The New Malaysia and its post-Covid spirit of open-mindedness and friendliness are truly remarkable. Since 2008, I've had the privilege of visiting Malaysia regularly and have always felt a deep connection to the country. However, in the wake of the pandemic, I've witnessed a newfound level of tolerance, openness, and warmth among Malaysians, which has only deepened my appreciation for their nation.
Allow me to share an anecdote from my recent arrival at Kuala Lumpur Airport from Siem Reap. On one occasion, I realized I had left behind a sentimental scarf, handwoven in the city of Azammour, Morocco, in the car that brought me to the airport. Despite this setback, the kindness and generosity of the Malaysian people shone through. The driver, a Chinese Malaysian, promptly returned to retrieve me, despite the considerable distance from the airport to the city. Upon arriving at the Hilton Hotel, my home away from home in Kuala Lumpur, I was warmly welcomed by Suresh, a Malaysian Indian, who escorted me to the Executive Lounge. There, Unnish and Bella, both Malaysian Indians and Malays respectively, graciously prepared a comforting meal of noodles, a tuna sandwich, and a generous pour of Sauvignon Blanc.
Such acts of kindness are emblematic of the warmth I've consistently experienced from Malaysians across all walks of life. It's moments like these that reaffirm my sense of belonging in this beautiful country.
I'd like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Abid and his wife in Kuala Lumpur, Shalinda at DoubleTree Hilton Kuala Lumpur, and the friendship of Omar, the Malaysian Ambassador to Iran.
The Covid-19 pandemic forced many to confront their mortality, prompting a philosophical response among Asians, in contrast to the bitterness observed elsewhere, particularly in the USA.
