PHILIPPINES

*My space is your space

One of the culture of Filipino is "my space is your space". All Filipino treat their
guests are like a member of their family. The guests may room anywhere inside and
outside the house and even in the bedrooms.

*Sensitive to the feeling of others

Filipinos are sensitive to the feeling of others. If you meet some of your
acquaintance you need to greet them with a smile or just raise your eyebrows. If you
snob them may be they will mad at you. Everyone are sensitive about the feelings of
others.

*Sweeping and mopping at night

Do not sweep the floor at night because you remove the luck of the day. It is said
that sweeping and mopping at night or after it gets dark will make Goddess Lakshmi
leave the house. This may refer to our valuable things, like for example, pieces of jewelry
may be swept away in the dark. Since Goddess Lakshmi refers to wealth, “Goddess
Lakshmi leaving the house” might just mean that you might lose your jewelry while
sweeping away. Many might have faced this situation back in the days when there was
no electricity

*The magical healing touch

The tradition rituals are a way of connecting to divine. Through touch people get
healed.

Their cultural and moral belief was more on superstition that later on became a
tradition that every Filipino followed. There is no proof or evidence that this is true but
Filipinos are still following it.

SINGAPORE

*Family

In Singapore, the family is the center of the social structure and it is where unity,
loyalty and respect begin. Elders are introduced first, are given preferential seating, are
given the choices food and in general put on a pedestral.

*Relationship between Parents and Children

The Singaporean generally does not criticize and contradict their parents in public
and they show respect to them. They usually do not break away from them in order to
lead their own individual lives. They prefer to be self-reliant but they are also stay within
the support system of the group. They politely express their own ideas and make their
own decision within the context of the group through group consensus. In many
instances, young people tend to conform to their parent's wishes regarding courses of
study or career.

THAILAND

*Family matters

Family almost always comes first in Thailand, with a much greater emphasis
placed on the extended family than it typically is in western countries. If you’re shocked
by the number of siblings a Thai person has, it’s highly likely many of those are
cousins—there’s no word in Thai for cousin and people refer to cousins as their brothers
and sisters.

It’s normal for extended families to live close to each other, with many Thais
maintaining strong links with their home villages even if they move away for work. It’s
fairly common for children to be raised by grandparents or aunts and uncles if their
parents need to work elsewhere, such is the role of extended family in everyday life.
Younger members of the family are expected to help take care of older members. This
can be financially, or by doing a range of chores.

*Status is important

Although it may not be immediately apparent, status is a huge thing in Thai

culture. Age, family connections, job types, education, and income levels are all
contributing factors to a person’s perceived status in society. Status is not fixed, as in
some cultures; a Thai can gain or lose status if their circumstances change. Thais perform
different versions of the wai depending on a person’s status, and there are social rules
concerning who should offer the first wai. Status is important when a group of people are
socialising together—it’s traditional for the highest earner to foot the bill.

When talking with each other, Thais have words that indicate a person’s age,
using pee before an older person’s name to show respect, and nong for somebody
younger than them. Things aren’t always quite so simple, though, as a younger person
may be referred to as pee if they have a higher status, for example through marriage or by
way of their profession. These small social rules are easy to miss by an outsider but are
tightly woven into the fabric of Thai culture.
*Keep your cool

Showing extreme emotions in public is frowned upon in Thailand. As a result,

Thai people are known for their self-control and seemingly calm nature. Thais rarely
show anger in public and are generally non-confrontational. You are more likely to hear a
Thai person saying jai yen yen (“cool your heart”) and discussing problems calmly than
yelling, cursing, and acting aggressively.

*Respect yourself and others

Respect plays a big part in daily interactions in Thailand. Thai people show
respect in many ways, from using the wai and ducking when passing between two
people, to language and standards of dress. Respect for the self is as important as respect
for others. When everyone shows respect for each other, it creates a society that is, at
least outwardly, more tolerant, understanding, civil, and peaceful. Gratitude is also
important, with people generally giving the utmost respect to parents, teachers, law
enforcement officials, and medical workers.

