You’ve passed by them on your walk to Toast to Love. You’ve stopped by to take a closer look at them. You’ve marvelled at their beauty. And your eyes widened as you spotted Son Goku standing proud.  But have you ever wondered who they belonged to? Or perhaps what lies behind those figurines? Come with us as we explore the personas behind those eye-catching window exhibitions. The two men residing in the Mechanical Engineering Technical Staff office – Encik Nasuha and Encik Fadhlur!

Step into their office, and you’ll encounter a quaint space that’s… pretty ordinary. There are a few loose items lying around, and a few huge chunks of machinery. It is markedly different from the lecturers’ office spaces we’ve visited in the past. It’s more simplistic, and straightforward. Perhaps it’s because Encik Nasuha and Encik Fadhlur have only been here for 4 years – a short time relative to other Monash lecturers – that their personality hasn’t fully seeped into their office space. However, their window exhibition of figurines and toy models is a stark exception. It is a 4+ years worth collection of McD kids meal toys, anime figurines and artistic 3D models. Encik Nasuha’s collection is dominated by toys from the numerous McDonald’s kids’ meals he has bought for his children over the years; while Encik Fadhlur’s collection boasts a plethora of anime figurines from Dragon Ball Z, Ultraman, and One Piece that receives a new member only when he buys toys for his children. Both men’s collections also include some of their proudest work created from 3D printing – a dragon from Encik Nasuha and an elephant from Encik Fadhlur. To them, their window displays work to give them privacy from the bustling walkways, while actively demonstrating their paternal love and technical skill for all Monashians to see. 

Some may say that having a generic office shows that you have a boring personality. But, you couldn’t be more wrong in this case. Generic as it may be, their office is an incommensurate cage bursting at its seams from trying to house two rich personalities.  Before being a lab tech for Monash, Encik Nasuha was a professional photographer – often commissioned to cover weddings before the pandemic made them scarce. On top of that, he sells Hari Raya cookies whenever the Islamic Holiday – Eid-al Fitr – passes. As for Encik Fadhlur, he loves anything pertaining to engines. From cars to planes and jets, he loves them all, boasting an extensive car model collection and even participating in several races himself! Outside of working hours, the two of them still spend time together doing activities like football, musical jamming and eating out. It is unsurprising that they have such chemistry as they’ve had a great friendship even before joining Monash together that started all the way back from their university years, which was almost 8 years ago! They are such close friends that spending so much time together can still be fun and “crazy” – as Encik Fadhlur puts it. 

Even amid all the craziness, our dear lab techs remain faithfully dedicated to their jobs; going above and beyond their technical job scope, they shower every student with utmost care in and outside the classroom. Taking on a more down-to-earth and palpable approach to pedagogy, their students always find classes with Encik Fadhlur and Encik Nasuha a fun and relaxed learning environment. They’ve mindfully positioned themselves as a friend, always there to assist students in their time of need. Whether it be printing complex structures or guiding them through their final year projects (FYP), Encik Nasuha and Encik Fadhlur are simply a knock on the office door away. Unsurprisingly, their office space is scattered with notes, letters and tokens of appreciation from students. The most astounding expression of gratitude was a huge Amazin Graze granola bites box sitting on their pantry table. If you take the time to ponder, that bright orange box symbolises something deeper: the intricate balance they’ve struck between their professional and personal lives. While they are deeply involved in helping students, their warmth and generosity extend beyond the job. Whether they’re jamming together after work or showcasing their 3D-printed creations, Encik Nasuha and Encik Fadhlur bring their full selves to everything they do. Their office window displays may catch your eye, but it’s the sense of community and openness that truly defines their space. If you’re curious about the stories behind the figurines or just want to share a granola bite; don’t hesitate to knock on their door! You’ll be welcomed with open arms, and you’ll leave knowing a little more about the people who bring Monash’s mechanical labs to life.

Full 4-part interview video available here: 

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Do you know any other cool office rooms? Or an intriguing story about an unexpected connection or a memorable experience you’re eager to share with the world? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with MONGA on Instagram @musamonga! Your story matters to us, and we can’t wait to hear from you!

Featuring: Encik Nasuha & Encik Fadhlur

Coordinated & interviewed by: Kaira

Written by: Jason Nataniel

Photos by: Youshau