Differences Between Malaysia And Indonesia

Malaysia vs Indonesia

Asia has captured the hearts of so many tourists because of its diversity in culture and tradition. Foreigners even relocate and live in the Asian countries because they have fallen in love with them. Others may marry a local of that country as they have come to understand what the country is all about. Having a partner coming from that country will allow them to delve deeper on the country’s past. These countries may have similar traditions and practices; but they also have their own differences. As they say, everything is different and no two things are exactly alike. Similarities are inevitable but the uniqueness within that thing or person is what sets them apart from the others surrounding them. In this case, Malaysia and Indonesia have their distinct characteristics which make them stand out equally. Below are just a few reasons why these two countries entice travellers, local and international alike, to visit them.

Vocabulary

It is common for some countries to have similar vocabulary. But of course, there will be differences. The Indonesian vocabulary is primarily from Javanese and Dutch origin, but is still based on the Malay in Riau (islands). Indonesian vocabulary has some Malay influence, but it is not the same language. Take the word “post office” for example. In the Malaysian language, it is “pejabat pos” while in the Indonesian language, it is “kantor pos.” The word “kantor” is derived from the Dutch word “kantoor” which means office.

Orthography

Each country has its own alphabet and this too makes each one unique. Malay’s alphabet was known as Jawi, which was a modified form of the Arabic alphabet. It later on became known as Rumi, because now Malay is written together with Roman letters. The Indonesian alphabet, on the other hand, was influenced by English. You can clearly see the separation of origins of the nations’ alphabets.

Pronunciation

In Indonesia, the pronunciation of the words is as spelt. Enunciation is relatively fast when compared to Malay, which is said to have a slower pace. If you just listen carefully to the locals of these countries, you will definitely hear the difference.

These are only a few differences between Malaysia and Indonesia. The culture and tradition is so rich that people have to really be immersed to be more aware. It is nice to know that people want to learn more about the various countries and that they are willing to travel there to get that first-hand experience that they always wanted. There are some individuals that literally try to live in both countries and see for themselves what each one offers. Things may be hard at first but they know that it will be worth the effort and time. With immersion, they can talk to the locals and have a deeper understanding of what the country’s past is. Spending a couple of days in each place will surely shed some light on the cultures and traditions.

Summary:

1. Indonesian vocabulary is primarily from Javanese and Dutch origin, but is still based on the Malay in Riau (islands). Indonesian vocabulary has some Malay influence, but it is not the same language.

2. Malay’s alphabet was known as Jawi, which was a modified form of the Arabic alphabet. It later on became known has Rumi, because now Malay iss written together with Roman letters. The Indonesian alphabet, on the other hand, was influenced by English.

3. In Indonesia, the pronunciation of the words is as spelt. Enunciation is relatively fast when compared to Malay, which is said to have a slower pace. If you just listen carefully to the locals of these countries, you will definitely hear the difference.

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