BEING a country renowned for its cultural diversity, Malaysia has a long-standing tradition of celebrating various festivals that reflect its rich multicultural heritage.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow shared this during the Chinese New Year open house for the Batu Kawan parliamentary and Perai constituency at the Chai Leng Park Multipurpose Hall today.
Chow reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting unity and peace, emphasising that these celebrations are inclusive of all races and religions, making them appreciated by everyone.
“This celebration of various festivals is a way to foster unity and harmony within the community. It is also a great opportunity for us to strengthen the spirit of unity among the multicultural community.
“This helps prevent misunderstandings between communities, as no one wants the country to be threatened by instability, divisive politics, or unrest,” Chow added.
Chow added that through the organisation of open houses for various cultural festivals, unity and understanding are strengthened, preventing any elements that could disrupt social cohesion.
“Festivals such as Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and those celebrated in Sabah and Sarawak, like the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Dayak Festival, embody universal values and could even be presented to UNESCO as a reflection of Malaysia’s cultural harmony,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chow also announced that more engagement sessions would be held in the Batu Kawan parliamentary constituency, including Perai, Bukit Tambun, and Bukit Tengah, to discuss upcoming plans and projects with local residents.
“Through these engagement sessions, we will be able to deliver the information and receive feedback from the respective residents,” he added.
Perai assemblyman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu echoed these sentiments, noting that Malaysia’s multicultural festivities are inclusive and involve people of all races and religions.
Also present were DAP veteran Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang, Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng, Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, Penang Island City Council mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Seberang Perai Island City (MBSP) mayor Datuk Baderul Amin Abdul Hamid, and other dignitaries.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar