Alright?

It's been a year I live in Plymouth. Love to see and learn new culture. Ok, first thing that I've noticed. The phrase that the local here always use when they first meet other people which is 'R u alrigt' or 'Alright'. They don't greet us with 'Hi' and 'Hello'. Sometimes I feel confuse whether to reply or not cause I know their intention is not to know our condition pon. Here are some examples on how they use this phrase.

Situation I

Been to Asda and want to pay for my goods. The cashier said 'Alright' when I met her. And as a reply, I said 'Ya' (I always use this).

Situation II

At my workplace. There's one guy wanted to borrow my pen. But then he's too scared to ask from me. He asked another people to ask me (Ceh aku ni garang sgt ke?). Then he came to me and gave my pen back and said 'Alright' then blah. I'm expecting 'Thanks' not 'Alright'. Hurm takkan sume pon ckp alright. Aiya.