Captain’s Log Stardate: January 20-Feb 1 2026

 Captain’s Log

Stardate: January 20-Feb 1 2026

The Jeju Voyager has completed a successful off-world mission to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, escorting a brave contingent of Middle School Model UN delegates into diplomatic territory.

We departed Jeju on Thursday evening at 1900 hours and arrived Friday morning at 0800 hours, after an overnight layover in the Singapore spaceport (also known as Changi Airport). Sleep was theoretical at best. Upon reaching our hotel, we attempted to get some rest before the first sessions—but were thwarted by what can only be described as a full-scale construction invasion. Despite the audio disruption, the crew persevered. The students performed admirably during their first day of committee sessions, proving once again that exhaustion cannot defeat young diplomats fueled by adrenaline and snacks.

Friday evening allowed for limited exploration. While the cadets explored the area, I joined a fellow officer on a reconnaissance mission into a Malaysian grocery store—where I discovered an astonishing array of fresh and exotic fruit, priced far below their Jeju counterparts. It was refreshing to be in a foreign country where I could read nearly every sign and label. 

I also visited the rooftop pool, where the skyline proved expansive and the city glowed like a federation outpost at dusk.

Saturday’s shore leave took us walking near the school grounds, where we encountered a troop of long-tailed macaque monkeys—local wildlife who were clearly less impressed with us than we with them. 

People-watching proved equally fascinating. Kuala Lumpur may be the most diverse place I’ve visited:

• Ethnic groups include Malays, Chinese, Indians, many Indigenous communities, and immigrants and expats from all over the world.
  
  

• Religions coexist openly—Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and others.
  
  

• Languages flow freely—Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English—often in the same sentence.
  
  

Sunday marked the end of the conference—and a major victory. Three of our ten delegates earned awards. Celebration ensued. Next came our planned excursion to the Batu Caves (a sacred cultural and religious site), but the planet’s surface temperature registered over  33°C (91°F)—far too hot for extended outdoor missions. We diverted to the Petronas Towers, twin giants of steel and glass.

Unfortunately, a communications malfunction resulted in abandoning the mission to ascend the towers. I remain uncertain whether this was tragic or merciful. The view from the ground alone was humbling, and the crew was content exploring the massive mall. I, meanwhile, conducted further anthropological research involving milk tea, sidewalk wandering, and elite-level people watching.

Chinese New Year decorations

Look left- drivers on the left side of the road

Tea at the hotel

After, we dined at a night market, sampling authentic Malaysian cuisine—a tasty blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.

Not durian- mystery fruit that was delicious

I then faced my greatest challenge yet: durian (the fruit that tastes like heaven but smells like a planetary biohazard). It truly did taste like custard. However, the whole fruit itself, with its pineapple like shell, does have a unique stench. I would eat it again—but only if it is served cold and at a safe distance.

I followed this with fresh coconut water, straight from the shell. Regrettably, my stomach was already operating at maximum capacity, though I suspect the experience would have been vastly improved with ice.

At last, we boarded another red-eye flight back to Jeju. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the majestic sight of Mt. Hallasan, the beacon of home.

Supplemental Entry — Stardate: Post–Malaysia Recovery Cycle

Following our Monday return to Jeju, the crew entered a period of recovery and routine. Systems rebooted. Sleep cycles slowly normalized. Coffee remained a critical resource.

On Saturday, I joined my friend Angela for the annual Hash House Harriers Red Dress Run, a tradition that is equal parts history, endurance, and joyful absurdity.

Hash House Harriers (HHH) began in Kuala Lumpur in 1938, founded by British soldiers and expatriates who wanted a way to stay fit while also building community. The group borrows its language from hare hunting, which is why local chapters are called “kennels.” In a typical “hash,” one or two runners act as the “hares” and mark a trail, while the rest—the “hounds”—follow it. Thankfully, no actual hares are harmed in this process, only dignity and calves.

Many kennels around the world host annual Red Dress Runs as charity fundraisers. Participants are encouraged to wear red—dresses preferred, but not required. Naturally, I couldn’t help but notice that in Starfleet tradition, red shirts are the first to go, so choosing to wear red felt like volunteering for the away mission with the highest risk level. I survived. Barely.

For this event, we climbed yet another of Jeju’s 300+ oreums, because apparently this island believes in endless character development through elevation gain. We concluded with food, drinks, laughter, and song at a local establishment, as is tradition.

Looking ahead: 2028 marks the 50th anniversary of the International Hash House Harriers and the 90th anniversary of the Malaysian Chapter.  From what I understand, a major international gathering and run is being planned here on Jeju. Harriers from around the world are expected to attend—an interplanetary-level reunion.

On Sunday, I enjoyed a well-earned rest and once again shared coffee and a beautiful sunset with my friend Jenna—a peaceful close to a very full mission cycle.

Mission continues.
Crew intact.
Red shirts survived.