MALAYSIAN STUDENTS BRING HERITAGE TO LIFE IN BELFAST PLAY

KUALA LUMPUR, April 13 (Bernama) -- Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital, embraced Malaysian culture as 40 students from Queen’s University Belfast performed an original play at Belfast M’Night 2025, held at at the university’s Mandela Hall.

Organised by the Malaysian Students’ Society of Northern Ireland (MSSNI), the event marked its return after a four-year hiatus, uniting the Malaysian diaspora, local residents and international students.

Ng Jun Ryu, the event’s director, said the 90-minute play followed a young Malaysian girl who leaves her hometown to study psychology in Belfast.

bootstrap slideshow

“As she navigates cultural differences and grows personally in a foreign land, the story delves into universal themes of migration, self-discovery and finding a sense of belonging, all while shining a light on Malaysian heritage,” said Ng, a second-year Biomedical Science student, in an interview with Bernama.

The 22-year-old said the play blended music, dance and storytelling, and served as a bridge between cultures, allowing the audience to experience the richness of Malaysia’s traditions.

“Guests took part in an interactive signing board featuring iconic Malaysian symbols like the wau bulan, keris and the Petronas Twin Towers, and were treated to traditional favourites like roti canai and Milo,” she said.

“It was more than just a performance—it was an invitation to experience Malaysia through stories, music and movement. We hope its success will spark more cultural collaborations between Malaysia and Northern Ireland,” Ng added.

-- BERNAMA