Thailand's cultural and moral beliefs are bizarre because they maintain good vibes
in their country. Being centre of your life is your family and respecting others are very
important to have a happy and peaceful country but I have to disagree about "maintain
your cool" because they cannot show their true emotions to others.

VIETNAM

*Loyalty to the Family

Misconduct of an individual is blamed not only on himself, but also on his

parents, siblings, relatives, and ancestors. Likewise, any success or fame achieved by an
individual brings honor and pride to all members of his family. The Vietnamese child is
taught from early childhood to readily forget himself for the sake of his family’s welfare
and harmony. Central to the concept of family is the obligation of filial piety which is
considered the most essential of all virtues in Vietnamese society. The child is expected
to be grateful to his parents for the debt of birth, rearing and education. He is taught to
think of his parents and ancestors first, even at his own expense, to make sacrifices for
his parents’ sake, to love and care for them in their old age. The Vietnamese man who
lacks filial piety is looked down upon and ostracized not only by his own family but also
by the community.

The profound love for and attachment to the family is extended to the physical
setting in which the family has located: the native village. The dearest wish of the
Vietnamese common man is, as a proverb puts it, to die in his own native village and
amidst his own folk “as a leaf which leaves the branch to fall down on the ground at the
foot of the tree”. The native village is not only the place where he was born and brought
up and where his parents and family live but also a place where his ancestors are buried.
Many Vietnamese, especially people in the rural areas, never move out of their native
villages or provinces. This deep attachment to the native village explains the lack of
horizontal mobility in Vietnamese society.

*Respect

Respect is a central part of the Vietnamese values system. People are expected to
show respect to every individual, especially those who are older or hold a higher status.
Such regard is commonly expressed in words and actions, including specific linguistic
titles and body gestures.

*Love for learning

Learning is considered more valuable than wealth, and knowledge is seen as a
virtue. Highly educated people, like scholars or teachers, enjoy a high esteem, respect,
and veneration. Learning is regarded as a fundamental step for improving socioeconomic
status.

*The Good Name

Having a good name is fundamental and more important than any material
possession. A person with a good reputation is respected and admired, while someone
who has a bad name is often marginalized. People work on building a good name during
their entire lives and try to leave a positive image after their death.
I really admire the cultural and moral beliefs of Vietnam because they put their
family first before themselves, but I think that there is a good side of an individual's
wrongdoing is often blamed both on him and his family because everyone will be careful
to their actions and decisions in life because their family image depends on them.
Everybody should always be proud and shows a respect to others even to their ancestors
no matter what happened.
INDONESIA
*Elastic Time
Indonesians have a different attitude towards time and are generally quite flexible
when it comes to meeting deadlines or showing up at appointments. The cultural
phenomenon of arriving late for an appointment is called jam karet meaning 'elastic time'
(literally 'rubber time') and is part of the game when living in Indonesia. It is difficult to
say whether Westerners are more aware of the scarcity and finiteness of time compared
to Indonesians, but for sure the different attitude brings along a different approach to
time management. Therefore, do not be surprised if deadlines are not met or people are
late for an appointment (or do not show up at all). Usually, a small excuse is used to
explain the situation. For example, in the bigger cities of Indonesia a late arrival is often
blamed on the traffic congestion (whether true or not).

*Be ready to Socialize

Compared to Indonesians, western people can, quite generally, be labeled as

rather individualistic. For Indonesians, however, most activities (such as watching
television, doing grocery shopping and eating) are done in the company of others. It is
highly recommended to join such activities - instead of being individualistic - in order to
develop and maintain good social relations. Long and good discussions are necessary for
a friendship to develop. Depending on the background and interest of both sides topics
can involve food, sports, food, and politics.

For Indonesians it is common to talk to strangers. As such, foreigners are

interesting 'objects' and therefore you should not be surprised if people start a
conversation with you. Moreover, during a first conversation Indonesians tend to ask
questions which - from a western viewpoint - can be considered quite private (such as
your marital status or age). This is not only sincere interest but also their way to assess
your social status. If you do not like a question which is posed it is wise to respond with a
vague answer or a joke, instead of becoming annoyed or complain (such a direct
confrontation would endanger the social harmony).

