Going for internship abroad was something I never thought of…but here I am, writing this from Tambon Khoa-Roob-Chang, Muang Songkhla, Thailand!
The journey towards this internship was quite eventful, and I learned a lot of things. From the lengthy process to obtaining the necessary documents like the ‘Certificate of Good Conduct’ for visa approval, every step was a test of patience. But finally, on the 16th of March 2024, I embarked on a train journey from Butterworth, Penang, to Padang Besar, followed by another train ride operated by the State Railway of Thailand to Hat Yai.
The first few days were hectic. I did not have time to feel homesick. Upon arrival at Thaksin University, we were warmly welcomed by the students and Ms. Nok, the lecturer who facilitated our internship placements and accommodation.
On the very first day, I was introduced to my supervisor, Ms. Insacha Duangmuen, who gave me a tour of the Folklore Museum, The Institute for Southern Thai Studies, where I will intern for the next few months. It is a bustling place, attracting visitors from Italy, Germany, and Hong Kong, amongst others.
The museum has 30 rooms, each a showcase of the Southern Thai culture, so we need to familiarise ourselves with all the rooms. We were trained on the ways to handle big tour groups and to explain the highlights of the museum. I was excited. It is exhilarating to be able to meet and greet so many people from all over the world.
In the following days, I was introduced to tie-dye, a technique involving folding, crumpling, and tying cloth with rubber bands before dyeing it with natural colours from the red clay we took at Singhanakhon, just 20 minutes from the museum.
Other than working at the museum itself, I also had opportunities to attend events. Ms. Nok invited me to the opening of ‘The Bridge,’ an initiative by Mr. David, an American who has made Thailand his home for the past seven years. That evening, we shared stories, laughter, and delicious food. The locals kept speaking Thai to me as they assumed that I am from Pattani, so much so that the Thai phrase that I will definitely remember would be “pu thai mai dai” (I can’t speak Thai)!
I will be celebrating Eid here in Thailand, this year. Whilst sad to be away from my loved ones in Malaysia, I feel very grateful to be in this programme.
Thank you, UNIMAS and Thaksin University! I look forward to creating more cherished memories during the remaining months of my internship.
Selamat Hari Raya, everyone, and see ya!
Ammar Nasibah
English for Global Communication
Faculty of Education, Language and Communication