Nah, what’s so bad and unnecessary about “pe” for “ua rau kevcai?” So what if this is the West now. That alone should not kill off the practice/culture. If there’s still a place for it, which there is, then keep it.
The issue is your definition. You call it “kowtowing” rather than “bowing.” The connotation of the former is to submit and be subservient when the latter is to show appreciation, courtesy, and respect in a benign manner.
The picture of the Chinese kowtowing to the official is pretty much forced upon him, or else some sort of negative results occur. On the other hand the Xyom Cuab’s family members bowing is done with no coercion and no consequence. Just water off a ducks’ back. Big difference.
That’s like thinking or saying the act of sex (penetration) reminds you of rape, so should be outlawed. They share the same or similar physical actions but are entirely different in intention.
Edit: Actually, I don’t even know what that Chinese picture is about, but I’m assuming it’s a lowly peasant having to be submissive to an official to get something approved..