Hari Batik: Celebrating the Art and Culture of Batik

On 29^th July, KYUEM celebrated Hari Batik, a full-day event dedicated to promoting and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of batik, a traditional Malaysian art form. The festivities began early at 8 am and continued throughout the day, featuring a series of exciting and immersive activities aimed at engaging students with this iconic aspect of Malaysian culture.

The day kicked off with a Best Dressed Batik Competition, where students proudly displayed their unique and stylish batik outfits. Participants were encouraged to share their batik looks on Instagram by tagging the MCC (Malay Cultural Club) account. This created a lively online atmosphere, with students, staff, and the broader community coming together to appreciate the beauty of batik. The competition wasn’t just about fashion but also about showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of this timeless fabric. The online buzz surrounding the competition highlighted the growing enthusiasm for embracing traditional Malaysian culture in a modern, digital age.

As the sun began to set, the focus shifted from fashion to creativity. At EW/WW, students gathered for a batik painting session, where they were provided with picnic cloths as their canvas. With music playing softly in the background, the relaxed setting allowed students to tap into their artistic side and experiment with batik designs. This hands-on activity not only fostered creativity but also encouraged collaboration and a sense of community. Students sat together, painting, chatting, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance, making it a perfect ending to a day that seamlessly combined tradition with modern expressions of creativity.

Hari Batik was more than just an event—it was a meaningful experience that allowed students to connect with their cultural roots in a fun and memorable way. By blending fashion, art, and social interaction, the day showcased the beauty and versatility of batik, reminding students of the importance of preserving and celebrating Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.

Malam Ambang Merdeka: A Nostalgic Celebration of Unity and Patriotism (30th and 31st August)

KYUEM’s Malam Ambang Merdeka celebration took place over two days, marking the lead-up to Malaysia’s Independence Day with a rich blend of tradition, food, and entertainment. The event began on the evening of 30^th August at 5 pm, with a series of traditional games that transported participants back to a simpler time, offering a nostalgic and interactive experience for everyone involved.

Students eagerly took part in classic Malaysian games like Batu Seremban, Congkak, and Gasing, which were set up around the campus. These traditional games were not just fun but also served as a cultural reminder of the past, connecting students with the games their parents and grandparents played during their youth. The competitive yet friendly atmosphere made the experience both exciting and heart-warming, with participants bonding over shared experiences and memories.

By 7 pm, the focus of the evening shifted to food, with a bustling food market opening at 8 pm. The market, featuring seven different booths, offered a variety of delicious treats, providing something for every taste. The KY Culinary Arts Club showcased their culinary prowess with items like sagu, onde-onde, and spaghetti, while Diamond House delighted visitors with handmade dumplings. Topaz House added a sweet touch with traditional aiskrim Malaysia, while other booths offered unique items like handmade cotton candy and soft cookies. The market atmosphere, filled with laughter, chatter, and the aroma of delicious food, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of togetherness and festivity.

As night fell, at 9 pm, attendees gathered for an outdoor movie screening of Ola Bola at EW/WW, inspired by the tradition of Layar Pacak—a popular open-air movie screening from Malaysia’s past. Ola Bola, with its themes of teamwork and unity, was a fitting choice, reinforcing the patriotic spirit of the occasion. Students and staff relaxed under the stars, enjoying the film in a casual yet meaningful setting.

After the movie, the event ramped up the energy with a Merdeka quiz, organised in collaboration with KYUEM. The quiz, which tested students' knowledge of Malaysian history and culture, brought out a competitive spirit, as participants vied for cash prizes. The quiz was a hit, with students enthusiastically engaging with questions about Malaysia’s independence journey, national symbols, and historical milestones.

The celebration reached its peak as the final countdown to Merdeka began. As the clock neared midnight, the crowd gathered for a patriotic sing-along of beloved Malaysian songs, setting the stage for the moment everyone was waiting for. When the clock struck twelve, marking the start of Merdeka, a dazzling fireworks display lit up the sky, symbolising the joy and pride of the nation. The night ended on a high note, with cheers, laughter, and the shared excitement of celebrating Malaysia’s independence together.

Malam Ambang Merdeka was not just an event but a celebration of unity, tradition, and national pride. It successfully brought the KYUEM community together, reminding everyone of the importance of remembering and honoring Malaysia’s journey to independence while also creating new, cherished memories.