Bonding time: Wei Yee (left) and Nur Farisya enjoying a visit to a beach in Terengganu.
BACK in 2021, I packed my bags and left the comfort of my home in Melaka to start a new chapter in Terengganu.
The move was a result of my enrolment in a teacher training institute (IPG) in Terengganu.
For the uninitiated, placements are randomly assigned to applicants and cannot be appealed unless supported by a valid reason.
I was initially hesitant to go, as Terengganu seemed like a distant, foreign state with a predominantly Malay population – quite different from my home state, which has a more diverse demographic.
But reality, as always, has its own script, far removed from the stereotypes we often hear.
The locals in Terengganu are kind and respectful, and over time, I began to develop a deeper understanding of their culture and found myself adapting to their melodic dialect.
This year, for example, I participated in a one-day fasting programme during Ramadan and helped out at a nearby mosque with food preparation for Iftar (the breaking of fast).
I also enjoyed visiting the Ramadan bazaar, and on a few occasions, a particular seller gave me an extra doughnut each time I stopped by his stall.
However, there are also challenges. A major issue is finding a house to rent.
Many landlords are wary, fearing I might bring non-halal items into their homes, and refused to rent to me.
Fortunately, the IPG I am enrolled in understood my plight and allowed me to stay in its hostel.
Being different poses another challenge in terms of lifestyle and preferences. I prefer shopping for dresses to baju kurung, and I don’t watch Malay movies like my Malay friends do.
Small differences sometimes make it difficult to go out or enjoy activities together, but I have learnt that communication is the key to bridging cultural gaps.
I have made many friends at the IPG, and my relationship with my current roommate Nur Farisya Hame Azizon is one of the best I have ever had.
We hang out after finishing assignments or tackling difficult tasks. Once, we drank coffee at night and could not sleep, so we decided to take a trip to a nearby beach to watch the sunrise at 7am.
Our personalities are vastly different – she is an extrovert and I am an introvert. We even had a cold war once. Nonetheless, being with her brings me joy. It goes to show that friendships can transcend skin colour.
Since Malaysia is a kaleidoscope of races, religions, languages and cultures, it is imperative to promote inclusivity nationwide.
Often, people interact in relatively segregated groups based on race, which limits social interaction among cultures.
Some might feel intimidated, creating tensions and perceptions of inequity.
Moreover, stereotypes associated with certain races, rather than individual character, often persist.
Reflecting on my time here in Terengganu, I realised that inclusivity is crucial for understanding and appreciating everyone while breaking down stereotypes to nurture a respectful environment.
The small differences between races can create a vibrant and enriching environment and improve representation and equity.
Inclusivity is also Malaysia’s key tool for national unity and integration as we work towards a common goal.
My journey towards a more inclusive Malaysia has just begun. Let us weave a legacy where everyone feels seen, heard and valued!
Wei Yee, 21, a student in Terengganu, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) team.
For updates on the BRATs programme, go to facebook.com/niebrats.
