"Most developing countries in South and Southeast Asia are constantly confronted with the problems of ethnic and cultural diversity. The presence of competing ethnic and cultural groups in these states generally means that the establishment of new nationhood requires the cultivation of a new national identity. This emergent national identity can be achieved either through an expansion and elevation of an indigenous ethnic/cultural identity ... or through the development of a new supra-ethic identity treating various ethnic groups on an equal standing." (Quoted from paper) (The paper is only available through the link)