This is a travel size, easy-to-use Malay phrasebook, dictionary, and
beginning Malay language book
Bahasa Malaysia (literally "the Malaysian language") is based on Malay
which is the mother tongue of the Malays of the Peninsula and the people
of central eastern Sumatra. Malay is closely related to languages
throughout Indonesia, the Philippines and the Pacific Islands, and it
has been for centuries the lingua franca of Southeast Asia. The lessons
in this book are prioritized, with more important words and phrases
being give first, so that you may profit no matter how deeply into the
book you go. By studying the first section only, you acquire a basic
"survival" Bahasa Malaysia, and by mastering the first three sections
you should be able to get around quite well on your own. In order to
present each lesson clearly as a unit and reinforce learning, Malay
vocabulary is often repeated. Colloquial Malay, which is the most
commonly spoken and the most readily understood form of the language, is
used here rather than "formal" Bahasa Malaysia. Care has been taken to
include only vocabulary that has immediate practical application for
visitors. By repetition and memorization of the materials, you will
quickly gain a grasp of the language's basic elements. Rather than
include long and tedious lists of words and phrases in the lessons
themselves, we have appended at the back of the book a miniature
bilingual dictionary that should be adequate for the needs of most
tourists. At the end of the book you will also find additional
information on the use of verb and noun affixes, and further suggestions
to learn Malay. Everyday Malay includes:
- Over 2,000 of the most commonly used Malaysian words and phrases.
- A useful and concise Malay dictionary.
- Extensive notes on grammar and the Malay language.
- Cultural do's and dont's that will make your visit go smoothly.
Knowing a few simple phrases of Malay opens up an entirely new and more
fulfilling travel experience. Malaysians love it if you can communicate
in their language, and in only a few short hours this book allows you to
do just that!
