Tehran: A Melting Pot Of History And Culture That Should Be Cherished, Not Shelled
By Zarul Effendi Razali
KUALA LUMPUR, June 22 (Bernama) -- It is indeed a sad state of affairs to note that the calm and peaceful Tehran I saw during a visit to Iran just last April has shockingly been shattered and turned into a war zone overnight.
The killings and bombardment by Israel and the destruction of homes and properties have indeed sullied the desire to visit once again and tour what is surely a place of serenity, vividly etched in my mind.
On any typical day, it is commonplace to see Iranians go about their daily lives almost oblivious to the impending dangers of military attacks.
The street I walked along last April, I recall, was peaceful with clear skies and greenery.
Not a single cloud in sight, as people, especially the elderly, sat on benches conversing nonchalantly while others were deeply engrossed reading their newspapers.
Rows of trees adorned pedestrian pathways, serving as road dividers and offering cool shade as a gentle breeze blew, even though it was only just after noon.
Compared to the utter chaos, death, and destruction I am witnessing on television and social media today, I vividly recall the calmness in the heart of downtown Tehran, which is home to a population of 9.7 million people.
This is my usual routine whenever on assignment overseas as I squeeze in some time to enjoy the sights and take in the atmosphere of a foreign country.
Occasionally, cyclists zoomed past, people went about their business, and no one bugged foreigners and tourists, contrary to the picture painted by the Western media that chaos was the order of the day in Iran.
It was that negative narrative, including constant warnings about unrest there, that influenced me to be concerned before the trip, over claims about how dangerous or unsafe Iran is.
It was all hogwash. Once I arrived there and experienced first-hand the local situation and the people-friendly nature of Iranians there, the “manufactured fear fed to me” completely melted away.
Tehran, like the rest of Iran, is a melting pot of history and culture -- a place to be celebrated, not shelled; a vibrant destination for travellers from around the world.
What is so unsafe about Iran, I wondered?
The language barrier aside, Iranians prove to be warm and hospitable, generous with their smiles.
They don’t judge, are very open to differences, and are always trying to understand foreigners and their cultures.
It has become a norm for the Western media to deride everything about Iran.
But the actual situation, as far as I am concerned, turns out to be surprisingly the very opposite of what has been reported in the news.
I was assigned to cover the seventh Exhibition of Export Potential of Iran (Iran Expo 2025).
It was a combination of work and pleasure, as I came away enchanted and awed by Tehran’s scenic beauty and the warmth of its citizens. No one harassed me on the streets, either.
My observation is that the Islamic Republic of Iran, with a population of 88.4 million, is positively trying to open up its economy to trade and investment from the world.
This is understandably quite a challenge, taking into account the stifling business conditions from an almost total economic embargo imposed on Iran by the United States since 1979.
The Iran Expo 2025 was clearly a case in point, with progress made to invigorate trade and attract investment.
However, things are not easy as Washington’s sanctions include a ban on companies doing business with Iran, a ban on all Iranian-origin imports, sanctions on Iranian financial institutions and an almost total ban on selling aircraft or repair parts to Iranian aviation.
Brief encounter with a local Iranian
Somayeh Mardani, 42, who was my appointed translator, provided me with a wonderful insight into what was actually happening in Iran, its people, their daily lives, and Iranian culture.
She lamented that the “western media has always introduced Iran as a country full of insecurity, political instability and internal conflicts.”
In contrast, she contended that “Iran is a nation full of historical, cultural and natural wonders.”
“From Takht-e Jamshid, the ceremonial capital of the ancient Achaemenid Empire, and Pasargadae, the historical capital, to the Iranian gardens and magnificent mosques in Isfahan, Iran can be considered as one of the foremost tourist destinations worldwide,” she said.
Somayeh was emphatic that Iran should be experienced first-hand, for it is not what the western media shows on screens, which more often would be a skewed version with negative connotations.
“To see it in its entirety, you must visit Iran yourself. It leaves a lasting impact on tourists with many mesmerised by its rich and varied culture.”
She also alluded to the fact that Iran was one of the world’s oldest nations, dating back tens of thousands of years, with the renowned Persian Empire stretching far and wide.
A part-time tourist guide, Somayeh, who is pursuing her Doctorate in Business Administration at the Institute of Science and Research in Tehran, said most Iranian people start their day early, often around 6.30 am or 7 am.
Evenings are for social events and family-oriented activities, where they spend time with relatives, go out for tea or enjoy a walk in local parks.
Dinner is usually lighter than lunch, and many families gather to watch TV together and engage in conversations.
“Hospitality and people-to-people connections are central to daily life -- whether offering tea to a guest, helping a neighbour or sharing stories with friends.
“An Iranian’s persona based on Islamic teachings is full of warmth, balance and a deep appreciation for both tradition and community,” she said.
