“Tacod”, “Leklu” & 8 Other Unique M’sian Slangs on Twitter That We Can’t Escape

Being Malaysian, there have been many “urban slangs” that keep us together, despite the difference in languages. However, thanks to the presence and dominance of social media, the creation of funny, cute slang emerge. 

As we have just celebrated Malaysia Day last week (September 16), it’s a good time to explore the funny slangs used by Malaysians on Twitter to express the shenanigans of their daily lives.

1. Alang-alang

Sometimes, we tend to do 2 or multiple things at once to save time. In other words, we’re killing 2 birds with 1 stone. Of course, as Malaysians, we don’t always say we’re killing birds with 2 stones, and that’s when the word “alang-alang” comes to play. For instance,

“Alang-alang we’re here already, let’s just grab a quick snack before the movie starts.”

2. Cincai

If you don’t know cincai, you’re probably not Malaysians enough! And as Malaysians, we certainly have our fair share of being “cincai” with our work. It can imply 2 things – you’re in a hurry and you don’t want to waste time with complicated suggestions. Or, it simply shows your minimal effort to complete a task in “whatever manner.”

“Ugh, cincai lah. I can have anything for breakfast.”

3. Gerak lu, pape roger

Derived from the phrase “gerak dahulu, apa-apa roger”, which means “I’m leaving, call me if anything.” “Gerak lu, pape roger” is often the way where cool kids try to tell their friends that they’re leaving, but they’re just a phone call away should anything come up.

4. Kawtim

“Kawtim” is derived from the Cantonese phrase “Gao Dim”, which can mean a few different things, depending on the context. It can mean a task is completed or it can also imply that a deal is sealed. As Malaysians, we’re definitely no stranger to phrases like below,

“I’m leaving home now! I kawtim my work already!”

5. Kantoi

English speakers will relate to this with the word “Busted”, and it’s pretty straightforward.

It means you’re caught red-handed doing something that is against the law, or something prohibited. If you have the habit of going against red lights, and you happen to be stopped by Abang Polis, then you’re simply going to kantoi with the police officer.

6. Leklu

As the country has transitioned into its endemicity, work routine has reverted to the old norm. The traffic congestion, the hectic work in the office, and another wave of traffic jams to go home.

But that does not mean we can’t chill for a bit in between. As Malaysians, we’ll say “leklu” for this situation. It’s a short form of the phrase “relax dahulu.”

7. Mantap

Mantap is often used to compliment something for its good qualities, or someone for a job well done. Since Malaysians are synonymous with good food, we can also use “Mantap” to praise the food!

“I had Nasi Lemak yesterday, and the sambal was mantap giler!”

8. Pergh

Starstruck? In awe? When you’re rendered speechless by something that amazes you, “pergh” is usually uttered to express your amusement. Feeling impressed with the work of your colleagues?

“Pergh! Your work is damn hebat!”

9. Syok Sendiri

A pretty self-explanatory slang and each of us definitely has someone like this around us. For instance, if you have a colleague who thinks he is a ladies’ man but the truth is no one is a fan of him, then he is simply being syok sendiri.

10. Tacod

Last but not least, “tacod” refers to the wordplay of “takut” (afraid). However, when you use “tacod”, it does not mean you’re expressing a genuine fear, but rather a playful way to tell others that you’re actually not afraid of what’s coming, or of someone.

Fellow Malaysians, which one of these have you ever used in daily conversation? Do you have any other slangs that you think that we have missed? 

Also read: “It’s the culture here” – British Food Vlogger Recalls How He Fell In Love With M’sia & Built A Life Here