PETALING JAYA: In a year marked by the new normal, Malaysians are urged to celebrate Christmas and the year end holidays by putting aside differences, following the SOP and remembering the frontliners.
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said Christmas should be a time to unite, regardless of faith.
“At this Christmas celebration, let us make our diversity our strength. History states that mutual respect between races and religions led to the advancement of a civilisation as proven by Andalusian Muslims and Christians in the past, ” he said.
He also asked that Malaysians celebrate Christmas modestly despite interstate travel being allowed.
“Practise the new normal. I also pray that the frontliners and security personnel as well as Malaysians abroad are able to celebrate Christmas joyfully, ” he said.
Transport Minister and MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said although many were forced to be apart from their loved ones this Christmas due to the MCO, one could still be together in their thoughts.
“May our love for each other bind us together when the pandemic keeps us apart. In this season of giving, let us be reminded to support and care for those in need among us. It is during the gloomy times when humanity shines the brightest.
“I would also like to urge all Malaysians to follow the SOP and stay safe while we enjoy the holiday season, ” he said.
Senior Ministers Datuk Seri Azmin Ali and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusuf also sent their well wishes.
“The spirit of Christmas makes it a season for joy and happiness, a time for forgiving and above all, for generosity, kindness and sharing, ” said Azmin.
Fadillah, who is from Gagasan Parti Sarawak, said Malaysians should make the festival celebration a foundation to strengthen unity and harmony between races.
“Celebrate the diversity of race and religion through tolerance and mutual respect, ” he said.
Federal Territories Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa said Malaysians should put aside all differences to celebrate the occasion in true Malaysian fashion while keeping in mind the unfortunate.
“Our frontliners, too, have sacrificed much to ensure that we can celebrate this festival in peace and harmony as well as keep us safe and healthy, ” said the Barisan Nasional secretary-general.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri said Muslims did not need to shy away from their Christian friends on Christmas.
“Islam stresses the necessity of spreading love and the spirit of brotherhood among people of different religious and ethnic backgrounds, as emphasised by Al-Azhar Grand Imam, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb.
“Wishing all Christians in Malaysia peace, health, happiness and prosperity in the coming year, ” said Zulkifli.
Human Resources Minister and MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan said one must remember those who had lost their jobs and sources of income.
“Let us not forget that we are still facing the pandemic. I would also like to thank our frontliners for continuing to do their best so that all Malaysians can celebrate this festival safely and in harmony, ” he said.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi said some could not meet loved ones during Christmas, but this should not dampen the joy.
Minister in Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan said as a country with such diversity, it was important for Malaysians to recognise and wish each other during joyous occasions.
“We should preserve the fabric of our beloved nation which was built on respect for each other’s faith. On behalf of PAS, we send all our best wishes to all Malaysian Christians, ” he said.
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