Some people shake hands, some kiss and hug. Others just say hello. These exchanges are common in the U.S., but how do people in Asia greet each other?
| Country | Gesture |
|---|---|
| China | a nod or bow |
| Hong Kong (older Chinese) | clasp hands together at throat level and nod |
| India | palms together as though praying and bend or nod, called namaste |
| Indonesia | say selamat, which means peace |
| Japan | bow from the waist, palms on thighs, heels together |
| Korea | a slight bow and handshake (right hand in one or both hands) |
| Malaysia | both hands touch other person's hands, then are brought back to the breast, called salame gesture |
| Philippines | a limp handshake |
| Sri Lanka | place palms together under chin and bow slightly |
| Thailand | place palms together, elbows down, and bow head slightly, called wai |
In Malaysia people greet each other by saying "Where are you going?" Because it is not really a question, the polite response is "Just for a walk."
