In the whirlwind of assignments, lectures, and campus events, it’s easy to forget that art exists beyond galleries. But sometimes, it shows up in the everyday small acts of attention and kindness. At Monash Malaysia, two students are quietly sculpting a living masterpiece each day! One kibble-strewn feeding tray at a time.

Having lived in Sunway Monash Residence (SMR), I would often spot cats lounging near the stairs, stretched out beside the pool or hovering around tables where people left food. But as I explored the wider campus, I discovered it was also home to a community of cats—roaming freely, offering comfort and companionship to students navigating campus life. This made me wonder: who looks after these feline wanderers? 

Meet Angelica and Varsha, the heart and soul of Meownash Club! Angelica, a Year 2 Business and Psychology student and club president, and Varsha, a Year 4 Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering student and vice president, share a deep passion for these campus cats. Their journeys began separately with Angelica caring for Muta in SMR and Varsha looking after Marshmallow near the climbing rock. In July 2024, they officially launched Meownash Club with a clear mission: to ensure the campus cats are fed, vetted, adopted and most importantly, loved through community-powered care.

In between classes, they make time to feed the cats, play with them, and check for any injuries. As part of their daily routine, they carry a dedicated “care bag” packed with dry and wet food, feeding trays, medicine and toys. When a cat is wounded, they personally arrange vet visits and cover costs using funds collected from adoption and membership fees.  They also send regular updates to their group chat and the Meownash Instagram account, documenting the cats they see each day. Though fulfilling, the work can get emotionally draining, especially when cats get hurt or suddenly go missing. 

So, what motivates them despite this? Varsha explains that “seeing the cats well-taken care of” is what keeps her going. When asked whether they do it for the recognition, Angelica made it clear that it was never about that. For her, it’s about making a difference in the cats’ lives even in the smallest ways. They even made the conscious decision to remain independent of MUSA’s Clubs and Societies, so that all the funding they received each month would go directly toward their food and medical care.

This daily commitment to show up for the cats has taught Angelica and Varsha the value of discipline and consistency, which allowed them to hone their attention to detail and confidence in caring for the campus cats. Doing this without expecting anything in return, aside from head rubs and the occasional belly rub, is in itself a quiet, living art form — the art of selflessness. It’s an artistry not seen in brushstrokes or performance, but in the quiet rhythm of care, repeated day after day. Hence, it comes as no surprise that Angelica and Varsha have formed a special bond with many of the campus cats. Just before our interview, Varsha called out to Baron Cottonball, an orange tuxedo cat, and Nimnim, a primarily white cat with grey and brown patches hiding in the bushes near the cafeteria. They immediately came rushing to her, a small, tender moment that showed how strong their connection is.

They know the cats’ personalities too. Purrsephone, a brown tabby often seen near Koppiku, is described as “very fearless,” who unlike other cats, isn’t afraid of loud noises and is even willing to drink rainwater during a thunderstorm. They also mentioned that Aglio, known for being quite territorial, is actually Mac’s mother — and despite the occasional tension between them, she’s considered the best mom among all the campus cats. Mac, for his part, is pretty chill most of the time. Still, the two haven’t quite managed to get along yet, unlike Cottonball and Nimnim, who have grown a relationship and become the best of friends. Although there shouldn’t be any favourites, Angelica couldn’t help but speak fondly about Angel Hair, an incredibly affectionate but shy cat who gets easily spooked and usually only allows belly rubs from her and Varsha — a rare show of trust that speaks volumes about their bond. And because they know each cat personally, they can quickly pick up on any changes in their behaviour, which allows them to act fast when something’s wrong.

Yet, even in a community built on care, loss can arrive unexpectedly. Just recently, the campus lost one of its beloved cats, Moon, an affectionate and playful soul who brought joy to countless students who came to know and love her. Her passing is a reminder of just how important the work of Angelica, Varsha and Meownash Club truly is: creating a safe and loving environment for these cats to live and thrive in. In their grief, too, there is a kind of art, a testament to the depth of their connection and the beauty of compassion made visible. So if you ever come across one of our campus cats, consider checking up on them, offering food, or supporting Meownash Club and their mission, whether by joining as a member or contributing through a donation. Be part of painting this quiet and selfless masterpiece with them, one that colours our campus with kindness and love.

While campus life moves fast, with deadlines, ambitions, and fleeting friendships, there are students who pause. Who notice. Who care. Angelica and Varsha remind us that art doesn’t only hang on walls or live on stages. Sometimes, it’s carried in kibble bags. Practised in patience. Repeated in routine. The cats are the muse. The students are the artists. And this campus? Their living, breathing canvas.

Full  interview video available here: 

If you’re interested to donate to Meownash Cat Club, visit: 

** https://www.instagram.com/meownash_cat_club/  **

Have a quiet story worth sharing? Maybe you’ve seen something beautiful in the ordinary, like a moment of connection, a space that tells a story, or a small act of care that deserves to be seen. Don’t keep it to yourself! Share your story by DMing us on Instagram @musamonga! We’re always looking for stories that reflect the heart of our campus and yours might be the next one we tell!

Featuring: Angelica (@_angelica_k_) and Varsha (@varsha_kesavan09)

Coordinated & interviewed by: Kaira (@meow_moon.k)

Written by: Bianca Eunice Miranda Calma (@biaxeu) & Edited by: Kaira (@meow_moon.k)

Photos by: May Ping (@heyitsmays_pics)

Video by: Akyla (@akyla.mnr)