JOHOR BAHRU: The cultural differences between real estate agent Steven Sam and his wife, Martha Loria, make their family’s Christmas celebration more memorable and lively.
Steven, 43, of Indian descent, describes his family, especially his children, as fortunate to experience the unique blend of language, traditions and culture, making their Christmas celebration more distinct and memorable.
The father of three said that throughout his eight-year marriage to Martha, who is of Bidayuh descent from Serian, Sarawak, this was their second Christmas celebration in Johor.
"Since marrying Martha in 2016, we often celebrate Christmas in Sarawak. The celebrations there are quite different in terms of social interaction, cuisine, and language compared to the peninsula.
"In my view, the celebrations there (Sarawak) are more festive and harmonious. People of various races and religions come together to prepare for Christmas, such as cooking in longhouses. Here, in urban areas, we usually celebrate individually in our own homes,” he said when met by Bernama at his residence in Taman Pulai Indah, here on Wednesday (Dec 25).
Nevertheless, he said he was excited to host his family’s Christmas celebration this year and has planned various activities to strengthen family bonds.
"Yesterday, we had an open house at a relative’s home and tonight we’re hosting a barbecue at my house. It’s going to be a full house tonight,” he said.
Meanwhile, Martha said more than 20 of her family members, including her mother from Sarawak, travelled across the South China Sea to celebrate the joyous occasion in Johor.
"My family has been here since Wednesday. The main reason we’re celebrating Christmas here is that, as the eldest child, I wanted to celebrate at my own home for once.
"In terms of preparation, we decorated the Christmas tree, which took about three days. We also baked cookies and cakes, and made ‘Talu Itik’, Sarawak’s traditional dish,” said the eldest of seven siblings.
Steven added that he made various preparations to welcome his in-laws and planned numerous activities, including exploring the beauty of Johor.
"Besides preparing Sarawak’s traditional food and exchanging gifts, we also went to church and I plan to take them on a tour of Johor’s attractions. Tomorrow, we’ll visit relatives here, and on Friday, we’re going on a holiday to Melaka or Kuala Lumpur,” he said. – Bernama
