We talk to Hope on the committee for the Malaysian and Singaporean Society. If you’re looking for a “home away from home” during your time in Loughborough and the chance to make new friends, this society is exactly what you’re looking for.

What is your society all about?

We understand how daunting it can be to make the decision to be so far from home and we aim to cultivate a home away from home for all Malaysians and Singaporeans at Loughborough University. Our priority is ensuring that every member is comfortable here and has a safe space to ask any questions or to go to when they have any problems. Not just that, but we are also about building long-lasting friendships that will continue on even after graduation.

What sort of events are put on by the society?

We have planned a variety of activities for this coming academic year! We hold weekly sports games such as basketball, football, badminton and much more! We also travel to compete at a number of universities for the annual Malaysian/Singaporean games. In addition, we organise both day and night trips to nearby cities.

We do our best to add new activities every year. For example, last year we went to Nottingham to have a game of paintball! This coming year, we’re planning more events with other societies so that everyone will have more opportunities to meet new people.

Why, when and how did you join?

I joined immediately after meeting some of the members at the Societies Bazaar. I felt so at home once I started talking to them and we hit it off instantly. They were very helpful in answering all the questions I had and they helped clear any doubt I had about choosing Loughborough University. Nothing beats talking to your fellow countrymen!

Best or most memorable moments from your time in the society?

The most memorable moment for me was our farewell party. We had a potluck dinner and it was so amazing to see everyone contributing home-cooked dishes such as bak ku teh, curry chicken, indonmee and so much more! Even thinking about it now is making me hungry!

We had icebreaker games, lucky draws, an award segment and a mini graduation ceremony. It was great to have everyone mingling and reminiscing about everything that happened during the last year.

Describe your society in three words…

Homely, warm and welcoming!

What would you say to someone considering joining?

Don’t worry if you aren’t Malaysian or Singaporean. We have members from various parts of South-East Asia such as Brunei, Thailand and Hong Kong joining us as well. As long as you feel at home with us, you’re more than welcome to join us!

Interested in finding out more? Contact the Malaysian and Singaporean Society via their social media channels here: Facebook, Instagram.

LSU has a huge range of societies – you can find the list of all 115+ societies here.

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