I S S U E I I I U N R A V E L U N R A V E L U N R A V E L
Many great philosophers, like the legendary girl group TWICE, once embarked on the endless journey of pondering over the century-old question: What islove? The definition of love has never been static for me. When I was 12, I believed love meant giving everything to someone. At 15, I thought it meant sacrificing my own happiness for the other person. Now, at 19, I've come to realise that love encompasses many things. For some, it's about offering unconditional understanding and care or maybe cooking a lovely meal after a long day. You see, love is everywhere, and that is why I love love. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story masterfully encapsulates a love I find truly admirable: loyalty. The six-episode prequel explores the fictional love story of Queen Charlotte and King George III who fell in love at first sight despite Charlotte’s initial attempt to climb over the palace walls to escape their betrothal. Nonetheless, their love story was far from a happily ever after. George soon starts to distance himself from Charlotte due to his unpredictable manic episodes which pushes the couple through turmoil, culminating in an emotional confrontation between Charlotte and George which was truly the climax of the plot. The series ends with an aged Queen Charlotte talking to an old, permanently insane King George. In a tender moment, they share a conversation under the bed, where George recovers some portion of rationality as they momentarily escape from their Written by: DenyceNg | Layout by: Zara Yap A B R I D G E R T O N S T O R Y 1
roles and be simply Charlotte and George. They share an emotional reminiscence leading in the last two lines of the series. “You did not go overthewall.” “NoGeorge,I did not go overthewall”. (CUE THE TEARS!) Unlike the more dramatic romances of Seasons 1 and 2, this prequel reminded the audience of the rarity of loyalty in today’s changing constant. Staying committed to someone is no easy feat, and finding someone who will unwaveringly stand by you is a stroke of luck. It takes immense courage, patience, and effort to nurture a relationship, have difficult conversations, and be fully present for one another. Perhaps, what truly matters, in the end, is the presence and companionship of those we love, just like how Charlotte stood by George. 2
They smile, but something feels…off. You just can’t place your finger on what it is—perhaps it’s the illusion of a smile, perhaps it’s the unease in their superficially sympathetic stare. It feels… almost slimy. Their smile makes you feel small, instead of happy or comfortable. But isn’t a smile supposed to make you feel the opposite? Well, that’s condescension for you. It’s the opposite of respect, really. What’s coming out between their lips, through that smile…it’s dripping with contempt. It’s outright rude. It’s outright ignorant. It’s outright demeaning. But what exactly does it mean when someone is condescending? What makes someone condescending? It’s when someone exhibits an attitude oozing with a patronising sense of superiority, when someone appears kind on the surface but follows through by delivering a backhanded blow. Some signs and behaviours that make someone so patronising or condescending include: 1) They like being the focus of attention—even when they’re doing the bare minimum they expect to be credited, recognised and applauded for it. Written by: Zara Yap | Layout by: Zara Yap 3
2) They possess narcissistic tendencies. They like to assume, act and imply to you that they are better or more worthy than everyone else—they want to feel superior and look down on others. 3) They dismiss you or interrupt you during a conversation, whether it’s to correct you, disregard your opinion or put you down. 4) They feel a strong need to be in control. They may feel a need to control everything and everyone around them, even if it means intimidating others both directly and indirectly through words. 5) They pretend to be concerned about your wellbeing—they may not actually care or want to acknowledge how you feel, but they might offer unsolicited advice in a patronising manner. 6) They love to talk about their accomplishments and shower themselves in praise while the achievements of others do not matter to them. They criticise others or make jokes at someone’s expense. 7) They are self-serving. 8) They say insensitive things—it’s like they’ve mastered the dark art of backhanded compliments. 9) They are driven by comparison. They constantly compare themselves with everyone else. And you’re right, it’s a miserable way to live in the long run, because if they see someone doing better? They think they can be better in every way and think others are undeserving. If they see someone doing worse than them? You bet they’ll point it out and bask in the limelight the next instant they can. 4
