Caleb's Cultural Counsel

If you enjoy walking around Mont Kiara like I do there will be some nuances (subtle and not) that must be learned.  I am going to try and bullet point some things to know when walking about.

• Always, always, ALWAYS, have an umbrella on you.  I carry a pocket size one and have a large one at home and at school.
• When handing or taking things be sure to either use both hands, or have the unused hand placed on the arm you are doing the action with.  This is considered being polite.  Stretching something out to someone with one hand or snatching something up is basically calling that person an animal.
• Swing wide of blind corners when walking.  I have noticed a lot of people just don't look where they are going here and try to cut corners quickly.  Although it is a great way to meet people, collisions are not fun.
• I still have a hard time trying to break the habit of giving people room to walk.  The truth is many people here are from high population and tight packed sidewalks.  There is no personal space and people will not even think twice when brushing by you... even if there is lots of room to step to the side a little.  It is a cultural thing and no one means any offense by it.  The exception to this rule is to move for the elderly, the handicap, the pregnant, and those carrying small children.
• If you have a cute little child you will draw attention.  They love to come up to babies/toddlers and coo and maybe even pinch cheeks.  If you are not okay with this then you need to let them know quickly because it is common place.  They will not be offended by you stepping forward and telling them no.
• Learn to point with your thumb and not your index finger.
• It is best to dress relatively modestly.  This place may seem like a resort at times but you have to remember that this is still a Muslim country and it is best to be respectful.  Mont Kiara is a very western community so the dress is the same.  Make yourself aware of where you are going and dress appropriately.
• There are lots of motorbikes in this country and white-lining is a common practice.  So just keep an eye out if you are driving, opening doors, or even crossing streets.
• Take the few extra seconds to scan around before crossing streets.  Traffic works in a way where the majority drive as if stop lights and traffic lines are merely guidelines, not law.  Yes, even at the crosswalk.
• "All roads lead to the airport" is a phrase referring to the fact that almost every highway sign, even when you are going the opposite direction, tell you that this is the way to the airport.  Find someone who knows that way and save yourself the dizziness.