As we roll closer to 2020, the world is becoming much more open to seeing couples of different races. The rate of discrimination against a single race has significantly decreased, yet interracial couples still face a lot of nonsense all the time.
Even though Malaysia is a multiracial country, we still face some prejudice if we date someone of a different race from us. Whether the circumstances are that both people are Malaysian but of different races, or one person is Malaysian while the other isn’t, here are some reactions and situations you’ve most probably faced at least once.
1. The constant judgemental stares
We know you’re not trying to say anything mean or harsh to our faces, but we can clearly see you judging us. I mean, it’s pretty obvious from the way you look at us from top to toe, and then turn to whisper to your friend.
Yes, we can tell. So just stop judging altogether.
2. People bashing the other race right in front of you, but “it doesn’t apply” to your partner
Yes, you may believe in certain stereotypes about a particular race, but that doesn’t mean they’re true at all. Plus, going on and on about it and then trying to ‘comfort’ us by saying “it doesn’t apply” to our partner isn’t helping much at all.
3. When your non-Malaysian partner hates durian
Durian is love, durian is life. ‘Nuff said.
4. When your partner can’t understand a joke because it’s only funny in your language
How to translate lah? It’s only funny if we say it in our language. Plus, explaining the joke kinda kills the humour.
5. Having to translate everything
When we’re conversing among friends and family who are speaking in our mother tongue, our partner sometimes gets left out because they just don’t understand anything. So, we have to do all the translation just so they can feel like they’re part of the group too.
6. Teaching them how to use lah, loh, leh
When they’re not Malaysian (or at least Singaporean), they will definitely be unfamiliar with the usage of lah, loh, and leh. Hence, it is our duty to educate them the amazing Manglish!
7. “So, how are you gonna raise your kids?”
It is up to us however in the world we want to raise our kids and it surely is none of your business.
8. “Do your parents approve?”
We no longer live in the 18th century where we would need our parents’ approval just to date someone (ok, maybe some of you still do, depending how traditional your folks are). So, for the most part, your question is invalid and irrelevant.
9. Learning another language and culture
The absolute best part about being in an interracial relationship would be having the opportunity to learn about a new language and culture.
And of course, we would always start with the curse words.
10. Having to do two weddings of two different traditions
Source: Vulcan Post
Well, when there is a union between two different races, it becomes mandatory to have two different ceremonies to pay tribute to both cultures and traditions.
Hence, to accommodate both sides of the family, we must have two different weddings. And waste more money, sigh.
11. “Oh, your children will look so beautiful.”
Okay, as much as this seems like a compliment to an interracial couple, it is actually quite annoying to hear too. So, let’s just avoid this statement altogether.
12. Celebrating different festivals throughout the year
Let’s look at the brighter side of things. Dating someone from a different race and cultural background would also mean that they celebrate different occasions, which we too, will automatically get to celebrate as their partner. And that essentially means more parties, more functions, and more fun!
13. The racism from both families
Sigh. As if facing racism from society isn’t bad enough, we even have to face the same negativity from our very own flesh and blood.
So, please… cut us some slack, ok? We are already going through a lot. Let us be happy with our relationship and even if you want to be a judgmental little sourpuss, please do so in private. #kthxbai
Also read: 9 Little Moments That Make Us Malaysians Go #KitaOK
