7 Malaysian Habits That Drive Us Crazy

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Let’s be honest — living in Malaysia means we’ve all encountered certain behaviors that just get on our nerves. Whether it's on the road, at a gathering, or even online, some habits are simply too common and too annoying to ignore

I’ve narrowed it down to just 6 — the most annoying types of Malaysians we love to hate (or maybe, secretly, we’ve been guilty of them too!). Let’s dive in

1. Irresponsible DriversThese are the people who park anywhere they like — side parking, double parking, blocking others — and they don’t even leave their phone number! 

We get it, sometimes you’re in a rush. But at least leave your contact number on the dashboard, or keep an eye on your car so others aren’t stuck. It’s basic courtesy.

If you’re not ready to be responsible on the road, maybe it’s time to surrender your license to JPJ. Seriously

2. The "Pinjam Tak Bayar" TypeEveryone has that one friend who borrows money and vanishes into thin air. When it comes to asking for a loan, they’re all sweet and polite. But when it's time to pay back — suddenly MIA.

Here’s a tip: if you can’t pay on time, just communicate. A simple “I’m still facing some financial issues, can I pay later?” would go a long way.

Ghosting someone after borrowing money? That’s not just rude — it’s damaging to your own reputation and friendships.


3. Smokers & Vapers with Zero AwarenessHey smokers and vapers — you do you. We’re not here to judge your lifestyle

BUT please be mindful of your surroundings. Smoking or vaping in front of babies, pregnant women, or the elderly? That’s just inconsiderate

Nicotine smoke isn’t just unpleasant — it’s harmful. If you must do it, find a proper place. Respect people around you.

4. Food WastersWe’ve all seen this: someone piles up food at a buffet and then wastes half of it. Or worse — takes one bite, decides “not nice,” and throws the whole plate away.

Some even eat the veggie leaves and throw away the stems. Meanwhile, people in other countries are starving. If we collected all the food Malaysians waste in a week, we could probably feed an entire community. Think before you waste.
5. The "Malaysian Time" CrewYou love them... but you hate waiting for them. This type doesn’t need an introduction — just two words: Malaysian time.

The classic line: “OTW!” (On The Way)... but in reality just wake up from bed. Let’s admit it — many of us are guilty of this sometimes (yes, including me!). But being late all the time is not cute anymore. It’s time to respect people’s time.


6. Public LitterersThis one is the most frustrating. People who throw rubbish out of their car windows, dump trash in public places, or flush it down the toilet like it’s nothing.

We always complain that Malaysia isn’t clean — but who’s really to blame?

In countries like Japan, there are no rubbish bins in public, yet the streets are spotless. That’s not magic — it’s mentality. No amount of trash cans can fix a careless attitude.

It’s time we stop talking and start acting responsibly.
7. No Signal When TurningSome drivers treat signal lights like they’re optional. They turn left suddenly, causing near-accidents, or change lanes without warning

And then there are those who keep their signal on for 15 kilometres straight, confusing everyone behind them. Are you turning? Or just enjoying the blinking light

Let’s be honest — the road is already dangerous. When drivers behave like invisible ninjas, they’re not just annoying… they’re putting lives at risk. So please lah, fellow Malaysians — signal dulu, baru tukar lorong.

Final ThoughtsThis list isn’t about pointing fingers — it’s a wake-up call. Real change starts with each of us

So the next time you feel annoyed by these behaviors, ask yourself: “Am I guilty of any of these too?” If yes, it's never too late to improve

Let’s be better Malaysians — together.

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