“It looks like a tinderbox you know”: Exploring Chinese Perspectives on Ethnic Dynamics in Sarawak, Malaysia

Yeo, Jiin Yih and Ting, Su Hie and Sharifah Sophia, Wan Ahmad and Collin, Jerome and Nazrinzulaiqa, Hasbi (2024) “It looks like a tinderbox you know”: Exploring Chinese Perspectives on Ethnic Dynamics in Sarawak, Malaysia. Asian Journal of Research in Education and Social Sciences, 6 (3). pp. 140-153. ISSN 2682-8502

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Abstract

The study examines Chinese perspectives on ethnic dynamics in Sarawak at a personal level and at the national level. The case study involved interviews with three Chinese participants living in Sarawak, Malaysia. They have worked in the civil service, with two who are still in service and another who is retired. The analysis of the interview results shows positive perceptions of ethnic relations at the personal level. Due to their national school experience, the participants felt a sense of closeness with other ethnic groups. This laid the foundation for them to build cross-cultural friendships with friends and colleagues from other ethnic groups. Moreover, early exposure to multiculturalism through their parents engenders positive attitudes and openness towards other ethnicities. Being raised in a mixed-ethnic family can also cultivate a feeling of connection to other ethnic groups. While studying abroad, the participants felt solidarity with fellow Malaysians (in-group) and their shared national identity supercedes racial differences. However, the participants considered ethnic dynamics at the national level to be not satisfactory. They believe race and religion are inextricably linked, and that this connection is sometimes exploited for political gain by creating feelings of “us” versus “them”. Another area of contention is financial assistance not reaching the underprivileged regardless of race. Nevertheless, there are unifying factors like national sports which brings Malaysians together as one. The study proposes a model of ethnic dynamics at personal and national levels based on the Chinese perspective.

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