Southeast Asians often hold stereotypes about each other, such as "Singaporeans are too strict", "Malaysians are too soft", "Filipinos are too noisy", and "Thais are too easygoing".
"Singaporeans are too strict", "Malaysians are too soft", "Filipinos are too noisy" and "Thais are too easygoing."
Despite the goal of ASEAN unity, these stereotypes persist in everyday conversations, classrooms, and online. The upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where Timor-Leste's formal admission will be announced, raises questions about the true understanding among Southeast Asians.
A former Singaporean civil servant, Luo Chen Jun, notes that people often view his country first when participating in regional exchanges.
Author's summary: ASEAN unity faces challenges from regional stereotypes.