NEPAL and Malaysia’s East Coast may lie far apart, but both are tied by similar value — the purity of heart and human kindness that shape a simple life.
Beneath the shadow of the majestic Himalayas, between narrow alleys and modest homes, life in Nepal reflects a quiet choice of peace over chaos. To many, Nepal is not just a place on the map, but a soul defined by sincerity.
“Touching Souls — Nepal” is more than an art exhibition. It offers visitors a glimpse into the nation’s soul — from rain-dampened alleys and modest kitchens serving food with love, to the genuine smiles of its people.
According to curator and freelance photographer Grace Ho Pui Wan, the sincerity of the Nepalese people shines through in their readiness to help, even with nothing but their bare hands.
“They share a cup of hot cha (tea) not because they have plenty, but because they believe kindness is like a mountain river, and stays pure only when it flows. The community lives in harmony and accepts life as it comes,” she said.
However, according to Ho, the warmth of the soul does not belong to the Himalayas alone. In Kampung Mangkuk, Setiu, Terengganu, the same spirit can be felt. This fishing village, surrounded by white beaches and blue lagoons, is most beautiful not for its landscape, but for the spirit of its people.
“Although it was my first visit, their welcome made me feel as if I had known them for years. There was a genuine warmth. That morning, I photographed children on their way to school, chatted with an elderly woman, and was greeted kindly by others, without the slightest sense of awkwardness,” she said.
Ho, who is also the general manager of a construction company, said the simplicity of life in Nepal and Kampung Mangkuk is bound by the same spirit of gratitude. In Kampung Mangkuk, fishermen returning from the sea may bring home just enough for their families, yet they still share generously with neighbours and guests.
“In that mountainous country, a father walking the city streets with the day’s harvest of his livelihood can still smile wholeheartedly, as if there is no burden on his shoulders,” she said. ‘
Warmth of “selamat datang”
With a cheerful smile, Ho said that while in Malaysia people are welcomed with the greeting “selamat datang,” in Nepal, the warm greeting “namaste” is their mother tongue.
Languages may change, cultures may differ, but the spirit is the same, which is to greet others with an open heart.
“For both communities, happiness is not measured by luxury. It comes from simple things — watching children play by the water, sharing a drink, or giving even a little.
“The children happily play football with paper balls, ducks crossing the road make people smile, while the elderly accept life calmly. All these moments become beautiful memories that show the similarities between two different worlds,” said the mother of two.
Another curator, freelance photographer Lim Swee Hoe, said his experience in Nepal was truly eye-opening. He stated that the photo collection on display reflects empathy, tenderness, and the strong bonds between people.
“The warmth they showed was deeply touching, as they welcomed guests with sincerity and without suspicion, even though we were foreigners. Their smiles and readiness to help without expecting anything in return made it a precious and unique experience,” he said.
From the Himalayas to the South China Sea, the purity of the human heart knows no boundaries. It is unconditional.
The “Touching Souls — Nepal” exhibition is being held from August 9 to September 14 at Galeri Kokopelli, Jalan Templer, Petaling Jaya.
The exhibition features dozens of photographs capturing everyday moments with artistic sincerity and warmth, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the beauty and meaning of life.
