Disclaimer: This piece does not reflect the opinions or beliefs of the writer and WORLD OF BUZZ.
Living in Malaysia is a blessing as we get to enjoy each other’s culture and the food that comes with it.
Nur Hafizah, who married her sweetheart Daniel, has shared how his family was very respectful when it came to Chinese New Year.
Tahun Baru Cina pertama sejak mengahwini Daniel. Keluarga suami saya berkongsi gambar makanan malam tahun baru yang…
Posted by Nur Hafizah on Monday, 31 January 2022
“It’s my first Chinese New Year ever since I married Daniel and his family asked if it was okay for them to share pictures of the (non-halal) food in the family group.”
Nur Hafizah has said that it was certainly okay for them to do so and she found the action of asking confirmation to be very respectful as she was just a newcomer in the family.
“Non-Malays are always very concerned and sensitive about what is halal and what is haram and if certain things will be offensive to us.”
The Malaysian feels like this is not reciprocated as she believes that Malays impose their beliefs on others.
Nur Hafizah and Daniel’s family when they got married in April 2021.
In order to prove her point, she takes the example of alcohol that is always used as a racial political move.
She says that the beverage is certainly haram for Muslims but alcohol has existed in many historical landscapes be it the ancient Chinese or even Arabic cultures.
She elaborates by saying that serving guests alcohol was seen as a sign of respect in Chinese tradition to warm up their bodies and it is also used in cooking or sometimes even for medical purposes.
“Not one Chinese person likes or agrees that drunk driving is right. Without understanding other people’s culture, we try to push away all that is haram for us.”
Nur Hafizah then says that this clash in culture should not be a point for us to hate each other but rather, it is a difference that should be celebrated and respected.
Nur Hafizah & Daniel with their families in April 2021.
Nur Hafizah told WORLD OF BUZZ that they did not expect the message to be so well-received,
“We think that this has highlighted something that happens to many Malaysians and in many Malaysian homes.”
We all live together in this nation named Malaysia and all of us collectively identifies as Malaysians. We spend so much time surrounded by each other and there is certainly no place for hate.
Also read: This Malay Version of the Dong Dong Qiang Song is Our New Favourite as the Lyrics Speak of Unity
