Taylor’s Christmas ‘paper art’ ad closes the year in hope

Recognising that 2020 had been a difficult year, Taylor’s Christmas video ad reminds Malaysians of the silver linings and kind acts that should inspire gratefulness and lead to hope of a better year ahead.

Styled beautifully in paper art form, the video begins as a book on 2020, depicting various scenarios and events familiar to Malaysians – the challenges of working from home, the loss of jobs and income, families and loved ones separated by border restrictions, and even mental health issues.

In a nod to many a student’s and teacher’s experience in online learning, the turning point comes when a girl is unable to connect to her virtual class due to poor Internet connection. Undeterred, just like Sabah student, Veveonah Mosibin, she climbs a tree to be able to connect to her classes, and eventually graduates successfully.

As the story moves along, the indomitable spirit of Malaysians is celebrated, as we see the silver linings of each challenging scenario. Some pivoted their career plans, used technology to connect with family members, and some lent a helping hand to others.

“Our message for Christmas is quite simple – that even in the most difficult times, the kindness of strangers and the strength of community pulled us through. Acts of kindness lead to gratefulness, and from gratefulness springs hope of a better tomorrow. This is essentially what makes us human, and what makes us Malaysian. Christmas is a reminder that the best gift we can give each other is kindness,” said Taylor’s University Group Chief Marketing Officer Ben Foo.

Fittingly, the video ad is set to a moving rendition of ‘Auld Lang Syne’, to reminisce on the year’s events and remind the audience that ‘we will take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne (old long since)’.

“As we close the chapter on 2020, I hope we remember that humanity has always found ways to overcome, pivot and change during the worst of times, but what really matters at the end of the day is that we never lose that hope to move forward and we never let anyone tear us apart, because we need each other,” added Foo.

The Christmas video was inspired by Taylor’s very own students and educators, exemplifying a community of people that encourage and motivate each other even at times of adversity. The Taylor’s Christmas short film can be viewed here: