Is the word malas the same in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

No.

While the literal meaning of "malas" (suitcases) is identical in both dialects, there is a significant difference in typical usage. In Brazil, "mala" (singular) or "malas" (plural) is a very common slang term used to describe a person who is annoying, boring, or difficult to deal with. In Portugal, while the word is understood, it is almost exclusively used for luggage; a Portuguese person would typically use the word "chato" or "seca" to describe an annoying person. Additionally, there are minor differences in the vocabulary used for related items (e.g., "porta-malas" in Brazil vs. "bagageiro" in Portugal).

Brazilian Portuguese Examples

1. "As malas já estão no porta-malas." (The suitcases are already in the trunk.)
2. "Aqueles caras são muito malas!" (Those guys are very annoying!)
3. "As malas de couro são muito caras." (The leather suitcases are very expensive.)
4. "Não aguento esses malas, eles só falam de trabalho." (I can't stand these annoying people, they only talk about work.)
5. "Você já arrumou as suas malas para a viagem?" (Have you already packed your suitcases for the trip?)

Portuguese Examples

1. "As malas já estão no bagageiro." (The suitcases are already in the luggage compartment.)
2. "Aqueles tipos são muito chatos!" (Those guys are very annoying!)
3. "As malas de pele são muito caras." (The leather suitcases are very expensive.)
4. "Não suporto essas pessoas, são uma seca." (I can't stand those people, they are a bore.)
5. "Já arrumaste as tuas malas para a viagem?" (Have you packed your suitcases for the trip?)