This statement is very stereotypical, and the actual situation is much more complicated than "generalizing". There are many countries in Southeast Asia, and their cultures and social customs are different. It is difficult to generalize that punctuality is "not important". However, it can be explained that different cultures may have different understandings and ways of using time. This difference is mainly reflected in the following aspects: 1. Differences in time concepts: In some Southeast Asian countries, people tend to adopt a "multi-tasking" or relationship-based time concept, and sometimes the requirement to start an activity strictly according to the scheduled time may not be as strict as in the West. This does not mean that "punctuality" is not important, but reflects a more flexible lifestyle that focuses on interpersonal relationships and situational adjustments. 2. Different situations and occasions: In business and formal occasions, punctuality is often regarded as an important expression of professionalism and respect for the other party. Many Southeast Asian companies and international organizations attach great importance to time management. On the contrary, in daily social activities, they may show a more relaxed time arrangement, more flexibility and casualness. 3. Historical and social factors: This difference in time concept is related to factors such as the history, social rhythm, climate and environment of each country. For example, in some cultures known for their human touch, building harmonious relationships is often more important than strictly adhering to schedules. In conclusion, although some people may mention that some places in Southeast Asia are sometimes more casual in casual or informal situations, this does not mean that punctuality is not valued in all situations. If you are traveling or traveling in Southeast Asia for business, it is best to understand the cultural customs of specific countries or regions in advance and flexibly adjust expectations and arrangements according to the occasion. While respecting local customs, you can also emphasize the need for punctuality when necessary so that both parties can reach a consensus.