KUALA LUMPUR: THE king and queen were among prominent figures who extended warm wishes to Malaysians celebrating Christmas while spreading the message of peace and goodwill that is synonymous with every festive celebration in the country.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah conveyed their seasons greetings yesterday through a special message posted on social media.
‘Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year.
‘May this festive season bring peace, prosperity, goodwill and happiness to all. Warm regards,’ said the message signed off by Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah.
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad also conveyed wishes to all Christians from himself and his wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.
In a video message uploaded on his Twitter account, Dr Mahathir was seen writing a note on a Christmas card.
‘To all Christians in Malaysia, both citizens and non-citizens, my wife and I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you.’
The video was also uploaded on Dr Mahathir’s Facebook account and up to 5.40pm, it received 6,600 ‘likes’. On Instagram, the video received 16,421 views.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said Christmas and the New Year was a season of hope, forgiveness and peace.
‘Let us remember to be grateful for the peace and unity in our country.
‘Let us remember to cherish our parents and loved ones for all they have done for us.
‘And let us not forget the underprivileged, the vulnerable, downtrodden and those in need of shelter and assistance during our celebrations.
‘Like most major celebrations in our country, the spirit of togetherness is evident as Malaysians of the non-Christian faith look forward to open houses held by their Christian friends,’ she said.
Dr Wan Azizah posted a video on Instagram, which showed her bringing Christmas cheer to old folks at Rumah Seri Kenangan in Cheras.
The video also featured Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change Minister Yeo Bee Yin, International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Ignatius Darell Leiking and former world No.1 squash champion Datuk Nicol Ann David.
‘This is a moment of pure happiness and togetherness,’ Yeo said while talking to the senior citizens.
Nicol, who sat with another resident of the home, also spoke about the importance of sharing joy and love during the festive season.
Darell also continued the message by saying that despite challenges faced by the old folks, they were determined to lead a meaningful life.
The video culminated with Dr Wan Azizah arriving at the door to join in the celebration.
Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Azmin Ali said Christmas was a time to strengthen family ties.
‘Christmas is a season of joy and blessings and a time to give and forgive. To all Christians,I wish you and your families will be blessed this Christmas. May joy and peace fill your homes.’
Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu said celebrations such as Christmas were a testament to the tolerance and respect embraced by Malaysians.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo also called on people to uphold harmony.
‘In conjunction with the Christmas celebration, let us continue to preserve the harmony, which is one of the uniqueness among us, the Malaysian citizens. Merry Christmas!’
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail encouraged the public to buy local goods as it was a tradition to give gifts during Christmas.
‘This Christmas, buy ‘Made in Malaysia’ items for your loved ones,’ he said.
On Twitter, Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Dr Ismail Bakar extended holiday wishes to the public.
‘Merry Christmas 2019 to all Christians and have a joyful holiday.
‘May this holiday season be a great time for us to spend time with our beloved families.’