Breaking ASEAN Stereotypes
Southeast Asians often stereotype one another, with common phrases including:
- “Singaporeans are too strict”
- “Malaysians are too soft”
- “Filipinos are too noisy”
- “Thais are too easygoing”
“Singaporeans are too strict”, “Malaysians are too soft”, “Filipinos are too noisy” and "Thais are too easygoing”
Despite the idea of ASEAN unity, these stereotypes persist in daily life, classrooms, and online. As ASEAN leaders meet for the 47th ASEAN Summit, the question remains: how well do Southeast Asians truly understand each other?
A former civil servant from Singapore, Luo Chen Jun, notes that people often see his country first when participating in regional exchanges.
Author's summary: ASEAN stereotypes persist despite unity efforts.