One Ummah, Many Tastes: Cultural Harmony at Postgraduate Syawal Gathering

By, Nur Aswani Mohd Azhar

The Postgraduate Syawal Gathering held on 29 April 2025 at Wadi Budi, IIUM was more than just an Eid celebration—it was a beautiful display of cultural harmony and unity among postgraduate students. Organized by the Postgraduate Student Society (PGSS) in collaboration with the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPS), the event brought warmth, flavour, and connection to the heart of the campus.

Graced by Deputy Dean of CPS, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azhar bin Mohd Ibrahim, the gathering welcomed local and international students to experience Eid through a global lens. Attendees were treated to an exciting range of dishes from countries such as Indonesia, Yemen, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Palestine, and Malaysia. Highlights included Malaysia’s comfort food nasi ayam and the sweet Palestinian basbousa, symbolizing the blend of cultures that make up IIUM’s postgraduate community.

For students far from their families—especially during festive seasons—the event offered more than just good food. It was a space of shared belonging, emotional relief, and a reminder that the postgraduate journey, while challenging is also filled with collective strength and support. “It’s not just about food and celebration,” said one participant, “but about feeling at home in a foreign land.” The gathering also featured performances and light cultural exchanges, encouraging everyone to interact, learn, and appreciate one another’s heritage. It was an evening of smiles, stories, and solidarity—reflecting the essence of One Ummah.

Behind the successful coordination of the event was Indonesian postgraduate student Fakhri Abrar, who is also the Secretary General PGSS. His leadership ensured the event ran smoothly, inclusively, and meaningfully, bringing both cultural depth and festive joy to everyone present. The PG Syawal Gathering serves as a timely reminder that while postgraduate life can be isolating, especially for international students, community-driven events like this are vital. It fosters understanding, inspires empathy, and celebrates the very diversity that makes IIUM a unique place for learning and living.