Malaysia, truly Asia. This little jingle really does do justice to the old Malaya and the new Malaysia. More than any Southeast Asian country, Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo and the populous peninsular south of Thailand, sum up the many cultures of Asia. Blessed with a courteous Muslim population, the Malays, 'original people' - Orang Asli, Dayaks and Ibans - the Peranakan people, and large numbers of Indians and Chinese whose ancestors arrived generations ago, Malaysia is a colourful and harmonious example of multiculturalism at its best. And even though Malaysia is a modern and successful state firmly plugged into the force of multinationalism, each group has its own identity and customs. For example, choosing the wrong colour to wear at a Malay, Chinese or Indian wedding, will ruffle feathers and invite a comment or two. As will turning up to dinner at a Malay house with a bottle of whisky. 
　  And don't be the pontificating tourist who still believes that Malays farm the land, Chinese are businessmen and Indians work the palm oil and rubber estates. All are represented in the professions, business and government.
　  To have an enjoyable visit to Malaysia, the nuances of its people must be negotiated. For example, Malaysians love titles. So make sure you call him Dr. Thiru and not just plain old Thiru. He'll let you know when to be less formal. DON'T wear hawaiian shirts, bermudas and slippers to any function because you risk insulting your host. After all, if you're rich enough to fly to Malaysia you're able to afford smart clothes. And although you will see the very occasional couple wrapped around each other with heavy lip-lock action, this is not a license for you to do the same. Malaysians keep passion and emotions behind closed doors, as should you.
　  To ensure that you, the foreign resident, fleeting visitor or armchair traveller, enjoy your stay in Malaysia, we present a light-hearted but practical guide to the dos&don'ts of this modern and traditional country. Want to give a gift to a Malay? DO it shortly before leaving rather than arriving. Should you leave a trail of tips everywhere you go? DON'T, especially when it's almost certainly included in your bill. Want to tousle the hair of all those angelic little children? DON'T, the head is sacred. Feel like resting your feet on a table? Resist it. Malaysians plant their feet firmly on the ground and you should too. Want to decipher what drivers really mean by their flashing lights and gestures? Then DO buy this book!