Search Results

Source: Asma Abdullah PhD, Interculturalist As Malaysians, we know that all our prime ministers had their own brand logo while in office - a product differentiation in policy agenda. It’s no different from any organisation’s vision and a set of values to guide its workforce to achieve a particular goal. One of the key principles of the Madani government under the 10th prime minister is the idea of promoting social cohesion and solidarity among different communities. This can be achieved by promoting muhibbah (goodwill) and coexistence among all races through interfaith dialogues, fostering cultural exchange programmes, and encouraging greater participation in community-based activities The six values of Madani are sustainability, compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust. These values are evergreen and appeal to all of us regardless of age, ethnicity and religious beliefs in nine areas of national needs which include economy, finance, community, institutions, culture, legislation, education, urban and rural. To become multicultural, we need to identify key behaviours to help us assess the viability of an undertaking. The six values can be a new way of developing standards that we want to live by. It can serve as a yardstick to define a multicultural society in terms of form and substance. Let us now examine how each of the values can be used to promote a multicultural mindset among Malaysians from all ethnic groups. For sustainability We observe sustainability by preserving the age-old cultural heritage, traditions and festivals of each cultural group for the benefit of future generations. Malaysians can showcase traditional practices in handicrafts, medicine, and local food as well as organise initiatives like community gardens, tree planting and recycling drives to preserve their living environments. For compassion We have to show compassion for others through acts of kindness and service and develop empathy for people of different backgrounds. Malaysians can spotlight individuals from different communities who have stories and teachings to share on kindness towards others and teams from different ethnic groups who are involved in organising soup kitchens and flood assistance to badly affected states. For respect We show respect for different communities, avoid stereotyping and inter-ethnic biases and show support for the implementation of anti-discrimination policies and legislation to protect individuals from different cultural backgrounds. Malaysians have to learn the meaning and significance of practices, traditions, and beliefs of other races and rituals of different races i.e. the concept of korban for Muslims, the worship of gods by Chinese, and body piercing during Thaipusam via social media. For innovation We have to develop a culture that encourages risk-taking, experimentation, and learning from failures as well as recognizing innovative efforts, regardless of the outcome. Malaysians can organise competitions to explore and embrace new ideas and perspectives, especially in using technology to facilitate our daily work. Competitions should be organised by combining elements of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures into dances, music, films, and martial arts to produce new expressions i.e. drums from different ethnic groups to generate new sounds. The government can encourage aspiring entrepreneurs from different ethnic groups to use technology to promote new inventions, start-ups and digital innovation. For prosperity We want prosperity by generating new economic opportunities to stay alive and help those who are building their businesses and making an attempt to be financially viable. Malaysians can promote cultural tourism through artistic expressions of diverse communities through arts, crafts, heritage, traditions and cuisine of different groups within the multicultural society. They can develop initiatives that preserve and showcase cultural landmarks and festivals, contributing to economic growth and prosperity while promoting cultural appreciation. Business ventures where ownership is intercultural have to be showcased. For trust We want to build trust and demonstrate inclusivity and relationships that transcend ethnic boundaries and foster a safe environment where people feel comfortable to express their thoughts, concerns, and perspectives. Malaysians can share stories of long-term friendships based on integrity and are inclusive of other races in daily activities and long-term projects. To develop trust, Malaysians have to work together and showcase their talent on social media. Globalisation challenge As we get exposed to globalisation – defined as a world without borders through media, travel and business – we need to internalise the six values so they become our living values. We need to demonstrate them through shared practices beyond the images we have on posters in our daily lives and share what the country is doing to promote a Madani society that is beyond symbols, rituals and what leaders tend to claim. As a multicultural society, Malaysia's strength lies in its diversity. By habituating the six values and embracing differences while building connections, Malaysians can ensure a harmonious future for generations to come. From building institutions, developing human capital and creating the future the six values can serve as a moral compass for our country. It is our task to interpret the six Madani values to better understand the challenges of people from different ethnic origins and learn to coexist as fellow citizens of an inclusive and multicultural society.

