Nostalgia in December

(Tune in to “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)” by Nat King Cole while reading to enhance your reading experience.)

“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose.”

The warmth of nostalgia surrounding December is an undeniable tug at our souls, regardless of age and race. This subconscious emotion seeps into our very being, evoking a heartfelt reminiscence that transports us back to a time of pure joyfulness—granted by a month-long holiday that centres around Christmas, free from the chaos that fills the rest of the year.

How long has it been, dear reader, since you have had all the weight completely lifted off your shoulders? Our December school holidays have always felt like an embrace after conquering obstacles throughout the year, and there is something so safe about that feeling in December that we helplessly channel as we move forward in life, even if we grow into more responsibilities. We collectively become roasting chestnuts, steady and warm as though time ticked slower. We mould into a soothing melody absorbing love, family, and tradition, no matter how much time passes. 

“Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe help to make the season bright.” 

The raindrops racing on the window pane create a festive backdrop that coats the air with nostalgia. Everybody sips a familiar and comforting warmth from their hot coffee or sweet Milo in this gentle monsoon season. The streets are adorned in festive dress code, twinkling our eyes as we admire the lights arranged in triangles. Everybody reverts to friendly conversations recapping the tumultuous year because when we meet, our pages are coloured and we each have a story to tell.

“And so I’m offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two.”

Time is such a fickle thing, yet the seconds melting into the year-end like honey pause the world for a breath. We have come this far, and that is such a beautiful, powerful miracle.

Gathered with people from other walks of life, December presents a brief unity for when we align in time, like hands on the clock going in circles back to their places. Interestingly, the “Home Alone” sequel, playing in 1080p quality on our screens but contrastingly preserving the 1990s aesthetic, observes the timeless dynamics of the human race settling in an instance of simplicity for people from one to 92.     

“Although it’s been said many times, many ways.”

It is the very essence of nostalgia that makes December a magical time. And it is this indescribable sentiment that makes it Christmas for all of us. For those who return home—not to a place, but to a feeling—I wish this nostalgia blankets you with love and belonging.

Ultimately, this piece culminates in a universal greeting, carrying the warmth and love of the season:

“Merry Christmas to you.”

Words to learn:

recapping – state again as a summary; recapitulate

reverts – return to (a previous state, practice, topic, etc.)

embrace – hold (someone) closely in one’s arms, especially as a sign of affection

tumultuous – excited, confused, or disorderly

fickle – changing frequently, especially as regards to one’s loyalties or affections

miracle – an extraordinary and welcome event that is not explicable by natural or scientific laws and is therefore attributed to a divine agency

contrastingly – differing strikingly

aesthetic – concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty

sentiment – exaggerated and self-indulgent feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia

culminate – reach a climax or point of highest development

At ILTI, we encourage our learners to polish their language skills via real-life situations. We do not practise the chalk and talk approach – we learn and have fun at the same time. Join us today by calling / WhatsApp 010-395 3067 or email: info@ilti.edu.my.

The World of FOMO: Why We’re All Social Media Addicts

Do you ever feel a twinge of anxiety scrolling through picture-perfect vacations or epic hangouts on social media? That’s FOMO, or the Fear of Missing Out, casting its spell.  

In a world where everyone’s highlight reel is just a swipe away, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. Beyond the scroll, however, is a more profound effect on mental health and self-worth so let’s dive right into that! 

In today’s world, FOMO isn’t just a buzzword, it’s practically a way of life. Everyone seems to be doing something exciting or achieving milestones on Instagram, but here we are, debating whether to start a new series or rewatch Friends for the 15th time. 

Social media updates change each scroll into a reminder of what we’re not doing. This anxiety can lead to compulsive scrolling or checking updates, disrupting daily activities and mental peace. 

The worst part? Over time, it breeds a sense of inadequacy, where we begin measuring our lives against the curated highlights of others. Suddenly, our accomplishments seem small, and we’re left with a question in mind—when will our main character moment manifest? 

