*The Debatewise Blog
Globalisation from a Malaysian viewpoint
Thanks to the advent of technology, human manages to extend their arms further to another end of the globe than ever before. By reaching out, we automatically expose ourselves to all the influences of a totally alien environment, both the good and the bad. That is globalisation - the expansion of boundaries unlimited by space and distance.From an Asian’s perspective, erosion of our strong traditional and cultural values is often highlighted as a direct result of such integration. Nevertheless at a personal level, globalisation has affected me in a more positive way than the other.
My experience with globalisation began when I flew over to Glasgow, Scotland to complete my Bachelor’s degree. The most memorable one of course, was with my fellow classmates. We worked together on several projects, including one which aimed to bridge the gaps between the Malaysian students and the Scottish students, named the Buddy System. Through interaction with my Scottish friends, I improved on my communication skills. From them, I learnt to be honest with my feelings. From them, I discovered that Asian culture was not the only one that was unique. From them, I found values that I could adapt to make myself a better person.
On the other hand, living in a foreign country was completely eye-opening. Coming from another constitutional monarchy myself, I saw how such a country could be managed differently than the one I had been living in for the past 20 years. I saw a society that handles gender equality and racism issues better than my own. I saw the importance of having a responsible government. I saw how normal layman like you and me could play a part in a country’s progress and have a say in the government’s policy. I saw the path that my country could follow to become a developed nation!
It would not be exaggerating for me to say that my Glasgow experience was both inspiring and enlightening. I returned to Malaysia as a new person, a better person. With me I brought back additional qualities I picked up from my Scottish buddies, and a brainload of ideas which I am ready to contribute actively to my people and my country.
Globalisation brought me to a foreign land, given me exposure and allowed me to learn from a new culture.
It has not let me to forget my root and my cultural heritage.
In fact, I spread and shared them with everyone in the UK, as a part of me.
Lim KK, Malaysia