Within the Malay household, a younger person is bound by custom to respect his elders, and this must be demonstrated through actions, speech and even body language.

One such example is the gesture made when passing in front of someone else, especially in a confined area such as the living room.

When passing in front of an older person, or person of equal rank whom you don't know, bend your body slightly. Your right arm should be extended straight, directed to the ground, with palms open wide; while the left is placed slightly below the torso. Bow your head when you do so. It is common to say "tumpang lalu" while passing by. It bears the same connotations, if not meaning, as "excuse me", in this instance