Happy Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is considered the most important holiday in the Christian calendar. The exact date of Easter changes each year and is determined by the ecclesiastical calendar, based on the timing of the first full moon following the vernal equinox.
The origins of Easter can be traced back to the Jewish holiday of Passover, which commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. According to Christian tradition, Jesus was crucified and died during the week of Passover, and his resurrection occurred on the third day after his death, which is now celebrated as Easter Sunday.
Christians all around the world, including Catholics and Protestants, celebrate Easter in different ways, but the central message is the same: the resurrection of Jesus Christ is seen as a sign of hope, renewal, and new life.
Easter also marks the end of the season of Lent, a period of fasting, prayer, and repentance that begins on Ash Wednesday, 40 days before Easter Sunday. The Easter season lasts for 50 days and culminates with the celebration of Pentecost, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.
In addition to religious observances, many cultures also celebrate Easter with secular traditions such as Easter eggs, which symbolize new life, and the Easter Bunny, which is believed to bring gifts of candy and treats to children.
The Meaning of Easter
The meaning of Easter for Christians is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is the most important holiday in the Christian calendar, as it is seen as a sign of hope, renewal, and new life. The resurrection of Jesus is central to Christian belief, as it demonstrates God's power over death and sin and offers the promise of eternal life to all who believe in him. For Christians, the Easter story is a message of redemption and salvation. It is a reminder of God's love for humanity, and of the sacrifice that Jesus made for the forgiveness of our sins. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus conquered death and sin, and made it possible for all people to have eternal life. Easter is also a time of joy and celebration, as Christians rejoice in the victory of life over death. It is a time to gather with family and friends, to attend church services, to share meals, and to exchange gifts.
Beyond its religious significance, Easter also has cultural and historical significance, as it is a holiday that has been celebrated for centuries and has inspired a variety of customs and traditions. In many parts of the world, Easter is celebrated with symbols of new life, such as eggs and flowers, and with the exchange of gifts and the sharing of meals.
Easter is a time of new beginnings, Of hope and joy and grace. It's a time to celebrate the risen Christ, And the love that fills this place.
The Easter story is a message of hope,
A message of redemption and love.
It reminds us of the sacrifice he made,
And the gift of eternal life above.
The tomb is empty, the stone is rolled away,
Death has been conquered for all time.
The joy of Easter fills our hearts,
And our souls are lifted high.
So let us rejoice and celebrate,
This day of hope and love.
For Easter brings a message bright,
Of peace and grace from above.
Happy Easter to one and all,
May this day be filled with love.
May we remember the gift of Christ,
And the hope he brings from above.
Let's cherish the moments we spend together,
With family and friends we hold so dear.
As we share meals and exchange gifts,
Let's spread the love and joy of Easter far and near.
Traditional European/Englishweddings in Malaysia, especially in Melaka, are a beautiful blend of Western traditions and Malaysian culture. The weddings are usually formal affairs with elegant decor, sophisticated attire, and a sit-down dinner. Here are some of the common European/English wedding customs and procedures:
(1) Engagement Ceremony
The engagement ceremony is a formal announcement of the couple's intention to marry. It is a private affair where the couple exchange rings and make a promise to marry each other. In some cases, the couple may also have a formal dinner with close family and friends.
European/English Traditional Poem:
"A Red, Red Rose" by Robert Burns
O my Luve's like a red, red rose, That’s newly sprung in June; O my Luve's like the melodie, That’s sweetly play'd in tune.
As fair art thou, my bonnie lass, So deep in luve am I: And I will luve thee still, my dear, Till a' the seas gang dry:
Till a' the seas gang dry, my dear, And the rocks melt wi' the sun; I will luve thee still, my dear, While the sands o' life shall run.
And fare thee weel, my only Luve, And fare thee weel a while! And I will come again, my Luve, Tho' it were ten thousand mile.
This is a famous Scottish poem that is often recited during engagement ceremonies. It celebrates the deep love and commitment between the couple.
