Shopping and money matters

Shopping and money matters

Shopping

  • Understand the various types of shopping places in Malaysia like pasar malam (night markets), pusat beli-belah (shopping malls), and kedai runcit (grocery stores).

  • Learn the vocabulary and phrases used while shopping. For example, asking for the price “Berapa harga ini?” (How much is this?).

  • Grasp the idea of bargaining in open markets. This is referred to as “menawar” in Malay. It’s a widespread practice in Malaysia especially in places like pasar malam.

  • Recognise popular Malaysian products such as batik, songket cloth, and local snacks like dodol and serunding.

Money Management

  • Learn terms associated with money matters such as pendapatan (income), belanja (expenses), simpanan (savings), and hutang (debt).

  • Develop an understanding of general personal finance practices in Malaysia, like saving money in a tabungan (piggy bank) or a akaun bank (bank account).

  • Get familiar with the concept of duit raya, literally translated as ‘celebration money’. It’s a traditional practice of giving money during festive occasions in a green envelope.

  • Learn about economic activities in households such as home budgeting. For instance, managing sewa (rent), bil utiliti (utility bills), and kos makanan (food costs).

Practising these topics in daily conversations and written exercises will help reinforce your understanding and improve competency.