By Nur Fatihin Rashid
I was in Kg. Rudan Rayang, Daerah Serian, Sarawak from 10 until 16 June 2015. It was part of a collaborated effort with the Secretariat of English Language and Literature (ELITS) and MISI Club, IIUM. I was surprised myself for being able to adapt quite quickly, I must say. But less about me, more about them – the kids. These are the ones I managed to fit into this frame. They are innocent but not the slightest bit naive.
I arrived with a fixed idea of “poor them, they’re at a disadvantage in this modern world and I’m here to help ease their burden“, but no, it turned out to be the total opposite. It’s completely the other way around.
They wake up to the most beautiful and peaceful landscape surrounding their every step. Never influenced by the sins of the city, by the crime of the so called modernised. Their sense of trust towards each other is amazing. So it’s obvious how strong, very very very strong, their bond is. There is no line between the Muslims and the non-Muslims there. Everyone is invited. Everyone is equal. Everyone is welcomed. Not the tiniest reluctance towards each other nor judgements.
So it’s not “poor them”, it’s “poor us”.***
Pictures by Nur Fatihin Rashid and Liyana Adlin