(2) Wedding Invitations
The wedding invitations are usually formal and elegant, with the couple's names and the details of the ceremony printed on high-quality cardstock. The invitations are sent out several weeks in advance to give the guests enough time to RSVP and make arrangements to attend the wedding.
European/English Traditional Poem:
"To His Coy Mistress" by Andrew Marvell
Had we but world enough and time, This coyness, lady, were no crime. We would sit down, and think which way To walk, and pass our long love's day.
Thou by the Indian Ganges' side, Shouldst rubies find; I by the tide, Of Humber would complain. I would, Love you ten years before the Flood,
And you should, if you please, refuse, Till the conversion of the Jews. My vegetable love should grow, Vaster than empires and more slow;
An hundred years should go to praise, Thine eyes, and on thy forehead gaze; Two hundred to adore each breast, But thirty thousand to the rest;
An age at least to every part, And the last age should show your heart. For, lady, you deserve this state, Nor would I love at lower rate.
This is a famous poem that is often quoted in wedding invitations. It celebrates the beauty and timelessness of love.
(3) Wedding Ceremony
The wedding ceremony is usually held in a church or a chapel, and it is a formal affair with the bride wearing a white wedding gown and the groom wearing a tuxedo. The ceremony is usually presided over by a minister or a priest, and it involves the exchange of vows and rings.
European/English Traditional Poem:
"Sonnet 116" by William Shakespeare
Let me not to the marriage of true minds, Admit impediments. Love is not love, Which alters when it alteration finds, Or bends with the remover to remove:
O, no! it is an ever-fixed mark, That looks on tempests and is never shaken; It is the star to every wandering bark, Whose worth’s unknown, although his height be taken. Love’s not Time’s fool, though rosy lips and cheeks
Within his bending sickle’s compass come; Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, But bears it out even to the edge of doom. If this be error, and upon me prov’d, I never writ, nor no man ever lov’d.
This is a famous sonnet that is often recited during the wedding ceremony. It celebrates the enduring nature of true love.
(3a) Ceremony Vow Agenda
Introduction by the officiant
Exchange of rings
Exchange of vows
Community vow
Pronouncement of marriage
Kiss the bride
(3.1) Introduction
Officiant:
Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of [Bride's name] and [Groom's name]. They have come together to declare their love and commitment before God and their loved ones. Today, they exchange their wedding vows, symbolized by the giving and receiving of rings.
(3.2) Exchange of Rings:
Officiant:
[Bride's name] and [Groom's name], may I have the rings, please?
[Bride's name] and [Groom's name] exchange rings and the officiant blesses them.
(3.3) Exchange of Vows:
Officiant:
[Bride's name] and [Groom's name], please join hands and repeat after me:
[Bride's name], do you take [Groom's name] to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do you part?
[Bride's name] responds, "I do."
[Groom's name], do you take [Bride's name] to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do you part?
[Groom's name] responds, "I do."
(3.4) Community Vow:
Officiant:
[Bride's name] and [Groom's name], as you have made your vows before God and each other, we, your family and friends, pledge to support you and care for you as you embark on this new journey together.
Church / Community please all stand and responds, "I do."
(3.5) Pronouncement of Marriage:
Officiant:
By the power vested in me by the State and in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, I now pronounce you husband and wife.
(3.6) Kiss the Bride:
Officiant:
You may now kiss the bride.
[Bride's name] and [Groom's name] share their first kiss as a married couple."
(4) Wedding Reception
The wedding reception is a formal dinner that is usually held at a hotel or a banquet hall. The reception usually includes a sit-down dinner, speeches, and dancing. The bride and groom usually have their first dance together, and the guests are invited to dance afterwards.
European/English Traditional Poem:
"A Song for Lovers" by John Dryden
Fair, sweet, and young, receive a prize, Reserved for your victorious eyes: From crowds, whom at your feet you see, O pity a divided knee.
Fortune and Love their wars have waged, And cruelly their host engaged. Yet not the beauty nor the swain, The prize deserv'd deserves in vain.
Love conquers all, and I'll no more, Dispute with him, who richest store, Of charms possesses: nothing higher, Is left for me but to admire.
