Kuala lumpur: Christmas was celebrated across the country today in a joyful and harmonious atmosphere as Christians observed the occasion through religious services and festive traditions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, in Kuala Lumpur, about 1,000 local and foreign worshippers gathered at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima in Brickfields to attend Christmas prayers. Parish priest Sebestin Arputharaj highlighted the church's services, known for its festive decorations and Christmas tree, which were held in four sessions beginning last night and concluding at noon today.
In Selangor, the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Klang saw families and friends come together for religious services at the nearly century-old church, adorned with festive decorations. Jalla, a 67-year-old visitor from Klang, expressed her family's tradition of celebrating all festivals, reflecting the spirit of unity in the country.
In Melaka, areas such as the Portuguese Settlement and the historic St Francis Xavier Church were bustling with Christian worshippers. Marilyn Cheah, a visitor from Johor, shared her experience of celebrating Christmas in Melaka and the lively atmosphere she encountered.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusof extended Christmas greetings, expressing hope for a joyous and peaceful celebration that strengthens unity and harmony. In Negeri Sembilan, Christmas celebrations continued with religious services at the Church of the Visitation in Seremban, drawing over 1,000 worshippers.
In Johor, the Immaculate Conception Church in Johor Bahru welcomed about 3,500 people attending religious services with their families. Priest Claurence Motoyou noted the significant turnout at the church.
In Pahang, the public holiday was utilized by communities in Kuantan to strengthen family bonds, with shopping malls decorated in Christmas themes attracting visitors. In Terengganu, about 200 worshippers gathered at the Presbyterian Church in Kuala Terengganu for religious services.
In Kedah, families took advantage of the festive holiday to visit shopping malls, with Jomanda Hong experiencing her first Christmas celebration in her husband's hometown following their marriage this year.
In Perak, youths played a significant role in the festive atmosphere at St Joseph Church in Batu Gajah, with J. Regina, the church's youth vice-president, emphasizing the values of love, hope, and unity instilled during Christmas preparations.
In Penang, more than 5,000 Christians visited the Minor Basilica of St. Anne in Bukit Mertajam for religious services. Deacon Lazarus Jonathan mentioned the continued masses conducted in multiple languages, drawing thousands of worshippers to the basilica.