How Malaysians are finding their place in Australia's cultural mosaic

People visit the Opera House in Sydney on December 30, 2020, as authorities work to suppress a growing cluster of Covid-19 coronavirus cases in Australia’s most populous city. (Photo by Saeed KHAN / AFP)

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysians living in Australia face a unique situation in which they must balance their strong community ties with the need to integrate into wider Australian society.

The cultural scene in Australia is incredibly vibrant and diverse, enriched continually by new waves of immigrants, including Malaysians.

These expatriates carry the rich cultural heritage of Kuala Lumpur’s busy life to the relaxed, sunny environments of Australia’s coastal cities.

By adding their traditions, culinary flavours, and perspectives, Malaysians play a significant part in shaping the dynamic cultural mosaic of their new home.

Their presence not only diversified but also deepens the Australian cultural fabric by introducing the rich aromas of Malaysian food and the shared warmth of their cultural practices.

To understand more about how Malaysians adapt to life in the Land Down Under, Sinar Daily consulted Research, Impact and Engagement for the School of Social Sciences Deputy Director, Dr Susan Carland, a sociologist at Monash University.

Carland has closely studied the behaviours of Malaysian expatriates and observed their strategies for integrating into Australian society.

“Some individuals actively engage with the broader Australian community, including its Muslim population, and may even take on leadership roles within various organisations.

“Some naturally gravitate towards spending time with fellow Malaysians, which is understandable given the comfort of familiarity, especially in aspects like language, cuisine, and cultural practices.

“This inclination towards close-knit communities among Malaysians is not problematic but rather a natural aspect of human behaviour, particularly for newcomers adjusting to life in a new country,” she said.

However, Carland also pointed out that it’s crucial to recognise that many Malaysians successfully extend their social interactions beyond their ethnic circles, effectively integrating into broader Australian society.

Dr Susan Carland.

When asked about the factors that help Malaysians maintain their ethnic identities while blending into the larger Australian context, Carland highlighted the importance of the duration of their stay in Australia.

“Time is a significant factor; the longer they reside in Australia, the more comfortable they feel.

“Factors like being born in Australia to Malaysian parents or migrating at a young age also contribute to this connection,” she added.

Carland also noted that positive interactions with local Australians play a crucial role, as Australians generally hold Malaysians in high regard, appreciating their friendliness and cuisine.

While having good educational credentials is helpful, she said, feeling welcomed and accepted by the local community is more crucial for Malaysians.

“Proficiency in English is key.

“It acts as the main bridge that connects Malaysians with Australians, helping them to build relationships and feel at home in Australia,” she said.