almost child-like sense of fun. It was refreshing to be around people with a ready smile, even when they didn’t know you. Malaysia also knows how to keep you young, it doesn’t matter what age you think you might be.
What was your biggest challenge you faced as an expat?
As an expat “virgin” coming out of England to Labuan, a beautiful island a little smaller than the Isle of Wight, and with no job to occupy myself was initially very difficult. There were very few expats around and most, at that time, were a lot older than me. It was also early 1997 and the “Asian Financial Crisis” saw many of them leaving. Despite what my husband may tell you, it was not my fault. We lived in a resort hotel on the beach (well, someone has to) at the “top end” of the island. However, Labuan is so compact you can drive anywhere in under 20 minutes. I soon found the Hash House Harriers and loved the Saturday afternoon run, and the “on on” afterwards! This introduced me to many locals, and soon I was having Bahasa lessons and getting into the local way of life. I also ended up assisting with fitness training at the local (body builders) gym and playing many hours of tennis.
What is the first piece of advice you’d give to an expat relocating to the Asian region?
My husband taught me something very important, mix with the local people fast. This was such great advice. It has taken me in so many directions. I’ve learnt to think in quite a different way and opened up a life I would have never dreamed of in England.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I don’t really know what spare time is. I volunteer full time for the charity, Riding for the Disabled. I help run the main branch at the Royal Selangor Polo Club here in KL. Over my nine years here we have brought International qualifications to Malaysia, and are now on a par with RDA branches in Singapore and Hong Kong. I had to spend three years working through all the three levels before I could begin to coach others. On top of that, a further two years getting
an NVQ in Horse Management. I help oversee our three other RDA branches in Selangor and visit RDA Ipoh and RDA Penang from time to time. Normally,
every other year, we fly in an international examiner
for a month to help keep standards high. Our branch has five ponies to maintain and that is one of my passions. It is wonderful to look after, train and play with such wonderful animals. Fund raising for this RDA also takes up a huge part of my time. Last year I helped to set up RDA Bali, and over the last two years RDA Thailand at the beautiful Horseshoe Point in Pattaya. As a team we have traveled to RDA Singapore, RDA Hong Kong, and to the major centres in the UK. I’m also working towards setting up a Malaysian Special Olympics equine team. For 6 or 7 years I’ve been studying the art of Reiki Healing,
and have worked my way to Master level. I now enjoy coaching and qualifying students. When I do find time to read it will be on spiritual or natural healing,
crystals, astrology and, more recently, Wicca. Sports-wise I still try and find time to ride, and my real interest is running and the gym.
Favorite holiday destination in Malaysia?
I think this would have to be Sabah, especially up the Kinabatangan River. It’s always nice to get out of the city and “go jungly”.
Favorite holiday destination overseas?
This has to be Thailand. We’ve traveled extensively throughout and the upper reaches of the River Kwai are a must. But I still miss the English countryside, there is nothing quite like it.
What do you miss most when you’re out of KL/Malaysia?
I hate to join the club but have to say “Roti Canai”. Seriously, though, the vibrant social scene, great food and, of course, the tropical weather.
What do you consider to be the most beautiful landmark in KL/Malaysia?
I have a soft spot for the Cameron Highlands.
And the ugliest?
Ampang Point, I just hate it.
Your most memorable Malaysian experience to date?
My most memorable experience in Malaysia was taking
our disabled riding team to perform at the National Horse Show in 2006. It was a huge honour to be part of this show. The sheer joy on the faces of our riders collecting their medals and rosettes was pure pleasure
at its best. This is always our most moving time with any of our riders |
