Keling

Keling (pronounced [kəliŋ]) or Kling is an exonym to denote a Tamilian or someone deemed to have converted from Hinduism to Islam, since the mid-20th century it has been considered derogatory and an ethnic slur. The term is used in parts of Southeast Asia, particularly the Malay Archipelago where there are a significant Tamil diaspora — specifically Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei — but cognates exist in neighbouring countries as well.

Although the early definition was neutral and linked to the historical Kalinga kingdom, it is now generally considered offensive by Indian Muslims in Southeast Asia. In Brunei, the word Kaling was not considered to be pejorative, but due to media influence from Malaysia, the majority of Bruneians now tend to avoid using it. In modern usage it is not commonly capitalised. The term has also been used based on skin tone (colourism) whereby is it more likely to be used against visibly darker-skinned Indian Muslim.