The Malaysian culture has been strongly influenced by the Malay, Chinese, Indian, and some indigenous tribal cultures. The Malay population is the largest in Malaysia and although they stereotypically are rural and traditional people, these days, they seem to be moving towards the urban areas, attracted to the wealth and jobs of the city. Although many differences between the three groups of people exist, there is still a sense of generosity and a feeling that most people get along. However, this does not mean that tension does not exist between the groups.

Freedom of religion is guaranteed by the Malaysian constitution, even though Islam is technically the state religion and around 60% of the population practice Islam, according to the 2000 Population and Housing Census. The next three most practiced religions are Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism. During religious festivals Malaysians of a certain religion often open their doors to Malaysians of other cultural and religious background, which helps to close the gap between the individual “groups” and creates a more tolerant atmosphere.

The national language of Malaysia is Malay or Bahasa Malaysia (Malaysia language). Malay is also spoken in the Malay Peninsula, southern Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore, central eastern Sumatra, the Riau islands and parts of the coast of Borneo. Because Malaysia was a former British colony English is also commonly spoken, although it can be a little confusing as they sometimes mix English with Malay to create a new language all together.

The traditional customs in Malaysia vary greatly between the ethnic groups; with a common belief in obedience and respect of elders and parents. From house to house and neighbor to neighbor the differences in beliefs and customs can be quite evident.

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