Kelantanese are famously hospitable, and a handful of small courtesies are all it takes to meet that warmth halfway. None of this is complicated; it is mostly about reading the room and leaning toward respect. Here are the everyday manners worth knowing.
Greetings
A friendly peace; a common greeting or “Apa khabar” (how are you) is always welcome. Between people of the same gender, a light handshake is normal, often followed by touching the hand to the heart. With the opposite gender, do not assume; some people, especially more religious ones, prefer not to shake hands and will instead place a hand over the heart. Wait, watch, and follow their lead. A warm smile never misreads. Pick up a few more words in our dialect phrases guide.
The right hand
Use your right hand for giving, receiving, eating and pointing. The left hand is traditionally considered unclean, so handing money, passing a dish or accepting a gift is done with the right (or both). It quickly becomes second nature.
Shoes off
You will remove your shoes before entering homes, mosques and many shops and guesthouses. Watch for a rack or a pile of sandals at the threshold; it is your cue. Slip-on footwear makes life easier.
Pointing, feet and heads
Point with your thumb or an open hand rather than a single finger. Avoid pointing the soles of your feet at people. And avoid touching people, especially children, on the head. These are gentle taboos, easily kept once you know them.
The bigger picture
None of this is a test. Kelantanese are patient with visitors and quick to forgive an honest slip. But the traveller who greets warmly, uses the right hand, slips off their shoes and reads the room is rewarded with a welcome that is genuinely special. For the fuller picture of customs and respect, read our culture and etiquette guide.
Good to know
How do you greet someone in Kelantan?
A warm 'Salam' or 'Apa khabar' goes a long way. A light handshake is common between the same gender; with the opposite gender, wait and follow their lead, as some prefer a hand to the heart instead.
Why use the right hand in Malaysia?
The right hand is used for giving, receiving, eating and gesturing, as the left is traditionally considered unclean. It is a simple habit that signals respect.