Breaking ASEAN Stereotypes
Southeast Asians often rank, compare, and stereotype one another, despite the talk of ASEAN unity.
“Singaporeans are too strict”, “Malaysians are too soft”, “Filipinos are too noisy” and "Thais are too easygoing.”
The region's divides run deeper than the slogans suggest, with stereotypes prevalent on the streets, in classrooms, and online.
As ASEAN leaders gather for the 47th ASEAN Summit, the question of how well Southeast Asians truly understand one another remains.
Luo Chen Jun, a former civil servant from Singapore, notices that people often see his country first during regional exchanges.
Author's summary: ASEAN stereotypes persist despite unity efforts.