A VERNACULAR school in Jelebu, Negri Sembilan, marked Hari Raya Aidilfitri with a vibrant cultural showcase.
SJK (C) Simpang Pertang has a diverse enrolment comprising 56 Malay pupils, 37 Chinese, six Indian and 11 Orang Asli.
Among the highlights was a rendition of Senandung Hari Raya by 12-year-old G. Kashveena, joined by classmates in a traditional kompang ensemble that included a Chinese pupil.
Headmistress Lee Meng Chu emphasised that while the school was categorised as a national-type school, its pupils were a true reflection of multiculturalism.
“Our pupils come from various ethnic backgrounds, so we plan to celebrate Deepavali as well as festivals observed by the Orang Asli community too, other than Hari Raya and Chinese New Year,” she said, as reported by Bernama.
There are also three Malay teachers among the school’s teaching staff of 16.
According to Lee, the school also offers Islamic religious classes.
Pupils interviewed said studying in such a diverse environment has influenced them in a positive way.
Wong Yi Qian, 11, said she often spoke in Bahasa Malaysia, thanks to her interactions with Malay classmates.
Another pupil, 12-year-old Nur Huda Adawiyah Fazuan is fluent in Mandarin and English.
“The teachers and friends here have been very supportive.
“I also understand a little Tamil,” she said.
For Kashveena, among the advantages of studying at this Chinese school is not only the opportunity to learn in three different languages but also interacting with others from different races and backgrounds.
