Learning a new language opens doors to understanding different cultures and experiences. If you are just starting out with Malay, here is a list of essential phrases that will help you communicate basic ideas. This guide provides not only the translation but also a brief definition for each phrase, as well as a context-appropriate example to help illustrate how it is used.

Selamat pagi
Meaning good morning, ‘Selamat pagi’ is an ideal phrase to greet someone at the start of the day.
Selamat pagi, apa khabar?

Terima kasih
Used to express gratitude, ‘Terima kasih’ means thank you in Malay.
Terima kasih untuk hadiahnya.

Sama-sama
This is the common response to ‘Terima kasih’, meaning you’re welcome or similar to the effect of ‘not at all’.
A: Terima kasih banyak! B: Sama-sama.

Ya
The word for yes, ‘Ya’ is a straightforward affirmation.
Ya, saya akan datang ke pesta itu.

Tidak
Means no, this is the direct opposite of ‘Ya’.
Tidak, saya tidak suka durian.

Sila
Meaning please, as in a request, ‘Sila’ is a polite addition to any question or request.
Sila duduk, saya akan siap sebentar lagi.

Apa khabar?
Literally translating to ‘what’s the news?’, it is used to ask someone how they are.
Apa khabar? Saya harap anda baik-baik saja.

Saya tidak faham
This phrase means ‘I don’t understand’, which can be very helpful when you’re just starting to learn the language.
Maaf, saya tidak faham. Boleh anda ulang sekali lagi?

Boleh saya tahu…?
This is a polite way to ask for information, meaning ‘May I know…?’
Boleh saya tahu di mana stesen kereta api?

Berapa harga ini?
When shopping or making purchases, asking ‘How much is this?’ is done by saying ‘Berapa harga ini?’
Berapa harga ini? Saya berminat untuk membelinya.

Saya dari…
To convey where you’re from, ‘Saya dari…’ means ‘I am from…’
Saya dari Kanada. Ini kali pertama saya di Malaysia.

Selamat jalan
This phrase means goodbye or have a safe trip, used when someone is leaving.
Selamat jalan! Semoga perjalanan anda menyenangkan.

Minta maaf
‘Minta maaf’ is a formal way of apologizing or saying sorry.
Minta maaf, saya terlambat.

Di mana…?
To ask the location of something or someone, ‘Di mana…?’ means ‘Where is…?’
Di mana tandas? Saya perlu pergi sekarang.

Having these basic Malay phrases at your fingertips will make your journey into learning the language easier and more enjoyable. As with any language, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to use these phrases as often as possible when interacting with native speakers or during language practice sessions. Selamat belajar! (Happy learning!)