Hopping on and hopping off at quite many different cultural settings has taught me several important things:
a) We must be open-minded to new ideas, notions, and practical ways of life on different continents.
b) Every person is unique and special and must be treated equally, whether subordinate or minority.
c) Allow people to introduce themselves as they are, and don't prejudge their actions/habits as weird. They are just taking a different approach to thinking and communicating ideas.
d) Avoid saying words that lead to discrimination, racism or culturally unacceptable behaviours.
e) Listen to others until they finish their sentences, then respond appropriately.
f) Use polite English to show that we're educated and from an educated atmosphere.
g) Don't accept all of their statements, but don't show that you don't trust them. Trust is the most potent thing in establishing a sound and sustainable relationship.
h) Try not to express dissatisfaction with any aspect of their country, climate, culture, nation, or lifestyle. I appreciate their background, and it is better to swallow those complaints before telling them. Learn to be grateful when facing a new situation.
i) Don't force them to try something they probably don't enjoy or want to do. Test the water by saying a nice introduction, then let them decide to try or do it.
j) Always show courtesy and hospitality because Indonesian/Asian is known as a polite nation.
k) Find something in common (common ground) with our new foreign friends/colleagues by comparing our views about a certain general issue.
l) It is better to start using 'May I ask a very personal question' for something related to religion, age, personality or political preference before asking them directly about those issues.
m) Ignore people who try to undermine or underestimate you and do not consider your presence. Keep a neutral facial expression.
n) Pretend that you're not the minority. Just keep talking, asking questions, being cheerful, and introducing yourself to other people. Who knows, among the hundreds of attendees, there must be people who are interested in getting to know you and your views.
o) Don't put a distance because we feel different; always try to build a conversation about something general first. If they respond well, continue to be specific but not intervene in their private life.
p) Stop thinking that you're special because you're different. You're not that special; others deserve to be treated special, too.
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