such behaviour thoughtless
and rude.

Do not show anger in public as it makes Malaysians uncomfortable and creates a feeling
of powerlessness. There is a greater chance of achieving a good outcome id you are calm,
whereas little is resolved by shouting.

3.0 Literiture Review

Malaysia has been a successful developing country and is forging ahead to become a
developed nation in its own mould. In order to be more successful, our nation has to be
managed effectively and its weaknesses and shortcomings have to be overcome. A major
challenge it has to address in this endeavor is the strengthening of ethics and integrity.

Malaysia is competing fiercely with other countries in the region to provide a pro- business
environment. To this end, the government has relaxed foreign ownership laws in the
manufacturing sector and has also implemented a range of incentives to attract investors
in priority areas such as operational headquarters, regional distribution centres, and
international procurement centres.

The government has also invested heavily in infrastructure to facilitate both efficient
business and a high standard of living, particularly in the major centres. It has also recently
implemented liberalisation actions within the financial services sector to attract more
international players to operate within the market. Malaysias 2020 vision is to achieve
developed nation status. The government plans and manages its progress towards
achieving this vision through five- year plans.

Business culture no. 1, Greeting When meeting your Malaysian counterparts for the first
time, a firm handshake is the standard form of greeting. However, you should only shake
hands with a Malaysian businesswoman if she initiates the gesture. Otherwise, a nod or a
single bow is appropriate. On the other side, it is normal to see people in the tourist
industry to greet visitors by placing their right hand over the left part of their chest. This
gesture means: I greet you from my heart.

Business culture no 2, The Concept of Face ~ Malays, Chinese and Indians all strive to
maintain face and avoid shame both in public and private. Face is a personal concept that
embraces qualities such as a good name, good character, and being held in esteem by
one's peers. Face is considered a commodity that can be given, lost, taken away, or
earned. On top of this face also extends to the family, school, company, and even the
nation itself.

The desire to maintain face makes Malaysians strive for harmonious relationships.
Face can be lost by openly criticizing, insulting, or putting someone on the spot; doing
something that brings shame to the group; challenging someone in authority, especially if
this is done in public; showing anger at another person; refusing a request; not keeping a
promise; or disagreeing with someone publicly. Conversely, face can be saved by
remaining calm and courteous; discussing errors or transgressions in private; speaking
about problems without blaming anyone; using non-verbal communication to say "no"; and
allowing the other person to get out of the situation with their pride intact.

Business culture no 3, Business Card ~ Business cards are exchanged after the initial
introductions. If you will be meeting Chinese, have one side of your card translated into
Chinese, with the Chinese characters printed in gold. If you will be meeting government
officials, have one side of your card translated into Bahasa Malaysia. Use two hands or the
right hand only to exchange business cards. Examine any business card you receive
before putting it in your business card case. The respect you show someone's business
card is indicative of the respect you will show the individual in business. Act accordingly,
never write on someone's card in their presence.

Business culture no 4, Business Attire ~ Malay business professionals wear white shirts,
ties and pants. It is best to wear conservative suits when meeting with government
officials. A casual jacket is alright for a meeting. Women are expected to wear sleeved
blouses paired with either pants or skirts. The color yellow is reserved for royalty, so do not
wear yellow for business meetings and social events. The business and cultural protocols
observed in Malaysia seem daunting, but they are doable. Treat all Malaysian business
counterparts with respect and you will not go wrong.

Good business etiquette includes dressing appropriately. This shows consideration for
others, and indicates that you take yourself and your job seriously. An unkempt
appearance indicates that you do not care about yourself or respect those around you.
When you are unsure what type of dress is required, it is best to err on the conservative
side. For work-related social events, do not be afraid to ask what the dress code will be.
Remember that even if you are dressing down, such as for a casual Friday, it is still
important to practice good grooming.

Business culture no 5, Communication style ~ Malaysians often communicate in an

Eastern or cyclical style. Often it feels that they are taking a long time to get to the point.
Malaysians avoid confrontation. Yes does not always mean yes. Avoid being too abrupt or
direct. Slow down, remember they are often communicating in a second language. Be
patient, you will get a better understanding of the situation if you avoid interrupting and
driving your point. It takes practice and discipline but its worth the effort.

Business culture no 6, Smile ~ It is a natural reaction to smile back when someone smiles
at you, and you instantly feel more comfortable and at ease with that person. A smile
eases the tension and demonstrates youre a nice person, too. As a discussion that may
occur in by a different company with combination of many region, when a smile is given, it
will automatically make someone feel more comfortable and willing to making a good
communication between others.

