We’ve always been fascinated with foreigners who could speak fluent Bahasa Melayu… but this man can even sing Negaraku!
Former school teacher at SMK Air Hitam in Kedah back in the 1970’s, Leon J. Muffett can still speak Malay fluently and he can even sing Malaysia’s national anthem, Negaraku!
Muffett, who now resides in Ridgefield, Washington, is a preschool teacher at his local church. He shared a video of himself speaking in Malay and singing Negaraku to help lift the spirits of Malaysians during this COVID-19 outbreak.
“Good evening to all my friends in Malaysia, and welcome to my home in Ridgefield, Washington. During this time when the world is struggling to cope, I wanted to lift your spirits and courage,” he said in the video.
“I consider myself an adopted child of Malaysia. A country that is beautiful and peaceful, safe and sound. My country too.”
He then later stood up and passionately sang the national anthem.
In another post he explained to his English-speaking friends and translated the previous post, explaining that he initially made the video to share with his former students from SMK Air Hitam and was amazed by the amount of love he received from other Malaysians.
Photo via Facebook (Leon J. Muffett)
The video has since garnered over 220 thousand views on Facebook.
“I miss you all and I hope to see you very soon. Just don’t forget, you may be too far for my eyes to see but are close to my heart.” He then ends his postings wishing all his former students well and encouraged them to stay home.
We appreciate the kind words and encouragement, Mr. Muffett. Stay healthy and stay safe, everyone!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
