Starting with M
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- macamMalay for like or similar to. 'Macam-macam' means all sorts.
- machaTamil-origin word for buddy or bro, used by Malaysians of all backgrounds. Also machan, machi.
- mahMeans 'it's obvious lah' and is used when giving a reason that should have been clear. Also spelt ma.
- maiNorthern Malay for come.
- main tai chiPassing responsibility around like tai chi moves, so nothing ever gets solved.
- mak kau hijauA classic latah outburst (literally 'your mother is green'), blurted out when someone is startled.
- makanMalay for eat, or food. Used everywhere, in every language.
- makan anginLiterally 'eat wind'. Means going on a holiday or a relaxing trip.
- makan dalamTo suffer quietly, keeping your frustration or pain to yourself.
- makan gajiTo work as a salaried employee rather than running your own business.
- makan gaji butaGetting paid without doing any real work.
- makan hatiLiterally 'eat heart'. To feel hurt or upset inside, often silently.
- makan suapTo take a bribe.
- makcikMalay for aunt, used for any older woman. A 'makcik bawang' is a gossipy auntie who knows everyone's business.
- makweMalay slang for girlfriend.
- Malaysia bolehNational catchphrase meaning 'Malaysia can do it!', said proudly, or sarcastically when something absurd happens.
- maluMalay for shy or embarrassed.
- mamakA 24-hour Indian-Muslim eatery and the national hangout spot. Also means going there, as in 'jom mamak'.
- mamatMalay slang for a guy or dude, often someone you don't know.
- mampusMalay for 'dead', meaning you're in big trouble. A bit rude when aimed at someone.
- mana adaMalay for 'no way' or 'not true', literally 'where got?'.
- mantapExcellent, solid, top quality.
- mat rempitIllegal street racers on motorbikes who speed and pull stunts on public roads. Also just rempit.
- mat sallehFriendly term for a Western foreigner.
- MCMedical certificate. 'Take MC' means taking sick leave.
- mehTurns a sentence into a doubtful or surprised question, like 'really?' or 'is that so?'.
- meluatDisgusted or put off by someone's behaviour.
- memberA friend or buddy. 'Member aku' means my mate.
- mengadaActing spoilt, fussy or dramatic. Also mengada-ngada.
- mengularSlacking off or loafing around, slithering away from duties like a snake.