Expressing condolences is an important gesture to offer support and empathy to someone who has experienced a loss. In Malay culture, it is customary to convey your sympathy and condolences to grieving individuals or their families. This guide will provide you with expressions and phrases you can use to say “my condolences” in Malay, both formally and informally. While there might be regional variations, we will focus on standard Malay phrases that can be understood and use across different regions.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When expressing condolences in formal situations, it’s essential to use polite language and respectful expressions. Here are some suitable phrases:
1. Saya ucapkan takziah
Translation: “I offer my condolences.”
Example: Saya ucapkan takziah di atas pemergian ibu bapa saudara. Semoga roh mereka dicucuri rahmat. (I offer my condolences on the passing of your parents. May their souls rest in peace.)
2. Innalillahi wainnailaihirajiun
Translation: “We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.” This phrase is often used to show acceptance and surrender to God’s will in times of loss.
Example: Innalillahi wainnailaihirajiun atas berita pemergian suamimu. Semoga beliau ditempatkan di kalangan orang-orang yang beriman. (We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return on the news of your husband’s passing. May he be placed amongst the believers.)
Informal Expressions
When expressing condolences in more informal settings, such as among friends or close acquaintances, you can utilize these phrases:
1. Turut berduka cita
Translation: “I share your sorrow.”
Example: Turut berduka cita dengan pemergian nenek tersayangmu. Semoga nenek beristirahat dalam kebahagiaan abadi. (I share your sorrow on the passing of your beloved grandma. May she rest in eternal happiness.)
2. Sedih mendengar berita…
Translation: “Sad to hear the news…”
Example: Sedih mendengar berita tentang kematian adik kamu. Saya sampaikan duka cita yang mendalam. (Sad to hear the news about the death of your sibling. I extend my deepest condolences.)
Additional Tips and Cultural Considerations
While the phrases mentioned above are appropriate for expressing condolences in Malay, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
1. Use a sympathetic tone
When conveying condolences, it is vital to adopt a sympathetic and compassionate tone. Your words should provide comfort and support to the grieving individuals.
2. Offer assistance
Alongside expressing condolences, you can extend your offer to help the bereaved. Whether it is assisting with funeral arrangements, providing emotional support, or any other practical help, your gesture will be appreciated.
3. Use non-verbal communication
Words alone may not fully convey your condolences, so it’s essential to accompany them with appropriate non-verbal gestures. A gentle handshake, touch on the shoulder, or a sincere hug can express empathy and offer comfort.
4. Consider Islamic customs
If the person you are expressing condolences to is of Islamic faith, it is respectful to consider Islamic customs. The bereaved may appreciate prayers or recitation from the Quran to offer solace and support.
