SMG employees enthusiastically choosing batik wear from one of the vendors.
IN A heartwarming tribute to their roots, Star Media Group (SMG) employees gathered to celebrate Malaysia’s heritage during the “Proud to be Malaysian Experience Day”.
The day was filled with fun activities to keep employees entertained while reconnecting with their roots and reliving childhood memories.
From a mini bazaar to traditional games like congkak, marbles and batu seremban, there was something for everyone.
Many were excited to browse booths selling delicious food and beautiful batik at Menara Star.
Local vendors showcased their products such as nasi kerabu, porridge, pastries, pani puri and kelupis (glutinous rice kuih).
A lucky few also took home goodie bags courtesy of sponsors Healthy Grazing Sdn Bhd, Thien Cheong Sdn Bhd, New Star Food Industries Sdn Bhd and SKS Food Industries Sdn Bhd.
Staff browsing the mini bazaar for local dishes and delicacies at ‘Proud to be Malaysian Experience Day’ in Menara Star. — Photos: GLENN GUAN/The Star
Employees even expressed their creativity by colouring pictures of the wau bulan, a traditional kite.
“Through this event, we honour our Malaysian heritage, foster cultural understanding, rekindle cherished childhood memories and infuse our workplace with joy, all while celebrating our shared cultural legacy with our employees,” said SMG group people senior general manager Terence Raj.
SMG branded content department senior writer Chow Zhi En, 27, said it was important to support local businesses and she appreciated the event as a platform to relive Malaysia’s heritage.
“It is a good avenue to destress, relax your mind and think about different things,” Chow said.
Circulation department senior executive Hasena Begum Kither Mohamed said the event served as a reminder not to lose touch with one’s roots, and applauded the attempt to keep alive the Malaysian way of life.
Staff trying their hand at congkak.
“It’s amazing how playing batu seremban and colouring the kite immediately brought back good old memories of recess during school days,” said Hasena.
Group people senior executive Sandra Khoo said the event aimed to rekindle the Malaysian way of life that was being lost in the modern era.
“Our event’s name says it all. We’re proud of our Malaysian roots. Collaborating with these diverse vendors offering local, homegrown products added to the authenticity of the experience.
“The games and activities at the event are a reflection of Malaysian culture, providing a glimpse into the past where our parents and grandparents grew up playing these traditional games,” Khoo said.
She added that it was important to promote local brands and preserve culinary legacies, while pointing out that their goal was to instil a sense of nostalgia, patriotism and pride in Malaysia’s heritage.
Corporate communications senior executive Aida Zuriani Ahmad Idris was one of the vendors at the bazaar, with her small business inspired by her late father’s recipe.
She thanked her colleagues who played a significant role in supporting her venture, and was delighted by the positive feedback received during the event.
Founder and fashion designer of IniSaya, Jeffery Goh, also one of the vendors, was thrilled to try various Malaysian delicacies during the event.
“I managed to try pani puri for the first time. It definitely highlighted the event’s role in bringing Malaysians together through food and culture.
“The event also allowed us to showcase our Malaysian batik.
“I encouraged visitors to try on different outfits made from this unique fabric to help promote a sense of Malaysian fashion and identity,” added Goh.
As part of the Malaysian experience day, an award-winning Malaysian movie was also aired for the staff to enjoy.