Thus vanquished too, I yield my arms, And give up all at once to charms, In youth, as well as years, the same, Without love, life's a tiresome game.
This is a beautiful poem that is often recited during the wedding reception. It celebrates the joy and happiness of the newlyweds and their love for each other.
A list of some popular wedding reception dances along with some songs suggestions:
First dance - The newlyweds take the floor for their first dance as a married couple. Song suggestions: "At Last" by Etta James, "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley.
Father-daughter dance - The bride dances with her father or another significant male figure in her life. Song suggestions: "Butterfly Kisses" by Bob Carlisle, "My Girl" by The Temptations, "I Loved Her First" by Heartland.
Mother-son dance - The groom dances with his mother or another significant female figure in his life. Song suggestions: "A Song for Mama" by Boyz II Men, "The Perfect Fan" by Backstreet Boys, "Simple Man" by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Wedding party dance - The wedding party joins the bride and groom on the dance floor. Song suggestions: "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars, "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" by Whitney Houston.
Anniversary dance - The DJ or band invites all married couples to the dance floor and gradually eliminates couples based on the length of their marriage until the longest-married couple is left dancing. Song suggestions: "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers, "When I Fall in Love" by Nat King Cole, "The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra.
Group dance - A dance that encourages everyone to join in and dance together. Song suggestions: "The Macarena" by Los Del Rio, "The Cha Cha Slide" by DJ Casper, "Cupid Shuffle" by Cupid.
These are just a few examples, and there are many more options for each of these dances. Ultimately, the song selection will depend on the preferences of the couple and their guests.
Toasts and Speeches
Toasts and speeches are an important part of the wedding reception. The best man, the maid of honor, and the father of the bride usually give speeches, and the guests are invited to give toasts to the newlyweds.
Examples of the Toasts and Speeches:
1. Best Man Speech:
Dear guests, friends, and family, it is an honor to stand here today as the best man for my dear friend and the bridegroom. I have known him for many years and have watched him grow into the wonderful man he is today. As he starts this new chapter in his life with his lovely bride, I wish them both all the happiness and love in the world. Cheers to the newlyweds!
2. Maid of Honor Speech:
Dear friends and family, I am beyond grateful to stand here today as the maid of honor for the beautiful bride. She is not only my best friend but also my soul sister. Today, she marries her soulmate, and I cannot express how happy I am for her. May your love continue to grow, and your bond continue to strengthen with each passing day. Cheers to the happy couple!
3. Father of the Bride Speech:
Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great pride and joy that I give this speech today as the father of the bride. My daughter has always been the apple of my eye, and seeing her marry the love of her life today brings me immense happiness. I would like to welcome my new son-in-law into our family and raise a toast to the newlyweds. May your love for each other continue to flourish forever. Cheers!
European/English Traditional Poem:
"To a Mouse" by Robert Burns
Wee, sleekit, cow'rin, tim'rous beastie, O, what a panic's in thy breastie! Thou need na start awa sae hasty, Wi' bickering brattle! I wad be laith to rin an' chase thee, Wi' murd'ring pattle!
I'm truly sorry man's dominion, Has broken nature's social union, An' justifies that ill opinion, Which makes thee startle, At me, thy poor, earth-born companion, An' fellow-mortal!
I doubt na, whyles, but thou may thieve; What then? poor beastie, thou maun live! A daimen icker in a thrave, 'S a sma' request: I'll get a blessin wi' the lave, An' never miss't!
Thy wee-bit housie, too, in ruin! It's silly wa's the win's are strewin! An' naething, now, to big a new ane, O' foggage green! An' bleak December's winds ensuin, Baith snell an' keen!
Thou saw the fields laid bare an' waste, An' weary winter comin fast, An' cozie here, beneath the blast, Thou thought to dwell, Till crash! the cruel coulter past, Out thro' thy cell.
That wee-bit heap o' leaves an' stibble, Has cost thee monie a weary nibble! Now thou's turned out, for a' thy trouble, But house or hald, To thole the winter's sleety dribble, An' cranreuch cauld!
