NTU alumni take a weekend makan trip across the Causeway.

Durians, glorious durians, enticed 240 alumni and their family members, who went in six coaches on a makan trip to Malaysia. The trip, organised by the Alumni Affairs Office (AAO), saw the foodies being treated to durians of different grades, not to mention a sumptuous spread of other tropical fruits.

"I enjoyed the durian treats so much I am looking forward to the next trip," said Ms Teo Puat Wen, a Class 2006 alumna from the School of Materials Science and Engineering. Ms Teo and the other alumni were also treated to a buffet-style dinner at a restaurant, indulging in Penang-style fried kuey teow, freshly-rolled popiah, traditional mamak chicken soup served with soft French loaf, and teh tarik.

Continuing on the food trail, they ventured from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca for more indulgence, thanks to AAO extending the trip for the first-time to a two-day affair from 28 to 29 June. While at Malacca, the alumni and their families got a chance to savour authentic Nyonya food. Not only that. They got to enjoy a cultural walk along the famed Jonker Street. Some even visited the largest Cheng Ho Cultural Museum outside China and trailed the exploration of the great Chinese Admiral Explorer Cheng Ho.

Two among the alumni would have especially fond memories of their makan trip. Both were treated to a surprise birthday celebration, which was planned for them by the AAO. They were: Ms Zhu Liyan, a Class of 2005 alumna from the Nanyang Business School and Mr Lai Dengying, a participant of the Masters in Public Administration Programme.

Indeed, a great friendship was fostered amid good food and a delightful culture.

© Alumni Affairs Office