The view outside my apartment window.
When I first came to Johor, the condominiums and the rows of houses behind the factories did not exist.
After my mom's passing, I had a strong intuition that Noel and I would get transferred back to Ipoh. That would be her last gift for me. To my great disappointment, we didn't get our transfer on our last day of 2024/25 school year in January.
On the night of February 7th, while Noel and I were in Ipoh, I got a message from Amanda, asking if we had checked our transfer result. I was befuddled since I didn't even know that there was a second round of transfer result announced. Noel and I checked the result while we were in the car waiting for the traffic light, and we had mixed feelings when we found out that our transfer had been approved.
Alas. God works in mysterious ways at His perfect timing.
I'm excited to share about my current rental house in Ipoh since Noel and I furnished it ourselves, but I think it's only fair for me to first dedicate a post to thank all my friends, colleagues, and family members in Johor. All of you played a crucial role in making my life in Johor colorful.
1. Amanda, Grace, and Siew Ting
TFM cohort mates, ex-housemates, bible study groupmates, marking buddies...... Over the years, we have worn many different hats to support each other. You girls have been a safe space for me to rant and also voices of reason to help me process my emotions and analyze my situations. All three of you have inspired me in the ways you approach relationships and family, your work styles, and your servitude to God.
We went from living together to meeting once a week for bible study to gathering only five times a year for birthday celebrations. And now that Noel and I are miles away, we might not meet in person unless there's some special occasions. However, I am certain that with the help of social media, our friendships will last for years to come.
2025
My belated birthday celebration
Johor Bahru
2024
Luna Lights Wonderland
Kulai
2023
Siew Ting and Nathan's wedding
Seremban
This blog post would be infinitely long if I were to include all the pictures we have taken together over the past eight years. Thankfully (or not), whatever we posted online is always here to remind us of our good old times. So, here are the links to the blog posts I wrote and the videos I edited about some of our adventures together:
2022: Bridal Shower
2020: Busted, The Great Escape
2. Kak Nazatul, Shahana, and my fellow colleagues from STAND
Despite the inconvenience and culture shock I'm facing in my current school, I have no regrets leaving my former school. As my first workplace, STAND did its job nurturing me. I believe I had poured out all I could throughout my service there too. Unfortunately, I was no longer as enthusiastic about the facilities and the community as I used to be. The only thing I was reluctant to part with was undoubtedly my amazing colleagues.
I'm beyond thankful to have Kak Nazatul, Shahana, Kak Yani, and Atiqah as my office mates. Your presence made every mundane workday feel worthwhile. You listened to all my rant and shared interesting stories with me. You fed me well. You showered me with gifts. You showed me the ropes. You shared teaching resources with me. I will forever remember the laughter and tears we shared in the language lab. Thank you.
2024
Jamuan Kebirus
2024
Staycation with ex-STAND members
2022
Teachers' Day Celebration
Of course, my years in STAND would be incomplete and helpless without the tutelage of some of the most selfless senior colleagues I have met. At the top of my head, I have Kak Aida, Kak Norly, Kak Marlina, Kak Aizah, Kak Azmira, Kak Zuraini, Kak Zaza, Kak Ummu, Kak Ziha, Kak Mazidah, Kak Rosmawati, and Cg Zul. You will most likely never come across this post, but I would still like to mention your name here so that I will always remember you and recall the moments we shared whenever I visit this post.
3. My godparents - Aunt Maria and Uncle Sit
Well, technically I will still see the two of you regularly. Nevertheless, I want to especially thank the two of you for making Johor feel like home. Thank you for welcoming us into your house, bringing us along for dinners at Aunt Cecelia's place, and meeting up with us for meals after church.
Because of you, Noel and I felt at ease staying in Johor knowing that we have relatives to fall back on in case something terrible happens. I hope that you will continue to enjoy your semi-retired life in Johor. Noel and I will meet you in Penang from now on :D
4. My former landlord - Mr. Cheah
He's the best landlord one could ask for. Because of his two fully furnished units well-equipped with air-conditioners and ample storage space, we were able to live comfortably for the past eight years. May God grant him and his family good health and wealth.
Last but not least, some of the food I will miss in Masai, Johor:
Noel and I were in Johor from December 2016 to January 2025. We spent around 1.5 years single, 4.5 years dating, and 2 years married. Johor will always hold a special place in our heart.
For now, we are just happy that we no longer need to drive 6.5 or 8 hours one way to visit our family members.
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