Christmas elebrated moderately in KK
KOTA KINABALU: Like in previous years, this year’s Christmas was celebrated moderately in Kota Kinabalu and the rest of the state.
As usual, it brought people together despite the differences in faith, because Sabahans are the best example of 1Malaysia.
Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan hosted an open house at Hongkod Koisaan Hall on December 25, with over 5,000 people from all walks of life.
Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman also made his hectic schedule available to be there with the people.
Apart from open houses hosted by political and community leaders, hotels also shared the joy of Christmas with their guests.
At the Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort and Spa, Santa Claus handed out presents to children to symbolize the value of kindness by giving.
Since Christmas is always equated with the spirit of giving without a thought of getting, some people believe it is the right time to share their profits with the unfortunate.
Malaysian Consumer Protection Association (MCPA) Sabah Branch chairman David Chan Siew Vui said giving would be the best way to make businesses perform better.
“I always believe that the more you give to the needy, the more profit you get in the future. That is why we need to give more when the economy is bad because it will bring better economy,” he said.
MCPA, led by David handed over RM3,000 in donation to Bukit Harapan, in conjunction with the Christmas celebration.
Meanwhile, on social media, Sabahans exchanged their Christmas wishes and kept spreading positiveness, especially posting a lot of pictures and captions on tolerances.
Rusinah Kamin, 34, despite her status as a Muslim who had converted from Christianity, is always excited during Christmas because it is the only time when she and her relatives can spend time on good food and catching up.
“This year, about 50 of us gathered in my uncle’ place to celebrate Christmas. In Sabah, you can see many people like me, wearing tudung (head scarf) celebrating Christmas because we were born in a Christian family but decided to choose a different path when reaching adulthood. To me, religion is very personal and it needs to be respected. Since my family is celebrating Hari Raya with me, there is no reason why not me celebrating Christmas with them. ‘Merry Christmas from Pitas’, she posted on her social media account.