Kuala Lumpur's Language and Culture

Malaysia is filled with a multicultural society and this is made evident once you have visited Kuala Lumpur. The country of Malaysia is fairly westernised making it a popular destination to travel. However, the locals that live in Kuala Lumpur are made up of mostly native Malays, Chinese and Indians. Despite Kuala Lumpur's multiculturalism, it is clear that the ethnicities retain their religions, customs and way of life. Additionally, as children grow up, they are educated in the same schools and will eventually work in the same offices as their parents with few of them marrying outside their ethnicity. Families tend to socialise within their own ethnic group as family is considered the centre of the social structure. As a result there is a great emphasis on unity, loyalty and respect for the elderly. The family is the place where the individual can be guaranteed both emotional and financial support. When one member of the family suffers a financial setback, the rest of the family will contribute what they can to help out.

In Malaysian society, all 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.

 

Etiquettes and Customs will vary 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. 
• the older person to the younger person.• women to men

 

The Malay language is an Austronesian language spoken not only by Malaysians but all Malay people who reside in the Malay Peninsula, southern Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, central eastern Sumatra, the Riau islands, parts of the coast of Borneo, Cocos and Christmas Islands in Australia. It is also very similar to Indonesian, known locally as Bahasa Indonesia. In Malaysia, the language is officially known as Bahasa Malaysia, which translates as the "Malaysian language". The term, which was introduced by the National Language Act 1967, was predominant until the 1990s, when most academics and government officials reverted to "Bahasa Melayu," which is used in the Malay version of the Federal Constitution.

Kuala Lumpur's Many Attractions

Malaysia’s capital is jam packed with so much to do and see from historic monuments, to steel-clad skyscrapers, lush parks, mega-sized shopping malls, bustling street markets and trendy nightspots. A respect for the many mosques and temples of its ancient culture is balanced with the burgeoning scene of contemporary art and design along with a vibrant digital economy.

The Petronas Twin Towers

The unmistakable outline of the Petronas Twin Towers has come to be one of the most iconic attractions in the city, defining its tourist destination status. For a time, this famous building was the world’s tallest, standing at 452m. Stretching out to the side of the Petronas Twin Towers is the spacious and beautifully landscaped KLCC Park, the best place to admire the Towers, featuring walking paths and a wading pool for children. A visit to this famous site could involve visits to Suria KLCC a giant shopping mall at the foot of the towers, the Petrosains Science Centre, the Aquaria oceanarium or even a concert at the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.

The best views of the surrounding districts can be seen at the KL Tower, officially known as Menara KL, the city’s telecommunications and broadcasting tower. Standing atop the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve, it contains a revolving restaurant and observation deck.

KLCC Park, Suria KLCC Shopping Mall, and The KL Tower

The Batu Caves

A more historical and cultural experience, a visit to the Batu Caves is a must! Situated on the northern fringes of the city, the enormous cave temple is comprised of three main caves,the Cathedral Cave, Gallery Cave and Museum Cave, as well as numerous smaller ones. Featuring idols and statues built inside and around the main caves, the century year old temple incorporates limestone formations thought to be approximately 400 million years old.

Inside The Batu Caves

The colourful Petaling Street market in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur is like no other. All the greenery in Kuala Lumpur, with the Lake Gardens home to popular bird and deer parks you can freely visit, is just truly breathtaking, while the nightlife includes the i-City Shah Alam, where its nightly colourful display of LED-lit attractions, make for good photos. 

General Information on KL

City of KL

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and is located in the center west. Often called KL, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s largest city, spanning over 243 square kilometres. KL is the economic, financial and cultural centre of Malaysia. KL has an estimated population of 1.67 million people.

KL has a mix of cross-cultural influences and traditions. Mixed with communities of Chinese, Malaysian, South Indians, Indonesians, and Thai’s; KL is full of culture. Each community offers their own food, traditions, fashion and festivals; each community influencing each other’s cultures.

