This is a simple, small-time piece, written with love for my beloved mom, Dariah Saad, and her close, cherished friends from Tunku Kurshiah College (TKC).
As I reflect on their enduring friendships, I find myself humbled by the depth of their bond—a connection forged decades ago yet as vibrant as ever.
What I write here comes not only from my own observations but also from the countless stories my mom has shared about her time at TKC.
It’s inspired by her cherished memories and the wonderful friends I’ve had the privilege of meeting over the years.
There’s Mak Long Ain, whose warmth and kindness feel like an embrace; Mak Ngah Sharif, whose wisdom and calm presence shine in every conversation; Aunty Gayah, whose cheerful spirit lights up any gathering; Aunty Za, with her wit and charm; and Aunty Rafiah, whose elegance and grace are matched only by her heartfelt sincerity.
I’m sure every one of my mom’s other friends from TKC is equally amazing, though I’ve yet to meet them all. But knowing my mom, the stories, and the legacy of their shared experiences,
I have no doubt they are just as lovely and exceptional. Together, they form a tapestry of friendship that stands as a testament to the enduring power of love, trust, and shared dreams.
Back in 1960, a group of young girls took their first steps into a new chapter at Malay Girls College, later renamed TKC.
Leaving the warmth of their homes, they carried dreams and a sense of trepidation. Little did they know, they were stepping into a place where they would gain more than an education—they would find sisters for life.
For those who walked the halls of TKC, the friendships built there were nothing short of extraordinary.
They were forged in the fire of shared experiences—late-night study sessions, sneaky adventures, and quiet moments of reflection.
Every challenge faced, every triumph celebrated, brought them closer. “True friendship isn’t about being inseparable,” goes the saying, “but about being separated and nothing changes.”
By 1962, the girls moved to Bukit Merbah in Seremban, a move that marked a transformation.
Here, under the guidance of Miss E.M. Pereira—a firm yet loving figure—they blossomed. Life at Bukit Merbah wasn’t always easy. The dormitories, divided into Old Wing and New Wing, became more than just living quarters; they became a sanctuary. Within those walls, laughter and tears flowed freely, and bonds were woven that would withstand the test of time.
One of the most poignant lessons from TKC was that true friendship is not about convenience but about connection.
It’s about being there when it matters most, celebrating each other’s successes, and offering a shoulder to lean on during the darkest of days.
As years turned into decades, life took these friends in different directions.
Some became mothers, others leaders, and many became trailblazers in their fields. Yet, whenever they gathered, it was as if no time had passed. Memories of Bukit Merbah would flood back, filling the room with laughter and nostalgia.
In the midst of their achievements and milestones, these women never forgot the sisterhood that TKC had gifted them.
They remained humble, kind, and generous—living embodiments of the school’s values. “A friend is one who overlooks your broken fence and admires the flowers in your garden,” and these women have done just that for each other, time and again.
Today, their bond continues to flourish. They reunite, not just in person but also in spirit, through shared traditions like Quran recitations. Each message exchanged is a testament to the enduring power of their connection.
As I reflect on my mother and her friends, I am reminded of the profound impact TKC has had on their lives. It was more than just a school; it was the foundation of a family. These women, now in the twilight of their lives, have built a legacy of love, strength, and resilience.
In their story, I see the essence of friendship. It is not about perfection but about presence. It is about standing together through life’s storms and celebrating its sunshine. “Good friends are like stars,” as the saying goes. “You don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there.”
From my mom and her friends, I have learned the true meaning of friendship—the kind that transcends time, distance, and life’s challenges. They have shown me that the greatest treasure in life is not the things we accumulate but the bonds we form.
I have witnessed their unwavering support for one another, the way they lift each other up in times of joy and sorrow. Their friendship is not just a part of their past, but it continues to shape their present and future.
As I watch them, I realize that friendship is not just a word; it is a force that shapes who we are and what we become. It is a family that we choose, and through their example, I understand the depth of love, loyalty, and sacrifice that true friends offer.
My prayer for my mom, her friends, and all those who are not well, is that they are blessed with good health, happiness, and peace.
May they recover swiftly and be surrounded by the love and support they have so selflessly given to others. May Allah continue to protect and guide them, keeping them strong in both spirit and body, and may their friendships continue to thrive for years to come.
To my mom and her friends, I say this: Your friendship is a gift not only to each other but to all who are fortunate enough to witness it. It is a legacy that will endure, inspiring future generations to cherish the bonds that matter most. And when the time comes for you to meet again, may it be in the gardens of Jannah, where your laughter will never end, and your bond will be eternal.
“A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.”
