Quote:Understanding "Keling"
- *Definition*: "Keling" is a term used in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia, to refer to people of Indian descent or those with darker skin tones.
- *Connotations*: The term can be neutral or derogatory, depending on the context and tone in which it is used.

Offensiveness of "Keling"
- *Historical context*: The term "Keling" has historical roots and has been used in various ways, including as a slur against people of Indian descent.
- *Racial undertones*: In some contexts, "Keling" can be used to imply inferiority or to discriminate against individuals based on their skin tone or ethnicity.
- *Cultural sensitivity*: The term's offensiveness can vary depending on cultural and personal perspectives, with some individuals finding it derogatory or hurtful.

Usage and Impact
- *Colloquial usage*: In everyday conversation, "Keling" might be used casually without intending offense, but its impact can still be hurtful or alienating for those targeted.
- *Social and cultural implications*: The use of terms like "Keling" can reflect and perpetuate racial or ethnic stereotypes and biases.

Conclusion
The term "Keling" can be complex, with its meaning and offensiveness depending on context, tone, and cultural background. Understanding the nuances of such terms is crucial for respectful communication and fostering inclusivity.

(27-04-2025, 10:01 PM)sgbuffett Wrote:  I have never used term but have often heard people using it.
I thought it was more singapore slang or informal street language. ..

Yesterday then i know some people consider it a racial slur. 

I actually had to get AI to explain what the issue is about here is what Meta AI says about this.

For those who knew all along this is a racist or racial slur, i certainly would like to hear what you think.

(28-04-2025, 07:21 AM)Wy:Nox Wrote:  It is a Hokkien word? Is Hokkien offensive?

(28-04-2025, 12:40 AM)A2Z Wrote:  It's a hokkien word for indian that's all.

(27-04-2025, 10:01 PM)sgbuffett Wrote:  I have never used term but have often heard people using it.
I thought it was more singapore slang or informal street language. ..

Yesterday then i know some people consider it a racial slur. 

I actually had to get AI to explain what the issue is about here is what Meta AI says about this.

For those who knew all along this is a racist or racial slur, i certainly would like to hear what you think.

(27-04-2025, 11:39 PM)Cmpunk Wrote:  I find it very wrong by saying help her comrade not to lost deposit but not on the K Word

(27-04-2025, 11:56 PM)Ineedhelp Wrote:  The term came about because indians under British rule were locked up in chains and came here to be hard labour. As they walk through the streets, the chains dragged on the ground making the sound.

It is rude to call them that, I found out the hard way cause I didn't know and I offended a JC friend.

In contrast, ahneh is the right term because that means bro.

(27-04-2025, 11:56 PM)Ineedhelp Wrote:  The term came about because indians under British rule were locked up in chains and came here to be hard labour. As they walk through the streets, the chains dragged on the ground making the sound.

It is rude to call them that, I found out the hard way cause I didn't know and I offended a JC friend.

In contrast, ahneh is the right term because that means bro.

(28-04-2025, 11:03 AM)Stoki Wrote:  Wrong. You don’t know don’t anyhow blare out.


Keling come from the ringing of the bell. “Keling, keling”

The indians were mostly rubber tappers and they, esp the indian women likes to wear small bells around their ankles. When they go rubber tapping in the early morning in the plantation, the bells will keling, keling and other tappers will know they are coming. So they will say, keling is coming