FOMO has a sneaky way of turning self-esteem into a punching bag. Your pamper night in feels like a bad life choice when your feed is flooded with influencers crossing out countries on their travel list or friends rocking the front row at a concert. 

However, what we often fail to remember is that social media is like a movie, only the best bits make the cut. But those carefully curated highlights can set absurd standards. It’s a recipe for a self-esteem spiral, clawing at your heart from the thought of yourself being insignificant.  

FOMO traps you in an endless loop of digital validation. What starts as a casual post about your homemade nasi lemak turns into a race for social hierarchy supremacy.  

The problem? Every ‘red heart’ or ‘thumbs up’ fuels the need for more, driving you further away from authentic, real-life connections. Before you know it, you’re not just feeding FOMO; you’re creating it, for yourself and others. 

So, what’s the takeaway? It’s time to hit pause on the scrolling and take a breather from the approval race. Real moments, shared smiles, and genuine connections are what define life; double taps are NOT the yardstick. 

FOMO might reign in the digital world, but your happiness? That’s still your turf. 

Words to learn:

twinge – a sudden short feeling of physical or mental pain

profound – (of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense 
                    (of a person or statement) having or showing great knowledge or insight

self-esteem – how one values and perceives oneself

curated – (of online content, merchandise, information, etc.) selected, organised, and presented using professional or expert knowledge

spiral – a process in which something gradually but continuously gets worse or better 

validation – recognition or affirmation that a person or their feelings or opinions are valid or worthwhile

authentic – of undisputed origin and not a copy; genuine

yardstick – a standard used for comparison

At ILTI, we encourage our learners to polish their language skills via real-life situations. We do not practise the chalk and talk approach – we learn and have fun at the same time. Join us today by calling / WhatsApp 010-395 3067 or email: info@ilti.edu.my.

Podcasts: The Next Big Thing in Entertainment

It’s time to move over, YouTube and Netflix! There’s a new player in town! With their charm being the blend of the nostalgia of radio with the convenience of modern tech, podcasts are blazing through the Malaysian entertainment scene and taking the spot in the hearts of Malaysians as their favourite pastime.

Stuck in traffic on the Federal Highway? Prepping dinner in the kitchen? Winding down after a long day? Well, there’s always a good podcast out there ready to keep you company! 

Some may question: why are podcasts making waves in Malaysia? First off, they’re remarkably versatile. Are you a true-crime junkie? Check out Buletin Awani: Jenayah. Love humour with a Malaysian twist? The Mamak Sessions has you covered. Or perhaps you’re all about inspiring success stories? Then The Takeaway Table is your jam. Podcasts cater to almost all niches, including football, parenting, or even ‘kedai kopi’ talk. 

Next, the accessibility it features. Podcasts are like your ‘teh tarik ikat tepi’ buddies—you can take them anywhere. You can easily pop on an episode or plug in whenever, wherever you are! (Just make sure it’s not a distraction to the important stuff!) They’re a great way to stay entertained without the risk of overexposure to blue light (read: screen). Bonus: Most podcasts are free! Who doesn’t love quality entertainment on a budget? 

What sets podcasts apart in Malaysia is how every podcast has a personal touch to it. Unlike TV dramas or TikTok clips, podcasts provide you with the experience of being part of the conversation. Hosts talk to you like old friends, it doesn’t matter if they’re uncovering local slang, debating controversial topics, or just sharing good vibes. 

For creators, podcasts are a game-changer. Got a passion? A mic? You’re all set. From local comedians to small businesses, podcasts are opening doors for anyone to share their stories with the world. 

It’s time to press play, Malaysia, if you haven’t already. Podcasts are proving to be the entertainment upgrade we did not realise we needed, with an infinite variety of topics and a distinctively local flavour! 

