Read the following passage about the urban shift and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the following questions from 1 to 10.
DOES MULTICULTURALISM EXIST IN VIET NAM?
(1) Multiculturalism is now an acknowledged and integral concept that exists in many countries across the globe, showcasing the rich diversity of cultures and communities within these nations. (II) It is not difficult to see Asian immigrants wear Hanbok, Kimono or Indian people practice Namaste in western countries, especially developed countries like Germany. France or powerhouse nations such as the USA. (III) But in Việt Nam- a developing country, can multiculturalism still be found? The answer is yes. (IV) It is thriving throughout the country as cultural diversity can be seen in multiple aspects.
The most significant evidence of multiculturalism in Viet Nam is the diversity in cuisine and between people of distinct regions and ethnic groups. Citizens of northern Viet Nam cook their meals with light-flavoured but very sophisticated dishes, while people from the south prefer adding various spices, especially sugar and fish sauce to their dishes. Even within a small region, each ethnic group has their own traditional food such as five-color sticky rice of Tay people or grilled fish of Thai people.
Moreover, clothing plays a significant role as the second key factor contributing to the rich cultural diversity in Vietnam. It reflects the unique traditions, customs, and lifestyles of various ethnic groups, highlighting the nation's vibrant and multifaceted heritage. It is commonly assumed that Áo dài is the national costume of Viet Nam and worn commonly by all Vietnamese people but it is only famous among Kinh people. Meanwhile traditional garment of other ethnic groups has a certain degree of uniqueness and creativity. For instance, Khmer people, as affected by Thái culture and Buddhism, often wear Sarong in their daily life.
In addition, Vietnam was recognized as having a very high degree of religious diversity under global religious diversity surveys by the Pew Forum Institute (USA). There are many different forms of religion, from ancient religious forms such as Totemism, Shamanism, and Animism to modern, well-organized religious groups, for example, Catholicism, Buddhism, Protestantism, and Islam. Today, 16 religions are officially recognized by the State.
Although Vietnamese people may appear different at first glance due to their diverse ethnic backgrounds, they still share notable similarities in physical features. This is largely because all ethnic groups in Vietnam trace their roots back to a common origin, stemming from the ancestors of Southeast Asia. Therefore, there is not much racism and racial tension within the country though many Kinh people want the people from minority groups to assimilate into the Kinh society.
(Adapted from Discovery)