LETTER | All I want is a Christmas tree to light up Malaysia

LETTER | One of the aspects that would bring positive transformation to a nation is the ability of a society to transcend from half-truths to full truth in addressing issues that affect the nation.

The full truth resides in the ability to embrace the beauty of wholeness by rejecting half-truths that divide and isolate society.

Today, we see half-truths in the speeches of politicians, and half-truths in global politics and this is one of the reasons why war, terrorism, and poverty go unresolved in the world.

I would like to bring to attention the example of a Christmas tree.

Having attended my cousin sister’s wedding in Kuala Lumpur, my family and I made a trip to Suria KLCC for some little sightseeing.

As I observed the behaviour of multi-ethnic communities along KLCC mall, what was obvious was a well-decorated giant Christmas tree which was a noticeable attraction, where many shoppers and visitors were taking photographs.

What made the Christmas tree attractive was its whole beauty.

If the Christmas tree had no lights on and no other decorative items around it, it would only show the half-truths about the tree.

But when it is fully decorated, showing its beauty, it attracts the crowd irrespective of ethnicity and religion.

This was clearly in contrast to a similar giant Christmas tree that I saw in a mall in my hometown Ipoh. It was not adequately decorated and thus, did not attract the crowds.

Unique beauty

Today in Malaysia, partly decorated politicians strive to propagate half-truths and prejudice about other ethnic communities without understanding the value and beauty of a nation’s tree that is made up of diverse races.

It is the diverse decoration of the Christmas tree that gives it a unique beauty.

The whole decorative beauty of the Christmas tree symbolises the importance of transcending petty and regressive ethno-religiosity.

The tree can represent dignity and solidarity in diversity that can transform Malaysia into an attractive eco-destination for inclusivity, progress, and stability.

Malaysia needs more symbols of enlightened diversity as portrayed by the diverse decoration of the Christmas tree.

RONALD BENJAMIN is the secretary for Association for Welfare, Community and Dialogue

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.