Malaysia’s Multicultural and Multireligious Society has the Potential to be a Beacon of Unity and Hope for Humanity
As the festive lights twinkle and carols fill the air, Christmas reminds us of the universal themes of hope, joy, and love.
Yet, as Reverend Philip Lok, the Secretary-General of the Council of Churches Malaysia eloquently expressed in his heartfelt letter published in FreeMalaysiaToday (FMT), there remains a longing for something more profound—a Malaysia united not just in words, but in spirit and action.
Reverend Lok’s reflections on his visit to Kota Kinabalu highlight a stark contrast between how Christmas is celebrated in East Malaysia versus the peninsula.
In Sabah and Sarawak, grand celebrations supported by the state embrace inclusivity and harmony, allowing Christians to freely and joyfully express their faith.
Meanwhile, in West Malaysia, public expressions of Christmas may sometimes face apprehension or restriction, a reminder of the unspoken divides that still linger in our nation.
One Nation, Two Realities
It’s undeniable that Malaysia’s diversity is its greatest strength.
Our multicultural and multireligious society has the potential to be a beacon of unity to the world.
Yet, when the simple act of celebrating Christmas is met with hesitation, it raises questions about the depth of our understanding and acceptance of one another.
Why does the public celebration of Christmas, with its messages of peace and goodwill, sometimes face resistance?
Is it possible to see these celebrations not as a threat but as an opportunity to deepen our mutual respect and appreciation?
The Federal Constitution guarantees every Malaysian the right to profess and practice their faith, a principle that should unite rather than divide us.
However, Reverend Lok’s observations reveal that in practice, this freedom is experienced unevenly across the country.
Moving Beyond Apprehension
Understanding is the first step toward unity.
For some, the apprehension surrounding public Christmas celebrations stems from a fear of proselytisation.
But as Reverend Lok poignantly asks, can we not view Christmas as it is—a celebration of faith, joy, and love, without ulterior motives?
Christmas carols and nativity scenes are not just expressions of religion; they are cultural markers of hope and goodwill.
They offer an invitation to embrace the spirit of giving and compassion, values that transcend all faiths.
In a world fractured by division, can we as Malaysians not choose to see Christmas as an opportunity to unite in our shared humanity?
A Grown-Up Christmas Wish
The lyrics of “My Grown-Up Christmas List” resonate deeply: “No more lives torn apart, wars would never start, and time would heal our hearts.”
Adding to this sentiment, Reverend Lok dreams of a Malaysia where Christians across the nation—from Kota Kinabalu to Kuala Lumpur—can celebrate their faith openly and freely.
His wish is not just for Christians but for all Malaysians: that we may live in a society where everyone’s fundamental freedoms are respected equally, and where diversity is celebrated as a unifying force.
This Christmas, let us reflect on what it means to be one Malaysia.
Unity is not uniformity; it is the ability to honour and celebrate our differences while standing together as one people.
Compassion and understanding must form the bedrock of our interactions, bridging the divides that threaten our harmony.
The Gift of Togetherness
As we gather with family and friends this festive season, let us remember that the true spirit of Christmas lies in giving—not just material gifts but also the gifts of empathy, respect, and love.
Imagine the Malaysia we could create if we extended these gifts to our neighbours, regardless of their faith or background.
Reverend Lok’s Malaysian Christmas wish is a call to action for all of us.
Let’s strive to make Malaysia a place where every celebration—be it Christmas, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, or Deepavali—is embraced as a shared moment of joy.
Let’s work toward a future where unity is not just an aspiration but a reality, where every Malaysian feels the warmth of acceptance and the strength of belonging.
As the clock ticks toward the new year, let this season be a turning point. May we move forward with understanding, unity, and compassion at the heart of our nation’s story.
Merry Christmas and Selamat Tahun Baru 2025 to all Malaysians!
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