Ang Mohs Insulted

Most recently, i read an article in a forum about an 'ang moh' who was insulted when the term was used on him. (For the occasional passerby who is not familiar with this term, it is a localised term for caucasians)

For most of us, this may feel quite absurd as we dont usually attach a malicious meaning to the word. Rather, the general population here use it almost as a substitute for the word 'caucasian'. Another reader suggested that most of the population here are aunties and uncles who might not have a very high standard of english and thus the word 'ang moh' is easier to use. Another reader however, disagreed. He felt that if we asians object to the terms 'chink' and etc then we should stop using the word 'ang moh'. I disagree.

The work chink, is a relatively new word as we asians are only just starting to infiltrate the western world whereas the caucasians have been in asia for some time. The word chink is largely used by youngsters and is usually meant as a form of insult when used. However, the terms 'ang moh' in singapore and 'guai lo' in hong kong were most probably formed when our fore-fathers encountered westeners for the first time. (Hence the reference to devils and ghosts). They, who have never ever seen the likes of red, blond hair, blue eyes and being high superstitious would have associated the westeners with devils and ghosts. As said, the term is used very loosely, almost as replacement for the word caucasian

There are many expatriates in Singapore, particularly caucasians, who are able to use the term 'ang moh' jokingly in reference to themselves. One example is my french lecturer(and you know how stickly the french are). Another is the 'ang moh' reader who wrote in.

PS. Would gladly appreciate comments from any 'ang mohs' who happen to pass by.