Lunar New Year Greetings: A Message of Harmony and Prosperity from Malaysian Leaders
As the Lunar New Year dawns, Malaysian leaders have extended warm wishes to the nation, emphasizing themes of unity, respect, and prosperity. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Islamic Party (PAS) Secretary-General Takiuddin Hassan offered distinct yet complementary greetings, reflecting Malaysia’s diverse cultural landscape.
Anwar Ibrahim’s Festive Message
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took to social media to share his Lunar New Year greetings, accompanied by the iconic Cantonese song “恭喜发财” (Gong Xi Fa Cai) performed by Hong Kong superstar Andy Lau. His message, posted in both Malay and Chinese, wished all Malaysians a “Happy New Year, Gong Xi Fa Cai, and a prosperous Year of the Dragon!”
Beyond the festive cheer, Anwar Ibrahim also drew upon the wisdom of Confucius, stating, “Confucius once enlightened us that harmony stems from mutual respect and understanding between people. This is the cornerstone that allows Malaysians from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds to coexist peacefully in a multicultural society.” This highlights the importance of inclusivity and tolerance within Malaysia.
Takiuddin Hassan’s Call for Harmony
Takiuddin Hassan, the Secretary-General of PAS, also shared a Lunar New Year message on Facebook, quoting Confucius’s teaching: “以和为贵” (Harmony is to be prized). He emphasized that in a society with diverse backgrounds, harmony doesn’t require uniformity but is built on mutual respect and understanding.
Further enriching his message, Takiuddin Hassan referenced Lao Tzu, stating, “When things reach an extreme, a turning point is also reached.” This suggests a call for balance and moderation in societal interactions. This message resonates with the need for thoughtful consideration and avoiding extremism.
A Nation United in Celebration
These greetings from prominent Malaysian leaders underscore the nation’s commitment to celebrating its multicultural heritage. The Lunar New Year, a significant festival for the Chinese community, is increasingly embraced by all Malaysians as a time for family, renewal, and shared prosperity. The use of both traditional songs and ancient philosophical teachings demonstrates a thoughtful approach to fostering national unity.
For more information on Lunar New Year traditions and celebrations, you can explore resources like Britannica’s Chinese New Year page and Travel China Guide’s Spring Festival guide.
Source: Zaobao.com.sg