Sometimes, we can even be guilty of doing some of these things when we weren’t our best selves in the past—it’s human nature to be permeated by insecurities or make mistakes and mess up big time. But being self-aware and not ticking off the list every time you interact with someone sets you on a journey of personal growth. Self-awareness is the first step—we now know examples of what not to do and what kind of behaviour posits you as a condescending person. People who embody condescension are typically not self-aware of things like these that they say or do. There’s often a different set of reasons why some people display such behaviour and believe in their own superiority. The majority of the time, it stems from underlying insecurities and arrogance. It’s often a protective mechanism in order to divert the attention of others from their insecurities. They project a persona that they want other people to perceive, wrapping their venomous tendrils around people they interact with and slowly suffocating them over time. Being face-to-face with condescending people gets on your nerves. It rattles you and fuels your temptations to retaliate, to hit them with an uno reverse so they can have a taste of their own medicine. That’s understandable. They’ve been pushing all your buttons to make you feel inferior or dumb, to make you doubt yourself or feel as though you’re in the wrong even when you’re not. What I’ve learned? Don’t give them the satisfaction of knowing you let them trip you up, and certainly don’t fight condescension with condescension because we can’t have you stooping down like that. It’s hard not to take what they say personally. But it’s important to not let that happen, because condescending people will keep eating at your psyche like a parasite that’s latched onto you. I’ve learned to walk away instead and try to be the bigger person if they keep overstepping boundaries—no one wants to keep people by their side if they constantly disrespect you. Let them continue feeding that patronising sense of superiority in their own delusions. 5
In the early March of 2023, Malaysia was affected by a dreadful flood. Johor is known to be prone to floods during the monsoon season (November to March). A couple of areas in Johor such as Batu Pahat and Yong Peng were hit by a significant flood. Thousands of people were affected by rising flood water due to the non-stop heavy rain. In some places, the water level was at chest level and also at the rooftop level. Many residents thought five days was good enough for the water level to drop but it didn’t happen. One of the locals estimated that he has lost over RM50,000 worth of fortune. Over 20,000 people have been placed in a temporary relief shelter provided by the local committee. Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim stated that the cause of the flood may be coming from the heavy rainfall causing the Bekok River to overflow. After visiting the relief centre in Batu Pahat, Mr Anwar announced that the flood mitigation project will be expedited and commence by June this year. Written by: Lana Azami| Edited and Layout by: Zara Yap "WHEN WILL THIS END?" 6
Do I dare disturb the universe? The room is crowded. Arms hit other arms hitting other arms in an endless tessellating pattern that drowns out all silences. My relatives (dressed in a vibrant assortment of colours) converse in packs — laughing while cleaning dishes, chatting while propping up tents, even discussing who has the better marriage. But I don’t have anyone to talk to. In the secluded corner, on a secluded couch, I try to make my existence unknown. You see, I don’t particularly enjoy being here. Not that I dislike my relatives (on the contrary I do quite enjoy watching their banter) but rather I didn’t really have the choice to not come. If I were to tell any person in this room — or even suggest to them— what I thought, I would be met with the exact same response. “Respect your elders” Written by: Ishwarya Krishna Layout by: Ishwarya Krishna 7
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Since a very young age, many of us have been taught this very mantra. It’s a cultural code that is ingrained in Asian values. But what exactly does this mean? Respect is meant to be “a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements”. So why does it feel unearned? Oftentimes, I find myself contemplating these very ideas. Amidst the family hustling and bustling in avid conversation, I wonder — how am I meant to exist with these “respectable” people? The answer is simple: you don’t. ues of collectivism. Unlike most Western civilisations, Eastern cultures often forgo personal freedom in favour of social stability and prosperity; generosity over selfishness, and harmony over conflict. Society is, thusly, organised to unify people for their economic and social good, prioritising prosperity and the collective well-being of the community. This is thought to be influenced by Confucianism — particularly the idea of filial piety; loyalty towards the family, corporation, and nation, emphasising the honouring of your elders. Because of this, Asian culture conditions us to anticipate the needs of others, so you do not have to verbally express their desires. If you want or need something that cannot be inferred, that desire becomes invalid and insignificant. And so, to preserve relationships, avoid conflicts or prevent embarrassment, we often default to suppressing How a going the lea of socit can approac doorw The law of Asian values state: Voicing opinions against that of older generations is akin to soiling their name. Since they (allegedly) built the society we live in, their experiences trump all other perspectives. We are expected to remain silent, masking our ego, and speaking only when spoken to. And even then, conversations must be as short and inoffensive as possible. It's an empty performance; A silent auditorium. So why does our culture dictate that suppression takes precedence over individual expression? To understand the source of our communicative style (or lack thereof), it is necessary to understand the Asian val9