The Malaysian currency is the Ringgit (MYR) with a conversion of 1AUD = 3.12MYR.

The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia. However, English is widely spoken in KL and police are present in all tourists’ area making it a safe city. Due to the mix of communities, Chinese and Hindi are widely spoken languages in KL.

KL contains many well-known and interesting attractions including Petronas Twin Towers, Petaling Street, Batu Caves and the KL Tower.

Petronas Twin Towers

Having a tropical climate, KL gets plenty of sunshine throughout the year. The humidity in KL is very high and the average temperature ranges from 22 to 33 degrees Celsius. 

Seoul Cuisine

Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is largely based around rice, vegetables and meats. Common ingredients include soy sauce, salt, garlic, ginger, pepper flakes and gochujang (fermented red chilli paste), sesame oil and doenjang (fermented bean paste)

In Korean cuisine there is many side dishes that come with meals.  A famous side dish is Kimchi which is almost essential to every meal.

Koreans love their food therefore it would be crazy not to try the following dishes when travelling to Seoul.  

Chi-maek (Fried Chicken and Beer)

This famous dish has been seen in many Korean dramas such as " You who came from the stars" and " I can hear your voice" This dish is hugely popular in Seoul and around Korea and is a "must have" for tourist tourist.

Gogigui (Korean BBQ)

This is another very popular meal concept from Korea. Simply grab the various type of options (beef, chicken, pork, lamb, fish, octopus etc) and cook it on the grill. There is also options for vegetables and side dishes.

Kimchi

The national dish of Korea, it is fermented traditional side dish. 

Various options include napa cabbage,  radish, cucumber.

Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)

A very nutritious dish.

It is a soup type of dish which is a broth of ginseng, various herbs and condiments, ginger, dried seeded jujube fruits and a young whole chicken stuffed with rice.

Patbingsu (red bean shaved ince)

This is popular korean dessert that includes sweet toppings of fruits, red bean paste, condensed milk, fruit syrup.

Seoul’s Main Attractions

From old to new, South Korea’s capital city has much to offer. From old historical sites boasts the charm of royal palaces, with the grandest of Seoul’s five grand palaces being the Gyeongbokgung Palace. 

Gyeongbokgung Palace 

Translating directly to “Palace of Shining Happiness”, under the occupation of the Japanese the grounds were destroyed. However during King Gojon’s reign, all 7,700 rooms were restored back to its former glory, under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun. Also known as the “Northern Palace” it is arguably the most beautiful in comparison to its counterparts, though both neighbouring palaces of Changdeokgung and Gyeongheegung are still remarkable sites and well worth a visit.

 As the most famous shopping district, Myeongdong has plenty on offer. All about fashion, everything from internationally-recognized name brands to unique items can be found here. Also known for housing famous Korean Cosmetic brands including The Face Shop, Missha, Etude House, and Laneige, this is the place to be for any makeup enthusiast. Apart from fashion and cosmetics, the shopping district includes an assortment of dining options, from fast food to family restaurants, offering varying cuisines from local Korean to Western option. If it’s the traditional market experience you are after, the largest in Korea is comprised of over 10,000 stalls, the Namdaemun Market.

The N Seoul Tower

Seoul City Wall

Breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline can be seen at the N Seoul Tower, since it first opened in the 80s. For a more scenic view however, Seoul City Wall which in the past was used as a fortress yet now offers a picturesque way to discover the city.

If it is history you are interested in, a visit to the Bukchon Hanok Village encompassing 600 years of history is a must. The largest collection of privately owned traditional Korean wooden homes, its setting reflects the views of neo-Confucianism, involving the world and nature, during the Joseon Dynasty. Devoted to the forefathers of the Joseon dynasty, the Jongmyo Shrine is another site of historical significance as the most authentic preserved shrine of the Confucian royals.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Whether you prefer breathtaking views, shopping, modern architecture or historical sites, there is something to do for everyone who visits the wonderful city of Seoul.

