Early get-together: Suraidah Roslan (fifth from right) with seven of her 13 friends who attended this year’s gathering and gift exchange in Kota Kinabalu.
KOTA KINABALU: Exchanging gifts is a cherished Christmas tradition, symbolising love, appreciation and generosity among families and friends.
For a group of multiracial friends known as The Patriners – a name born from performing together at a work-related event – exchanging gifts has evolved into an annual tradition that deepens their bond.
“Although we see each other often, our get-togethers are often rushed because of work,” said Suraidah Roslan, 39.
“So every year, we’ll set a date to sit down, enjoy food and drinks, and exchange gifts. It is our way of closing the year together.”
This year, their gathering was held earlier than usual due to holiday schedules.
“Seven out of 13 of us made it, which I consider a success. The others were either working or too far away to join.
“So, for this year, it is a wrap,” said a pleased Suraidah, the gift exchange organiser.
For many others, the gift-giving tradition remains an integral part of the Yuletide festivities.
Nixston Yunchoi has kept up the practice of buying presents for his immediate family and participating in gift exchanges.
“I usually celebrate Christmas with my wife’s family in Keningau. After church in the morning, we open gifts together, followed by another round of exchanges with her three elder sisters’ families,” he said.
To keep things simple, they normally set a minimum budget of RM30 for these gifts.
“But it is not about the cost or brand, it is about sincerity and togetherness. Being with family during Christmas is what matters most,” said the 40-year-old civil servant.
When it comes to choosing gifts, he prioritises practicality.
“Toys or school supplies are easy for kids, but it is trickier with adults. Practical items like household goods, towels or blankets are always a safe choice – after all, it is the thought that counts,” he smiled.
Yunchoi, who was seen shopping with his wife Stephanie Joannes, 35, and their daughter Sasha Nicole, 11, and seven-year-old nephew Damian Wong at a local shopping mall, said that this year, they planned to celebrate with his side of the family in Kampung Melangkap Tomis, Kota Belud, before heading to join his wife’s family.
For soon-to-be mother Elezebeth Esther Onjining, this year’s Christmas has taken on a new focus.
“While I love celebrating the occasion, this year I have decided to forgo buying gifts to prepare for the birth of my first child,” said the 32-year-old from Putatan.
With their baby due next month, Onjining and her husband Franoelin Joseph, 33, have been busy shopping for baby essentials over the past few months.
“We had to start from scratch, buying everything from baby clothes and diapers to bottles and a cradle.
“It has been fun, and we cannot wait to welcome our new addition,” she said.
Typically, Onjining will buy gifts for her nieces, nephews and close family members but this year, the baby comes first, she said.
As Christmas approaches, traditions like gift-giving continue to bring joy and meaning to many, whether through thoughtful presents exchanged among loved ones or the simple act of prioritising what matters most.
