PETALING JAYA, Dec 14 — Selangor’s multicultural and multi-religious celebrations are a reminder of the state’s unique diversity, which should not be taken for granted, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
It is a reminder that living peacefully in a diverse society is a blessing to be cherished.
“All of the main festivities in Malaysia present a time and opportunity for reflection, be it (Hari Raya) Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and now Christmas too.
“Other societies throughout the world have this opportunity perhaps only once or twice a year, at most.
“Here in Malaysia, here in Selangor, we are blessed with this opportunity at least four times a year, while our friends in Sabah and Sarawak hold the importance of Kaamatan and Gawai dearly, respectively,” he said in his speech during the state-level Christmas celebration at the 1 Utama Shopping Centre today.
Amirudin added that few other communities elsewhere have as many opportunities to celebrate and reflect, describing Malaysia and Selangor as a unique melting pot unlike anywhere else.
“It is a reminder that we are blessed and fortunate to live peacefully in a diverse society, and it is a reminder that we should not take this unique nature for granted,” he said, noting that other parts of Southeast Asia frequently struggle with ethnic and religious tensions.
Meanwhile, the Menteri Besar also announced increased support for religious organisations next year, with the allocation for the five major faiths besides Islam to increase from RM6 million to RM8 million, supporting Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and Taoist organisations and places of worship.
This year, RM442,500 was channelled to churches across Selangor, with RM71,000 allocated to church associations for programmes and infrastructure upgrades.
“This is a reflection of the spirit I have instilled in my team since I took office in 2018, Kita Selangor, Maju Bersama.
“We are Selangorians, and we will progress together, and we cannot leave anyone behind,” he said.
Amirudin urged everyone to recommit to understanding one another and building a shared future.
“At such a time which reminds us of the importance of giving, of reflection, of understanding one another, and of peace, we should recommit our efforts to building a shared future and shared prosperity together,” he said.
