KUALA LUMPUR: The country’s leaders and politicians expressed their wishes that the Year of the Rabbit will bring hope, peace and prosperity to the people.
In his Chinese New Year greetings, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the country's major festivities were opportunities to sow the spirit of unity and forge friendships.
Anwar said harmony and tolerance between races formed the bond that propels the country forward.
"On behalf of Malaysians of various races, I would like to wish the entire Chinese community a Happy Chinese New Year 2023," he said in his message on social media.
Anwar uploaded a video depicting the story of a rabbit named Miki which bravely continues its journey despite facing obstacles along the way in the hope of a promising future.
The 1.14min-long video sends a message to all those who have endured various challenges and tribulations over the years and who are looking for a ray of hope to not give up, but instead rise in the spirit of unity.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi wished everyone a Happy Chinese New Year on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister's Office and the Rural and Regional Development Ministry.
He hoped this Chinese New Year would be celebrated with the spirit of unity among all Malaysians.
MCA president and former Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong shared his hopes that the new year brings great opportunities and success to all.
"Let us leap forward to greater heights with strength, good health and happiness.
"To those who are travelling, get good rest before you start your journey.
"Remember to stay safe and vigilant when you are on the road," he said before wishing everyone a Happy Chinese New Year and reunion with their family and friends.
Calling the Year of the Rabbit as the Year of Hope in the Chinese community, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said it is apt as Sabah and the country have high hopes of recovering from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
He said this year is meant to reflect the nature of the rabbit, which is associated with peace, prosperity, and longevity.
"I hope that this year will bring harmony, economic progress, and prosperity to the state and the people,” he said in a statement.
He said that Sabahans were grateful that the festive season was celebrated with people of different races and religions in peace, harmony, and goodwill.
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan expressed hope that the nature of the rabbit, which is associated with peace, prosperity, and longevity, would have the same effect on Sabahans.
"May Sabahans also have peace, prosperity, and longevity in this Year of the Rabbit, in addition to abundant sustenance,” he said.
In a statement, PAS also extended its wishes to all those celebrating Chinese New Year.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said in the spirit of the new year, Malaysians must work together to face any challenges ahead.
"May we have better health and well-being this year," he said.
PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang also wished the Chinese community a Happy New Year.
"Islam respects and cares for inter-racial relations and treats people fairly regardless of race and religion.
"Islam sees the existence of diversity of races and nationalities in Malaysia as a positive thing.
"Each religion has its own advantage and expertise that can be used well to develop Malaysia," he said in a post on social media.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, in his Chinese New Year message, said that the wisdom, dexterity, agility and speed, which are the characteristics of a rabbit are expected to be the impetus for Penangites to move forward to achieve the Penang 2030 Vision.
"By applying and practising such characteristics, the state will be able to create and plan a brighter future towards the realisation of the vision of a green and smart state.
"This day brings significant meaning to the Chinese community around the world where relatives will return to their respective hometowns to be with their beloved family to celebrate the tradition of 'makan besar' or 'reunion dinner' before the start of the new year the next day.
"I wish Penangites and Malaysians a Happy Chinese New Year," he said.
