Randomness number 1:
I started teaching in a secondary school recently. After the first class I asked my volunteer if there was a reason why the girls were sitting on the rows in the back and the boys in front. She said that just because the girls came in earlier, and no one wants to sit in the front. It seems like a valid explanation but it seemed a bit weird when this kept happening every day, even when the boys were first to arrive. Today we asked. We are teaching in a religious (Muslim) school and this is the way it needs to be according to the religion - the boys need to be in front, just as they do in prayer. No comment.
Randomness number 2:
Today I was doing research on various NGOs in my area, when I stumbled upon one with a very fancy name "Perdana Leaders Foundation" or something of sorts. Its main mission was to "highlight the contribution of Malaysia's past Prime Ministers in the social, economic and political development of the country". Though it should not surprise me. This is the same country that also has a museum dedicated to its main political party...and that is very pompously and seriously placed and promoted.
Randomness number 3:
The students in the school treat me very much like a proper teacher. This means that at the end of class they either kiss my hand or take it to their forehead. It obviously is meant to show respect but it feels very very very weird.
Randomness number 4:
I met a girl who teaches drama! I was so happy to be able to speak about such things again! Oh, the glory of it all! :)