Ethics Eye

“cheennu” (චීන්නු)? 

Why is that the term, “Chinese national” (චීන ජාතිකයා/ජාතිකයන්) is recommended over “cheennu” (චීන්නු)? 

In Sinhala news reporting, the term “Cheenu” is often used to describe Chinese nationals, particularly in association with antisocial or illegal activities.  

This repeated use tends to create and reinforce negative stereotypes about Chinese nationals.  

A more accurate, respectful, and neutral alternative is “Chinese national”, which avoids stereotyping and maintains journalistic fairness.  

Let’s use “Chinese nationals” instead of “Cheennu” in news reporting.