M'sian Student In UK Sparks Controversy Over Nottingham Malaysian Society's Afterparty

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The Nottingham Malaysian Society, a group for Malaysian students studying at the University of Nottingham in England, typically organises MGames, a sports event for its members every year. This year, the society introduced an afterparty at a nightclub following the sports event.

In a video posted on TikTok, a student named Aisyah criticised the afterparty, asserting that it "misaligns with Islamic practices" since the society also includes Muslim students.

She also voiced concern about the perceived disrespectful undertone of inviting all students, regardless of their religious beliefs, to such an event.

"Clubbing, drinking, and partying have never been a part of the Malaysian culture, we have our own means of celebration, so why indulge in activities that are not even part of our culture to begin with?" she claimed.

The student ended the video by offering a reminder to all Malaysians and urging them to refrain from participating in "unhealthy activities".

"If you want to live in peace and tranquility in this world, stop moral policing others. If you are invited, feel free to decline the invitation," raged one user.

"Studying overseas but unable to distinguish between 'inviting and forcing'. Simply inform that you cannot attend. There is no need to assume that people are criticising our beliefs," commented another.

While some criticised Aisyah, others sided with her, expressing concern that a clubbing event would be organised under the society's name, especially considering they also have Muslim members.

One user expressed their concern about the committee's decision to invite everyone, saying, "Did you not listen carefully? The committee invited all including the Muslim to an afternight partying at a nightclub. Example, would you offer wine to a hijabi (Muslim) female friend? Of course, she can decline. But would you do it in the first place?"

Another user chimed in, stating, "As much as I understand the intention, I completely agree with Aisyah on this. Why would they conduct the afterparty at a nightclub?"

"As someone who was the deputy director of Bersatu Games in New Zealand, I, for one, believe that we need to be inclusive in all our decisions. That includes being sensitive and deliberately respectful toward ALL religions and cultures."

"Of course, it is not compulsory to join, but this is just plain ignorant and insensitive, to be honest. Come on, is it too hard to plan something that everyone can partake in and enjoy? What's the whole idea of the games in the first place?" they added.

In an Instagram post on 24 November, the society emphasised that the Nottingham Malaysian Games is a sober and non-alcoholic event, completely separate from the afterparty.

The society stated that the afterparty complies with the university's student union's guidelines and "no one is obligated or forced to partake in any activities that they are unwilling to".

It also explained that they wanted to hold an afterparty this year as there was a huge demand for it after last year's games.

The society added that "Malaysian culture is a very broad and beautiful thing that consists of more than just Malay-Muslim ideologies. The afterparty is meant to cater and include those who would like to participate in a non-sober event."

The club also appealed to the public to stop harassing the event's committee members as the issue has affected the mental well-being of its members.

SAYS has reached out to both Aisyah and the University of Nottingham for comment but has yet to receive a reply.