our desires. Emotions locked away from everyone — shut up y/n, this isn’t about you. When is it ever about you? Thus, the dilemma emerges; in an increasingly modern, increasingly polarised and increasingly radicalised era, should we forgo our personal freedoms to maintain social harmony? To allow the status quo to perpetuate social disparities whilst protecting us in the process? To be honest, I don’t have an answer to this question. I, myself, And as if it wasn’t already difficult enough, this rhetoric makes our doorways almost impossible to pass; a mental barrier stops us from even approaching the doorframe. How are we going to be the leaders of society if we don’t dare approach the doorway? And so I will remain in this secluded corner until I finally dare to fight my instinct. Until the silence no longer feels like a necessity, but a choice, just like the rubbing of arms against other arms and aimless chit-chat that encapsulate the halls. But until then, whenever I have the choice to speak I will question: Do I Dare? are we to be eaders ty if we n't ch the way ? often suppress my ideas and desires from this fear of upheaval. Although I think of myself as a “free thinker” or a “progressive”, the conditioning, the “respect your elders” rhetoric, restricts me from moving forward — from actually making change; What are the consequences? What will happen to me? What will happen to my ego? To my pride? To my family? To how I am perceived? To my social standing? As teens, adults always have greater power than we have, whether it be socially or politically. No matter what we do, an adult will always be at the doorway of our decisions, giving us passage when convenient to them. 10
Written by: Ryan Wong, James Woo, Xin Yi Chew and Christian Koegelenberg | Layout by: Zara Yap In recent years, there has been a rising concern regarding animal rights and the prevention of animal cruelty. According to data from our Department of Veterinary Service (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Veterinar), reported cases of animal abuse have increased by 30%, rising from 510 to 662. This movement has gained momentum as an increasing number of individuals are becoming conscious of the mistreatment of animals and its detrimental effects on both the animals themselves and society in general. Animal cruelty manifests in various forms, including neglect, physical abuse, and exploitation. In Malaysia, such acts of cruelty are distressingly common, particularly towards stray dogs (or dogs mistaken as strays). For example, on April 12, a 19-year-old man pleaded guilty in the JB Sessions Court to the charge of animal cruelty. He had mercilessly beaten and set on fire a brown female dog on March 27, the CCTV footage of the incident horrifying and disgusting countless netizens. Then there are those dogcatchers who are notorious for going after pets instead of actual strays and using cruel methods that sometimes result in the death of these dogs, such as in an event that occurred on March 13, when a 69- years-old Patrick Khoo, was injured in a scuffle with city council appointed dogcatchers. Some of the most common forms of animal cruelty include puppy mills, cockfighting, and animal testing. Puppy mills are large-scale breeding operations that prioritise profits over the well-being of the animals. Cockfighting involves breeding and training roosters to fight each other for the entertainment of humans. Animal testing involves using animals for scientific research, often resulting in the suffering and death of the animals. 11
The prevention of animal cruelty is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it is morally wrong to treat animals in a cruel and inhumane way. Animals are living beings that can experience pain and suffering, and they deserve to be treated with respect and compassion. Secondly, animal cruelty is often a precursor to violence against humans. Studies have shown that individuals who engage in animal cruelty are more likely to commit acts of violence against humans, such as domestic violence and child abuse. By preventing animal cruelty, we can reduce the likelihood of these more severe forms of violence. In addition to preventing animal cruelty, the animal rights movement seeks to improve the lives of animals in captivity. This includes animals in zoos, circuses, and marine parks. These animals are often subjected to cramped living conditions, lack of stimulation, and forced performances. Animal rights activists advocate for the abolishment of these forms of