Breaking Stereotypes in ASEAN
Southeast Asians often stereotype one another, with common phrases including:
“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 life.
As ASEAN leaders meet for the 47th ASEAN Summit, the question remains: how well do Southeast Asians truly understand each other?
A former Singaporean civil servant, Luo Chen Jun, notes that people often view his country through a limited lens when participating in regional exchanges.
Author's summary: ASEAN unity is tested by lingering stereotypes.