All lit up: The Christmas lighting and tree at the Portuguese Settlement’s squarein Melaka.
MELAKA: Efforts are being made to celebrate Christmas at the Portuguese Settlement in Ujong Pasir by preserving the Kristang tradition and culture, says a community activist.
The Portuguese Settlement’s preservation and promotion of heritage, arts and culture advisory panel representative Martin Theseira said the move is to ensure the community’s culture and language will continue to thrive for generations to come.
“It is also crucial for keeping the language and cultures alive in order to change the land status of the settlement,” he said when contacted.
Theseira said community leaders are also attempting to meet Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh to look into a new 99-year lease for the settlement by imposing a minimal fee for its renewal.
“The backbone of the community is our heritage. With this, we will have the bargaining power to persuade the state government to preserve our land.
“Furthermore, it also provides a sense of identity which is essential for any culture or language to survive,” he said.
Theseira said a strong understanding and appreciation of the community’s heritage is also aimed at building a successful future.
He said youth from the settlement have unveiled an illuminated Christmas tree.
“This Yuletide celebration will be steeped in Kristang traditions and cuisine while observing health protocols due to rising Covid-19 cases,” he said.
Theseira also said the community will uphold its muhibbah spirit by welcoming locals from various races to experience the ambience of Christmas.
“This is the time of the year where it’s all about fostering relationships and connecting with each other.
“We want everyone to feel welcome and appreciate our heritage,” he added.
