Around Dili

Malae!

After a few days in Timor-Leste, most foreigners will have heard the word “malae” (pronounced ma-lie) several dozen times. Similar to the use of the word “farang” in Thailand or “gringo” in Mexico, malae is how the locals refer to foreigners. Even if you become sick of being called malae, don’t take it to heart; it’s not a derogatory term.

Kids will scream “Malae!” from the side of the road while other people will use it in the place of a name. It’s also commonly used to refer to people. Being called malae is a usually a show of respect and most Timorese would frown at the idea of any foreigner being offended at being addressed in this way.