Discovering Malaysia: Journey with Weng Lam!

We are excited to kick off our journey exploring cultures of the world. We are happy to begin this adventure in the stunning country of Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia. But before we delve into the cultural aspects of Malaysia, let’s acquaint ourselves with Weng Lam!

Meet Weng Lam!

” Selamat sejahtera! Nama saya Chiew Weng Lam dan saya merupakan seorang pelajar pertukaran di Universiti Northern Iowa dengan jurusan Teknologi Kejuruteraan Pembuatan. Saya sedang mengambil bahagian dalam program pertukaran semester yang dikenali sebagai Program Global UGRAD, dan saya akan mengikuti pengajian di UNI selama satu semester. Saya sangat menikmati gaya hidup sebagai seorang pelajar dalam persekitaran baru ini.”

” Good day! My name is Chiew Weng Lam, and I am an exchange student in University of Northern Iowa majoring in Manufacturing Engineering Technologies. I am participating in a semester exchange program named Global UGRAD Program and I will be studying in UNI for one semester. I really enjoy the lifestyle as a student in this new environment. “
— Weng Lam, Sponsored Student

Where is Malaysia?

Malaysia is a vibrant and diverse country located in Southeast Asia situated slightly to the north of the Equator. Known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, Malaysia offers a unique blend of traditions, languages, and cuisines.

The country shares its borders with several neighboring countries in Southeast Asia. To the north, it is connected to Thailand, while to the south, it shares land boundaries with Indonesia on the island of Borneo. Additionally, another portion of Malaysia on Borneo’s northern side shares a border with the small nation of Brunei.

The 3 Must-Visit Places in Malaysia

The Capital: Kuala Lumpur

Penang

Penang

Melaka

The Capital: Kuala Lumpur is one of the fastest-growing cities in Asia and the largest city in Malaysia. It serves as the cultural, financial, and economic center of the country. Click here to find attractions and things to do in Kuala Lumpur.

Penang: Situated on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, comprises two parts: Penang Island, home to the capital city of George Town, and Seberang Penang on the Malay Peninsula. Discover attractions and activities in Penang by clicking this link.

Melaka: Malacca, officially the Historic State of Malacca, is a state in Malaysia. Want to explore more? Click here.

Traditional Food in Malaysia

The most traditional food of Malaysia is Nasi Lemak, which consists of Malaysian coconut milk rice served with sambal, fried crispy anchovies, toasted peanuts, and cucumber. If you ever get the chance, don’t hesitate to try it; it’s truly delicious.

Traditional Attire and Festivals in Malaysia

The traditional attire for Malay men is called ‘baju melayu,’ consisting of a loose tunic paired with trousers and a sarong known as ‘sampin.’ Malay women traditionally wear ‘baju kurung,’ which includes a knee-length, full-sleeved blouse paired with a long pleated skirt called ‘kain. This attire offers a glimpse into our rich cultural heritage.

Malaysia celebrates three New Year’s festivals, each associated with its three main ethnic groups. The Malaysian New Year includes ‘Eid al-Fitr,’ which follows Ramadan (a month of fasting), the Lunar New Year celebrated by the Chinese community, and Diwali, the Indian New Year.

Celebrating the three distinct New Year festivals is a testament to the nation’s cultural diversity and unity. During Eid al-Fitr, which follows Ramadan (a month of fasting), Malaysians feel a profound sense of spiritual renewal and community bonding as they come together to break their fasts, offer prayers, and exchange heartfelt greetings.

The Lunar New Year, celebrated with great zest by the Chinese community, fills the air with excitement and anticipation. Families reunite to usher in good luck and prosperity, and they adorn streets with vibrant decorations. Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights, marks a time of joy and optimism as Malaysians of Indian descent light lamps and illuminate their homes. This celebration symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and the atmosphere is one of hope, happiness, and a shared cultural heritage. Each of these New Year celebrations enriches the Malaysian tapestry with its unique traditions and the common thread of bringing people together in celebration and unity.

What Makes Malaysia Unique

Well, this is a tough question, but Malaysia is indeed a remarkable example of religious tolerance. Islam is the main religion in and the country is known for its harmonious coexistence of various faiths, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism, all peacefully living together. Malaysia is indeed a multicultural nation where various ethnic groups, including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous peoples, coexist harmoniously. This diversity is evident in its festivals, cuisine, and traditions.

What do you like most about UNI?

I admire the beauty of the campus, along with the array of on-campus facilities. The people here are remarkably friendly; they’ll say ‘Hi’ and strike conversations with you, even if they don’t know you. As for me I enjoy spending my free time in the gym, either working out or playing basketball.

FACT: Malaysia celebrates 3 New Years, in three different timelines

If you haven’t heard about story, click here.