Meaning
A greeting used after sunset or before sleep
Cultural Background
In cities, 'Selamat malam' is used in all professional settings. In villages, greetings are often warmer and might include a question about where you are going. Often followed by a religious greeting in Muslim-majority areas. Young people often shorten it to 'Malem' in text messages.
Watch the sun
The best way to know when to use it is to look at the sky. If it's dark, use 'malam'.
Add a title
Adding 'Pak' or 'Ibu' makes you sound much more respectful.
Meaning
A greeting used after sunset or before sleep
Watch the sun
The best way to know when to use it is to look at the sky. If it's dark, use 'malam'.
Add a title
Adding 'Pak' or 'Ibu' makes you sound much more respectful.
Don't overthink
If you use it slightly too early, people will still understand and appreciate the effort.
Test Yourself
Which greeting is appropriate at 8:00 PM?
It is 8:00 PM, what do you say?
8:00 PM is after sunset, so 'Selamat malam' is the correct choice.
Complete the phrase.
Selamat ____.
The phrase is 'Selamat malam'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Selamat malam! B: ____.
The standard response to a greeting is to return the same greeting.
Match the situation to the greeting.
You are going to bed. What do you say?
Selamat malam is used for goodnight.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIt is 8:00 PM, what do you say?
8:00 PM is after sunset, so 'Selamat malam' is the correct choice.
Selamat ____.
The phrase is 'Selamat malam'.
A: Selamat malam! B: ____.
The standard response to a greeting is to return the same greeting.
You are going to bed. What do you say?
Selamat malam is used for goodnight.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it sounds very strange and confusing.
Yes, it is perfect for evening calls.
Err on the side of 'sore' if the sun is still up.
No, it is a fixed phrase.
No, a polite nod or smile is enough.
Yes, it is a common opening for evening emails.
Yes, but 'Malam!' is more common.
It means both.
Yes, it is standard Indonesian.
'Selamat malam' is a greeting/farewell; 'Selamat tidur' is specifically 'sleep well'.
Related Phrases
Selamat pagi
similarGood morning
Selamat siang
similarGood day
Selamat sore
similarGood afternoon
Selamat tidur
builds onSleep well
