When I was applying for Singaporean citizenship two years ago, it felt hopelessly easy. It only took me an hour or two to fill up the form. I was hoping that there would be a little more time to wait, because I heard that
UMNO
(entity)
United Malays National Organisation
was offering land to the United Malays National Organisation
bumiputera
(adjective)
a term used in Malaysia to describe Malays and Orang Asli or indigenous peoples of Malaysia or Southeast Asia
, that Malaysia would be a better place for the Malays. But in that short afternoon, I switched sides. Just like that: in one door and out the other, I am a Singaporean. a term used in Malaysia to describe Malays and Orang Asli or indigenous peoples of Malaysia or Southeast Asia
The only gripe I had is the section where I had to choose my race. I never understood it—is
Kelantanse Malay
(adjective + grammar)
Of or pertaining to the state of Kelantan in Malaysia.
. considered Malay? On what grounds? My mother spoke of our northern ancestors to me before—Thailand, I think. And the Malay I speak is already so different from the Malay spoken here. I was so surprised when the Malays here couldn’t understand what I was speaking, and I’ve yet to find any other Kelanatanese Malays. And, So, am I ‘Other’ then? What does that question even mean? In the end, how does it even matter?Of or pertaining to the state of Kelantan in Malaysia.
