As Chinese New Year festivities fill towns across Malaysia, a heartwarming scene in Sibu has captured the spirit of celebrating together.
Earlier this month, Masjid Al-Qadim, widely recognised as Sarawak’s oldest mosque, joined in the festive mood by hanging bright red lanterns around its compound—an unexpected but meaningful sight that drew smiles from passers-by.
A simple gesture, a powerful message
Photos shared on social media showed Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee personally putting up the lanterns along the mosque’s perimeter, turning the surrounding trees into a cheerful display of red.
In his caption, he noted that the festive atmosphere of Gong Xi Fa Cai is increasingly being felt across Sibu.
He also highlighted that Masjid Al-Qadim had joined in the celebrations this year by putting up red lanterns around the mosque compound.
According to him, the gesture reflects the spirit of celebrating Chinese New Year together, regardless of race or religion.
“We celebrate together”
Netizens were quick to praise the gesture, calling it a reflection of Sarawak’s long-standing harmony.
Many noted that the sight of a mosque embracing Chinese New Year decorations perfectly captured the state’s multiracial and multireligious identity.
Comments highlighted how such moments go beyond symbolism, showing how respect and inclusivity are lived out in everyday actions rather than slogans.
