What Language Do They Speak in Malaysia?
Facts last checked 9 October 2026.
Malaysia has 2 official languages: Malay, English. Malay is also an official language in 2 other countries worldwide.
Learn some Malay before you go
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Malay Phrasebook & Dictionary
The essentials for ordering food, asking directions and being polite.
Languages of Malaysia at a glance
| Official languages | Malay, English |
|---|---|
| Number of official languages | 2 |
| Countries on this site where Malay is official | 3 |
| People (demonym) | Malaysian |
| Capital | Kuala Lumpur |
| Internet domain | .my |
Other countries where Malay is official
Malay is also an official language in 2 other countries covered here:
Languages of neighbouring countries
Malaysia in context
- Malaysia covers 330,803 km², making it the 68th largest of the 196 countries on this site.
- Its population density of about 103 people per km² ranks 87th of 196 (1st = most crowded).
- It shares a land border with 3 countries: Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand.
- With 34,231,700 people, Malaysia holds about 5.0% of the population of South-Eastern Asia.
- With 2 official languages, Malaysia has more than most countries on this site.
- Traffic drives on the left, and calendars start the week on Sunday.
- Malaysia is a member state of the United Nations.
Compare Malaysia
Useful phrases for visitors to Malaysia
Everyday Malay phrases you will hear and use in Malaysia:
| English | Malay |
|---|---|
| Hello | Helo |
| Thank you | Terima kasih |
| Please | Tolong |
| Goodbye | Selamat tinggal |
| Yes | Ya |
| No | Tidak |
Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.
Languages in Malaysia — FAQ
What language do they speak in Malaysia?
The official languages of Malaysia are Malay and English.
How many official languages does Malaysia have?
Malaysia has 2 official languages: Malay, English.
Is Malay spoken anywhere else?
Malay is also an official language in 2 other countries.
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