Words to learn:

nostalgia – a wistful or excessively sentimental yearning for return to or of some past period or irrecoverable condition

blazing through (blaze through) – to move or proceed quickly, or at an extreme pace 

winding down (wind down) – draw gradually to a close 
                                                           (of a person) relax after stress or excitement

niche – a specialised segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service 

accessibility – the quality of being able to be reached or obtained easily 

plug in – connect an electrical appliance to the mains by inserting a plug in a socket 
                (slang) closely connected; in touch with what is going on; informed; involved

game-changer – an event, idea, or procedure that affects a significant shift in the current way of doing or thinking about something 

distinctively – in a way that is characteristic of one person or thing and distinguishes it from others 

At ILTI, we encourage our learners to polish their language skills via real-life situations. We do not practise the chalk and talk approach – we learn and have fun at the same time. Join us today by calling / WhatsApp 010-395 3067 or email: info@ilti.edu.my.

We’re wrapping up our TikTok-inspired journey with vlogging tips that bring stories to life in this Part 3!

Vlogging – The Lost World of Lens & Frames 

Ever crossed your mind of becoming a vlogging sensation? Well, good news! TikTok is your one-way ticket to dip your toes and start sharing your story to the world!

It could be sharing the chaos of student life, documenting epic travel adventures, or even just giving your hilarious take on daily musings, TikTok has all the references you need for you to start (possibly not for the last example, that’s all you!). We’re here in the new era where vlogging is king, and TikTok is the throne! 

TikTok turns you into a pro storyteller without any fancy gear. All you need is your phone, a bit of creativity, and bam—you’re ready to conquer the digital world! With a never-ending stream of vlogs, from big-name creators to fresh amateurs, there’s a treasure trove of inspiration waiting for you to dive in and learn from in TikTok. 

TikTok isn’t just a platform for sharing your videos, it’s a full-on creative toolkit! You can easily source music, sound effects, and filters to take your vlogs to the next level.

From adding a funky beat to match your energy, using sound effects to punctuate a funny moment, or experimenting with filters to make everything pop, TikTok’s got your back. These features help turn an ordinary vlog into something unforgettable, trust us, your followers will be hitting replay in no time! Start capturing moments of your life, one vlog at a time! 

All in all, TikTok is the perfect place to play, learn, and create, all at once. Being an expert will be a breeze with all the available tutorials, tips, and techniques at your fingertips!

In 2025, all you have to do is scroll through TikTok to find new skills to add to your arsenal. We promise you, there is an endless supply of opportunities; thus, prepare to learn and advance! 

Words to learn:

treasure trove – a collection or store of valuable or delightful things

musings  – a period of reflection or thought

arsenal – an array of resources available for a certain purpose

dip your toes into – to start doing something new or unfamiliar gradually and carefully

At ILTI, we encourage our learners to polish their language skills via real-life situations. We do not practise the chalk and talk approach – we learn and have fun at the same time. Join us today by calling / WhatsApp 010-395 3067 or email: info@ilti.edu.my.

Part 2 is live! Dive into DIY crafts and let your creativity shine.

DIY Crafts – Small Joys, Handmade 

Enjoy turning nothing into something beautiful? TikTok’s DIY section is your ultimate playground! Think custom wall art from recycled materials, crafting personalised gifts, or even making aesthetic decor for your dream home, DIY tutorials are all over the app.

The best part of it? Either you’re looking for quick and simple steps or more intricate, detailed explanations, TikTok has it all. It’s honestly no wonder that everyone is channeling their inner Martha Stewart!

They’re also a fun and budget-friendly way to unwind, much like taking a walk in the park to clear your head, but instead, you’re letting your hands do the thinking. 

On TikTok, the DIY scene is bustling with projects like making resin coasters, upcycling old clothes into trendy pieces, or adding a pop of personality by painting plant pots.

What makes these projects strike everyone’s attention is how creators break them down into bite-sized steps, almost like having a personal crafting guide right on your screen!

