IT is common practice for our leaders and some Rulers to issue statements marking the festivals celebrated by Malaysians, including religious ones, as a mark of respect and commitment to our diversity.
But last week, something out of the usual happened. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim posted a Good Friday and Easter message.
In my 40-year experience in the media, very seldom has a prime minister issued such an announcement, although it has been a common practice of Sarawakian and Sabahan leaders.
Easter is considered more important than Christmas in Christian theology because it celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is the cornerstone of the faith.
Christmas is beloved for its themes of peace and joy, but there is nothing in the Bible that says Jesus was born on Dec 25. On the other hand, Easter is the climax of the story and the most important date.
Anwar’s message is not just another statement but a deep commitment to diversity and compassion at a time when religious and racial elements have raised their ugly heads with toxic narratives, especially on social media.
His message was an apt reminder that the leadership embraces inclusivity and unity, and that while Christians are a minority in Malaysia, we are not forgotten. The Christians do form a huge group in Sabah and Sarawak.
In his Easter greetings to our Christian community, he urged citizens to nurture “a spirit of love and mutual respect” and to celebrate Malaysia’s diversity as a source of strength, stating: “May the harmony we enjoy continue to flourish, and may our diverse society remain a source of strength and unity.”
In a particularly poignant gesture, he also expressed his condolences to the Holy See and all Catholics over the passing of Pope Francis.
Anwar’s message, through his heartfelt condolences, has also not gone unnoticed as it showcased his unwavering commit-ment to interfaith harmony and national unity.
Malaysia is a nation rich in cultural and religious diversity, and the Prime Minister’s message sends a powerful signal – one that affirms the role of every community in the fabric of the nation.
By reaching out to the Christian community during one of their holiest times and addressing the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church with dignity and compassion, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s foundational values of mutual respect and coexistence.
Anwar, in his tribute to Francis, described him as a “steadfast advocate for peace, and his efforts to build bridges across faiths and cultures earned the respect of many, including in the Muslim world.
“He spoke with moral clarity on the immense suffering in Gaza, reminding the world that we must show the same compassion to all victims of violence, whatever they may be.’’
The reaction to the PM’s missive has been positive.
Media personality Daphne Iking wrote: “As a Muslim convert who was once a Catholic, I found your message deeply moving YAB Dato’ Seri. Thank you for your thoughtful and inclusive words.
“They meant a lot – not just to me personally, but to many who came from different faith journeys. It’s a reminder of the compassion and unity we should continue to nurture in our beloved Malaysia.’’
Then there is anastasiasoniasio who posted: “Beautiful tribute. Thank you PMX. May God bless our country Malaysia”, while awangfa30 wrote: “Beautifully written and sincerely written, Dato’ Seri”, with virgelaugustine adding “this was very beautifully written and thank you for highlighting the impact he had on you and the rest of the community too’’.
We must never take for granted such festive messages, and even during sad occasions, as such actions go beyond symbolic gestures.
They build trust, foster understanding, and nurture a collective national identity grounded in empathy and shared humanity.
They are a reminder of the strength found in Malaysian unity. Do not let the loud sound of a small group of myopic, polarising politicians and keyboard cowards – they are certainly not warriors – depress us.
They will surely become more intimidating in the months ahead as the general election needs to be held in 2027.
Not many of us would dare to stand up publicly against these racial and religious tyrants but rest assured that the majority of us will know what to do when we cast our votes. Most of us will want to keep Malaysia tolerant and peaceful.
Anwar’s recent statements serve as both a tribute to a revered spiritual leader, even though a Christian, and a reaffirmation of his own vision: a Malaysia – and a world – where mutual respect and compassion light the path forward.
Malaysia needs leaders who build bridges, not burn them.
