The beauty of Malaysia exists in our ability to live as a harmonious society despite having different beliefs and coming from diverse backgrounds. Despite these distinctions, there are instances where cultures collide in the most magnificent and heart-warming way possible.
None of this was clearer than a recent video posted by content creator and mother, Kayalvizhi “Kaya” Amurthalingam, of her son when they recently visited a Buddhist temple in Johor. Ethnically Indian, Kaya and her husband recorded a brief moment of her son whilst he interacted with a Buddhist monk at the place of worship. The exchange, however, can only be described as an incredibly sweet moment.
Sharing the clip to her page @kayalvizhiamurthalingam, Kaya captured the instance where her 3-year-old son met a monk for the first time. Initially giving the monk a high-five, the little boy then proceeded to give the religious leader a kiss on the palm.
Providing the child with a gift, the monk then tied a piece of red string around the child’s left wrist, creating a bracelet of sorts. After doing some sleuthing of our own, WORLD OF BUZZ discovered through a write-up by Karma & Luck that a red string bracelet is meant to signify protection, faith, good luck, and strength to whoever wears it, according to Chinese culture.
Thanking the monk for the present, the cheeky boy gives the spiritual leader a hug before the video ends, as a sign of gratitude for the simple yet impactful offering.
In a brief conversation with WORLD OF BUZZ, Kaya revealed that she and her family had gone to the Masai Sam Poh Thai Temple in Johor to say some prayers, adding that her son was fascinated upon meeting a monk for the 1st time, explaining his reaction when seeing the religious figure.
Garnering a positive response online, many viewers mentioned how sweet the little boy was during his interaction, adding that Kaya and her husband taught their son correctly when revering spiritually devoted figures.
“He is such a respectful child! He was brought up in a very good manner. Hats off to the parents,” wrote one user.
Watch the full TikTok video below:
@kayalvizhiamurthalingam Blessed Day ?❤️
Regardless of one’s religious and racial differences, leading with kindness and love is always the best route to take!
Also read: Steadfast 1yo Girl Climbs Penang Temple’s 513 Steps at 3am to Observe Thaipusam With Her Parents
