A (Foodie’s) Love Letter to Malaysia

2020 has seen us Malaysians grow in strength and resilience as we’ve weathered the different challenges that have come our way, so what better way to celebrate the Malaysian spirit with a-pom and splendor than with the one thing that unites us the most—food?

In this love letter to Malaysia, we let our favorite food do the talking, and share our hopes and dreams for a better, more caring Malaysia. As we reflect on how far we’ve come as a nation over the past 57 years, we hope it reminds you how in-kueh-dibly diverse and unique our nation is!

And as we look towards the future this Malaysia Day, let’s continue to look out for the interests of one another (Philippians 2:3-4), stay united no matter what comes our way, and look to God as we build a stronger Malaysia.

**1. We will keep wanton more for Malaysia**

(Let’s not give up hope for a better Malaysia)

We Malaysians are known for being relentless in fighting for the best for our nation. We may have experienced disappointments, setbacks, and roadblocks along the way, but let’s not give up hope for our country!

Even as we pray for our nation and commit Malaysia to the Lord today, let’s continue to anchor our hopes in the Hope that “will not lead us to disappointment” (Romans 5:5), and trust that God is sovereign over our nation.

2. We will stick together like kueh lapis

(Let’s remain united amidst our differences)

Malaysia is a melting pot of different races and cultures living in harmony side by side. This Malaysia Day, let’s celebrate the differences that have enabled us to sit at the same table and enjoy our nasi lemak, roti canai, or char kway teow together, and endeavor to do all we can to keep the peace within our nation (Hebrews 12:14).

Let’s continue to look out for one another’s interests (Philippians 2:3-4), stand up for justice and equality, and stand firmly against racism, discrimination, and favoritism.

**3. We will kari each other in our hearts**

(Let’s continue to build our nation together)

Malaysia will always have a special place in our hearts, so let’s thank God for the many blessings He’s given us over the past 57 years and continue to pray that God will give our leaders wisdom to govern our country well with righteousness and the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 14:34).

Let’s keep kari-ing Malaysia in our hearts and actively build our nation, that Malaysia will continue to be a refuge and a home for our families and future generations to come.

**4. We will banjir each other with love and kindness**

(Let’s look out for one another)

As we learn to be a caring nation, may God open our eyes to see the plight of those in need—the fatherless, the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized around us (James 1:27). May we be moved to steward our resources well by treating our foreign workers with dignity and care (Leviticus 19:14). May our hearts, ears, and homes remain open to the cries of the lonely and brokenhearted (2 Corinthians 1:4).

Let’s banjir each other with acts of compassion and kindness—that the love of Christ may be on full display for all to see!