Racial stereotypes only exist in the mind
My sister and I recently went to Cambodia for a three-day visit.
While waiting for our dinner one day, we met a fellow Malaysian, who seemed friendly and funny at first. Introducing himself, he obviously mistook us for Indian nationals, but we played along just to see what would happen.
He started the conversation by asking us what we did back home. Before we could answer, he asked if my sister climbed coconut trees for a living. I was a little shocked and immediately turned to my sister. She was smiling but it was obvious she felt awkward. He was laughing out loud too.
She politely told him she was a final-year medical student. He seemed surprised at this before saying that his son was in the healthcare line as well. He said that doctors nowadays were so busy that they didn’t have time to do anything else – especially exercise to keep fit. Which was probably why, he added, doctors were becoming fat and unhealthy. He seemed to be hinting at my sister, who isn’t a slim person.
By this time, I was hoping our food would be served quickly so we could leave. But the man then inquired about me. Again, before I could say anything, he asked if I was a housewife. I told him I was a student. Eventually our food was served and we opted for a takeaway instead.
I am not at all offended by what he asked me and my sister, but I am sure most Indian nationals would be upset at the perception they still climb coconut trees.
The purpose of this letter is to let people know that we should never stereotype anyone. Open your eyes, ears and mind before opening your mouth.
Prav
The Star/ANN
