GEORGE TOWN: Trying on traditional attire from different cultures gave students and visitors a hands-on way to appreciate Malaysia’s multicultural heritage at a unique event here.
For Ong Yu Min, the “Mozek Malaysia” event was an exciting opportunity to wear Indian traditional attire, such as a kurti and pants, for the first time.
“It was something new and exciting to me. I never thought I would get the chance to try on Indian traditional clothing,” she said, adding that the lecturer also lent them several pairs of earrings to complement the outfits.
Ong was among students of the Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Penang branch who took part in the event.
Another student, Boo Calene, said it was her first experience wearing a baju kebarung, a fusion of the baju kurung and baju kebaya.
“I was really excited to try it on. It was a different experience for me, and I am grateful that the lecturer was so supportive of our event,” she said.
Visitors were also invited to try on traditional garments, which included the cheongsam.
Organised by second-year Diploma in Public Relations students, Mozek Malaysia aimed to celebrate Malaysia’s multicultural heritage through traditional attire, cultural performances, games, exhibitions, food and interactive activities.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) to support the preservation and promotion of Penang’s cultural and historical heritage.
Food stalls offered local and international favourites such as nasi lemak, roti canai, egg tarts and malatang, as well as nostalgic ice sticks.
Visitors also enjoyed freshly brewed teh tarik and shikanji, a spiced Indian lemonade.
There were also cultural performances, singing and trilingual song mashups blending Malay, Chinese and Indian songs.
Interactive booths offered activities such as traditional lacquer fan-making and henna art, while visitors also tried traditional games including congkak and Chinese chess.
Programme leader Edmund Ngo said the event allowed students to develop professional skills while promoting greater cultural awareness within the university community.
Project leader Lim Jing Tzi said she hoped visitors appreciated Malaysia’s multicultural heritage and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
PHT president Clement Liang urged students to continue speaking their respective dialects and also support the traditional handicraft industry to ensure cultural stories, identities and values are passed on.
TAR UMT Penang deputy branch head Dr Lim Khai Yin said the event was a reminder that traditions should continue to be understood, respected and passed on to future generations.