But, Mousie, thou art no thy lane, In proving foresight may be vain: The best laid schemes o' mice an' men, Gang aft agley, An' lea'e us nought but grief an' pain, For promis'd joy!
Still, thou art blest, compar'd wi' me! The present only toucheth thee: But, och! I backward cast my e'e. On prospects drear! An' forward, tho' I canna see, I guess an' fear!
This is a famous Scottish poem that is often recited during the toasts and speeches. It celebrates the unpredictability of life and the need to enjoy the present moment.
European/English weddings in Melaka are a beautiful celebration of love and tradition. Each custom and tradition has its own unique significance and meaning, and the traditional poems and songs that are recited during these ceremonies add to the elegance and sophistication of these customs.
Traditional Malay weddings in Melaka are steeped in tradition and cultural significance. The wedding ceremony itself is a combination of pre-Islamic customs and Islamic practices, and it is a joyous occasion celebrated by family and friends. Here are some of the customs and procedures typically followed in a Malay wedding in Melaka:
(1)Akad Nikah (Marriage Contract) - The akad nikah
is the formal contract signing ceremony, where the bride and groom are
officially married according to Islamic law. The groom will first recite the
proposal, followed by the bride's acceptance. The traditional poem recited
during the akad nikah is:
“Kami terima nikahnya, dengan mas kahwin yang dipersetujui, dengan
syarat-syarat yang akan dibacakan, pada hari yang akan disebutkan. Dengan ini
sahlah perkahwinan kami.”
Translation: "We accept the marriage contract, with the agreed
upon dowry and conditions that will be read on the day specified. With this,
our marriage is legally binding."
(2)Bersanding (Sitting on the Bridal Dais) - The
bersanding ceremony is the highlight of the wedding celebrations, where the
bride and groom sit together on a decorated dais. The bride is dressed in a
traditional Malay bridal attire, while the groom wears a traditional Malay
outfit. The traditional poem recited during the bersanding ceremony is:
“Selamat pengantin baru, semoga bahagia ke akhir hayat. Dikurniakan
zuriat, sentiasa dirahmati Allah.”
Translation: "Congratulations on your wedding, may your happiness
last until the end of your days. May you be blessed with children and be always
under Allah's protection."
(3)Potong Tumpeng (Cutting the Rice Cone) - The
potong tumpeng ceremony is a symbolic ritual where the bride and groom cut a
rice cone together. It represents the couple's shared responsibility in
building their future together. The traditional poem recited during the potong
tumpeng ceremony is:
“Berdua memikul beban, bersama memikul segala tanggungjawab. Bersama
menanggung segala rintangan, menjalani hidup dalam kegembiraan.”
Translation: "Together we bear the burden, together we share all
responsibilities. Together we face all challenges, living a life filled with
joy."
(4)Berinai (Henna Application) - The berinai
ceremony is where henna is applied to the bride's hands and feet in intricate
designs. It is believed to bring good luck and blessings to the newlyweds. The
traditional poem recited during the berinai ceremony is:
“Hiasan yang indah, tanda kasih sayang yang abadi. Moga kebahagiaan
sentiasa berpanjangan, dalam bahtera kehidupan yang bermandikan kasih.”
Translation: "Beautiful decoration, a symbol of eternal love. May
your happiness last forever, sailing in the ship of life filled with
love."
(5)Merenjis (Bathing Ritual) - The merenjis
ceremony is a pre-wedding ritual where the bride and groom take a ceremonial
bath to purify themselves. It is believed to bring blessings and good fortune
to the couple. The traditional poem recited during the merenjis ceremony is:
“Mandi junjung kasih, sejuk air membawa kasih sayang. Bermandikan
keberkatan, moga bahagia abadi.”
Translation: "Bathing in love, the cool water brings love and
affection. Bathing in blessings, may your happiness last forever."
