Living in a country filled with diverse cultures and religions is a perfect opportunity to learn more and respect each other’s different background.
A restaurant owner in Penang recently did just that by bringing his Muslim staff to attend a church funeral in order to widen their perspective into different religions.
![Penang Restaurant Owner Brings Muslim Staff To Church Funeral To Promote Interfaith Unity | Weirdkaya Penang restaurant owner brings muslim staff to church funeral to promote interfaith unity](https://cdn.weirdkaya.com/wp-content/uploads/image-3122.png)
Brought Muslim staff to church funeral
According to Sin Chew Daily, the restaurant owner, Ahmad Basri brought his Muslim employees to a Catholic church to attend the funeral of a close friend who had died of a heart attack.
When asked why he chose to do so, Ahmad said that he wanted to promote the spirit of unity and respect.
I want to promote mutual respect and unity among all races, and not to draw a line just because of our differences.
![Penang Restaurant Owner Brings Muslim Staff To Church Funeral To Promote Interfaith Unity | Weirdkaya Penang restaurant owner brings muslim staff to church funeral to promote interfaith unity](https://cdn.weirdkaya.com/wp-content/uploads/image-3123.png)
The 56-year-old, who’s an Indian-Muslim, said that this wasn’t his first time doing so, adding that he had brought his staff for a Taoist funeral too.
“They were willing to attend, and they even helped the family members of the deceased to fold joss papers.”
Open to criticism
While attending the funeral of a different religion may cause discomfort and even trigger a backlash, Ahmad said he has yet to be slammed for his actions.
However, he said he’s ready if it ever comes his way.
![Penang Restaurant Owner Brings Muslim Staff To Church Funeral To Promote Interfaith Unity | Weirdkaya Penang restaurant owner brings muslim staff to church funeral to promote interfaith unity](https://cdn.weirdkaya.com/wp-content/uploads/funeral.png)
“I welcome criticism because it gives me the opportunity to educate the people who criticise me.
“I also tell my staff to dress appropriately and to refrain from making noise as a form of respect towards the deceased’s and the family members,” he said.
What a wonderful way to promote intercultural unity and respect! We hope to see more instances like this in the future!
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