Reported by:
Jr2Z(3) Sophia Chin Ting Yu
Photography by:
Jr1Z(2) Kiu Ee Lim
Jr2Z(4) Eleena Alysha Faith Binti Zulkifli
United we stand, divided we fall. By embracing diversity and honoring different cultures, we can build bridges that foster empathy and collaboration. Together, we can create a future of racial unity through education. Malaysia is proud of its multicultural identity, where diverse ethnic groups live together in harmony, fostering unity and mutual respect among its people. At Kuen Cheng High School, an independent Chinese secondary school predominantly attended by Chinese students, we meet Eleena (Eleena Alysha Faith Binti Zulkifli) of mixed parentage, a half-Malay and half-Chinese student who brings a unique perspective to the Kuen Cheng community.
Eleena sharing her thoughts about joining Kuen Cheng High School
Eleena from Jr2Z(4) talks about her life in Kuen Cheng High School excitingly. She currently serves as a class monitor, and her exceptional singing and performing talents have greatly benefited her daily life.
Why did Eleena choose a Chinese school over a Malay school? According to her, her primary school teachers encouraged her to enroll in Kuen Cheng due to her enthusiasm for the Chinese language. She was also pleasantly surprised by the school’s comparatively long recess time, which influenced her decision. Communication in her bilingual household can be challenging; her Malay is not fluent, so she speaks English with her father and Chinese with her mother.
In 2023, Kuen Cheng celebrated its 115th Anniversary and held a charity bazaar, an event organized by students from various classes. As a freshman with little experience, Eleena stepped up as a secretary. She initially doubted whether her classmates could manage such an event, but the bazaar turned out to be a fantastic success!
Eleena and her classmates shared sweet success at the charity bazaar
Showcasing her talents this year, she and her classmates participated in a talent show, which was originally planned to be a play. When their idea was rejected last minute, it caused panic among the team. With guidance from their Form Teacher, they adapted their show format, and after weeks of practice, they successfully showcased their talents, winning second prize in the Junior category. The exhilarating news left everyone overjoyed!
Great moment after winning the Talent Show second prize – Junior category
Balancing academics and her cultural celebrations, Eleena navigates the challenges of studying during significant events, such as Hari Raya, which often coincide with exams. She brings her books back to the kampung hometown, dedicating time to study even amidst the festivities.
Eleena having a Hari Raya celebration with her parents at their hometown