In conclusion, traditional Malay weddings in Melaka are a beautiful and meaningful
celebration of love and tradition. Each custom and procedure holds a special
significance, from the formal contract signing to the joyful sitting on the
bridal dais. The recitation of traditional poems adds to the depth and meaning
of the ceremony, connecting the couple to their cultural heritage and ancestors.
Other notable customs in a traditional Malay wedding include the berzanji
recitation, which is a reading of a poem praising the Prophet Muhammad and
asking for his blessings on the newlyweds, and the exchange of gifts between
the bride and groom's families, such as the exchange of betel leaves and areca
nuts.
Traditional Malay weddings especially in Melaka are a unique and beautiful blend of tradition
and modernity, with each couple adding their own personal touches to the
ceremony. It is a time for family, friends, and community to come together to
celebrate the love and commitment of the newlyweds, and to wish them a happy
and prosperous future.
Here are three examples of berzanji recitation and poems praising
Prophet Muhammad and asking for his blessings on the newlyweds in a traditional Malay
wedding:
(6)(a) Berzanji Recitation:
يَا نَبِيَّ سَلاَمٌ عَلَيْكَ، Ya nabi salam alayka يَا رَسُولَ سَلاَمٌ عَلَيْكَ، Ya Rasul salam alayka يَا حَبِيبَ سَلاَمٌ عَلَيْكَ، Ya Habib salam alayka صَلاَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْكَ. Solawatullah alayka
Translation:
O Prophet, peace be upon you. O Messenger, peace be upon you. O Beloved, peace be upon you. May Allah's blessings be upon you.
أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِ اللهِ وَخَلِيلِ اللهِ، Abada’alan habib ilahi wakhalil ilahi
مُحَمَّدِ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ. Muhammad bin Abdullahi sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam
Translation:
May Allah’s blessings and peace be upon His Beloved and intimate friend Muhammad, son of Abdullah, forever and ever
These recitations and poems are typically performed by a qari (a
skilled reciter of the Quran) or a group of religious singers, and are often
accompanied by traditional Malay music and percussion instruments. The berzanji
recitation and poems praising Prophet Muhammad are an integral part of traditional Malay
weddings in Melaka, as they are believed to bring blessings and good fortune to
the newlyweds, as well as honor and reverence to the Prophet.
Here are three examples of Malay poems or pantun that can be recited during a traditional Malay wedding ceremony to bless and congratulate the newlyweds:
1. Pantun:
Sepanjang bulan yang penuh bercahaya, Berkahwinlah dengan seindah sinarnya, Semoga bahagia sampai ke akhir hayat, Berkat Allah selalu mengiringi segala rasa.
Translation:
Throughout the month full of radiance, Get married as beautifully as its light, May happiness last until the end of life, God's blessings always accompany every feeling.
2. Pantun:
Bersandinglah di atas takhta pernikahan, Menjadi pasangan yang dirahmati Ilahi, Dihormati, dicintai sepanjang zaman, Bahagia, sejahtera dan penuh keberkatan.
Translation:
Sit on the throne of marriage, Become a couple blessed by God, Respected, loved for all time, Happy, peaceful and full of blessings.
3. Pantun:
Seribu bintang di langit bersinar, Pasangan baru bergelar suami isteri, Berkat, cinta dan kasih akan terus membara, Menyuluh jalan kebahagiaan yang kekal abadi.
Translation:
A thousand stars shine in the sky, Newlyweds become husband and wife, Blessings, love and affection will always burn, Illuminating the path to eternal happiness.
Pantun is a traditional form of Malay poetry
often used in wedding ceremonies. It consists of four-line stanzas with a
specific rhyme and rhythm pattern, and usually contains a message of love,
congratulations, or blessings. These pantuns can be recited by family members,
friends, or religious leaders during the wedding ceremony to add to the joyful
and celebratory atmosphere.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar. It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and heightened devotion and worship..
During this month, Muslims observe fasting, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims who are physically and mentally able to fast abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, and the meal that is taken early in the morning before the fast begins is called Suhoor.
