Gifting time: Asher Lim, 6 (left), accompanied by his parents Wei Zhi and Lex Lim (second and third from left) receiving gifts from Santa Claus and Santarina during a special appearance at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur while family friends Sienna Rai-Ann, 6 (fourth from right), Chia Zi Xi, 4 (third from right) and her parents Chia Choon Wai and Yap Chin Yee await their turn. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Malaysians from all walks of life should come together and unite as one during this festive season, say community leaders and moderation advocates.
Parish priest Father Lionel Thomas of Melaka’s St Peter’s Church – the oldest operational Roman Catholic church in Malaysia – said he hopes that in the spirit of the season, Malaysians will continue to understand one another.
“In the spirit of this holy Christmas that brings forth hope, peace, joy and love, we pray for our beautiful nation Malaysia... we will not take religious harmony for granted but keep on building and renewing ties, and sowing the seeds of unity, understanding and compassion in our homes, schools and society. God bless Malaysia,” he said.
Former law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim said goodwill and harmonious relationships are best manifested during festive seasons.
“It shows the kindred spirit of Malaysians wanting to be together despite our differences and diversity of culture and values.
“Ideally this harmonious relationship will go past the seasons and into everyday life,” said Zaid.
Tan Hoe Chieow, president of the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism, said Christmas is the season for sharing love and care among Malaysians.
“Christmas is a festive season for all of us to rejoice and we should use this occasion to visit our Christian friends, relatives and neighbours and to share the joy of Christmas.
“Everyone will have their own religious inclination, but of course as Malaysians, we are all one and your religion is between you and God.
“As far as Malaysians are concerned, we are all living together as one and sharing in the joy of Christmas.
“I call upon all Malaysians to be united, to be harmonious and to embrace each other,” said Tan.
Tan also said the festive season is also meant for giving back and sharing – particularly with the underprivileged – where many would visit old folks’ homes and orphanages.
The G25 group echoed his sentiment.
“G25 would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. As we celebrate this time full of festivities and goodwill, let us also reflect on our shared aspirations for a Malaysia that stands united in harmony and mutual respect.
Superheroes spreading joy: Shevaraj, 40 (second from right) with his wife Mageswari (centre, back), their eldest son Athish, 10 (left), daughter Kaayilash, 5, (centre, front) and youngest son Mahadev, 1 (right) celebrating Athish’s birthday in at Desa Park City, Kuala Lumpur. Shevaraj and Mageswari went all out to fulfill Athish’s wish, dressing the entire family in Superman outfits. The sight of little Mahadev toddling around with his tiny cape brought smiles to everyone, while Kaayilash’s excitement was contagious. The family’s festive spirit and love truly captured the essence of Christmas. — ART CHEN/The Star
“Let us renew our commitment to building a Malaysia where peace and harmony are at the heart of our shared future.
“May we continue to build a nation where diversity is embraced, and all communities live together in understanding and solidarity,” it said.
Sending out his Christmas greetings, Buddhist Maha Vihara (BMV) honorary secretary Tilak Leslie Jayawardena said he looks forward to continuing interfaith efforts.
“On behalf of all the devotees of Buddhist Maha Vihara, we take this opportunity to wish our Christian brothers and sisters a very Merry Christmas.
“We rejoice with them on the birth of Jesus and the message of peace and universal harmony that he had preached to his followers on this blessed day. We also look forward to continuing our joint efforts with all religions to promote generosity, compassion and morality in Malaysia,” he said.
Lawyer-activist and moderation advocate Siti Kasim said, “As a Muslim, I believe that Christmas is a beautiful occasion to reflect on the shared values that unite us all, regardless of our faiths.”
She said that this is the time to remind all of us of the importance of compassion, kindness and love for one another, values that are deeply cherished in Islam as well.
“Prophet Muhammad taught us to treat all people with respect, dignity and kindness, no matter their beliefs.
“During Christmas, we are reminded that we all share a common humanity, and this season is an opportunity to come together to spread peace and offer goodwill to everyone around us.
“In Islam, we also believe in the miraculous birth of Jesus, and we hold him in great reverence.
“The message of his life, of love, mercy and humility, resonates deeply with the values that Muslims strive to embody every day.
“May this Christmas season be a time of reflection, mutual respect and a reminder of our shared commitment to love and care for others. Let us set aside differences and come together in the spirit of peace, understanding and unity,” added Siti Kasim.
Rev Dr Hermen Shastri, an interfaith advocate and senior clergyman, said in a Christmas message that he hopes Malaysians will work together to build a peaceful and harmonious nation.
“Peace and goodwill are essential to the celebration of Christmas. It is our hope and prayer that the ideal of love, peace and goodwill will be shared by all Malaysians.
“Let us at the same time never forget to care for the poor and the needy in every way we can in every place we find ourselves in. Christmas blessings to all,” he said.
