SPM Essay Sample – Articles: Celebrations in Malaysia
Write your answer in 200 – 250 words in an appropriate style on this question paper or on a separate answer sheet of foolscap paper.
– What do we celebrate in Malaysia?
– Tell us more about one of the celebrations.
– Why is celebration important in Malaysia?
Write us an article answering these questions. The best article will be published in the school magazine.
Celebrations in Malaysia
Malaysia is a country that is rich in culture and tradition because of our diverse population made up of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and many other ethnic groups. This is reflected in the many festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year. We celebrate our heritage through various festivals and celebrations including Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Thaipusam and so on.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri
One of the most significant celebrations in Malaysia is Hari Raya Aidilfitri. It marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan during the Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. This festival is a time for forgiveness, family reunions, and giving thanks. It is customary for people to seek forgiveness from those they may have wronged during the previous year, and to forgive those who may have wronged them.
During Hari Raya, it is traditional to visit the houses of friends and family to share in the celebrations. People dress in traditional clothes and visit each other’s homes to exchange greetings and sweets. This is known as ‘open house’ where the host will serve traditional delicacies such as ketupat, lemang, and lontong and other various delicacies.
Chinese New Year
There are also many traditional festivals celebrated in Malaysia. One of the most significant is the Chinese New Year. This festival is celebrated by the Chinese community in Malaysia and marks the start of the lunar new year. it is a major occasion for families to come together, gift-giving, and enjoy delicious food.
Before the New Year, people thoroughly clean their homes to sweep away any ill-fortune and make way for good luck. They also decorate their homes with red lanterns, banners, and couplets, as red is believed to be a lucky color that can ward off evil spirits. On New Year’s Eve, families gather for a large feast, often featuring traditional foods such as dumplings, fish, and rice cakes.
During the Chinese New Year, people will spending time with immediate family and also visit relatives and friends. It is also traditional to give red envelopes filled with money, usually to children, as a symbol of good luck and prosperity in the coming year. Throughout the celebration, there are also a variety of performances and activities to take part in such as dragon dance, lion dance and temple fairs.
Thaipusam
Thaipusam is a Hindu festival that is celebrated primarily by Tamil communities in Malaysia. It takes place in the Tamil month of Thai, which falls between January and February, and it is celebrates the birthday of Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war and victory. Thaipusam is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm, and marks the victory of the human spirit over physical and mental suffering.
Thaipusam is a colorful and vibrant event, featuring elaborate costumes, traditional music, and processions of devotees bearing kavadis as offerings to the deity. Kavadi is a large structure made of wood and steel that is decorated with colorful cloth and peacock feathers. Devotees carry these kavadis on their shoulders as part of a pilgrimage to the Batu Caves temple, located outside Kuala Lumpur. The pilgrimage is a physically demanding process and the kavadi bearers often pierce their skin with needles, hooks, or skewers as an act of self-mortification and devotion to Lord Murugan.
Why is celebration important
Celebrations are important for many reasons. They serve as a reminder of our cultural heritage, preserving and passing on traditional customs and values to future generations. The holiday during the celebrations also provide an opportunity for people to come together and share in a common experience. They bring communities together, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. Celebrations can also be a way to express joy and happiness, and to promote feelings of positivity and well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, celebrations in Malaysia play a vital role in bringing people together and fostering unity. The festival reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and brings people together to celebrate and honor their traditions and customs. They serve as a reminder of our cultural heritage and the importance of preserving and passing on traditional customs and values. They also provide a glimpse into the different cultures that make up this vibrant and diverse country.
