This document provides information about Norway, Malaysia, and non-verbal communication norms in each country. Norway has a population of 4.8 million, borders Finland and Russia, and has a high GDP per capita due to oil, gas, and other natural resources. Malaysia has a population of 28 million, including 23.7% who are Chinese, and its economy relies on agriculture, tin, rubber and palm oil. In Norway, people maintain an arm's length of personal space, there is little physical contact like hugging, and eye contact and standing up when meeting someone are important. In Malaysia, avoiding loud voices, talking politics, or touching heads are advised, and building relationships takes time.
2. Norway
4.8 million inhabitants
Borders with Finland and Russia
Economic growth after world war II
Third highest GDP per capita
worldwide
Resources: oil, natural gas,
hydroelectric power, forests and
minerals
Petroleum, hydroelectric,
aluminium, telecommunication
3. Malaysia
Federal constitutional monarchy
28 million inhabitants
23,7 % of the population is
Chinese
GDP in 2009: 381.1 Billion US$
agricultural resources, tin,
rubber and palm oil
Religion: Islam
5. Non-Verbal Communication in Norway
Space and Distance
• Arm‘s length distance from business partners
• Personal space; influence on seating and furniture
arrangement
Physical Contact
• No physical contact
• Greeting in Norway: just a hello or a hug
• Not much intimissy
6. Non-Verbal Communication in Norway
Gestures and Facial Expressions
• Avoid speaking in a loud voice
• Standing while being introduced
to someone
• Look each other in the eyes
while communicating
7. Behavioural advices for Malaysia
Don’t raise voice
No talk about politics
Never touch the head
Friday is the day of rest
Never use the left hand
8. Behavioural advices for Malaysia
Firm handshake
No gifts
Exchange business cards
Take time to build a
relationship
Be prepared for personal
questions