She performed the violin underwater aas part of a science experiment presented by the National Science Centre to Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in April 2019.

“I was approached by my friend from RTM to perform underwater. I was given one week to learn to use the oxygen tank and dive into the aquarium.”

She said the process was exhilarating as she also had to face her fear of the fish in the tank brushing themselves against her.

“I thought this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience because I was also a swimmer in secondary school, and I also like playing the violin. It is like combining my two loves,” Mei said.

A hydro-microphone was attached to capture the sound from the violin underwater.

“I remember we had to keep changing violins because the violin can only last about 20 minutes underwater before I had to resurface to get the violin changed,” she said.

The effect of the performance exceeded her and the crew’s expectations as Mahathir was supposed to observe the performance for a few minutes before moving on to the next exhibit during the science festival. He ended up staying for more than 20 minutes.

“I had to keep my composure and keep playing the violin even though the violin could not last,” she said.

It earned her a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records as the first violinist to perform underwater in Malaysia.

According to thesundaily.my