When it comes to business relations it is important to use a more personal

approach. For example inviting business partners or colleagues to have dinner is a
sensible thing to do as Indonesians need to see you in person in order to maintain a good
relationship. Correspondence through email or telephone only is therefore not
recommended. Business deals often happen in the restaurant or at the golf course.

When you, especially if you're a (white) westerner, walk on the streets of

Indonesia, people will surely stare at you. Contrary to the West, it is not impolite to stare
at people in Indonesia. Although this can make you feel uncomfortable in the beginning,
it is something you will get used to. It is best to simply ignore peoples' staring.
Furthermore, Indonesians (especially the younger generations) will often yell out "bule"
to you (which actually means albino but has become commonly-used to describe a
foreigner, especially those of European descent). Others will simply yell out "hey Mister"
when they see you passing by. It is best to answer by smiling and nodding your head.

Values, Morals and Ethics

Religion plays a very important role in Indonesian society and in the daily life of
the Indonesians. Therefore values, morals and ethics which stem from religion, tradition
and culture (although these three are often highly intertwined) are important matters that
influence Indonesian cognition. The number of Indonesians that do not believe in (a) God
is almost negligible. This is also the reason why a large segment of the Indonesian people
think about the western world with mixed feelings. On the one hand they admire the
modernity of the western world (and copy modern features like clothing and technology)
but on the other hand do not understand the decreasing influence of religion together with
the decrease in morals it brings along (for example couples living together before
marriage/free sex).

These feelings are strengthened by images from Bali where some westerners
drink large amounts of alcoholic beverages and some western women sunbath wearing
revealing bikinis. Western movies which sometimes contain explicit sexual scenes
between non-married couples are also a cause for negative sentiments. It is advised to
have respect for such Indonesian values, morals and ethics when residing in Indonesia as
people will subsequently respect you more.

*Being Indirect is Polite

Generally Indonesians place high value on maintaining harmonious social

relations. When necessary this implies being indirect (in other words, not say what they
really think or feel if that would jeopardize the social harmony) which by westerners
sometimes can be interpreted as being dishonest or hypocritical. We would like to stress
however that this merely constitutes a difference in culture and we should therefore not
think in terms of good or bad. Vice versa, Indonesians expect others to be indirect to
them too. For example, be cautious when criticizing Indonesians in case they make a
mistake. It is better not to confront them using blunt speech or with a raised voice.
Instead try to correct them calmly with a smiley face and it is always good to make some
casual jokes in these situations. And when you are planning to criticize an Indonesian
employee it is usually better to start of the conversation by complimenting on some of
his/her good qualities.

Indonesians have a different attitude towards time and are generally quite flexible
when it comes to meeting deadlines or showing up at appointments. Usually, a small
excuse is used to explain the situation. In addition compared to other country, Indonesia
are much friendlier. They always entertain people even if it is new to their country. They
always greet them or smile as a sign of welcoming others.

LAOS

*Baci Ceremony

Baci ceremony is one of the most important ceremonies in Laos culture. The
meaning of Baci is the same with the sukwan meaning “calling the soul” as well as an
indispensable aspect of many important events in their life such as weddings, funerals,
births, illnesses, bye, etc. This protocol usually happens between a few people, with one
or two “recipients”, “celebrate” and some “assistants”.

*Lam Vong

The common folk dance sharing among South-eastern countries: Laos,

Cambodia, Thailand is so popular for men and women. Its origin comes from Khmer
Empire for many years ago. The basic idea is a slow dance round a circular. Each of them
will pose graceful hand gesture with simple footsteps in the Laos music rhythm. One
notice is that you are not allowed to touch your partner while dancing. The men will
create an inner circle while the women will create an outer circle when they are dancing
around each other. The name Lam Vong literally means dancing in the circle or circle
dance. Therefore, it is really simple and suitable for everyone.