In today's fast-paced and competitive work environments, nurturing relationships and fostering a supportive culture are essential for success. People commonly assume that the action of nurturing will come naturally but often, that is not the case. Creating a supportive atmosphere requires intentional effort and specific initiatives. It's not something that just happens on its own. Without deliberate actions to build and maintain this environment, teams can struggle to collaborate effectively and reach their full potential. So, it's crucial for organizations to recognize the importance of actively nurturing their workplace culture and take steps to foster a supportive atmosphere. Why Is It Important To Nurture? Nurturing behaviors, such as empathy, encouragement, and support, are key to creating a positive work culture. They foster a sense of belonging, boost morale, and enhance productivity. When employees feel nurtured, they are more engaged, motivated, and willing to collaborate effectively. Nurturing also builds trust and strengthens relationships among team members, laying the foundation for a resilient and cohesive team. How to Cultivate a Nurturing Environment Lead by Example: Managers and leaders should demonstrate nurturing behaviours by actively listening to their team members, providing constructive feedback, and showing empathy towards their needs and challenges. Encourage Open Communication: Create a culture where employees feel safe to express their ideas, concerns, and emotions without fear of judgement. Encourage open dialogue and respect diverse perspectives. Recognise and Appreciate: Acknowledge and appreciate the efforts and contributions of team members. Celebrate achievements, both big and small, to foster a sense of accomplishment and motivation. Offer Support and Development Opportunities: Provide resources, training, and mentorship programs to help employees grow professionally and personally. Show genuine interest in their career aspirations and provide guidance when needed. Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage a healthy work-life balance by respecting boundaries and supporting flexible work arrangements. Recognize the importance of mental health and well-being. Nurturing Team Psychological Safety Team Psychological Safety (TPS) is the shared belief that it is safe to take interpersonal risks within a team. Nurturing behaviours contribute to TPS by creating an environment where team members feel valued, respected, and supported. When team members know they can rely on each other for encouragement and assistance without fear of judgement or retribution, they are more likely to voice their opinions, share ideas, and take calculated risks. This openness leads to more innovative solutions, better problem-solving, and overall team effectiveness. The Effort for Team Psychological Safety Team Psychological Safety is not a natural state but a deliberate effort to create a workplace where employees feel safe to take risks, voice their opinions, and be vulnerable without fear of reprisal. Nurturing plays a crucial role in building and sustaining Team Psychological Safety by fostering trust, open communication, and a culture of learning from mistakes. To nurture your workplace ecosystem, consider fostering Team Psychological Safety as a priority. This commitment demonstrates your dedication to creating a safe and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and innovation thrives. It's a proactive step towards cultivating a workplace where individuals feel empowered to contribute their best work. Nurturing is not just a soft skill; it is a cornerstone of a healthy and thriving work environment. Thus, nurturing a supportive culture is a collective effort, but as managers, it's particularly crucial to take the lead in ensuring your team feels psychologically safe and supported. Recognizing that this responsibility falls squarely on your shoulders, promotes trust, open communication, and a sense of belonging among team members. By fostering a culture of nurturing, organisations can cultivate stronger teams, enhance employee well-being, and drive sustainable success. For more information on Team Psychological Safety click here.

