By: Ahmad Nizam Che Kasim

Amidst the frenzy of holiday jubilation, it is common to fail to notice the more profound nature that drives our festivities. Notwithstanding the variety of our origins, each festival is united by the fundamental principles of peace, prosperity and cohesion.

As we engage in the diverse array of practices that pay homage to these customs, it is crucial to pause and contemplate the deep solidarity that they symbolise amidst the intricate fabric of humanity. Festivals transcend ordinary moments of jubilation and are intricately intertwined with the historical, religious and cultural tapestry of societies across the globe.

While engaging in various festivities, individuals may become engrossed in the exhilaration of rituals, traditions and celebrations, inadvertently neglecting the profound essence that bonds us collectively. In addition to the apparent differences in religion and race, there exists a common value system that emphasises the importance of harmony, well-being and unity. A narrative that embodies communal harmony and a sense of collective identity is intrinsic to each festival.

Festive occasions surpass limitations, promote inclusiveness

Every festive occasion, including Hari Raya, Deepavali, Christmas and Chinese New Year, embodies enduring principles that surpass limitations and promote inclusiveness.

These values function as foundational elements, supporting the structure of human unity in the face of a multifaceted array of cultures. They serve as a poignant reminder of the interdependence of all living things and the universal yearning for balance and welfare.

Unity serves as the fundamental principle underlying the observance of festivals, representing the interconnectedness that unites the human race. Festivals furnish an occasion for individuals to assemble, surpassing disparities and establishing significant interpersonal bonds.

By means of communal observances and celebrations, individuals establish affinity and cultivate a feeling of inclusion and solidarity among communities. Irrespective of individual contexts, festivals function as catalysts that promote the development of comprehension, compassion, and reverence for the beliefs and traditions of others.

Disputes temporarily abandoned in favour of positive intentions

Furthermore, the essence of festivals is profoundly imbued with the pursuit of harmony. Amidst the pervasive disorder and upheaval of society, these events provide a brief sanctuary – an oasis where disputes are temporarily abandoned in favour of positive intentions.

Festivities encourage the cultivation of virtues such as reconciliation, compassion and forgiveness, thereby motivating attendees to pursue harmonious cohabitation and reciprocal comprehension. These symbols function as poignant reminders of the capacity for collaboration and unity among heterogeneous societies, surpassing obstacles created by bias and lack of knowledge.

Festivities facilitate connections, transcending culture, religion and race

Fundamentally, festivities and observation of festivals transcend being ceremonial practices and serve as profound manifestations of our collective human nature. They facilitate connections, transcending barriers of culture, religion, and race, and bringing us together in our pursuit of harmony, prosperity and unity.

However, in the spirit of Malaysia Madani, it may not be too late to regain Malaysia's former grandeur if we persevere, and we must not lose sight of the deeper significance that unites us as Bangsa Malaysia members.

By assimilating the values that festivals exemplify – inclusivity, harmony and abundance – and carrying them into our daily lives, we can not only better ourselves but also make a positive impact on the world at large.

-- BERNAMA

Ahmad Nizam Che Kasim is with the Faculty of Business and Communication, Universiti Malaysia Perlis.