*Collectivism versus individualism

In Laos, people prefer collectivism to individualism. They share equal

responsibility in community tasks. Building the local school or someone's house
generates the enthusiastic contribution of the whole neighbourhood. In some ways, the
Lao people are not as collectivist as other East Asian neighbours because Laos has up to
65 ethnic minorities, each ethnic has their own identity and language. In addition,
Buddhism philosophy of “each individual is responsible for his own actions” also make
the Lao people are not really collectivism. This philosophy leads people go their own
way and not interfere the others.

*Authority

Authority goes with age or seniority, position or status. Lao people highly
hierarchy in society. As a result, junior always show respect and obedient to senior. Such
behaviour is considered upright, prudent and a benefit to society. Control is normally
from the top down.

In terms of moral belief for Indonesians plays an important role. It also state that
in serious times sometimes they've deal with it and manage to cope up thru saying jokes.
They have their own freedom bot not totally free to do what they want.

MYANMAR

*Controlling of temper or emotions

It is considered improper to lose one's temper or show much emotion in public,

but the Burmese are a very friendly and outgoing people. The Burmese and other
Buddhists follow the Buddhist custom of not touching a person on the head, since
spiritually this is considered the highest part of the body. Patting a child on the head not
only is improper but is thought to be dangerous to the child's well-being. A person should
not point the feet at anyone. Footwear is removed upon entering temple complexes for
religious reasons, and it is polite to remove footwear when entering a house.

*Sleeping position

According to religious beliefs in Myanmar, different sleeping positions have

different meanings. If you incline to your right side and sleep, this is seen as a positive
sign. Conversely if you incline to your left side, this is seen as a negative sign. Worst of
all is if you lie straight, which is seen as resembling death. Bear in mind when sleeping
that most Myanmar houses will have a Buddha image. Make sure your head, and not
your feet, are pointing towards the image as you fall asleep.

*Upper and Lower Body Parts

Which part of your body do you consider the most important? Well in Buddhism
culture the upper body (above the waist) is considered sacred, while the lower part
(below the waist) is considered inferior or even dirty. With this in mind, bear in mind
how you use your body when interacting with others: The head is the highest point on
your body and as such it is considered the most sacred part. Touching someone else’s
head (or patting it) is seen as a huge insult. A simple gesture such as patting a child on
the head is thought to be dangerous to the child’s very wellbeing. If heads are the most
sacred, then feet are the most inferior part of your body. Using your feet to point at
anything is an extremely rude gesture. Want to sit back and relax with your feet resting
on the table? Think again. No one in Myanmar would ever use the same towel to dry
their hair and feet and would use a different basin to wash each. Using water reserved for
drinking to wash one's feet is a grave insult. Women are even prohibited to sit on higher
levels such as the roof of a boat, or buses while or monks or nuns and men are sitting
beneath. Never raise your underwear above your head. This is considered very rude.
Never clean your feet in the basin you used to clean your hands and face. Never put your
feet on the pillow used for the head, or sit on the pillow for the head. Never touch a
person’s hair, head or cheek, even if you consider it as a friendly gesture. Myanmar
people would not consider it friendly, and will think you are rude. Don’t point your feet
towards Buddha’s image, elder person or any sacred place. Don't walk over bridges when
someone is walking over it so feet aren't above.

*Men and Women

Unlike many western countries, men and women’s status in Myanmar are distinctly
different. Although Burmese women enjoy equal legal rights with men, men have a
higher religious status. As a result, women are prohibited from certain areas of religious
buildings such as the small platform that allows you to touch Golden Rock, some areas of
Shwedagon Pagoda and so forth. In terms of occupations and Myanmar tradition, women
were previously supposed to take care of children and family matters while men focused
on business. This attitude is changing, however, and there are now many women in
professional occupations.

I respect their culture and moral belief, actually it's amazing to know, how a
Burmese give an importance to the division of upper and lower part of the body. That
even underwear is not allowed to raise above their head, to walk over bridges when
someone is walking over it. Also, to their other beliefs about face and shame, sleeping
position, and position of men and women in their society.

