Is it rude to ask about salary range during the first interview?

Totally fair to ask, and no it's not rude if done right. I now always clarify the range early to avoid wasting time, exactly like you experienced. The smooth way: at the end of the first interview when they ask 'any questions?', say 'To make sure we're aligned, may I know the budgeted salary range for this role?' Framing it as 'alignment' sounds professional, not greedy. Many Malaysian companies actually appreciate it because they also don't want to waste rounds. If the recruiter contacted you first, ask them the range upfront before even attending, that's their job to screen. Don't be shy, undervaluing yourself or wasting leave days on interviews for a lowball offer is worse. You're evaluating them too, salary is a legitimate factor.

As someone who's been on both sides of the table, ask, but time it and phrase it well. Bombarding with salary questions in the first 5 minutes looks bad, but by the end of the first round it's completely reasonable. I like: 'I'm really interested in the role, to respect both our time, could you share the salary range you have in mind?' If they dodge, that's actually a small red flag about transparency. In Malaysia some old-school HR still find it awkward, so pairing it with genuine interest in the role softens it. Also do your homework on market rate (glassdoor, jobstreet salary data) so you can talk numbers confidently. Caring about fair pay isn't greedy, it's adulting. Just lead with enthusiasm for the work, then the money question lands fine.