Business culture no 7, Know how and when to leave ~ Sometimes the exit is the hardest
part. The client is extremely nice and chatty, but you have another signing in twenty
minutes you need to leave for, how do you extract yourself from the situation? Do so
kindly, and not abruptly. Try to have an exit line, such as, it was great meeting you and I
hope youll keep me in mind for your future signings, and deliver the line when you are
talking, not when the client is speaking, it makes it less awkward.

Business culture no 8, Think before responding ~ Its easy to get frustrated with a client or
a co-worker, and social media is an easy outlet these days, but before you post anything,
remember the rant or the comment only reflects back on you your future clients can see all
of those posts.
In business, there will usually be someone you do not get along with, but do not let it
impact your success, and approach it with a professional attitude. By combining woth
others region, you must know how to being a polite among the culture and avoid to make
someone heart broken which in other words that we can say is mind your words .

3.0

Conclusion

Malaysia is a melting-pot of various ethnicities. It is a multi-cultural society where the main

ethnic group is the Malays, followed by the Chinese and Indians. These ethnic groups
have retained their way of life, customs and religions that it is important to consider the
ethnicity of your business associates when dealing with them.

Overall though, Malaysia is a diverse, welcoming society and is accepting and friendly
towards foreigners. The ease with which one can do business in Malaysia is demonstrated
in its rankings in numerous international business surveys. Malaysia came 18th (out of 189
countries) in The World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Survey for 2015. Malaysia
particularly excelled in the criteria of trading across borders and protecting investors.

The important aspects of business etiquette in Malaysia include the meet and greet in
which handshakes are commonly used as a part of the introduction, but in some instances
the handshake may only be exchanged with members of the same gender.

Next, the business culture in Malaysia may include the dress code for business in
Malaysia is typically Western, with smart, formal clothes being worn. Men generally wear
white shirts and ties (jackets to be worn to meetings); while women since Malaysia is
home to a large Muslim population should dress more conservatively than they might be
used to doing at home.

Business cultural that involve all the etiqutte towards the religion of Malay, India and
Chinese make someone can practice the moral values in their mind. The business and
cultural protocols observed in Malaysia seem daunting, but they are doable. Treat all
Malaysian business counterparts with respect and you will not go wrong.

4.0

Reference

According to https://www.justlanded.com/english/Malaysia/MalaysiaGuide/Business/Business-etiquette " ...Malaysia is a highly multicultural country and you

will probably make business not only with Malaysians but also with Chinese and Indians.
They all have different rules of conduct..

According to http://npunotaryblog.com/2015/national-notaries/10-best-practices-toimprove-your-business-etiquette/ ...Many people use their notary public commission to

start a business. Whether this is your full-time job or your part time, extra gig having the
appropriate business etiquette could make or break you...

According to http://cloudedblog.com/malaysia-business-etiquette/ ...Malaysia is a

melting-pot of various ethnicities. It is a multi-cultural society where the main ethnic group
is the Malays, followed by the Chinese and Indians. These ethnic groups have retained
their way of life, customs and religions that it is important to consider the ethnicity of your
business associates when dealing with them...

According to http://www.expatarrivals.com/malaysia/doing-business-in-malaysia "...Expats

planning on doing business in Malaysia should research some of the cultural complexities
associated with this ethnically diverse country. Although the Malaysian business world has
largely succeeded in establishing a unified ethos, it is important for expats to understand
that they might deal with people from a broad range of backgrounds (Malay, Chinese and
Indian being the most common) and expectations and conduct might need to be adjusted
accordingly, depending on who one is doing business with at the time..."

According to http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_my.htm "..Malays are

proud of their country, their ancestral background and their economic success. Ethnic
tensions exist between Malays (60%) and Chinese (31%) over preferential quotas.
Chinese feel these policies make them second-class citizens; Malays support these
policies, which they feel are their only way to overcome traditional dominance..."

5.0 Appendix

Picture 1 : Business Etiquette Picture

Picture 2 : According to http://cloudedblog.com/malaysia-business-etiquette/

Picture 3 : https://www.justlanded.com/english/Malaysia/MalaysiaGuide/Business/Business-etiquette

Picture 4 : http://npunotaryblog.com/2015/national-notaries/10-best-practices-toimprove-your-business-etiquette/

Picture 5 : Family Picture

INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION
INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT CHECKLIST
CULTURAL ANALYSIS : A PICTURE

NAME

: FATIN NAJWA BT ZAKARIA

MATRIC NO : 133011591

NO

CONTENT

GROUP

FARAH

LEADER

OR
AIMAN

INTRODCUTION

BODY CONTENT

CONCLUSION

REFERENCE

APPENDIX