Full name : Nor Zalifah Bte Abdul Ghaffar

      Position in society : Assistant Secretary

 1)  What have you learnt in Malay Studies that has left a big impact on you?

 Honestly, a lot. I have learnt why we are what we are today in terms of academic and economic achievement; or the lack of it, for example. Certain books that I have read have really left me saddened for a while because of the realization that the Malays are victims in many ways.  I am more aware of the problems that the Malays are facing today, which is really useful because it would really help me as a teacher later on. The modules that I have opened my eyes. They have changed the way I perceive the world which is a little scary actually but I guess, it is necessary in order for me to grow up. 

2)      What would you like to convey to others about the Malay society?

We are not what we were in the past. The Malay society has changed in many aspects over the years   and some people fail to see that. They still stereotype us as being lazy, and backward in many ways. I guess it’s only human nature to see a group’s weaknesses and  leave out their strengths. We are constantly being compared with other ethnic groups, which is unnecessary  at times and we should be appreciated for being what we are. The Malays can try to change this misconception but this takes time.

 3)      What made you decide to be a Malay Studies major?

Can I say I didn’t have a choice? Well, since I am bonded to MOE, like some of the MSS exco members, I have to take it as a major. But, even if I wasn’t one, most probably I would still be a MS major anyway. Since primary school, I’ve been involved in things related to Malay culture and language, like debate, poetry, dikir barat, dance, drama…the list is endless. Since my JC didn’t offer Malay Literature as an A level subject, once I got to uni, I was craving ..hehe..for anything to do with Malay.  I guess Malay Studies was the answer.

4)      Who is your idol? Why?

 My idol is no superstar..no one glamourous....but he is really a great person. Its no other than (drum roll please)  my ‘daddy dearest’. Too many reasons to cite but I really admire his determination and perseverance. He is really a life long learner and I think that not many people are patient enough to do what he did. He obtained his law degree at the age of 40 plus. He had to put his studies aside because he had to support us first. At the age of 50, he was still going for some cert. I hope I would have that thirst for education when I am at his age.

 5)   Which part of school do you like best? Why?

 I enjoy hanging out at the Arts Forum. I enjoy people watching (people..not guys..) and there is a always a lot of activities going on there. It’s airy and open, which I like best, although sometimes there is no reception.Hehe.

6)What is your favourite sastera book? Why?

 Favourite book? Hmm..tough choice but I would go with ‘Salina’ by A. Samad Said. Many reasons ..but I must say this is one of the books that made me more interested in Malay literature. I first read it at the age of 13, which was too adventurous, I think. Nonetheless, I found it really intriguing although honestly, half the time I didn’t understand what was going on. But, I wanted to know what is so great about the book that it became my father’s favourite book. Some backgorund info, my eldest sister is called Salina. Haha..serious! That was how much my father loved the book. She is not too happy though. Unfortunately, I did not do Malay literature at A levels, so I didn’t get to study it. Maybe its for the better because my teacher once told me, if you love a subject, don’t study it. Hehe..go figure that one out.

7)     7)What is the last thing you would like to do before leaving NUS?

Something really outrageous! Haven’t really thought about it yet but I really want to do something different before I leave NUS and go on into the working world.

8)     8)  Name the first thing that comes to your mind with respect to this categories

·        cartoon character

Johnny Bravo…check out his hair!

·        Hollywood actor/actress

Keanu Reeves

·        Malay personality

Suhaimi Yusof..a great entertainer.

 ·        Theme song

The theme song for ‘Jeritan Sepi’. I really like it a lot. “Biar ku jerit, dalam sepi…..”