Edited by Farah Rani “Together we are stronger," they say - but for Stephanie Van Aken, Head of Operations and Founder of IDEAS Academy, achieving team cohesion felt anything but powerful. Facing mounting pressure and internal roadblocks, she knew something had to change. Her team was struggling to overcome obstacles and react to mistakes constructively. Feeling the weight of an important milestone approaching, she knew they needed practical interventions to enhance their performance. Upon discovering Amy Edmonson's concept of Team Psychological Safety, Stephanie saw its potential to elevate problem-solving, innovative thinking, and collaboration in her team. Attending the TEAM.AS.ONE Psychological Safety Practitioner Certification program provided her with a thorough understanding of team dynamics and practical improvement strategies. Two key challenges that Stephanie's team faced were how to overcome obstacles and how to react to mistakes in a constructive manner. With an important milestone approaching, Stephanie knew they needed practical interventions. One of the tools that had been recommended during the Team Psychological Safety certification was the Action Learning process from the World Institute of Action Learning (WIAL) and its question-based group coaching methodology. During an Action Learning session, the team addressed a specific challenge involving optimising the inquiry process, which encompassed multiple channels through which potential contacts could reach out to the school. The difficulty arose from a lack of designated personnel for follow-up and the need to prevent lead-loss, especially given limited resources. Through the Action Learning process, team members who were initially hesitant to share concerns gradually found their voices emboldened. This blossoming culture of Team Psychological Safety empowered them to engage in open discussions and collaborative analysis of root causes, leaving behind any fear of intimidation. Stephanie noticed her team taking more ownership of their roles and initiating support conversations among themselves, a shift from waiting for her direction. This change led to a more positive and happier team atmosphere. "It changes everyone's mindset to realise they can take charge and come forward," Stephanie shared. Contrary to common misconception, Team Psychological Safety is not about being nice but about candour, the ability to have open and honest conversations. It is a mutual understanding within a team that it’s OK to take risks, to voice ideas and concerns, to question, and to admit mistakes without the fear of negative consequences. As Edmondson puts it, “it’s felt permission for candour.” The Action Learning approach fosters a supportive team dynamic, where asking for help is as natural as providing it. The shared understanding that we are all working towards a common goal contributes to the strength of this environment, ensuring that no team member feels alone in their efforts, and that everyone is invested in each other's success. Evidence of this is in the spontaneity in which the IDEAS team members seeked and offered help during the Action Learning session. With psychological safety in the team, members were able to share what their mistakes were, even though their actions led to a bad outcome. In this environment, no one faced judgement or criticism for their mistakes; instead, the entire team learned from them. Conversations surrounding a constructive view, with questions such as ‘What can be done to improve here?’, encouraged a mindset of learning from failure and exposed the problem, leading to the identification of critical issues and collaborative solutions. Through the process of asking questions, the gaps in information were bridged. Questioning provided a holistic view of the issue and a better understanding of what everyone was doing. Once the team gained a clear understanding of the situation, two key problems emerged: the unclear process for receiving inquiries and the lack of clarity on whose responsibility it was to follow up. The team then seamlessly came together, crafting solutions that implemented a clear process, assigned clear responsibilities, and set defined deadlines. Remarkably, within just 90 minutes, they had successfully addressed a long-standing issue that had previously seemed insurmountable. Action Learning facilitated Team Psychological Safety by encouraging individuals to delve deep into problems, identify their root causes, and reflect on past mistakes. This process created empathy and  rapid support within the team, fostering a sense of unity. The process was more than just problem-solving; it embodied Team Psychological Safety principles. Every voice was valued, and mistakes were seen as learning opportunities. The leader witnessed firsthand how the integration of Team Psychological Safety and Action Learning spurred innovation, support, and growth within the team. With the first challenge conquered, the team was ready for more. They embarked on another Action Learning session to address a second issue, encouraged by their experience that Team Psychological Safety and Action Learning were not just theoretical concepts but powerful tools for real-world success. In her reflection, Stephanie expressed how much she gained from the Team Psychological Safety practitioner certification. She found the practicality of the lessons particularly valuable, emphasising their applicability to real-life scenarios. She mentioned that the program had helped her develop tangible interventions that she was eager to implement, both for personal development and in her role as an educator.  Stephanie added, “I can see the immediate value of bringing these insights to my students, showing them how to work together as a team more effectively and navigate their interactions in a positive way.” Equipped with Team Psychological Safety principles and the effective practices of Action Learning, IDEAS Academy confidently approached its milestone. This story showcases the transformational impact of leadership, collaboration, and the synergy between Team Psychological Safety and Action Learning in turning challenges into learning and success in the realm of social entrepreneurship, and any corporation or institution at large. Investing in Team Psychological Safety isn't just about making people feel good; it is about unlocking performance, fostering a thriving workplace where individuals feel empowered to contribute their unique talents. Take the first step by exploring resources like our upcoming TEAM.AS.ONE Team Psychological Safety Practitioner Certification or other Team Psychological Safety frameworks, and empower your team to reach its full potential. Interested to read more about our upcoming TEAM.AS.ONE Team Psychological Safety Practitioner Certification ? Click here for more info or click here to sign up ! Ideas Academy is transitioning into a social enterprise  secondary international school . We aim to become self-sustainable by becoming the most affordable international school for Malaysians and foreigners, while at the same time offering refugees and the underprivileged grant fees. At Ideas International we believe that every individual has the right to quality education and to be given the opportunity to create a positive impact in the world regardless of background, race or economic standing.  We are driven by a vision of a better future, where education is a catalyst for transformation and equal opportunities. Ideas International is a diverse and inclusive school and our mission is to create a compassionate community where it becomes second nature to collaborate and pay it forward.

