Embarrassing Moments in Malaysia

Problem
How do you get directions in Malaysia if you don't speak Malay.

Answer
Get directions from your hotel or the internet in advance.

Stories
My most embarrassing moments in Malaysia:
My first trip - in the streets most people walking past or standing around are men. But when I go up to somebody with a map to ask for help they all run away.

Why? Is it because they don't speak English? Are my sleeves are too short? Do I smell funny? Are they totally prejudiced against people not wearing Muslim outfits?

I spent a depressing day. I could not get directions. Made no friends. Didn't speak to anybody all day. Felt alone, and unpopular.

Back in the hotel, my family, on business, explain: Men don't speak to strange women in Malaysia. In some states of Malaysia they could get arrested for fraternising with women who are not relations. They don't think you are a prostitute touting for business. They know you are a tourist. They just don't want to be seen talking to you.

Problem
So how do I get directions?

I discovered the solution, what works, by trail and error.
1 Ask the server at a restaurant or bus station ticket office (who is safely protected from you behind glass and his work is dealing with strangers of both sexes). Get them to write directions on the map and circle your destination.
2 When standing at a bus stop or taxi queue, speak to the woman of an adjacent couple, asking for help. Both she and her escort, whether her husband or brother or colleague, will speak to you and help you.

Author
Angela Lansbury, author and speaker. See my books on Lulu.com and Amazon. Read my posts, share and follow. Terimah Kasih. (Malay for thank you.