CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS STRENGTHEN UNITY, VISITORS IMPRESSED

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 25 (Bernama) -- Christmas celebrations across Malaysia extend beyond family traditions to embody the nation's resilient spirit of multiracial unity.

For Dr Christinna Vanathyar, a 39-year-old physician, the occasion is a source of profound happiness, offering a cherished opportunity to gather with family and loved ones in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

"We are truly overjoyed to be together with our entire family to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. This day holds deep significance for everyone who observes Christmas," she shared with Bernama.

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Her family festivities include decorating the Christmas tree, baking seasonal treats, and welcoming guests with an array of local dishes.

Similarly, 62-year-old freelancer James Vanathaiya Anthony observed that this year's celebrations have been notably enriched by the joyful participation of friends and neighbours from Malaysia's diverse communities.

"We aren’t just celebrating one festival—we’re celebrating all of them together. Today, you can see people from every community coming together to share in the joy of Christmas," he said.

Christmas in Malaysia offers a unique dual experience: a cherished tradition for locals to reunite and a vibrant opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the nation's multicultural festivities.

Irish visitor Julia Power, 65, who is celebrating Christmas in Malaysia for the first time, describes the experience as distinct from, yet as meaningful as, her celebrations back home.

“I’ve never spent Christmas in Malaysia before. We chose to celebrate here this year as my son is now working in the country. It’s his first Christmas as a married man. They have a baby, so I decided to join them,” she said.

She added that attending Christmas Mass was a highlight for her, and she was deeply impressed by the spirit of unity she witnessed among people of diverse backgrounds. She observed that Malaysia has managed to retain a strong sense of community and shared values. 

For 63-year-old housemaid Lourads Malver from the Philippines, who has worked in Malaysia for the past 15 years, celebrating Christmas here has become a cherished and meaningful tradition.

“I’m happy to celebrate Christmas here. Malaysia feels like home to me,” said Lourads, who attended Christmas Mass with her friends.

-- BERNAMA