Growing up as the third generation of Malaysian Chinese, I grapple with the intricate question of my cultural identity, caught between Chinese and Malay influences. This internal struggle finds expression in four compelling illustrations, portraying a tale of a girl and a dragon. Symbolic of my inner conflict, the characters initially wage a war fueled by physical differences, only to discover shared similarities that bridge the divide. This artistic narrative serves as a metaphor for my journey—a profound exploration of my Chinese heritage amid the multicultural tapestry of Malaysia.

Behind each stroke lies my nuanced contemplation of her identity. While I physically appear Chinese, I wrestle with the tension of being Malaysian. The artwork becomes a canvas of self-discovery, depicting the tension and beauty in my love-hate relationship with my dual cultures.

The dragon, a powerful symbol, represents my courage in embracing my Chinese bloodline. This symbolic journey serves as a breakthrough, unraveling my struggles as a Malaysian Chinese studying in New Zealand. Through my art, I emerge proud and self-assured, declaring myself as I am—a Malaysian Chinese, a fusion of heritage and identity. 🎨🐉💖