The new year is an opportune moment to reflect on our mindset and consider how we can cultivate a positive and growth-oriented outlook. While it might seem daunting to make significant changes, it's never too late to shift your mindset and embrace new perspectives. New Year, New Mindset The start of a new year often brings with it a sense of renewal and possibility. It's a natural time to reassess our goals and aspirations, including the way we approach life. By adopting a fresh mindset, we open ourselves up to new opportunities and experiences. Change Is Possible One common misconception is that changing your mindset requires a complete overhaul of your thinking overnight. In reality, small shifts in perspective can lead to significant changes over time. It's never too late to start working towards a more positive and growth mindset. Believing that change is possible is a fundamental aspect of adopting a new mindset. Without this belief, it can be challenging to stay motivated and committed to making positive changes in your life. Tips to Set a New Mindset Identify Your Current Mindset: Take some time to reflect on your current mindset. What are your beliefs and attitudes towards yourself and the world around you? Challenge Limiting Beliefs: Identify any limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. Challenge them by seeking evidence to the contrary. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a sense of gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. This can help shift your focus towards the good. Embrace Learning: Adopt a mindset of continuous learning and growth. Be open to new ideas and experiences. Changing your mindset is a process that requires consistency and effort. It's essential to practise your new mindset regularly and be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey. Adapting to new mindsets is crucial for personal growth and development. It allows us to approach challenges with a more positive and resilient attitude, leading to better outcomes in both our personal and professional lives. The Power of a Positive Mindset At Cultural Impact, we understand the power of a positive mindset. Through our various programmes, we work to promote awareness and empathy, fostering a mindset that is open to new ideas and perspectives. We believe that by cultivating a positive mindset, individuals can contribute to the success of their communities and organisations. The mindset of individuals within an organisation plays a significant role in its overall success. When employees embrace a positive and growth-oriented mindset, they are more likely to innovate, collaborate effectively, and contribute to the organisation's goals. The start of a new year presents an excellent opportunity to reassess our mindset and make positive changes. By believing in the possibility of change and adopting new mindsets, we can cultivate a more positive and resilient outlook on life, contributing to our personal growth and the success of our communities and organisations.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the corporate world, having a global mindset has become increasingly crucial for success. Recently, Cultural Impact and InvestKL joined forces to create a transformative event titled "Cultivating a Global Mindset." This collaborative initiative aimed to equip students from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and Malaysia Multimedia University with the necessary tools to navigate the diverse challenges they may encounter in the corporate industry. The event provided a unique platform for students to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry insights. By sharing insights from the team at Cultural Impact, students gained a deeper understanding of the global mindset required in multinational corporations (MNCs). One of the key highlights of the program was delving into the diverse cultural landscapes that students might encounter in the corporate world. Our Cultural Impact team shared valuable insights where in order to thrive in a globalized work environment, students were encouraged to cultivate adaptability and open-mindedness. Through interactive sessions and real-world case studies, the event challenged participants to broaden their perspectives and embrace change as an integral part of professional growth. The "Cultivating a Global Mindset" event stands as a testament to the commitment of Cultural Impact to prepare students for the challenges of the corporate world. As we reflect on the discussions around mindset in this week's newsletter, let us draw inspiration from this collaborative effort, encouraging each other to embrace a global mindset that transcends boundaries and propels us toward success in the dynamic landscape of the corporate industry.

