International Day @AISK

When we have school going children while trailing our spouses on their tour of duty at the various missions, life can be a little bit challenging. The children have to undergo lots of adjustments. But most crucial is us or we, the mothers who most of the times will have to make sacrifices for the sake and well being of them - our loved ones :))

First, to acclimatize with the new weather which is very different from what we used to in our homeland. We have to bear with the new wardrobes and make adjustments with the new life style to suit with the new place we are residing. In our case, from the tropics to the vast dune and desert land that sometimes during summer season, the temperature soared to more than 45 degrees Celcius.

Secondly, our children will have to adjust to their new school system, new place, new time zone, new uniform, new friends, new teachers and new languages. Thus, to get themselves adjust to the new environment requires encouragement and lots of patience from us - the parents! In particular, when they are in their kindergarten. 

Thirdly, we as DS and mothers of the first timer diplomats must learn fast in the new environment for purposes of smooth running of the family matters. For example, although there are school bus services provided in most posting places, but it is wise for us to learn how to drive at least from our home to the schools which our children went. It is also convenient for us to send them to places, if they are invited or wish to go to their friend's house for some discussions, parties or slumber nights.  

The other common thing for new school going children at new schools is to be told to take part in International Day organized by their schools. It was an annual event where the schools are proud to share the students' talents, their different background, multi and diversified cultures of the students' respective   countries to those who came to visit the school on that special day. Hence, my children were of no exception.

But, we were very proud to share and to showcase our beloved nation's multi cultures and traditions to friends from other countries during the big International Day event at the American International School in Kuwait. At that time, our young Mr RDR was only five years old and attended the KG2 Class under Mrs Qabandi. 

Apart from preparing some Malaysian traditional foods in the booth such as satay and the tasty gravy made of  groundnuts to be shared by his teachers and friends, we also prepared some traditional desserts such as buah Melaka, kuih lapis and agar-agar. At one corner of the booth, we also placed some brochures and pamphlets for all visitors to our booth about our beautiful country and all the places to visit in Malaysia. Indeed, it was a special experience where we promote our country to the local Kuwaitis and other friends. We hope through this concerted efforts more tourists will visit Malaysia and also to boost the tourism industry. 

In sum, the introduction of an International Day in all International schools provides a positive impact to not only the students of the said schools, but it also extends to their parents, other students, teachers and the local  community. It also promotes and upholds the good name of the country which takes part in the event to the outside world! 

'Karipap Making' in Kuwait TV

One of the many beautiful memories which still lingers in my mind, during my stay in the Middle East was the Kuwait TV Show on 'Karipap Making' by DI and narrated by me. 

A week before the Life Show began, I was called and lovingly 'summoned' by DI that Kuwait TV wished to show life telecast about Malaysian cuisines to the locals. Thus, during the brainstormings and discussions we came out with many names of Malaysian dishes and desserts which we felt suitable for such shows. 

Of all the many delicious foods that crossed our minds, DI decided that we should show case on how to make the crispy and tasty Malaysian  karipap, which was different from the normal western curry puffs or savory pies. She roped in Sis FM to assist her in making the dough and fillings. She said that she will show case the process of making the karipap to the audiences including the 'mengelim' (the traditional way of putting together and decorating the pastry after inserting the fillings). She will also show the correct method of frying the delicacy. 

However, she insisted that I must be in the program, too and moreover she needed my help to explain to the audiences the ingredients, the methods and the whole process of making the karipap. Since she knew that I can't cook, so she gave me a special task i.e. to memories the recipes and  procedures of how to make the Malaysian homemade styled karipap.  Wooh ... I was sweating :)) But, I did my homework and pray that I won't let her and my beloved nation down.

Indeed, for more than two days, I was  practically   rehearsing the said recipe and procedures of 'karipap making' in front of my mirror. Although I'm used to giving lectures to students, but to narrate and give a talk show about something which was not my forte, did produce some butterflies in my stomach. 

Anyway, all good deeds with good intentions went well as planned. The memorable event took place in  a Five Star Venue. On top of the TV crews, hotel staff, there were many locals who came to watch the Life Show. Although I was a little nervous at first, but once the show started, I narrated the talk show along side DI. Indeed, we were good partners throughout the show with some jokes in between and simple questions and answers flowed well between us and the audiences. Alhamdulilah, it was indeed my first appearance life on TV. Thank You DI for the opportunity and until today, I still vividly remember you and of course our once in a life time show in Kuwait TV.

Perwakilan Kuwait

I was given a motherly advised by one of my superiors in the Perwakilan WP (an organization  for wives and ladies' officers in MOF) before I left for my first ever posting experience. Her advice was to always uphold the good name of our country everywhere we go, in particular while representing our nation abroad. Until today, I still remember her useful advice and also share the same advice to my ladies. 

When I arrived in Kuwait, I joined the Perwakilan Kuwait under the leadership of DI, wife of the then Malaysian   Ambassador DZ. Based on RY's post, I was automatically her Deputy, a role which I thanked her and also for all the lessons and knowledge which she had shared with me. 

