Japanese culture is one of the most sought-after and appreciated heritages by most Malaysians. And while we know a lot about what it is that makes Japan so special, could we say that it is the same the other way around? One Malaysian teacher seems to be bringing our customs and traditions all the way to the Land of The Rising Sun, and showing Japanese people what Malaysia is really like.
A recent clip posted by one Malaysian teacher who is working in Japan, named Yuzairi bin Abdul Rahim, has been making waves on his TikTok page @tinggai.kat.jepun. Visiting a primary school located in the city of Hioki in Kyushu, Japan, Yuzairi shared one lesson plan he carried out with a classroom of kids, teaching them about everything Malaysian.
In the video, Yuzairi began by wishing them a good afternoon in the Malay language, which is Selamat Tengahari. Responding to him in a similar fashion, Yuzairi proceeded to ask the kids if they knew anything about Malaysia while speaking in Japanese, to which the kids did not.
Going on to show them some parts of Malaysian culture, Yuzairi introduced images of an orangutan to the kids, informing them of its native to Malaysia. Aside from that, he also showed them how to wear a sampin and songkok, telling them that it is a traditional costume of our country.
Yuzairi also taught the kids a few words in the Malay language along the way, including the plant pokok kopi, while showing them photos of a tree and a cup of coffee to demonstrate how to pronounce the word correctly. At the end of the lesson, all the kids thanked Yuzairi by saying “terima kasih, jumpa lagi!” before giving him a high-five.
Asking one of the students how she felt the lesson went, the adorable child even said “Bagus gila!” fluently to Yuzairi.
In a brief conversation with WORLD OF BUZZ, Yuzairi stated that he currently works as a coordinator for international relations in the city of Hioki. Aside from schools, Yuzairi has also visited elderly folk and official organisations to provide exposure to what Malaysian culture is really like.
“I have worked here for quite a while. But before this, I also graduated from the University of Yamanashi in Japan. These places and schools normally invite me for globalisation events and to shine a spotlight on what Malaysia is like to these kids,” added Yuzairi to WORLD OF BUZZ.
Receiving immense praise online, many people applauded Yuzairi’s charisma and ability to teach the children about Malaysia, adding that he undoubtedly captivated his audience of kids during the lesson.
“I love the environment in Japan! Their people are very respectful and disciplined. You are the best sir!” wrote one commenter to Yuzairi.
Watch the full TikTok video below:
@tinggai.kat.jepun Hubungan Antarabangsa Cilik Malaysia-Jepun #Japan #hioki #malaysia #japanvlog
In his closing thoughts, Yuzairi hopes to share more about his life in the city of Hioki through his online platforms. We love your spirit, Yuzairi. Keep spreading the beauty of our local culture to Japan!
Also read: M’sian Travellers Teach Irish TikToker Malay Words in Vienna & Even Speak to Him in Japanese
