Summary

The website content explores how Christmas is embraced and viewed within the Muslim community in Malaysia, highlighting the festive decorations and the cultural and commercial significance of the holiday.

Abstract

The article delves into the celebration of Christmas from the perspective of the Muslim community in Malaysia, particularly in Johor Bahru, where malls are adorned with Christmas decorations and attract visitors from various parts of Asia. It discusses the festive atmosphere, the commercial aspect of the holiday, and the cultural significance it holds for Muslims, who may not celebrate Christmas but recognize it as a time for joy, cultural appreciation, and reflection on spiritual values. The piece also draws parallels between Christian and Muslim celebrations, suggesting that the festive season can be an opportunity for interfaith understanding and mutual respect, such as Christians participating in Ramadan during Hari Raya Puasa.

Opinions

The author perceives Christmas in Malaysia as an inclusive time of celebration that transcends religious boundaries.
Christmas is seen as an opportunity for Muslims to learn about other cultures and practice charity.
The festive season is viewed as a period to reflect on spirituality and show kindness, regardless of one's faith.
There is an acknowledgment of the commercial aspect of Christmas, with malls in Johor Bahru significantly improving and attracting international shoppers.
The author suggests that interfaith participation, such as Christians fasting during Ramadan, could be a way to deepen mutual understanding and appreciation between different religious communities.
The author posits that the celebrations of Christmas and Hari Raya Aidilfitri share similarities in bringing people together, exchanging gifts, and enjoying traditional feasts, indicating a common thread of joy and togetherness in both religious festivities.

TRAVEL | GLOBETROTTERS | MALAYSIA

Christmas Through a Muslim Lens

How does Christmas look through a Muslim lens?

Pink Christmas decoration with a playground for children in Box n Box Mall in Johor Bahru — Image by Elvie

The Christmas season has always been a time of joy and celebration for many cultures and religions around the world. But what about Muslim communities, especially those from Malay culture who do not celebrate the holiday?

How does Christmas look through a Muslim lens? Is this merely a business opportunity for these communities or is there something more to explore about this festive season in a non-Christian society?

Huge Christmas tree display inside Paradigm Mall in Johor Bahru — Image by Elvie

Malls are fully decorated, and even Jingle bells were playing in the background. Shoppers flocking from the neighboring estate of Johor and even people coming from Singapore, Indonesia, and other parts of Asia visit Johor Bahru which causes massive traffic in both customs between Malaysia and Singapore.

Below are some images I have taken with my phone inside the shopping mall.

Johor Bahru is massively improving its Malls. Big malls selling International brands are seen in some malls.

Newly built mall in Iskandar Puteri -Johor Bahru- Malaysia. Image by Elvie

Here is a little tour of what Christmas decorations some malls have in Johor Bahru.

The Elf Village inside Paradigm Mall in Johor Bahru — Image by Elvie

For sale Christmas lanterns and figurines, etc. Image by Elvie

Large Christmas tree figures at the entrance of the Mall — Image by Elvie

What do I think about Malaysia celebrating Christmas Holidays?

Christmas is a time of celebration for many people, regardless of faith. For Muslims, perhaps, it is an opportunity for them to appreciate and learn about the diversity of cultures around the world.

Christmas celebrations can also be a reminder to practice charity, care for our neighbors, and reflect on the spiritual elements of life.

Through this lens, Christmas provides an opportunity to learn more about oneself and others while also showing kindness and compassion during this festive time.

So the next time there is Hari Raya Puasa, Christians can do fasting during Ramadan.

You may ask, what is a HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI?

Hari Raya aidilfitri is one of the most important events in the Muslim calendar. It is a time of celebration and joy for all Muslims, regardless of their cultural background or geographical location.

Hari Raya marks the end of Ramadan, a month-long period of fasting and reflection. It is an occasion for family and friends to come together to celebrate, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional feasts.

Isn’t it somehow similar to Christians celebrating Christmas?

“Wishing you a season of peace and joy this Christmas, with love and gratitude from me to you!” …. Elvie Lins