During my stay in Kuwait, the number of Perwakilan ladies in the organization was of manageable size. They were not only comprised of spouses whose husbands worked   at the Embassy. The associate members include Malaysian ladies whose husbands were expatriates working in the multilateral companies, oil sectors, airports, and etc. 

With many members from different backgrounds, our organization not only flourished but more cheerful and merrier. We also shared our experiences, passions and acquired more knowledge from each other because each member was unique and equally expert in their own fields. 

Among others were Sis FM who was a cooking expert and always shared her foods and recipes with us. With her delicious cuisines at most Perwakilan get together, our meetings were never bored. Another lady was a teacher. She knew Arabic language. With her background, our organization elected her as our advisor on some religious issues and also utilized her expertise in leading us for Quranic readings and many more. Another prominent friend was Mrs W who was not only good at making yummy desserts, but she was also a creative person who loved arts. With her passion in batik paintings, she shared her lucrative hobby with us as part of our Perwakilan monthly activities. 

Indeed, there were many more ladies who were very talented and never at all stingy in sharing their 'ilmu' with us in the organization which was not only active in sharing fruitful activities, but most of all - the Perwakilan Kuwait created healthy events and provided fun life to all diplomat and expatriate spouses in a land covered by bronze desert which was far, far away from their relatives and homeland. 

As for me, I truly enjoyed my three years stay in Kuwait and also cherished the beneficial time I shared with wonderful friends in the Perwakilan organization. From them, I acquired not only the art of socializing, but more importantly the true meaning of friendship. I strongly believe that when were are far away from our family by blood, then our friends and neighbors will be our family. Although most of the time, the saying blood is thicker than water is true, but I also believe in a Malay saying: Di mana bumi di pijak, di situ langit di junjung. Another Malay proverb which I always used in time of need each time we ran out of the original   was 'tiada rotan, akar pun berguna.' 

Alhamdulilah, all my praise to Allah SWT for all His blessings upon me and my family. Also for providing me the chance of making friends and meeting beautiful people during our wonderful and memorable stay in Kuwait. Amin.

DCM Wives Group Coffee Morning

When I decided to follow RY to his first posting to Kuwait, an oil rich nation, I knew that I had to play an important role as a diplomat's wife representing my beloved country.

Indeed, I was fortunate to undergo a Pre-Posting Course organized by WP through IDFR where all diplomats' spouses were taught and equipped with basic knowledge of public speaking, various ways of entertaining guests and most importantly grooming and table manners.  Alhamdulilah, since I was also a working lady in one of the public universities in my country, all the oratory and management skills which I acquired did help me in dispensing my role as a first timer being a DCM's wife.

During our posting period in any host countries, it is a common knowledge for all DCM spouses to organize coffee mornings or hi teas at their residences with a theme that reflect their countries. Before my turn to organize one, I had the opportunity to be invited to the other DCM wives' events. Among others was by the Japanese DCM's wife who taught us how to prepare sushi or 'sushi making' as well as a demonstration on how to wear a kimono. It was not only an interesting morning for all of us who attended the coffee morning, but certainly a fruitful and memorable, too.

With the knowledge that I had acquired, in one morning before summer season arrived, I organized a coffee morning for my colleagues in my Moorish styled home in Qurtuba District. The theme I chose was Malaysian Costumes, where I narrated to my guests about the various types of Malaysian apparels and from where they were originated.  The highlight of the event was 'The Various Ways of Wearing a Batik Sarong' where all my guests were able to practice wearing batik sarongs and to also keep them as momentous or souvenirs. Indeed, it was not only a fun event, but most importantly I was able to share and promote my beloved nation to all my guests - the DCM spouses!

Before the event ended, I invited all of them to taste the Malaysian cuisines and traditional desserts which include the famous nasi lemak and sambal ikan bilis with all its  condiments (boiled eggs, cut cucumbers and fried groundnuts with fried anchovies). I also added deep fried chickens and some beef rendang to complete the menu. As for desserts, my guests were served with karipap, buah Melaka, onde-onde and rambutan fruits which I bought in cans. 

All in all, my first DCM wives coffee morning at my Qurtuba home went well. Before they all left me after a sumptuous foodies and desserts, I also handed to my colleagues and guests some buah tangan consisting of the fragrantly Malaysian pot poori - the popular and sweet aromatic 'bunga rampai' in a special woven baskets as symbol of friendship between us in the DCM Wives Group.

Home Sweet Home in Qurtuba

After a week staying in Le Meridian Hotel Kuwait, my family and I moved to our new home-sweet-home in Qurtuba. It was a four story bungalow with eight rooms and two separate kitchens - wet and dry. The stairs used for our helpers to their rooms and laundry rooms were also separated from the main stairs. There was a basement which was used as shelter during Kuwait-Iraq War. Indeed, the off-white colored room was pretty clean and complete with 'disco' lights. 