Source:  Asma Abdullah PhD, Human Resource Department, ExxonMobil, Kuala Lumpur and Lrong Lim PhD, Department of Business Administration, Kagawa University, Japan in  Malaysian Management Review, December 2001 In an ever-globalizing world, effective management requires not only a keen understanding of business principles but also a nuanced appreciation of cultural nuances. A recent study delving into the cultural dimensions of Anglos, Australians, and Malaysians sheds light on how these dimensions shape the mindset of managers. In this blog post, we'll explore the key findings of the study and delve into how understanding these cultural dimensions is crucial for cultivating a versatile and culturally intelligent managerial mindset. 1. Collectivism vs. Individualism: Dr. Asma’s study reveals that Malaysians, particularly Malays, exhibit a strong inclination towards collectivism. This cultural dimension emphasizes group harmony and interdependence. In contrast, Anglos and Australians lean more towards individualism, prioritizing personal goals and autonomy. This stark difference underscores the importance of recognizing and adapting one's mindset to varying expectations around collaboration and independence in different cultural contexts. 2. Hierarchy vs. Equality: The emphasis on hierarchy in Malaysian culture, especially among Malays, suggests a mindset that values respect for authority and adherence to established structures. On the flip side, cultures favoring equality prioritize egalitarianism and open communication. For managers operating in diverse environments, adopting a flexible mindset that can navigate and appreciate both hierarchical and egalitarian structures is essential. 3. Religion: Religion plays a significant role in shaping the mindset of Malaysian managers, particularly Malays. The study highlights a worldview where spiritual values influence decision-making and work ethics. This finding underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting different cultural approaches to religiosity, emphasizing the need for a culturally sensitive mindset in leadership roles. This study actually aligns closely with the theme of 'mindset.' A mindset is a lens through which individuals perceive and respond to the world around them. In the realm of management, a culturally intelligent mindset is crucial for success. Here's how: - Adaptability: A flexible mindset allows managers to adapt to different cultural norms. Understanding that collectivism is as valid as individualism, and vice versa, fosters adaptability in diverse professional settings. - Communication: A culturally sensitive mindset recognizes the impact of hierarchy and equality on communication styles. Managers can adjust their communication approaches to resonate with the cultural expectations of their teams. - Ethical Decision-Making: Understanding the influence of religiosity on decision-making helps cultivate an ethical mindset that respects diverse value systems. This is crucial in fostering trust and maintaining ethical standards in multinational teams. Thus, in the tapestry of global business, a one-size-fits-all approach to management is obsolete. The study on cultural dimensions emphasizes the need for managers to cultivate a mindset that is not only astute in business strategy but is also adept at navigating the intricacies of diverse cultural landscapes. Whether it's adapting to collectivist or individualistic tendencies, understanding hierarchical structures, or appreciating the influence of religiosity, a versatile mindset is the key to effective leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. Written by Dr. Asma Abdullah

Bon Voyage of Laughter: AFKL Presents a Free Screening of the French Comedy This month, get ready for an evening of laughter and cinematic delight as Alliance Française Kuala Lumpur (AFKL) invites you to a special free screening of the charming French comedy, À l'abordage (All Hands on Deck), directed by the talented Guillaume Brac. This event promises to be a laughter-filled voyage, providing audiences with a heartwarming blend of humor, friendship, and love. - Movie: À l'abordage (1h35), by Guillaume Brac - Date: Wednesday, 17 January - Time: 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm - Location: Alliance Française Kuala Lumpur (AFKL) - Admission:  Free upon RSVP [RSVP here] Synopsis: In À l'abordage, embark on a spontaneous road trip with Félix, a dedicated young man, and his friends Chérif and Edouard as they set out to surprise Alma. This heartwarming French comedy unfolds a journey marked by friendship, brotherhood, and love. The film skillfully weaves together humor and heartfelt moments, creating an atmosphere so uplifting that you'll find yourself wishing the adventure would never end. À l'abordage leaves an indelible mark with its endearing characters, abundance of jokes, and light-hearted tone. The film doesn't just entertain; it invites the audience to become cherished companions in this delightful cinematic experience. Guillaume Brac's direction ensures that the movie is not just a visual treat but a celebration of joy and connection. Thus, don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the joyous world of À l'abordage. Bring your friends, family, and a hearty appetite for laughter to AFKL on Wednesday, 17 January, and let the comedy-filled journey begin! Bon voyage! 🇫🇷🍿

