Malaysians in Space Race Too!

Malaysia is using a large defense equipment purchase to finagle a ride to the International Space Station aboard a Soyuz spacecraft in 2007.
The country is holding open-auditions for its first astronaut right now. If you are 21 years of age or older, hold a university degree or pilot's license and are a citizen of Malaysia you can compete in a series of vigorous physical endurance tests beginning later this month with the completion of a 2.2 mile run in less than 20 minutes.
Since the application process began in 2003 more than 11,000 Malaysians have signed-up. The field will be trimmed to six or eight competitors and then ultimately to just two finalists, one to travel to ISS and the other as a reserve candidate, and both will undergo an 18-month training program in Russia.
What I find interesting is Malaysia's effort to individualize its Space experience: A chef has been commissioned to help design a way to make traditional flat Indian bread called 'roti canai' in Space. Also, the Malaysian astronaut will be wearing traditional batik fabric as part of their uniform.
(Check out all the information at the official Malaysian site, here.)

I say it's about time we see some individuality and artistic creativity in Space. Yes, it's nice that Space can unite us as a planet and as a species, but does everything have to be so drab? Can't we paint cool animal designs on our spacecraft? Or wear cool looking uniforms like they did on the original Star Trek? (not the wedgy-inducing uniforms from STNG)

This is just the beginning of Malaysia's Space endeavors and I wish them great success! Regardless of what they wear or eat while they are up there...!