5 days ago
Roti jala, thosai bring pupils together in spirit of Merdeka
KANGAR: In Perlis, two neighbouring schools have shown that food can be a powerful unifying force, especially in the spirit of the nation's Merdeka month.
SK Putra and SJKT Kangar brought their pupils together through the "Rasa-Rasa Malaysia" programme, preparing traditional favourites such as roti jala and tose as symbols of unity.
SK Putra headmaster Ahmad Juanda Sakaria said food is one of the easiest and most effective ways to foster harmony among pupils and teachers from diverse backgrounds.
"We may differ in religion, culture and lifestyle, but these differences can be set aside when we focus on what we share in common.
"Today, that common ground is food — roti jala and thosai — dishes enjoyed by both the Malay and Indian communities.
"Both are made from flour, making them a simple yet meaningful symbol of unity, especially during Merdeka month when we remember that we are all Malaysians," he said.
The programme, held at Dewan Putra Saujana, SK Putra, also featured the use of Jalur Gemilang colours in the dishes.
"This reflects our shared identity.
"We also gave pupils from both schools the chance to make Malaysian ice cream, a nostalgic treat for many children," Juanda added.
SJKT Kangar headmaster K. Uthaya Kumar said the relationship between the two schools has been strong for years.
"Food has the power to unite. When this spirit is nurtured from a young age, there is no reason for racial prejudice to take root.
"Our pupils have a close bond with SK Putra's pupils as we share the same field and often play together, unity that has grown over time," he said.
For pupil T. Sentamil Nageswari, 10, the event was an opportunity to learn about each other's culture through food.
"I enjoyed meeting new friends and tasting unique Malay dishes like roti jala," she said.
Her friend, Dhia A'ira Nurqisya Azman, 12, said she was excited to learn more about Indian culture and cuisine.
"I've seen people eat thosai before, but today I learned more about it and the traditions behind it," she said.
