Kuala Lampur, Aug. 28 -- From my office window at the Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, I can see the lake. The Varsity Lake, or Tasik Varsiti.

On most days, it's quiet. Not silent, but calm. A soft breeze across the water. Joggers passing by in gentle rhythm. Someone stretching under a tree. A few students in colourful kayaks, laughing as they drift just out of sync with each other. There's always movement, but it never feels rushed.

Every now and then, something stands out. A group of students gathered in a circle, holding balloons. A birthday, perhaps. Or a farewell. Once, I saw two students performing what looked like a mock awards ceremony, complete with cardboard trophies and exaggerated bows. And on many days around conv...