PM: We should be proud of who we are in celebrating our differences, similarities

 

PETALING JAYA: Likening the festive delicacy of yee sang that celebrates togetherness and prosperity, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin says we should be proud of who we are in celebrating our differences and similarities.

“Malaysia is like the varying ingredients and flavours in the colourful yee sang, which is well known for its diverse communities that celebrate different festive seasons every year.

“This is what we are proud of as Malaysians, that we can celebrate every occasion together in the spirit of unity and harmony, ” he said in his Chinese New Year address at the Chinese New Year Open House in New Norm 2021 virtual celebration on Saturday (Feb 20).

Minus the usual open house events and outdoor programmes, the annual open house that was hosted by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has taken a new twist by going online this year, owing to the need to avoid gathering and physical contact.

Cultural and singing performances were lined up in the live show involving artists from Istana Budaya, local celebrities and non-governmental organisations.

The live show also featured a virtual tossing of yee sang and festive wishes from various Malaysian icons and activists.

In his speech, Muhyiddin noted that the Chinese community in Malaysia has contributed a lot 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 national tourist destination among foreign tourists.

“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 noted the government will continue to intensify efforts to balance the country’s survival and economic recovery.

“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 the storm. The 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 hopes and new achievements, ” he said.

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said in her speech that Malaysia celebrates various multiracial celebrations together, and such uniqueness should be cherished.

“It not only to jazz up the celebrations, but also promotes respect and appreciation of our cultural differences, ” she said.

MCA president and Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, who also delivered a brief speech, said the virtual celebration was an appropriate platform to strengthen friendships while promoting harmony and goodwill among various communities in Malaysia. - Star