Malaysian Student Association Merdeka Welcome Event

The University of Central Oklahoma’s Malaysian Student Association (MSA) will host its Merdeka Welcome Event for students to celebrate Malaysia’s Independence Day on Friday, Sept. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Nigh University Center’s Robert S. Kerr Room.

The fall semester was chosen because many new students arrive at UCO during this time. By tying the program to Malaysia’s Independence Day, known as Merdeka, and celebrated on Aug. 31, the event aims to help students feel at home abroad.

“It creates a space for Malaysian students to connect, share their culture, and enjoy an evening of community,” said Yu Jie Low, vice president of the association

The evening will feature games, sing-alongs of patriotic songs, and cultural sharing, along with traditional snacks like Mamee noodles, Rollercoaster chips, and Milo drinks.

“We chose popular Malaysian snacks and festive music that represent the joy of Merdeka celebrations back home,” she said.

The association hopes that the event will foster community and cross-cultural understanding. “Cultural events allow students to celebrate diversity, build understanding, and make the campus more inclusive,” the organizer added.

“By celebrating Merdeka together, Malaysian students are reminded of home, which helps ease homesickness and strengthens their cultural identity while studying abroad.”