Starchild: How Malaysian children take pleasure in the things they love

Asha Deana Krishnan, 12

Today, we are diving into all the wonderful things that we deem as our favourites. Is it food, such as the delicious local delicacy which some say is our national dish – nasi lemak, with its fragrant coconut rice and spicy sambal? Or perhaps your favourite thing is celebrating all the vibrant festivals that fill our homes with joy and excitement, like Hari Raya or Deepavali?

For some of us, our favourite things might be playing traditional games like congkak or gasing, which not only test our skills but through which we can have fun with friends. Others might love exploring the lush rainforests, spotting colourful birds or playful monkeys swinging from branch to branch.

Do you love reading exciting adventure stories? Then your favourite thing might be a magical book that takes you on thrilling journeys to far-off lands!

Or maybe you enjoy dancing to your favourite tunes, feeling the rhythm and groove with every step may be your favourite thing in the world.

So, whether it’s soaring high on a swing at the park, snuggling up with a cozy blanket, or spending time with our best friends, our favourite things make our days extra special.

Here are the letters from Starchild readers on the topic, My Favourite Things.

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 8

“My favourite pastime is reading because it is fun and I learn many interesting things from a good book. My list of favourite things also includes fruits, the My Melody cartoon character, my lovely childhood dolls and fast food. French fries are especially yummy, it’s something I don’t get tired of eating,” says Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, eight.

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, 6

Younger sibling Asher Wang Qi Chuen, six, writes: “My favourite foods are chocolate and ice cream because they are yummy. I also like Marmite too. Do you know that Marmite is very tasty on bread and roti canai? Give it a try! Riding a bike is also on my favourites list because it’s fun.”

Asha Deana Krishnan, 12, says: “Our favourite things can be the breathtaking sights of Malaysia, from the towering Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur to the stunning beaches of Langkawi and the enchanting caves of Batu Caves.”

Bryan Krishnan, 10

Younger brother Bryan Krishnan, 10, writes: “Dinosaurs are my passion! They’re like giants from another world, and I can’t get enough of them. I dream of digging up fossils and discovering new species. Being a paleontologist sounds like the most exciting job ever, and I want to uncover the secrets of the ancient world.”

ITEM: Do you know that Mothers Day is just around the corner? It’s a super special day when we celebrate the amazing mums in our lives and show them how much we love and appreciate them!

What does Mothers Day mean to you? Maybe it’s a chance to spend extra time with your mum, doing fun activities together like baking cookies or going for a nature walk. Or perhaps it’s an opportunity to make a special card or craft to show your mum just how much she means to you.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, the most important thing is to let your mum know how much you love and appreciate her.

Starchild wants you to send in letters telling us what Mothers Day means to you. Share your favourite memories, special traditions, or simply why your mum is the best. Let’s spread some love and make this Mothers Day the best one yet!

E-mail your contributions to [e-mail] by May 3. Please put “STARCHILD: Mothers Day” in the subject line of your email.

Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200 dpi. Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone contact, and address. Instead of handwritten letters, please type out your letters.