Celebrating togetherness virtually
Muhyiddin likens national fabric to ingredients and flavours of ‘yee sang’
JAYA: Malaysians should be proud that they can celebrate every festive occasion in the spirit of unity and harmony, said the Prime Minister as the Chinese New Year Open House celebration went virtual amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
Likening the Malaysian fabric to the ingredients and flavours of “yee sang”, which were diverse and colourful, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the festive delicacy reflected the country’s celebration of togetherness and prosperity.
“Malaysia – like the varying ingredients and flavours of the colourful yee sang – is well known for its diverse communities that celebrate different festivals every year.
“This is what we are proud of as Malaysians – that we can celebrate together every occasion in the spirit of unity and harmony,” he said in his address at the 2021 New Normal Chinese New Year Open House virtual celebration last night.
Minus the usual open house events and outdoor programmes, the annual open house, which was hosted by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, has gone online this year owing to the need to avoid gathering and physical contact.
In his speech, Muhyiddin said the Chinese community in Malaysia had contributed much to the economic development of the country.
“This economic chain encompasses the country’s tourism, arts and culture industry, which has made Malaysia an attractive tourist destination among foreigners.
“Let us continue to preserve and protect the rich heritage, arts and culture of the various races, which are our shared assets of pride,” he said.
He added that the government will continue to intensify its efforts to balance the country’s survival and economic recovery in the face of the pandemic.
“We must not give up but be always energetic like a cow that is ready to plough the land. As the saying goes - we cannot change the direction of the wind but we can adjust our sails to always reach out to our destination.’
“We are our own sails and let us work together to ride out the storm. Chinese New Year is about togetherness, peace, prosperity and happiness.
“I pray that this concept transcends beyond age, race, religion and culture, and I believe that the Lunar New Year will bring new hope and new achievement,” Muhyiddin said.
The event saw cultural performances involving dancers from Istana Budaya, local celebrities and members of local non-government groups, as well as a yee sang tossup and festive wishes.
Also attending the virtual event were Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Dr Wee said the virtual celebration was an appropriate platform to strengthen friendships while promoting harmony and goodwill among the many various communities in Malaysia.
“For the Chinese community, the annual Chinese New Year celebration is full of tradition and positivities.
“We are grateful because the government is always concerned about the welfare and progress of the Chinese community through support in the political, economic, social, educational, health and security aspects.
“We also feel grateful for having the freedom to practise our customs, culture and religion in peace and harmony as one Malaysia,” he said.