Ramadan is a time for Muslims to engage in more spiritual activities, such as prayer, Quran recitation, and charity work. Muslims are encouraged to read the Quran in its entirety during the month of Ramadan, as it is believed that the first verses of the Quran were revealed during this month.
Ramadan is not only a time for individual spiritual reflection but also a time for community and family bonding. Muslims often gather with family and friends to break their fasts together in the evenings and attend special congregational prayers, known as Tarawih, at night.
Ramadan lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon, and it concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr is a joyous celebration that marks the end of the month of fasting and is a time for Muslims to come together and celebrate with family and friends.
In summary, Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting and heightened spiritual devotion for Muslims worldwide. It serves as a time for self-reflection, charity, prayer, and community bonding. Ramadan is a significant event in the Islamic calendar and is observed by millions of Muslims worldwide.
Ramadan
In the month of Ramadan, we seek to purify
Our souls and hearts, and draw nearer to the Most High
With fasting, prayer, and good deeds galore
We strive to be better than ever before
As the sun rises, we begin our fast
With suhoor, a meal that will surely last
Till the sun sets, and we break our fast with glee
With dates and water, or whatever we decree
In this blessed month, the Quran was revealed
A guide for all humanity, to be healed
Of their sins and shortcomings, and to turn
Towards the One, who alone can make us yearn
For a better life, and a more peaceful way
Of living, and treating others, night and day
Ramadan is a time to reflect and renew
Our faith, our purpose, and our love for You
O Allah, guide us through this blessed month
And help us to follow Your commands, with ease and not in angst
Grant us forgiveness, and Your mercy so true
And bless us with Your grace, in all we say and do
Ramadan Mubarak to all, in this time of renewal
May our hearts be filled with gratitude, and our spirits a jewel
The saying "a friend in need is a friend indeed" is a common adage that highlights the importance of true friendship. This phrase suggests that a true friend is one who is there for us during our times of need and provides us with the right support, comfort, and encouragement we need to get through difficult times.
Friends are an essential part of our lives. They are the people we turn to when we need someone to talk to, to laugh with, or to share our joys and sorrows with. However, not all friends are created equal. Some friends are merely acquaintances, while others are true friends. True friends are the ones who stand by us no matter what, through thick and thin.
A friend in need is a friend indeed means that a true friend is one who is there for us when we need them the most. It means that a friend who is willing to help us in times of difficulty is a true friend. Such friends are the ones who stick with us through the ups and downs of life, providing us with the comfort support we need to get through tough times.
True friends are not just there for us when everything is going well. They are there for us when things are falling apart too. They are the ones who offer a shoulder to cry on when we are feeling down, provide us with words of encouragement when we feel like giving up, and lend us a helping hand when we need it the most.
A true friend is someone who cares about us and our well-being. They are not just there for us when we need them, but they are also willing to go the extra mile to help us out. They are the ones who will take time out of their busy schedule to come and visit us in the hospital when we are sick, or they will take care of our children when we need to attend an urgent meeting.
Moreover, true friends are the ones who don't judge us for our mistakes or shortcomings. They are the ones who accept us for who we are, flaws and all. They understand that we are not perfect and are willing to forgive us when we make mistakes. They are also the ones who offer us constructive criticism when we need it, but do so in a kind and loving way.
Finally, the phrase "a friend in need is a friend indeed" holds a significant meaning for many people. It highlights the importance of true friendship and reminds us that we should cherish and appreciate the friends who are there for us when we need them the most. True friends are hard to find, but once we have found them, they are worth their weight in gold. They are the ones who make life more meaningful and enjoyable, and they help us become better versions of ourselves. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate and maintain such relationships, as they are a source of happiness, support, and comfort throughout our lives.
A friend in need is a friend indeed,
A steadfast guide in times of need.
A helping hand, a listening ear,
A soul to soothe, a heart to cheer.
A true friend is a precious gem,
A priceless treasure beyond all them.
They lift us up when we are down,
And stand by us through every frown.
They share our joys and ease our pain,
They make our world a better place.
Their company is a warm embrace,
A light that shines on darkest days.
A friend in need is a friend indeed,
A bond that grows with every deed.
