For the first time in history, ambassadors from 20 countries around the world were invited to gather at the Ministry of Housing and Local Government in Putrajaya to jointly celebrate Christmas in a warm and joyful festive atmosphere, allowing the world to witness the beauty of Madani Malaysia’s diversity and harmony.
Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming, in his speech, stated that diversity, openness, and inclusiveness have always been Malaysia’s most precious assets, and today’s cross-cultural and cross-border celebrations are the most beautiful interpretations of this unique charm. More importantly, they demonstrate the current government’s core values to all Malaysians.
“No matter which country you come from, or what religion you believe in, everyone can celebrate together at this moment. This is truly something Malaysians can be proud of and is also the spirit of Malaysia’s diversity that is admired around the world.”
Nga Kor Ming, who is also the President of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme Assembly, pointed out that since the Madani government took office, the Ministry has insisted on celebrating different festive occasions for three consecutive years, including Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali, and Christmas.
“Not only in East Malaysia, but the Ministry of Housing and Local Government has now become the most ‘Malaysian’ and warm department among all government agencies, truly embodying the spirit of Madani Malaysia.”
“Not only in East Malaysia, but the Ministry of Housing and Local Government has now become the most ‘Malaysian’ and warm department among all government agencies, truly embodying the spirit of Madani Malaysia.”
He said that the Ministry's 22,000 civil servants nationwide, regardless of background or race, work shoulder to shoulder serving all Malaysians. Festive events bring everyone closer and show the world the spirit of ‘unity is strength, Malaysia truly can.’
“Only by discarding prejudice, being tolerant and supporting each other, can Malaysia realize greater potential and move towards the world stage. Most importantly, everyone must use moderation and openness to reject segregation and extremism,” Nga Kor Ming emphasized solemnly.
It is worth mentioning that the Ministry of Housing and Local Government pioneered the celebration of Christmas last year. Shockingly, however, the opposition coalition PN and PAS lodged 69 police reports, not only wasting police resources but also resulting in Minister Nga Kor Ming being questioned by the police.
Guests at the Ministry’s Christmas dinner included Secretary-General Datuk Wira No Azman, various department heads, as well as ambassadors and representatives from 25 countries, including the US, South Korea, Singapore, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Tajikistan and other Muslim-majority nations.
This time, Nga Kor Ming personally invited several children with cancer and their parents to attend after learning about their wish to join the Christmas dinner. He also presented them with gifts and blessings.