It’s your day 1 into crafts? Or you’re one creation away from becoming a master in craft yourself? TikTok has something for everyone, making each step feel as easy (yet could be adventurous!) as following a map on a treasure hunt. 

So, ready to get your hands dirty? TikTok is a goldmine for DIY enthusiasts, you won’t want to miss digging it! It’s time to give your house or closet a creative update, without breaking your bank.

It’s a win-win situation, like turning scraps into treasure! By the end of the day, you might just find yourself looking at your space differently, wondering how you ever lived without your own handmade creations. Whether it’s for fun or function, TikTok gives you the tools to craft your way to all things that scream YOU. 

Stay tuned for the final part, coming out tomorrow!

Words to learn:

bustling – full of activity

musings  – a period of reflection or thought

walk in the park – something that is very easy to do, and usually pleasant

At ILTI, we encourage our learners to polish their language skills via real-life situations. We do not practise the chalk and talk approach – we learn and have fun at the same time. Join us today by calling / WhatsApp 010-395 3067 or email: info@ilti.edu.my.

Aimless scrolling? We don’t know her! With TikTok evolving from a place to share quick dances and lip-syncs to an incredible platform where you can pick up actual skills, it’s no surprise that TikTok has become the go-to spot for questions and tutorials.

The phrase ‘ask Google’ used to be prevalent when one wants to find something, but that is a thing in the past (yes, it’s a little exaggerated but we’re saying this for the plot!). Now, it’s all about ‘check in TikTok!’

Packed with everything from kitchen wizardry to crafty DIY hacks, TikTok is serving up some serious skills to level up in 2025! We’ve rounded up the coolest ones just for you in this three-part blog! 

Warning: Side effects may include becoming a multi-talented legend by the end of this read! You have been warned! 

Cooking and Baking – Turning that Oh No.. to Oh Yes! 

With the help of TikTok chefs, cooking has changed us in a way that we go from “I’ll just order takeout” to “I’ll be making a 3-course meal and topping it off with a dessert.” You’ll find everything from 5-minute meals to more elaborate baking challenges that put your kitchen skills (and patience) to the test.

TikTok is also the origin of many viral recipes: remember the feta pasta craze or the more local kek batik fixation? In 2025, you’ll be drooling over even more creations and hacks that’ll make you the food star of your social circle. 

TikTok delivers more than just recipes, there are also kitchen wizardry tips that can help you save time, cost, and effort for each meal preparation! If you’re looking to impress a special guest or cooking for the team, watching a quick video can make all the difference. Got random ingredients in the fridge but not sure what to make? Just TikTok it!  

We’re sure you’ve heard of at least one of these usernames: Khairulaming, inshaneats, and chefdaveveganjourney. With their unique cooking styles, these accounts have become Malaysia’s very own digital ‘recipe books’!

Khairul Aming will have you hooked with his infectious personality and easy-peasy tutorials for everything from sambal to satay, all you need is to hear that “Hey what’s up, guys” to tune into the videos.

Then there’s InShaneEats, where Chef Shane reinvents your fave dishes with a Malaysian twist, transforming every meal into a masterpiece that’ll make your tastebuds swoon.

And let’s not forget Chef Dave’s Vegan Journey who’s really out there to prove that plant-based meals can be just as bold, flavourful, and deeply satisfying as any traditional meal. With these three, your TikTok feed becomes a crash course in cooking mastery, so it is time to level up your skills and wow your own taste testers! 

Stay tuned for Part 2, coming out tomorrow!

Words to learn:

prevalent – widespread in a particular area or at a particular time

exaggerated  – regarded or represented as larger, better, or worse than in reality

wizardry – great skill in a particular area of activity

infectious – likely to spread or influence others in a rapid manner

At ILTI, we encourage our learners to polish their language skills via real-life situations. We do not practise the chalk and talk approach – we learn and have fun at the same time. Join us today by calling / WhatsApp 010-395 3067 or email: info@ilti.edu.my.