However, during our stay in that house, the basement room was left as it was and we never used it at all because we believe there were some unseen 'people' living in it! And they showed themselves to me, just before we left Kuwait for homeland after RY's tour of duty ended in Autumn 1996.

All in all, I could safely say that the home-sweet-home which we stayed peacefully for three years was more of a small mansion with fort like wall and a beautiful garden full of vegetables including tomatoes, pumpkins and kangkong. It was also a Moorish styled home where inside the big hall hanged a chandelier with approximately thirty-two bulbs. The big dome that gave extra lights via solar energy adorned the whole house. 

In the centre of the hall was a Moorish styled sunken lounge for relaxation and small parties like birthday celebrations. A small fountain made of multi-colored tiles attracted children when they came to our house. It was also surrounded by several potted plants which gave fresh air with tropical sights to the already beautiful ambience. It also acted as a small playground for my children who at that time aged three and five. RY also placed an aquarium with lots of gold fish in it. Indeed, it became a centre of attraction for the children's learning process used by their nanny each time she wanted to feed them lunch or dinner.

We also love this home which stored many beautiful memories. Many events had taken place here during our three years stay such as my first Coffee Morning to all DCM (deputy chief of mission) spouses where RY was the elected President. We also held the Eid prayer in the big hall and invited all Malaysians in Kuwait City for Eid celebrations. At one time, our house was also  chosen to be the venue for the Norwegian National Day for a few Norwegians residing in Kuwait. Other times, Kuwait TV also came and capture Life Telecast of the Malaysians Open House traditions during Eid Fitri to be shared with the locals. 

Till this day, the Qurtuba Moorish styled home means a lot to me and my family (the temporary occupants) - it not only shelters us but brought many beautiful memories to us.

First Posting Experience

It all began with a night flight to Kuwait via Dubai on 23 December 1993. Also about a week after we celebrated Ms El's third birthday at Carrie Island with RFamily members, especially with our late To' Yaya.

After all the farewell do's and final waving and hugging at the former Subang International Airport, we boarded the MAS plane and after almost 7 hours, we reached Dubai International Airport. It was a first experience for our young Mr RDR and Ms El on board the plane and certainly they were very excited with the flight experience in the Boeing 737.

After a day staying in Dubai International Hotel and also taking the opportunity to sight seeing and roaming the old Dubai City, we boarded the Kuwait Airways to our destination - the Kuwait City. Since the journey was short, taking less than 2 hours flight time so the kiddos were also enjoying the trip :) 

When we finally arrived at the Kuwait International Airport, the Embassy staff and the office driver were already waiting for us. They took us to Le Meridian Hotel. The ride from the airport to the Hotel which was to be our home for a week was extremely smooth. My family and I also enjoyed the cool weather because we arrived during winter season - about 15 degrees Celsius. 

Our first posting to Kuwait was truly blissful and in a way it connote a good start to welcome the new year 1994 - meaning with a new vocation at a new place for RY. Our children also will start their KG and I will start my new role as a Diplomat Spouse. In short, it was like a fresh start to all of us! Alhamdulilah, my heartiest prayer to Allah SWT for all His Grace to my family and I. 

Below: Upon arrival @Le Meridian Hotel Kuwait 

A Pleasant Surprise

This morning I received a text message from someone I admired and adored. Indeed, it was a sweet and pleasant surprise to me on this blissful Friday morning. Not only I admire this person as being a great teacher and symbol or icon for all international lawyers, but most of all she is a great woman, a beautiful wife, understanding mother and a lovely grandmother. 

She also loves all her friends and whenever she wrote about them or send messages to them, she is always meticulous.  Her words are beautifully intended and personally written for such persons. Her letters to us is something which we wish to keep as keep sake! They all give a good feeling whenever we read them over and over again ...

In fact, I also used to read her books and articles about law and later shared her knowledge with my students. But, it never crossed my mind that I'll meet her in person one day, and we later became friends. Alhamdulilah, we did and I really cherished the beautiful moments the day we sat eyes on each other especially over a sumptuous dinner @Holiday Villa in London. We had a great time sharing about the subjects we both love, chatting about her life during student days, her ever understanding spouse, her grown up children, and also her lovable grandchildren :))

This beautiful mind lady is Datuk Tunku Sofia Jewa. And with Allah SWT grace and will, we met again @FUU, UiTM just a day before I left my home country after a short visit to see my children and colleagues. I must thank my dear friend Dr TIM who makes it possible for me to set eyes and have the honour to have a short chat once more with my friend Datuk Tunku Sofia.  

I pray to His Al Mighty to grant her good health especially after she went through an operation that fractured her right arm. Since then, she has been in and out of hospital for various check ups and hospitalization. In her mail, she wrote: Once you reach my age, you would realize that these 'events' become quite commonplace! Yet, when I look at her and talk to her, she doesn't look or behave her age. She's bubbly and stay beautiful as always. 

I also look forward to read her book 'The Return' which is an authorized biographical rendition of our YDPA. To Datuk Tunku, I'm looking forward to cross path with you again and again ...