Is English
Language a Hindrance to Communication for Foreigners in Asia?
One of the
hesitations of westerners in coming to Asia is the language barrier. True, Asia
has been a melting pot of different aspects of life that in every country,
there is a distinct characteristic and a culture which would seem odd to
someone who grew up in an entirely different perspective. Language is one of
the most flourishing uniqueness of Asian nations. Although their boundaries are
emphasized by mere walls which can be broken down easily, the brand of each
individual can still be determined on the language they use or most comfortable
with. Communication may be a problem as it is an issue which neighboring
countries also encounter on each other. Message relays or even simple gestures,
if interpreted wrongly can cause conflicts. Indeed, the complaints are valid.
However, on
the present day number of American and European visitors and the boost in
tourism economies, language barriers seem to have been surpassed. Perhaps, the
problem may not even exist at all.
According
to English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT) and International English Language
Testing System (IELTS), Asian countries are not altogether illiterate in
speaking and understanding the universal language. If so, there are countries
which can even speak English as fluent as any native can. Take for example the
Philippines.
Once in Manila,
the country’s capital, you will find thousands of individuals representing
different nationalities. The center for business growth in the country,
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) has proven the literacy of the people in
conversing using the international language. Clients from abroad prefer
Filipinos in dealing with customers concern since they can easily comprehend
grasp and explain things in English. ELPT and IELTS did not even include the
Philippines in the list of the top English speaking nations in Asia since they
are already considered one of the best and most fluent in this field.
Other
neighboring Asian countries also send their citizens to the Philippines to
learn English. With a mixture of British and American English being used in
everyday conversations, the Philippines has to be considered to be included in
the top 5 most native English speakers.
You may
even be surprised to meet a young child in Manila who has not gone to school or
mingled with foreigners but can speak and understand English. Singapore,
Indonesia, Malaysia and most Asian countries, if indeed all, can also easily
understand and speak English.
It seems
that the concern for miscommunication has completely no basis and remains a
groundless issue. Maybe perhaps, those who say this just want to find a dumb
excuse?
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