entertainment and the release of animals back into their natural habitats. One of the most significant achievements of the animal rights movement has been the passage of laws protecting animals from cruelty. These laws vary by country, but most include provisions against animal abuse, neglect, and exploitation. In some countries, animal cruelty is a criminal offence, punishable by imprisonment or fines. The enforcement of these laws is essential to ensure that animals are protected and their abusers are held accountable for their actions. Animal rights activists also promote the adoption of a plant-based diet. This is because the consumption of animal products requires the exploitation and killing of animals. By adopting a plant-based diet, individuals can reduce their impact on animal suffering and the 12
environment. Animal agriculture is one of the leading causes of deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing the demand for animal products, we can decrease the negative impact that animal agriculture has on the planet. To address the issue of animal cruelty, we have come up with several approaches that citizens can adopt. Firstly, it is important for schools to include this topic in their curriculum, educating students about kindness towards animals through discussions and moral lessons. The nurturing of empathy towards animals should begin at a young age, and schools play a crucial role as role models. Secondly, animal welfare and rehabilitation are paramount for the well-being of suffering animals and raising awareness in society. These facilities rescue and rehabilitate animals who have experienced cruelty, helping them recover from physical and emotional trauma. They also provide a sanctuary and medical care. Citizens who wish to contribute to this cause can make donations to support these efforts. However, it is important to acknowledge that not all citizens can be convinced, despite our best efforts. Therefore, strong laws and enforcement are necessary. Perpetrators should be held accountable, and the government should enact laws to protect animals and punish those who engage in animal cruelty. In conclusion, the prevention of animal cruelty and the protection of animal rights are crucial issues that impact both animals and humans. By treating animals with respect and compassion, we can decrease the likelihood of violence against humans and enhance societal well-being. It is vital to pass and enforce laws that safeguard animals from cruelty. Additionally, adopting a plant-based diet can alleviate animal suffering and mitigate the negative environmental impact of animal agriculture. Each one of us has a role to play in advocating for animal rights and putting an end to animal cruelty. 13
where has all the time gone? it feels like we ’ll always be too young to be taken seriously too old to be young will it ever be possible for us to meet in-between one day? Written by: Zara Yap | Layout by: Zara Yap 14
We are living in a superficial world, where everyone is obsessed with their outer appearance, beauty, and especially among young females - a maddening craze for a lean and thin “supermodel body”. With our society today portraying a perverted image of beauty for men and women, the presence of body image dissatisfaction among adolescents is quite high. When adolescents are exposed to these images, they get torn between their own actual body image and their ideal body image - and the results are often devastating. Pressure and unrealistic expectations from media, peers, society… even your family, leads adolescents to believe that they must go through any hurdles to make themselves look what the media wants them to look like, and not what they already are. Beauty standards can sometimes be associated with health concerns due to societal pressure and the pursuit of an idealised appearance. There are a few ways in which beauty standards can intersect with health. These include body image and eating disorders, skin tone and tanning, cosmetic procedures, mental health impact, and fitness exercise extremes. It is important to recognise that beauty standards vary across cultures and change over time. Promoting diverse and inclusive beauty standards that prioritise overall well-being can help mitigate the negative impact on an individual’s health. When discussing harmful beauty standards, more often than not, we immediately think of women being the prime victims of this issue. While that can be the case most of the time, we mustn’t disregard the negative impacts toxic beauty standards have on men too. Society’s gender expectations often dictate men to embody traditional masculine ideals, including having a buff and muscular physique. Those 15
