My Malaysian Affair - Chapter 8

Islamic Schools in Malaysia Leave Lasting Impression

One of the greatest experiences I had in Malaysia, was being able to visit two schools in Kedah. With the kind permission of the principals of one primary and one Arabic secondary school (religious school where Arabic is taught among other subjects), I was able to walk through classrooms during school hours. What attracted me to these school, and what left an impression on me, was seeing girls wearing hijab so respectably as part of their uniform. The little girls were particularly cute, in their small hijabs. Seeing so many cute children at the primary school indeed made me happy, and I pray that Allah will guide these children, and ourselves, to be good Muslims.

The teenagers in the Arabic school were very friendly, and well behaved - which may surprise some. They seemed very mature, and had a love for their religion that I had not seen in teenagers before. I have a lot of faith in their teachers, whom I spoke to, and pray that Allah will continue to keep them on the straight path.

I looked forward to Eid with great anticipation, and indeed it was a very joyous occasion. Being the only opportunity for me to celebrate Eid in a Muslim country for many years, I made the most of it, following children around houses in search of ang pow, and visiting new friends. Visiting new families was also on the cards, as all Malay homes are "open" during the Eid time, and welcome any visitors.

Photos - please click thumbnails to see full sized image

• Just 3 of the very many photos that I took of children in schools in Malaysia and Singapore. I was very privileged to have been able to enter these schools and classrooms to see the classes, and take photos. To the many principals and teachers I have met on my travels - I am eternally grateful to you all. I may make additions to these photos at a later stage from my very large collection.

(Click images to view in full size)

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