A Malaysian Abroad

I received an e-mail recently asking me what motivates me as a Malaysian. Frankly, I was momentarily stumped because this question has just never occurred to me before. But after mulling over it for half a day, here are my thoughts.

When I am home among other Malaysians, I don't feel anything special because I am just one among many. It is when I am abroad that I feel more Malaysian because the differences become obvious. For instance, try opening your mouth and speak in English when you are abroad and that’s when your “Malaysianness” creeps in on you as you consciously remind yourself not to end every other sentence with a ‘lah’.

Thus, the differences automatically motivate me to maintain my roots and identity as a Malaysian. I can most certainly pass off as a Hongkie but don't call me a Hongkie because I am not. Unlike Hongkies, I can’t read and write Chinese, don’t speak perfect Cantonese and hate the crowded malls. So, a Malaysian I’ll remain.

Anyway, wherever I am, I guess maintaining my background and identity will always motivate me as a Malaysian because being one is all I know.

I hope that answers the question. So, what motivates you as a Malaysian?

Labels: Personal