International Students Celebrate Dragon Boat Festival with Fragrant Rice Dumplings and Tea: A Cultural Gathering Full of Warmth
To deepen international students’ understanding of Malaysia’s traditional and creative interpretations of the Dragon Boat Festival, the Institute of International Education (IIE) of New Era University College organised a heartwarming and lively “Fragrance of Zongzi, Warmth in Every Sip” event in the campus cafeteria on Friday, May 30, 2025.
By 3 pm., the long tables in the cafeteria were adorned with a wide variety of rice dumplings (zongzi). In addition to the well-known traditional savoury meat dumplings and alkaline water dumplings, there were also uniquely local variations such as Nyonya dumplings, tropical-style dumplings, innovative three-flavour dumplings, yoghurt-infused dumplings, and even beauty-enhancing dumplings inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although many of the students were from China and quite familiar with zongzi, they couldn’t help but express amazement at the rich variety before them, marvelling at the diversity and openness of Chinese culture as it is reinterpreted abroad.
Besides the creative assortment of rice dumplings, the IIE also thoughtfully prepared local Malaysian snacks and a selection of tea bags for students to enjoy. The dumplings were rich in flavour, and though the tea was mild, the atmosphere was imbued with something even more profound—the homesickness of students far from home, and the heartfelt bond shared within the New Era family.
As they sipped tea and chatted, many international students expressed that the event not only allowed them to experience how traditional Chinese festivals are celebrated in Malaysia but also fostered intercultural understanding and meaningful connections through interaction and exchange.