May we cherish and hold them near,
For they are the ones we hold so dear.
Friendship Song
(Verse 1)
When the world gets heavy And you feel so lost and alone Just remember that you have a friend Someone who'll help you carry on
(Chorus) A friend in need is a friend indeed Someone who'll stand by your side Through thick and thin, through good and bad They'll be there, a true friend to guide
(Verse 2) In the darkest of nights When the stars refuse to shine You can count on your friend To be your light, to be your sign
(Chorus) A friend in need is a friend indeed Someone who'll stand by your side Through thick and thin, through good and bad They'll be there, a true friend to guide
(Bridge) And when you feel like giving up And you can't take it anymore Your friend will be there to lift you up To help you reach for something more
(Chorus) A friend in need is a friend indeed Someone who'll stand by your side Through thick and thin, through good and bad They'll be there, a true friend to guide
(Outro) So hold on tight to your friends Treasure them, and never let them go For a friend in need is a friend indeed And they'll be there, through highs and lows.
It was with great excitement that the citizens of Melaka received the news of the arrival of our esteemed 10th Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, to the Pay Fong Middle School, Melaka. For the first time, the Prime Minister visited the school to officially inaugurate the Open House celebrating the Lunar New Year 2023. The school was alight with festivities, as students, staff, and local residents gathered to mark the start of a new year.
The Prime Minister arrived in the evening, accompanied by his team. The school grounds were filled with a sea of eager faces, all waiting to catch a glimpse of our esteemed leader. Red and gold decorations adorned the walls, and Chinese lanterns swayed in the gentle breeze, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The scent of traditional foods filled the air, and the sounds of festive music echoed through the grounds, filling all present with joy and excitement.
The Prime Minister was greeted with rapturous applause as he took the stage to address the gathered crowd. In his speech, he spoke of the importance of embracing one's cultural roots, and the power of diversity. He emphasized the need for people to come together and celebrate their differences, for it is these differences that make us unique and special. The Prime Minister also spoke of the significance of the Lunar New Year, a time for renewal and hope for a bright future.
The festivities continued throughout the evening, with residents and guests feasting on traditional foods and drinks, and enjoying performances by local artists and musicians. Children laughed and played games, while families and friends caught up with one another, exchanging well wishes for the new year.
As the day came to a close, the Prime Minister took his leave, but the celebration continued into the night. The Open House at Pay Fong Middle School, Melaka, was indeed a celebration of community, diversity, and hope. It was a day filled with joy and the promise of a bright future for the citizens of Melaka. And for those who were in attendance, it was a day that shall forever be remembered with fondness and delight.
In the heart of Melaka, a school stands proud and bright,
Pay Fong Middle School, where children learn and play with delight.
Today, a special day, for the first time, the 10th Prime Minister came,
To officialize the Open House, a celebration in his name.
Anwar Ibrahim, a leader with a vision so true,
Came to celebrate with residents, in the spirit of renewal.
The Open House, a symbol of unity, peace and mirth,
Bringing people together, to welcome in the New Year with girth.
The school was decorated, with red and gold so bright,
Symbols of prosperity, and a future filled with light.
Food and music filled the air, a tapestry of delight,
As people laughed and played, in this magical night.
The Prime Minister spoke, his words wise and kind,
Of the importance of culture, and the beauty that we can find.
He emphasized the power, of embracing our roots,
And the strength in diversity, a message both poignant and astute.
So here's to the Prime Minister, and Pay Fong Middle School,
For reminding us of the beauty, in diversity as a whole.
For bringing people together, in a celebration of life,
And for spreading joy, peace and happiness, without any strife.
As the festivities wind down, and the night comes to a close,
We leave with hearts full, and memories that we'll never lose.
We'll carry on the spirit, of this Open House tonight,
And embrace each other, with love, understanding and light.
So here's to the New Year, and the joy it brings,
May it be filled with hope, and all good things.
And here's to the future, with Anwar Ibrahim at the helm,
May it be filled with progress, and a nation that's proud and strong.