L for Learning: A Reflective Journey of 2023 As we bid farewell to 2023, it is a natural time to reflect on the journey we’ve undertaken, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned. This reflective process allows us to not only celebrate our accomplishments but also acknowledge the hurdles we've surmounted and distil lessons from our diverse experiences. Importantly, this introspection acts as a guiding light for our future endeavours, providing insights into our strengths and areas that require further development. In this final edition of the year, we turn the spotlight on the invaluable experiences and insights shared by our remarkable team members—Naim, Zafira, and Julia—as they unpack their individual learning journeys of the past year. Zafira's Learning Expedition: Navigating Positive Change Through Communication Zafira's narrative delves into her learning adventure, focusing on skills like adapting to varied working styles and fostering effective team communication. Acknowledging the hurdles in breaking old communication patterns, she stresses the significance of starting small and remaining mindful. Zafira underscores the positive ripple effect of enhanced communication on team efficiency and expresses her commitment to a continuous learning journey, marked by an awareness of diverse communication styles. Julia's Eclectic Learning Terrain: Embracing Opportunities and Insights Julia's journey stands as a testament to the diversity of experiences she embraced throughout the year. From refining intercultural competency to honing time management and presentation skills, her exposure to a myriad of projects enriched both her professional and personal realms. A pivotal moment for Julia was leading a workshop for students, emphasising the value of mutual exchange and hands-on experience. Her unexpected realisation—that true understanding often arises from lived experiences rather than theoretical knowledge—resonates as a profound insight. Naim's Learning Odyssey: Fostering Confidence and Collaboration As Naim reflects on his time with Cultural Impact, his retrospective gaze spotlights the mosaic of skills he diligently cultivated. Notably, his dedication to fostering clear communication and honing confidence in public speaking stands as a testament to his deliberate efforts. These competencies weren't inherent; they were crafted through conscious practice and dedication. His participation in cultural induction programs and intercultural competence sessions marked a turning point in his professional journey. Stepping beyond the boundaries of familiarity wasn't just about embracing diversity; it was a pivotal realization of the immense value that collaboration brings to the table. Transitioning away from Cultural Impact, Naim recognizes the profound impact the company had on his growth. Confronting challenges in public speaking became more manageable, thanks to the supportive and enriching environment. Moreover, adapting to the company's flexible work culture became a testament to his adaptability—a skillset further refined during his tenure. Throughout this journey, Naim's narrative isn't one of static achievement but rather a testament to the power of continuous learning. Seeking guidance from colleagues wasn't just a formality; it was a deliberate choice, acknowledging the wealth of knowledge within the team and leveraging it to foster personal and professional development. As he embarks on a new chapter beyond Cultural Impact, Naim's journey serves as an inspiration—a reminder of the transformative potential of embracing continuous improvement, adaptability, and the wisdom that comes from learning alongside colleagues in a collaborative environment. The Unforeseen Gifts of Continuous Learning All three team members illuminate the unexpected benefits of continuous learning. Naim discovered newfound openness in communication, Zafira found growth in constructive criticism, and Julia unearthed a depth of understanding from actual experiences. As we stride into the upcoming year, let's carry the torch of learning, curiosity, and adaptability, enriching both our professional and personal lives. Here's to a year of discovery, growth, and endless possibilities!

