Positive Reaction All Around

By Reena Raj

“KUDOS Dr Sheikh Muszaphar, you have done the country proud!”

Tributes and plaudits from the public continued to pour in for Malaysia’s first angkasawan, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha, following the completion of his 11-day space mission yesterday.

The Malay Mail took to the streets yesterday to get the opinion of Malaysians on Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s achievements.

The public expressed their pride on his success and relief over his safe return.

Most described him as a “new Malaysian icon” and said he would serve as an inspiration to generations of Malaysians, proving that it is possible to live your dreams.

Here are their views:

* Norsa Farah Asyikin Mohd Said, 26, visual editor from Kuala Lumpur

“Dr Sheikh Muszaphar is a good example for future generations. He should share his experiences with those who are interested.

“He could create a website or even write a book. It would also be great if he were to conduct workshops for students interested in space.”

* Sangeetha Nair, 18, student from Selayang

“Apart from making Malaysia proud, our first astronaut can contribute more.

“He can undergo more training in Russia and enhance his skills to match astronauts from established space-faring nations.

“His expertise can be used to hire more Malaysian astronauts or aeronautical experts.”

* Parthiban Sathappan, 25, medical lab technologist from Kuala Lumpur

“We should train a female astronaut from other races, which will reflect the country’s unique multiracial blend.

“Dr Sheikh Muszaphar and Capt Dr Faiz Khaleed can serve as trainers if we decide to send a second team into space.”

* Low Eng Seng, 31, restaurant operator from Sentul

“Malaysia is now not only famous and well known for our multiracial society, food, and landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers, but we now have a new icon in our very own astronaut. Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s achievements will be entrenched in the nation’s history and serve as an inspiration for future generations.”

* Jagjit Kaur, 49, housewife from Kuala Lumpur

“I’m glad he made it back safe. But I hope this does not mark the end of Malaysia’s venture in aeronautical technology.

“We hope the government does its utmost to ensure that Dr Sheikh Muszaphar’s experience and expertise is shared and put to good use for the betterment of all.”

(c) 2007 Malay Mail. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.