Part
3: Cambodia Customs and Values
Objective: To understand some similarities
between Emirati and Cambodian Culture
Task: Compare Cambodian and
Emirati values
Highlight in yellow all the values that are similar to
Emirati values
A. Traditional Cambodian values include a strong family
identity and loyalty
B. Cambodian-born people have a respect for culture and
older people.
C. Cambodian families tend to be very private and reluctant
to discuss family issues or conflict with non-family members
D.
Stoicism
is a highly valued Cambodian character trait, reducing the tendency to complain
about their health or services they are receiving
E. Modesty, particularly for women, is very important
F. Visitors to Cambodian-born people’s homes are often
expected to remove their shoes, however they might not ask
G. Accepting of food and refreshments when offered may break
down barriers, open communication and build trust
H. Cambodian-born people regard touching people on the head
or pointing feet or shoes at them as offensive.
I. Cambodians consider it impolite to make eye contact with
someone who is older or considered a superior
J.
Cambodians
have a tendency not to question instructions or authority
K. ‘Yes’ may be an ambiguous response to a question or
request, and does not necessarily indicate agreement. Reponses that might mean
‘no’ include; no response, changing the subject, or statements such as ‘it’s
OK’ or ‘no problem’ or even an unconvincing ‘yes’
L. It may take time to develop working relationships, trust
and rapport
M. Loud or over-familiar behaviour towards others is
generally not favoured.
N.
Cambodians
tend to avoid showing anger or getting involved in confrontation
O.
Cambodians
prefer to be addressed using their correct title. For example Mr, Mrs and Dr
P.
Women
traditionally retain their own family names on marriage or they may have two
surnames. Cambodian names are traditionally written with the surname first,
followed by the given name.
Q.
Cambodians
may not recognise their names if they are pronounced incorrectly
R. Cambodians may not always address people by their name
UAE versus Cambodia
The UAE and Cambodia have many similarities in both
traditions and people behavior. For example, In Cambodia tradition they have a
very strong family identity and loyalty which is similar to UAE tradition.
Moreover, both countries show high respect towards culture and elders. Furthermore,
The Cambodians tend to be more stoic, they don’t show emotions however, the Emirates
are close to affective they show more emotions and gestures when arguing to If
they have something to say. In addition, both countries show respect to women
and act modest among them. Overall, in my opinion I think that both cultures
have very similar foundation with sew differences in religion acts and beliefs.
