Working abroad could be a wonderful experience, but during festive seasons, there’s no doubt that one would feel home sick. In a heartwarming attempt to share his culture and experiences to his co-workers, this Malaysian engineer has decided to prepare rice boxes for his co-workers!
32yo M’sian engineer working in Korea prepares rice box for his co-workers
Sharing to his TikTok, Fikri, who is a 32-year-old engineer is currently working in Korea. With the encouragement of his co-workers, he has decided to prepare a bento box for them. Recording his process, Fikri was seen packing kurma, along with his homemade kuih dadih and fried vermicelli.
Source: Fikri (TikTok)
Speaking to Wau Post, Fikri shared that the main reason why he decided to cook for his colleagues was because it’s his first Ramadan overseas.
“I came to Korea just last year in July and upon speaking to my colleagues, I found out that they were unfamiliar with the concept of Ramadan”, he mentioned.
When asked about the work culture in Korea, Fikri shared that it’s very different. While Malaysians are more focused on work-life balance, Koreans are more dedicated to working long hours. It’s also worth noting that they have a strong emphasis on hierarchy and respect for authority.
Source: Fikri (TikTok)
“However, the long hours spent at work allows us to get together after work and enjoy team dinner also known as hoesik”, he said.
Far apart but never at heart
Sharing his faith and religion journey with us, Fikri mentioned that despite being away from home, it’s not difficult to keep up his faith. He said that he is able to perform his prayers in the office. What makes it more convenient is that he only lives 15 minutes away.
“For Friday prayers, I head to this Muslim centre just 15 minutes away from my workplace”, he said, adding that the centre is run by the Uzbekistan community.
Source: Fikri (TikTok)
Expressing his gratitude, the 32-year-old engineer is thankful that a Muslim centre is nearby as it helps facilitate the Muslim community in the area.
Indeed, an inspiring story, all the best in your future endeavours Fikri! We’re happy to see you adapting well!
Watch the full video below:
@fikriakram91 Berkongsi Kurma, Dadih & Bihun Goreng dengan my Korean Officemate. Alhamdulillah, Sambut Ramadan Pertama saya dekat Korea. Jujurnya, most of my Korean colleagues tak tahu pun pasal Bulan Ramadan. Semoga sekecil kecil usaha ini membuka mata mereka untuk kenal budaya/agama kita. The month of Ramadan is a gift from Allah. May Allah grant us all productive and sacred Ramadan. Amin. ❤️#friends #fyp #fypシ #koreanpeople #Koreanlife #malaysian #ramadan
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Also read: Culture exchange: Former M’sian lecturer now works in Japan, teaches kids how to make pisang goreng!
