MELAKA: Hotels across the historic city are lit up with elaborate festive displays, reflecting Melaka’s spirit of unity while preserving a long-standing tradition that has become part of the state’s tourism identity, says a local councillor.
Hang Tuah Jaya Municipal Council (MPHTJ) councillor Denis Lee Han Lim said hotels, including budget establishments, had once again put up colourful Yuletide decorations, with some venues making their displays even more elaborate than in previous years.
“Christmas decorations at hotels here are consistent with past years and, in some cases, even more attractive, despite recent public confusion over a circular linked to restrictions involving halal-certified restaurants and kitchens,” he said on Thursday (Dec 25).
Lee said festive decorations have long been part of Melaka’s tourism landscape and should continue in line with the state government’s efforts to promote tourism, investment and economic development.
He added that any decisions made by government departments that could affect businesses and society must be viewed within the broader context of Malaysia’s multicultural foundation.
Lee, who is also the Melaka MCA public livelihood issues and policy research committee chairman, noted that the state’s multicultural character dates back to the era of the Melaka Sultanate, with diversity and mutual respect deeply rooted in its history.
He also commended Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh for clarifying that the state government has not banned Christmas decorations at hotels, and for urging the public not to take the circular out of context, as it was intended to address compliance matters involving halal-certified kitchens.
Lee said Ab Rauf’s Christmas greetings to Christians on Thursday, expressing hope that the celebration would be observed in a spirit of joy and peace while strengthening unity and harmony, were reassuring.
On Dec 19, Melaka’s education, higher learning and religious affairs committee chairman Datuk Rahmad Mariman said hotels in the historic city are permitted to continue displaying Christmas decorations, with restrictions applying only to kitchens and restaurants holding halal certification.
The following day, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar clarified that there are no restrictions on halal certification holders from displaying festive decorations linked to religions other than Islam, provided halal standards are upheld.
