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, on the streets, in classrooms, and online. As ASEAN leaders meet for the 47th ASEAN Summit, the question remains: how well do Southeast Asians truly understand each other? Luo Chen Jun, a former Singaporean civil servant, notes that people often see his country first when participating in regional exchanges.
Author's summary: ASEAN stereotypes persist despite unity goals.