Seoul's Language and Culture

The Koreans are one ethnic family speaking one language.  They share certain distinct physical characteristics which differentiate them from other Asian people including the Chinese and the Japanese, and have a strong cultural identity as one ethnic family. The Koreans are one ethnic family speaking one language.  They share certain distinct physical characteristics which differentiate them from other Asian people including the Chinese and the Japanese, and have a strong cultural identity as one ethnic family. The fact that all Koreans speak and write the same language has been a crucial factor in their strong national identity.  Modern Korea has several different dialects including the standard one used in Seoul and central areas, but they are similar enough that speakers/listeners do not have trouble understanding each other.

The family is the most important value and part of Korean life. The father is the head of the family and it is his responsibility to provide food, clothing and shelter, and to approve the marriages of family members. The eldest son has special duties: first to his parents, then to his brothers from older to younger, then to his sons, then to his wife, and lastly to his daughters. Family welfare is much more important than the needs of the individual. Members of the family are tied to each other because the actions of one family member reflect on the rest of the family

The concept of Kibun is very interesting and significant to Korean society and culture. Kibun refers to pride, face, mood, feelings or state of mind. It is important to know how to judge the state of someone else's kibun, how to avoid hurting it, and how to keep your own kibun at the same time If you hurt someone's kibun you hurt their pride, cause them to lose dignity, and lose face. Korean interpersonal relationships operate on the principle of harmony. It is important to maintain a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere at all times, even if it means telling a "white lie". In business, a manager's kibun is damaged if his subordinates do not show proper respect. A subordinate's kibun is damaged if his manager criticizes him in public. Since this is a culture where social harmony is crucial, being able to judge another person's state of mind is critical to maintain the person's kibun.

Etiquettes and customs in South Korea are also very strict. In terms of greetings, many South Koreans shake hands with expatriates after the bow, thereby blending both cultural styles. The person of lower status bows to the person of higher status, yet it is the most senior person who initiates the handshake. The person who initiates the bow says, "man-na-suh pan-gop-sumnida", which means "pleased to meet you". When you leave say good-bye and bow to each person individually. 
The protocols are also strict when it comes to dining and table manners. The hosts greet each guest individually. The host pours drinks for the guests in their presence. The hostess does not pour drinks. Wait to be told where to sit. The eldest are served first. The oldest or most senior person is the one who starts the eating process. Try a little bit of everything. It is acceptable to ask what something is. Finish everything on your plate Afterwards, the hosts usually accompany guests to the gate or to their car because they believe that it is insulting to wish your guests farewell indoors. A thank you note would be sent the following day after being invited to dinner. 

Seoul travel tips

1. Airport transfer to your accommodation. Reserving a taxi online before arriving is extremely useful and travellers can also book an English speaking driver if they wish. It will cost about $70 usd from Incheon airport to most hotels in Seoul. There may be some aggressive taxi drivers at the airport and also black market taxis which tourists are warned to stay away from.


2. Internet connection/WiFi: Free WiFi is sometimes difficult to find in Seoul except in some hotels and most require registration. An easy and convenient way is to rent a pocket WiFi at Incheon airport for about $10 which will work in Seoul. The device must also be returned at the airport before getting to the security gate.

3. Getting around Seoul. Taxi in Seoul is very affordable and a good way to get around conveniently. Drivers have GPS so please have the address ready. However, the Metro is also an efficient way of getting around as it is very thorough and fast. Memorising the exit number+station number before starting any trip can be very useful.

Time Square mall in Seoul

4. Credit card.  Seoul is a very credit card friendly city as most restaurants, retail shops or taxis accept credit card. However, have some cash with you for the street food or for emergency situations. Also, there is a 10% sales tax in Seoul so don't be alarmed.


5. English level. English signs can be found easily and many restaurants have an English menu. However, most Koreans' English level is below par so be prepared to use gestures and numbers. Mandarin Chinese is much more popular foreign language than English in service industry.