THE JAPANESE EXPATRIATES IN MALAYSIA: INTERACTION AND ADAPTATION IN THE CULTURAL DIVERSE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

This study on the Japanese expatriates in Malaysia attempts to answer two research questions, i.e. (i) what is the classification of the Japanese expatriates based on communication skills, interaction and adaptation of culture, and (ii) what are the factors that are hindrance to communication and interaction? This study uses the analytical framework which argues that the Japanese society becomes the dominant culture of that corporation, and of individuals who work for the corporation. The study of culture and attitudes of the Japanese includes their lack of exposure to cultural diversity, the hierarchical nature of the Japanese society and certain concepts. A purposive sampling was used in selecting 24 Japanese expatriates as informants for in-depth interviews, besides personal observation. These 24 Japanese expatriates are working in the Klang Valley, Seremban, Kuantan and Penang. The study revealed that the Japanese under study was classified into four groups; (i) “Provincial (or Insular)”, (ii) “Individualistic”, (iii) “Semi-cosmopolitan”, (iv) “Cosmopolitan”. Of the 24 Japanese expatriates under study, 18 were classified as “Provincial (Insular)” and “Individualistic” as compared to only six who were classified as “Semi-cosmopolitan” and “Cosmopolitan”. This shows that the dominant Japanese culture is internalized by the Japanese expatriates in Malaysia which in turn shapes their character, attitude and behavior. Such a situation causes a divide between the Japanese expatriates and the locals

Keywords

• Japanese expatriates, interaction, adaptation, culture

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