Tehran from a Malaysian's eyes
While here, I chanced upon meeting Abdul Razak Ramli, 45, a Malaysian businessman who has been living in Tehran for about three years.
He contended that living and doing business in Tehran is an enriching experience.
“The people, the culture, the food and even the challenges have taught me a lot about resilience, adaptability and the importance of building connections.
“While it has not always been easy, I have learned to embrace the unpredictability (borne out of the continuing political tension with Israel) to find joy in the little things.
“Tehran may be a bit rough around the edges, but that is part of its charm. Two years in, I have come to realise that Tehran isn’t just a place to do business -- it is a place to grow, to connect and to truly live,” he said.
Reminiscing about his first arrival in Tehran from Malaysia, when life was laid-back and a bit more predictable, the city seemed like a whole new world.
“Tehran is a city that doesn’t exactly ease you in -- it hits you right away with its energy. As a Malaysian, I am used to the tropical warmth and humidity, so Tehran’s dry heat in the summer took some getting used to.
“But as chaotic as it is, Tehran has this rhythm to it. Life here has a fast pace, but not in an exhausting way -- more like a constant hum of activity. I have learned to enjoy it, especially in the mornings when the city is a little quieter,” he said.
Cultural adjustments: Respecting local practices
Coming from Malaysia, a multicultural country where people are fairly relaxed about personal expression, Abdul Razak said it took him a while to adjust to the more conservative lifestyle in Tehran.
“In Malaysia, dressing casually is common, but in Tehran, I quickly learned that modesty is important.
“That said, it was not restrictive -- it was just different, and I came to appreciate the unique style of expression that Iranians have within the cultural boundaries,” he said.
Abdul Razak said he really enjoyed the sense of community around food here.
He said that sharing a meal is a huge part of the culture, and whether it is with colleagues or new friends, he quickly learned that meals are more than just about eating, as they are about connecting.
“And my belly grew too,” he said in jest, adding that “the only issue is that meals are large, and their lunch is after 2 pm and dinners after 8 pm.”
Doing business in Iran: A pleasant surprise
Being a businessman involved in a myriad of activities, Abdul Razak said he initially anticipated Tehran’s market to present significant challenges.
However, he encountered a vibrant and dynamic business environment instead.
He acknowledged that there are obvious challenges due to the country’s political climate and economic sanctions.
Nevertheless, he opined that the business community here is incredibly resourceful and open-minded.
“The people I have met in business circles have been welcoming, willing to collaborate and most importantly, eager to build long-term relationships.
“What really surprised me was the entrepreneurial spirit in Tehran. Despite the economic pressure, there is a strong start-up culture here, and many young professionals are making waves in tech (technology) start-ups, trade, and even in the arts space,” he said.
According to Abdul Razak, the locals have this knack for making things work with what little they have, which is inspiring.
“I quickly realised that doing business in Tehran is as much about building personal trust as it is about closing deals.
“The Iranian people value relationships deeply, and it’s something I’ve grown to appreciate in my professional life,” he added.
Looking ahead: Tehran’s bright future
After two years in Tehran, Abdul Razak viewed the city less like a foreign country and more like a second home.
“While I miss the tropical warmth of Malaysia, I have come to love the rhythm of life here. There is something about the city’s mix of old-world charm and youthful energy that has grown on me.
“From a business perspective, Tehran is full of opportunities, especially for those willing to embrace the local culture and build meaningful relationships,” he declared.
In his opinion, Tehran is changing, evolving and adapting in ways that are both exciting and inspiring.
“As a Malaysian living here, I feel lucky to witness this transformation up close. Life here may not always be predictable, but it is never dull.
“Tehran is a city that challenges you, yes, but it also rewards you in ways you never expected,” he said.
Come and witness it for yourself
Despite the negative portrayals that create fear and Iran being largely misunderstood, Somayeh is inviting foreigners to look beyond the biased headlines and “connect with real stories, real people in Iran.”
Iran is a peaceful nation with kind, educated and welcoming people.
“We have a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, strong family values, hospitality and respect for others. The best way to understand Iran is to experience it through its art, food, poetry and people.
“If you are curious or unsure, I suggest starting with small steps: read Persian literature, follow Iranian creators online, connect with Iranians on social platforms, or even visit the country when possible,” she said.
The reality in Iran is very different and far more inspiring than many might imagine.
“Openness and dialogue are key to breaking fear and taboos. Let us replace fear with curiosity and judgment through connections,” she stressed.
My memories of Tehran have become fonder, despite the military conflict thrust upon Iran.
My heart bleeds for Tehran and Iran. I can only pray for the superpowers to intervene and bring about a quick settlement to what is surely an unnecessary conflict.
-- BERNAMA