To live in a multiracial and multicultural country means more opportunities to understand the cultural practices of other races.
Recently, in Penang, a restaurant owner took the opportunity and gave his fellow Muslim staff more learning opportunities.
Learning at a funeral
Restaurant owner Ahmad Basri, brought his Muslim staff to attend the funeral of his close friend at a Catholic church in Penang to pay his last respect. Ahmad didn’t only do so for an “eye-opening” experience for his staff but he has another reason to bring them along to the funeral.Â
“I want to promote mutual respect and unity among all races, and not to draw a line just because of our differences.”
His female staff, who were all dressed in plain clothes paid their last respects in front of the deceased’s coffin. In an interview with Sin Chew, Ahmad, who is an Indian Muslim said that this wasn’t the first time he had attended the funeral of a friend of a different religion.
In the past, he also brought his staff to attend a Taoist funeral.
“They were willing to attend, and they even helped the family members of the deceased to fold joss papers.”
Ahmad had known his recently-deceased friend for 44 years, and their history dated back to high school. The latter passed away due to heart failure.
“Criticism? Not yet but I welcome them”
Attending the funeral of different religions may be sensitive to some, but the 56-year-old restaurant owner revealed that he has yet to receive criticism for his actions. However, he won’t be surprised if there is any and in fact, he knows how to deal with possible criticism.
“I welcome criticism because it gives me the opportunity to educate the people who criticise me.”
He also said that prior to attending the funerals, he would always remind his staff to dress appropriately and NOT to make noise as a form of respect to the deceased and the family members.
It’s generous of Ahmad to allow more learning opportunities for his fellow staff. As long as the rules of the funerals are obeyed and mutual respect is given, learning another thing or two certainly brings no harm.
Fellow Malaysians, have you ever attended any funerals of different religions? Did you learn anything new from your experience?
