Exploring taboo culture: a cross-cultural analysis of taboos in China and Malaysia

Taboos occur in intercultural communication and can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, obstacles, and conflicts in cross-cultural communication. The objective of this study was to compare the similarities and differences between the Chinese and Malay taboo cultures. The study used qualitative research method, and the design was based on Giles’s Communication Accommodation Theory using the narratives research approach. The findings show that many differences exist in the taboos of Chinese and Malay communities in terms of lifestyle, such as food, gift-giving, and greetings. It is concluded that strengthening cultural exchange could lead to better intercultural communication and cooperation towards achieving mutual tolerance and understanding. The findings imply that understanding taboos will create awareness and strengthen international relations between the two countries. Future studies can focus on other linguistic elements.