In general, the racial groups integrate, but keep to their individual traditions and lifestyles. Malays still form more than half of the total population and lead a calm life governed by the authority of elders and a strong sense of respect and etiquette. The Indian, Pakistani and Sri Lankan members of the population originally came to Malaysia to take up positions in the civil service, police and local government departments, as well as in the new rubber plantations, but many are now among the professional classes. As far as greetings are concerned, the Malaysian equivalent of 'hello' is the Muslim 'peace be with you'. Chinese and Indians usually use Western forms of address.
Hospitality is always warm, lavish and informal.
Visitors should follow Malaysian example and respect religious beliefs, such as taking off footwear at the door and wearing appropriate clothing. Dress should be informal, but not over-casual. Within towns, smoking has now become the subject of government disapproval and fines are levied in a number of public places, such as cinemas, theatres and libraries. Taxi drivers are not tipped.