One of the things I’ve become most aware of since coming to Australia is where I’m from.
It could be what I look like or my accent or any number of things – physical or otherwise – that begs the question to be asked but I don’t mind answering it.
I’m Malaysian. Well, Indian by descent but considering I’ve never been to India and my great-grandparents were the last ones who grew up there, I’m Malaysian first.
In the last four years, however, I’ve made a life here. I’ve worked, studied, paid taxes, forged friendships, stayed up til 4am rooting for Australia in the World Cup, and occasionally try – and fail miserably – to adopt the accent (much to the amusement of my friends).
But if Australian citizenship ever became an option for me, I don’t know what I’d choose – mainly because I’d have to consider giving up my Malaysian citizenship.
Malaysia doesn’t allow dual citizenship.
I wouldn’t be able to say, “I’m a Malaysian” anymore.
Some may argue otherwise though. What makes me Malaysian isn’t my passport. And my rational mind agrees….the sentimental side however…
So it was interesting then for me to hear that two of my friends (an Iranian and Malaysian) felt the same way, to an extent.
Their thoughts on dual-citizenship and home here: http://www.meldmagazine.com.au/2011/08/dual-citizenship/