“Malaysia in You” - A love letter to Malaysian children growing up abroad
FOR Dr Ayne Zarof, a London-based medical doctor and mother, the journey into authorship began with a question many diaspora parents quietly carry: How do I make sure my child knows where they come from?
Her answer came in the form of a children’s book titled Malaysia in You—a vibrant, heartfelt story designed to help Malaysian children living abroad connect with their roots and share their heritage with the world around them.
The book is set to launch next month and is now available for pre-order at www.aynezarof.com.
Born from Motherhood and Representation
“I became a mom three years ago, and when my son started reading, I couldn’t find stories where Malaysian kids like him were represented, especially kids growing up outside of Malaysia.
“I wanted him to see himself in the books he reads and understand that you don’t have to live in Malaysia to feel Malaysian. That identity can live in you, no matter where you are," Ayne told Sinar Daily after her book reading session at Aperture Cafe's Bual Space in Kuala Lumpur recently.
The book, she says, was written first and foremost for her son but quickly evolved into something bigger: A bridge for all Malaysian children living abroad who may not have easy access to cultural narratives that reflect their unique identity.
Reclaiming and Sharing Malaysian Identity
In the UK, Ayne points out that Malaysians often don’t even exist as a distinct category.
“In Britain, I’m usually grouped under ‘Asian Other.’ That lumps us into a monolithic Asian identity that doesn’t reflect the depth and richness of our Malaysian culture, language or history.”
Malaysia in You aims to change that narrative, she said starting with children’s books where identity often first takes shape.
“I want Malaysian children to be proud and unapologetic about their heritage. There’s so much richness, in our languages, our traditions, our food and we should be proud to share that with the world.”
Why Food As the Starting Point?
Interestingly, the book opens with a theme very close to Malaysian hearts: food. “You can’t really separate Malaysian identity from food,” Ayne laughed.
“It’s how we connect. Every gathering, every celebration, starts with food and it reflects the melting pot that is Malaysia.”
Through familiar tastes like pandan, gula melaka (palm sugar) and even spicy dishes, Ayne hopes to nurture the “Malaysian palate” in her children, even as they grow up thousands of miles away.
“Food is an easy, joyful way to start conversations about culture, history and identity," she said.
A First Step, Not the Last
While Malaysia in You is her debut children’s book, Ayne hopes it’s only the beginning - not just for her, but for other storytellers too.
“I’d love to see more books from and about Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Our stories deserve space on global shelves. I hope this book inspires other writers to share their voices," she said.
As more Malaysian families plant roots across the globe, Malaysia in You stands as a gentle, colorful reminder: Identity isn’t about geography - it’s about belonging, pride and knowing your story.
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