The area surrounding Kuala Lumpur is the fastest growing area in Malaysia. It is home to many diplomatic missions as well as the Bank Negara Malaysia. Named an Alpha World City by the Globalisation and World Cities Study Group, KL is central to Malaysia in terms of finance, real estate, business, arts and media. With its key position in Malaysia’s economy it is easy to see why there are so many expats and expat jobs in the city.

Malaysia does trade with a number of countries and as such expats speaking a second language will have an advantage, particularly if it is Mandarin or an Asian language. Companies are only allowed a certain amount of expat employees and this is probably the hardest regulation to overcome when seeking a job in Malaysia. However, once your company has convinced the government that you and your position are of vital importance then obtaining a visa and orchestrating your move should run smoothly.

The main industries where you will find a number of expats working include the banking and finance sector (particularly financial control), IT, engineering, accounting as well as a number in the oil and gas industries.

Malaysia has a normal work week. Some businesses may require employees to work on a Saturday but this would need to be negotiated on an individual basis. Working hours are from 9am until 5pm, which seems like a normal day until you factor in traffic. Using public transport to skip the traffic jams can shorten your workday by a number of hours.

Business Etiquette

The etiquette and behaviour surrounding business in Malaysia is similar to that of most western countries. Introductions are made with a brief handshake and exchange of business cards. Business meetings are formal affairs and suits are worn, despite the outdoor heat. A large number of Malaysians are Muslim and as such care should be taken not to offend religious or cultural sensitivities. Ordering or serving alcohol at business functions may lead to an uncomfortable situation and disagreements should always be handled in a tactful manner. When working with a team always be mindful of each person’s rank and introduce people accordingly.

Some Malay and Indian business people may be uncomfortable shaking hands with someone of the opposite sex. Chinese business people often look downwards to demonstrate respect. Professional and honorific titles are very important when dealing with people in a business environment.

Business cards

It is helpful to have a number of business cards printed depending on the various cultures you will be working with. One side should be printed in English while the other should be printed in the language that your business acquaintance. For example, a card translated into Chinese with gold characters is a must when dealing with Chinese business people, while government officials will appreciate a card translated into Bahasa Malaysia.

When exchanging business cards use two hands or the right hand, study business cards given to you before putting them away – the respect you show someone else’s card is indicative of the respect you afford them. Writing on someone else’s card is a major affront and best avoided.

Relationships

Building rapport and saving face are both very important to Malaysian business people. A business meeting may not stay on schedule but the relationship is far more valuable than closing a deal on time. Showing anger, irritation or uneasiness is a loss of face to both you and your business counterparts. Silence is key to Malaysian communication. Pause before answering questions to show that you have given the question due attention, a hasty response is often seen as thoughtless or even rude.

Business and work visas and permits are vitally importance as the fines and laws regarding illegal work in Malaysia are strict, as are those governing tax compliance.