As Malaysia heads towards its 69th year as an independent nation, Malaysians around the globe reflect on the nation’s progress throughout the years and appreciate what it means to be a Malaysian, no matter their cultural background or where they are in the world.
With Merdeka approaching, Malaysians abroad celebrate with fellow countrymen around the globe and MyHeart celebrates the accomplishments of our beloved Malaysians abroad who are doing their part in advancing the nation through their remarkable efforts.
Here are a few inspiring stories to get your patriotic spirit roaring!
From Ipoh to Malta: Dr. Gwendolyn Amanda
After watching her seniors practice medicine in Malta, Gwen decided to make the move herself and begin practising medicine in a totally new country. She’s now rocking it as an emergency medicine doctor after securing a spot in the specialisation from Malta’s Ministry of Health. She loves the dynamic nature of her job, working with a wide range of specialities in a fast-paced environment.
In her free time, Gwen connects with Malta-based Malaysians as part of a tight-knit community. She mentions that every time a Malaysian arrives on the island, they get added to a WhatsApp group. Much like MyHeart’s Network and Connect, she does her part in keeping Malaysians in Malta connected to their roots.
From Petaling Jaya to San Diego: Tasha Mae
If you’ve been scrolling on Instagram lately, you’re sure to have seen Tasha Mae flexing her skills as a beach volleyball athlete. Her colourful content documenting her life as a national athlete and as a Malaysian living in San Diego has gained the attention of 27,000 followers and millions of views on her content.
So far, Tasha has represented Malaysia in beach volleyball across 3 SEA Games and is now transitioning to competitive rowing. In between training, she also finds time to host her own podcast “VolleyTalk” where she covers all things beach volleyball. Her story is a true testament to MyHeart’s belief that you can achieve great things for your country no matter where you’re based.
From Sungai Besar to Beijing: Isa Zubir
There’s a common belief that for a Malaysian to be successful overseas, they must speak an international language. But Isa Zubir’s story proves that you can find success overseas while embracing our national language, Bahasa Malaysia. Isa’s work as a Malay-language newscaster for China Media Group’s (CMG) Malay department has given him the unique opportunity to represent our national language to a wider demographic outside of the country. Through his work, he has acted as a bridge between the two countries through organisations like the Malaysia-China Friendship Association and the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Beyond his work as a newscaster, Isa shares his life as a Malaysian in China on his TikTok to over 67,000 followers, providing resources to Malaysians planning to visit or migrate through his entertaining halal food reviews and travel hidden gems. A catalyst for collaboration between nations and a friendly voice from home for Malaysians in China, Isa Zubir spreads the MyHeart message with his iconic voice across media outlets.
Keeping Malaysia close this festive season – Selamat Hari Merdeka!
These stories are just a glimpse into all the amazing work Malaysians abroad are doing to make their country proud. All over the world, across industries, genders, races and backgrounds, anak-anak Malaysia continue to inspire us with their passion and love for their country.
If you’d like to read more Malaysians abroad stories like these, register on MyHeart to become a part of a global Malaysian community. Selamat Hari Merdeka and Selamat Hari Malaysia!