MALAYSIA

*Gift Giving Etiquette

If invited to someone's home for dinner, bring the hostess pastries or good
quality chocolates.

• Never give alcohol.

• Do not give toy dogs or pigs to children.

• Do not give anything made of pigskin.

• Avoid white wrapping paper as it symbolizes death and mourning.

• Avoid yellow wrapping paper, as it is the color of royalty.

• If you give food, it must be “halal” (meaning permissible for Muslims).

• Offer gifts with the right hand only or both hands if the item is large.

• Gifts are generally not opened when received.

*Face and Shame

Publicly humiliating someone in Malaysian culture is considered unforgivably

bad manners. When Prime Minister Mahathir dragged Anwar Ibrahim’s name through
the mud it was considered by many Malaysians to be the ultimate violation of Malaysian
ethics. In Malaysian culture, to do something inappropriate brings ‘malu’ (shame,
shyness and embarrassment) upon an individual. These feelings of shame are commonly
felt when an individual loses ‘face’. Face is the quality embedded in most Asian cultures
that indicates a person's reputation, influence, dignity and honour. By complimenting
people, showing them respect or doing something to increase their self-esteem, you give
them face. Similarly, people can lose face and save or build face. Therefore, individuals
in Malaysia usually act deliberately and with restraint to protect their self-worth and peer
perception. Conservative conduct is the norm, as people don’t want to stand out and/or
risk losing face by doing something inappropriate.

*Superlatives are a thing

In Malaysia, it’s all about having the tallest, biggest, highest, and longest. From
the tallest twin towers and the third largest sleeping Buddha in the world, to the longest
bridge and highest mountain in Southeast Asia, this is a culture that basks in its
superlatives. It doesn’t matter that the Internet here is slower than India’s — because,
hey, Malaysia has the world’s seventh tallest freestanding communications tower. Just so
you know.

*The Left hand

Always use the right hand to pass or accept anything. The left is traditionally
“dirty” because of its washroom connections. Koran states that the right hand is more
honorable. Holding a spoon or while eating they used only left hand. Also by offering a
gift is with the right hand only or both hands if the item is large; Gifts are generally not
opened when received. Pointing with the finger is considered very rude and the whole
hand is used to indicate a direction, but never a person. To point to a person, close the
right hand into a fist with the thumb on top and then point it at the subject.

I respect their culture and moral belief. Actually, I like their culture of being
superlatives to a thing that was amazing and very creative. While, in terms of their belief
in face and shame, again I respect but I didn’t expect that for Malaysian to lose their face
and is one of the unforgivable bad manner. Yes, it’s a big threat to people avoiding to do
something inappropriate. But human is not perfect and to give them some a piece of
advice, is not to lose hope of building again their face when they lost it. And that’s one of
the unforgivable bad manners for them.

CAMBODIA

Most children begin school when they are seven or eight. By the time they reach
this age, they are familiar with the society's norms of politeness, obedience, and respect
toward their elders and toward Buddhist monks. The father at this time begins his
permanent retreat into a relatively remote, authoritarian role. By age ten, a girl is
expected to help her mother in basic household tasks; a boy knows how to care for the
family's livestock and can do farm work under the supervision of older males. Adolescent
children usually play with members of the same sex. During his teens, a boy may become
a temple servant and go on to serve a time as a novice monk, which is a great honor for
the parents In pre-communist days, parents exerted complete authority over their children
until the children were married, and the parents continued to maintain some control well
into the marriage. Age difference is strictly recognized with polite vocabulary and special
generational terms for "you"

BRUNEI

Parents give young children responsibility for the care of their infant siblings at
an early age, especially in rural areas. Usually the parents of a young man arrange a
marriage with the parents of a young woman. For a Muslim, the spouse must also be
Muslim; thus, individuals, especially men, often convert to Islam in order to marry a
Muslim. Interethnic group marriages are not uncommon. There is considerable minor
variation in marriage ceremonies from group to group and within ethnic groups.