Cartoon illustrator Cherie Tan, 23, used to have few Malay friends.
Now, thanks to her present job as head of the Youth Park's creative unit, she has forged firm friendships with some Malays.
'I met most of my Malay friends at the Youth Park. And because we're all involved in the arts scene, we related well to each other,' she said. They worked together on publicity material for the park, which is located near Somerset.
Ms Tan was impressed with the artistic creativity of Malay graffiti crews like Project Burnerz. 'They always came up with original ideas and themes, which are important elements in art.'
They also know best how to lepak (hang out) and to take it easy, she said.
She now counts soto ayam (a spicy chicken noodle soup) and nasi goreng (fried rice) as dishes that she relishes.
Through her interactions with Malays, she also began to understand more about cultural perspectives.
'I can see that some of my Malay friends value friendship and a passion for their craft over financial wealth. It's just how they live. My world view has definitely broadened, and perhaps my value system as well.'
Encouraged by her new friends, Ms Tan picked up a motorcycle licence and is learning the ropes of dirt-biking with them.
She now listens to local bands. 'I really enjoy songs by B-Quartet and Force Vomit, among others.' B-Quartet and Force Vomit are Malay bands who sing in English.
Ms Tan said her parents, an engineer and a yoga instructor, still feel uncomfortable about her new affiliations.
'When I brought a Malay friend home, they had their doubts even though I told them he was just a friend.'
She does not rule out dating a Malay but added that as a Christian, she would likely marry someone of the same faith.
Eye-opener
'My world view has definitely broadened, and perhaps my value system as well.'
MS CHERIE TAN