Those who believe they fall short in muscle mass or six-pack abs, or aren't “tall enough”, often experience feelings of body dissatisfaction and muscle dysmorphia. One research study found that underweight boys are more prone to suffer from depression compared to overweight girls. It is crucial for us to recognize that harmful beauty standards can impact individuals of all genders. By understanding the negative effects these standards have on both men and women, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive society. It’s also important to recognise that beauty standards are not fixed or universal. They vary depending on factors such as culture, geography, and historical context. In many societies, certain physical features and characteristics are often promoted as the standard of beauty, and individuals who do not conform to these standards may face discrimination and marginalisation. This can include standards of body size, skin tone, facial features, hair textures and colours. Those beauty standards are often rooted in historical and cultural biases that privilege certain groups over others. For instance, in Western societies, fair skin, thinness and Eurocentric facial features have traditionally been promoted as the standard of beauty, leaving little room for the diverse range of features and skin tones that exist within racial and ethnic groups. This creates a never-ending cycle of insecurity and self-doubt, as individuals feel pressured to conform to these unattainable standards in order to be seen as attractive and worthy. Overcoming unattainable beauty standards requires effort from both 16
individuals as well as society at large. To start with oneself personally is vital. Recognising negative self-talk or body shaming is an essential step toward bettering one's mental state as well as practising a bit of self-care and engaging in activities that bring joy or fulfilment or simply embracing uniquenesses. At the societal level, it’s crucial to promote diversity and inclusivity in media and advertising, and to call out harmful messages that perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards. This involves supporting and uplifting marginalised voices, promoting body positivity and acceptance and pushing for more representation of diverse body types, races and genders in the media. “Choosing to reclaim your body image is a critical and foundational step in embracing your true worth and rejecting unrealistic body standards. I hope you choose to begin today.” Written by: Annabelle, Tiyandza, Farah, Shu Yie, You Li Layout by: Zara Yap 17
D O I D A R E D I S T U R B T H E U N I V E R S E ? —t.s. eliot they wish to bend us to their will. they lack inertia and fear confrontation. instead they blame us for inconsequential things and continue to smile. everything falls todeaf ears. everything falls to deaf ears. Layout by Zara Yap 18
Jocelyn Chia, a Singaporean “comedian” has recently come under fire for making insensitive “jokes” against Malaysia. Looking at the heaps of criticisms given by both Singaporean and Malaysian netizens defending Malaysia and telling her off, I can’t help but feel… As if it does not relate to me. I am born and bred Malaysian. I lepak at mamaks like any other Malaysian; I spend my Saturday mornings in kopitiams like any other Malaysian; I know all about our country’s history and story of independence, just like any other Malaysian. And yet, somehow, I don’t feel Malaysian. I don’t feel the amount of patriotism some of my peers have for their home country. Glossary lepak: loafing around mamak: a type of restaurant kopitiam: coffee shop traditionally operated by Chinese bumiputra: (in a Malaysian context) ethnic Malays and Indigenous people of Malaysia pendatang: foreigner (used as a slur) Malaysian society has always been praised for its diversity and complete inclusivity for all. However, a deeper dive into Malaysian society would reveal the ugly roots of racial discrimination that have existed since the nation’s birth. Article 153 of the Malaysian constitution explicit states the special position of bumiputras in Malaysian society, which hence grants them special consideration for social benefits such as scholarships, exhibitions, and educational, training or special facilities. I have always grown up in a predominantly Chinese bubble. I went to Chinese schools all my life and never had much contact with those outside of my race. Some would berate me for my lack of “Malaysian” influence in my life. How can I even be considered Malaysian if I only interacted with those of my race, right? But do I have a choice? The quota system has long existed, ever since the time of our parents. If I were to go through the Malaysian national education system, the Malaysian public university admissions quota makes it increasingly hard for non-bumiputras like me to actually get their first few preferences for a university course EVEN IF they have gotten miraculously good grades. Hence, most of the more fortunate non-bumiputras have opted for private education or sending children overseas, but what about those who do not have the money to do so? Due to this quota, gifted and talented individuals are again and again stuck in their social class due to their race. In short, it is twice as hard for nonbumiputras to achieve their dreams, literally. 19
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CHIEF EDITOR COVER ARTIST WRITERS LAYOUT denyce ng denyce ng ishwarya krishna zara yap tiyandza dlamini annabelle au farah zuhairi shu yie ng you li ng ryan wong james woo xin yi chew lana azami christian koegelenberg ishwarya krishna zara yap zara yap