Stereotyping and Its Flaws

Based on my experience, Malaysians usually have this stereotype that people who try to speak English with an accent not their own are show-offs, hence, bashed most of the time. My brother used to speak English with a Scottish accent whenever he spoke with me before he went off to Scotland and at first I knew he was faking it and he sounded so weird, but the fact was after he settled off there for about 3 years now, he came back and spoke the same English-Scottish, and surprisingly he sounded legitimately real. It is to say here that, he has actually adapted to the culture there with his original culture subconsciously so, it made me think that by faking it, he practiced it and made him reach this point. As his little sister, I earnestly vow not to underestimate him (and his previous accent attempts) anymore. 

- Shai

I have had an enlightening experience collaborating with some Japanese friends from Kansai University. Coincidentally, it was themed 'stereotypes on Islam and/or Malaysia from the mass media'. As anticipated, some of them find Islam intimidating and somewhat rigid, with the...

• controversial IS issue
• obligation of hijab on women (even in sunny Malaysia!)
• praying five times daily 
• and most of all, the no alcohol (yes, that includes sake and mirin) and no pork rule (a staple in Japanese cuisine), among others. 

The negative images of our culture/beliefs did sadden us, but on the bright side, we had an opportunity to help neutralize them. Therefore, we had produced response videos to their intellectual conundrums. If you're up to it, here's our 11 minute video on the Muslim prayers.

All in all, the collaboration allowed me to see Islam from another's eyes, as well as the fact that stereotypes made by any mass media, should be verified through our own research that will inshaAllah lead to the truth. By knowing the truth, we can avoid intercultural miscommunication. 

- Afia

What inspired us to share our own experiences on stereotyping and its sins, you ask? Why don't you watch this talk given by this well-spoken, diversely-cultured Italian-British-Norwegian expatriate to find out the answer? (grins)

Good day, sir!