The Contours of Endearment

The Contours of Endearment offers a fresh, Southeast Asia–centered perspective on the complex and evolving relationship between Japan and the nations of Southeast Asia. While much scholarship has emphasized state-to-state political and economic ties, this volume highlights the softer, more nuanced dimensions of these connections―those that emerge through culture, migration, education, and everyday encounters.

Through case studies of the original five members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN-5)―Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand―the contributors trace how Southeast Asians themselves have engaged with Japan across multiple arenas. Chapters explore themes such as the historical context of post–World War II relations, the development of Japanese studies in Southeast Asian universities, labor migration from Indonesia and the Philippines, and the circulation and localization of Japanese popular culture, including anime and manga, in Singapore and Indonesia.

Employing an innovative “inter-area studies” approach, the volume shows how Southeast Asia–Japan relations cannot be reduced to simple economic partnerships or geopolitical strategies, but must be understood as multi-layered interactions shaped by local histories, aspirations, and cultural flows. By privileging Southeast Asian experiences, The Contours of Endearment broadens the “Japan + (plus)” model of inquiry and offers new ways of thinking about Japanese studies that move beyond the Japan-centric frameworks that have long dominated the field.

This timely collection not only deepens understanding of Southeast Asia–Japan relations but also demonstrates how area studies can evolve beyond Eurocentric limitations to embrace more dynamic, multidirectional perspectives. Rich in detail and comparative insight, it will appeal to students and researchers of Japanese studies, Southeast Asian studies, cultural studies, migration, and international relations.

Lonny E. Carlile is associate professor of Asian studies at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and former director of the university’s Center for Japanese Studies.

L. Ayu Saraswati is professor in women, gender, and sexuality studies at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.

Leng Leng Thang is associate professor and deputy head of the Department of Japanese Studies, National University of Singapore.