Every year, we are privileged to be able to conduct a cultural induction program in conjunction with the Student Intership Program (SIP) from the Malaysian-Dutch Business Council (MDBC). In this program, we introduce the Dutch students to the Malaysian culture and contexts in order to familiarise them to the local environment.This unique initiative isn't just about professional experiences; it's a doorway to understanding differences, bridging cultures, and embracing the richness of diversity, which is what Cultural Impact is all about. Each year, this program acts as a gateway, welcoming Dutch students into the vibrant tapestry of Malaysian life. It goes beyond a mere introduction; it's a comprehensive guide to help these students navigate the nuances of a new environment. Addressing multifaceted concerns—ranging from lifestyle adjustments to professional integration—it stands as a testament to our commitment to seamless cross-cultural integration. As the curtains rise on this program, our focus extends far beyond the basics. Yes, we do delve into the practical aspects: dress codes, social etiquette, and acclimatizing to the professional landscape. But it's more than that. It's a journey that transcends the surface, gently immersing these students into the rich tapestry of Malaysian history, cuisine, and societal intricacies. For us, this month's newsletter is more than a mere communication piece. It's an ode to the profound connection between our induction program and the broader concept of learning as a lifelong endeavor. The parallels are evident—much like these Dutch students navigating new cultural landscapes, we all walk the path of perpetual learning. In this mosaic of life, we are all students. Regardless of age or experience, every sunrise brings with it a new lesson waiting to be learned. We embrace this ethos—a commitment to staying curious, open-minded, and ever-ready to absorb the wisdom woven into the fabric of our everyday experiences. The cultural induction program, in its essence, embodies this philosophy. It's not just about teaching; it's about mutual understanding, growth, and exchange. It's a reminder that learning doesn’t cease with a diploma or a job title; rather, it's an unending expedition—one that enlivens our perspectives, enriches our interactions, and broadens the horizons of our comprehension. As we celebrate this fusion of cultures and knowledge, let us carry forward this spirit of continual learning. Let us tread each day as a new chapter in our educational journey—a journey that transcends boundaries and embraces the beauty of diversity, fostering a world where learning knows no bounds. Together, let us champion the ethos that we are all perpetual students in the grand symphony of life. Stay curious, stay inspired, and keep learning. Warm regards, Naim Ramin

As the vibrant tapestry of Malaysian culture unfolds, there's a special event on the horizon that promises to be a captivating celebration of tradition and storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the indigenous community, the "Teater Muzikal Kanak-kanak Berasaskan Lagu Sewang dan Cerita Rakyat Masyarakat Orang Asli" is a must-see musical theatre production. A Cultural Journey: This musical theatre production, presented by the Malaysian Curriculum Association, is not just an ordinary show—it's a cultural journey that delves into the rich traditions of the indigenous people, with a particular focus on their folktales. The project aims to bring to light the often overlooked narratives of the indigenous community, ensuring their stories take center stage. Featuring Young Talents: What makes this production even more special is the involvement of indigenous children. These young talents, actively participating in the Homeschooling Education program under the Program Jalinan Masyarakat UMCARES, will be the stars of the show. Their performances promise not only entertainment but also a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Orang Asli community. How to Attend: To witness this cultural extravaganza, secure your seats at the main auditorium of the Education Faculty in University Malaya on January 19, 2024. The show runs from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For additional information and ticket details, click here. Why You Shouldn't Miss It: 1. Cultural Richness: Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and folktales of the indigenous community. 2. Young Talents: Witness the incredible performances of indigenous children, adding a unique charm to the production. 3. Community Empowerment: Support a project that aims to empower and bring visibility to the narratives of the Orang Asli community. Thus, as we step into the new year, make a resolution to explore and appreciate the diverse cultural heritage that Malaysia holds. The "Teater Muzikal Kanak-kanak Berasaskan Lagu Sewang dan Cerita Rakyat Masyarakat Orang Asli" is a perfect way to start this cultural journey. Don't miss the chance to be part of this enchanting experience. Book your tickets now and join us on January 19, 2024, for a day filled with cultural wonders and the joyous performances of young talents. Embrace the culture, celebrate the traditions, and experience the magic!