“We need to value every uniqueness and tradition without abandoning the value of unity that has been with us all this while. Through mutual respect and cooperation, we can build a more united and prosperous society.“
Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories)
MALAYSIA is the land of many festivals celebrated by the multiracial and multi-religious population long before the formation of the federation. My theme today is unity, and how festivals unite Malaysians.
As everyone would concur, festivals are the beacon of unity, casting light across the diverse ethnic and racial landscape of our nation. Each celebration, whether it be Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Gawai Dayak, Chinese New Year, Diwali or Christmas, brings our cultural heritage together to form a rich fabric of harmony and understanding.
The majority of Indians throughout the nation, including Sarawak, celebrated their New Year yesterday. Puthandu is celebrated by the Tamil community, Baisakhi (Punjabis celebrate this day as the beginning of the harvest season), Vishu (Malayalees) and Ugadi (Telugus).
I pray these festivals and the country’s diversity and plurality will prevail for generations and ensure peace and foster unity among Malaysians – Malays, Indians, Dayaks, Chinese, Kadazans, Eurasians, etc etc. Everyone – especially politicians – must prioritise togetherness and unity in building a brighter future for the country.
I mention politicians; yes, the politicians! Unlike in the Sixties, Seventies, Eighties or the early Nineties, politicians rarely touched on racial or religious sensitivities to garner support. Correct me if I am wrong. But it’s no longer the case now; anything goes these days. Some politicians go full throttle. Therein lies the problem, or should I say danger?
Malaysian festivals are unique as the spirit of unity pervades these celebrations where people of various races and religions attend open houses. This is unheard of in other countries, except maybe in Singapore where the various races there also visit one another during festivities.
Open houses hosted by leaders and ordinary citizens alike welcome guests of all races and religions, embodying the spirit of ‘muhibbah’ that is unique to our nation. This tradition of hospitality and camaraderie reflects our collective efforts to foster unity and understanding.
Festivals serve as more than just occasions for revelry; they are sacred moments where Malaysians of all backgrounds come together to honour traditions, share in festivities and forge lasting bonds. These celebrations are not merely dates on a calendar but are pillars of unity upon which our nation’s strength and prosperity are built.
Every festival conveys a profound message of tolerance and mutual respect, where we share experience of these joyous occasions, and celebrate not only our differences but also the values that bind us together as a people.
In the embrace of diversity, we find the true essence of Malaysian identity.
However, amidst the jubilation of festivity, there looms a shadow of concern – the spectre of political divisiveness. In recent years, the harmony of our celebrations has been threatened by the resurgence of identity politics and racial rhetoric. Yet, in the face of these challenges, I believe there remains hope.
Leaders like Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim have called upon Malaysians to embrace the values of compassion and empathy espoused by the Malaysia Madani concept and his unity government. The Prime Minister has appealed to the people to use festivals not as mere occasions for merriment but as platforms for dialogue and reconciliation. In his vision, festivals serve as a platform to enhance compassion and empathy, and these values are included in his Malaysia Madani concept that guides his unity government policies.
Anwar has pledged to protect the country and the people from falling into narrow racial conflicts. His reassurance this festive season is heartening; the government will put an end to the attempts by quarters to use identity politics to divide society.
I believe he is serious, though many have been critical that his pledges are merely rhetoric. However, I would like to argue and remind naysayers and Anwar’s detractors that he will achieve what he has pledged or set out to do.
While scepticism may linger among some, it is important that we give PMX and our leaders the time and space to fulfil their promises.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day! Likewise, unity cannot be achieved overnight, but with steadfast commitment and unwavering determination, we can overcome the obstacles that divide us. In this journey towards unity, let us stand together as Malaysians, transcending the boundaries of race, religion and politics.
The support of all sectors of society is crucial in realising our vision of a harmonious Malaysia. The endorsement of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is a crucial step towards political stability, laying the groundwork for our nation’s economic recovery.
Yet, the task ahead remains daunting, as we confront the persistent challenges of polarisation and reform.
In these turbulent times, we need to hold fast to the beacon of hope that festivals provide. Let us reaffirm our ‘sacred’ commitment to unity and tolerance. Let us embrace the spirit of ‘muhibbah’ as not just a mere slogan but as a guiding principle for our nation’s future.
In festivals, we find the threads of our shared heritage interwoven with the colours of diversity; it is in this mosaic of cultures and traditions that we discover the true beauty of our nation – a land united in celebration, bound together by the ties of kinship and understanding.
As we navigate the complexities of modern society, we should never forget the timeless wisdom imparted by our festivals: that in unity, there is strength; and in diversity, there is beauty.
Together, let us continue to celebrate our rich Malaysian culture, embracing our differences and forging a future of peace and prosperity for all.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
