Ineffable Induction
The first week in Malaysia has just come to an end, and so
has our stay in the “Universiti Di Malaya” (University of Malaysia). As the
title suggest this past week was indescribable, but I am going to try my best.
The week largely consisted of Bahasa Melayu (Malay Language) classes, with our
brilliant guru, Mr. Samsur Rigal. Following these classes the students of
Loughborough University wandered the various popular districts of Kuala Lumpur.
When the cover of night came upon Kuala Lumpur, the students then emerged
showing their true colours in some of the touristy drinking areas of the city,
Loughborough style. It has been a week of ups and downs, but I have no doubt
gained an edge with my new understanding of basic Bahasa Melayu.
Student's trying National Dress with Guru Samsur
Our first day in Kuala Lumpur was spent meeting the Vice
Chancellor of the University for brunch, and a brief photo session. We were
then permitted to wander free to get our fix of bargaining and haggling of
electronic goods in the digital mall. These gave us the opportunity to try out
KL’s version of the underground system, the LRT. The speed and efficiency of
which took us all by surprise, as the traffic on the streets was a complete
contrast. I managed to get a sweet deal on my new camera and got to practice my
rusty haggling skills.
After leaving the digital we went right into the centre of
KL, to have a look at the Petronas Towers and wander the fancy mall below. This
is where I bought my shiny new work shoes, as the night clubs in Loughborough
destroyed the pair I had planned to wear.
Fellow Students Looking for Office Shoes
This is where some of the students got to try out one of
Asia’s greatest products, the massage chair. A product some of them never knew
existed, and never dreamed of sampling.
Back during our lunch break we befriended one of the
students on the campus who had an interesting pet, which many of the students
became fond of. 10 points if anyone can name it!
Mystery Pet!
After getting a taste of haggling in the digital mall I
decided I wanted more, so I ventured to KL’s Chinatown with a few friends.
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Market in Chinatown
A good start to my year in KL, I am now looking forward to
moving into my new apartment in Subang Jaya, return here to see what it looks
like!
