Beginner Malay Language Course Curriculum

Comprehensive Curriculum for Malay Language Beginners

Course Overview

The Beginner Malay Language course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior experience in Malay.

This curriculum adopts a holistic approach, integrating language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) with cultural awareness, to ensure that students acquire not only foundational language proficiency but also an appreciation for Malay customs and way of life.

By the end of the course, learners will be able to participate in simple conversations, understand basic texts, and communicate effectively in common daily situations.

Putra Mosque in Putrajaya, Malaysia.
Group of adult professionals shaking hands and smiling.

Course Objectives

  • ✔Enable students to confidently use basic Malay phrases and greetings in daily situations.
  • ✔Build foundational listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Malay.
  • ✔Develop an understanding of essential grammar and sentence structures.
  • ✔Introduce key aspects of Malay culture and customs.

Course Structure

The course is structured over 12 weeks, with each week focusing on specific themes and language skills.

Week Theme Key Language Points Cultural Component
1 Introduction to Malay and Greetings Alphabet, pronunciation, formal and informal greetings, and self-introduction. Malay names and forms of address.
2 Introducing Yourself and Others Personal pronouns and basic questions (e.g., "What is your name?" and "Where are you from?"). Family structure and respect in Malay culture.
3 Numbers, Days and Time Cardinal numbers from 1 to 100, the names of the days of the week and of the months, and how to tell the time. Traditional festivals and the Malay calendar.
4 Describing People and Things Basic adjectives and simple subject-verb-object (SVO) sentence structure. Physical descriptions and polite conversation.
5 Everyday Activities Common verbs, expressing likes and dislikes, and daily routines. Malay daily life and customs.
6 Family and Relationships Family vocabulary, possessive pronouns and talking about family members. Respect for elders and family roles in Malay society.
7 Food and Eating Out Food vocabulary, ordering at a restaurant and expressing preferences. Malay cuisine and food etiquette.
8 Shopping and Numbers Shopping phrases, asking for prices, bargaining, and currency. Traditional markets and shopping habits.
9 Directions and Transportation Asking for and giving directions, and transportation vocabulary. Travelling in Malaysia and public transportation.
10 Weather and Seasons Weather expressions, describing the seasons and common adjectives. The climate in Malaysia and traditional weather beliefs.
11 Health and Wellbeing The parts of the body, expressing feelings and going to the doctor. Health beliefs and practices in Malay culture.
12 Review and Assessment Revision of all topics, a practice exam, and oral and written assessments. Reflecting on learning and a cultural quiz.