by Rahim Said
In our diverse and inclusive society, the choice between uttering “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Holidays,” or “Season’s Greetings” may seem like a simple greeting but carries profound implications.
The debate over which phrase to use has become a yearly ritual in some countries, sparking discussions on political correctness and cultural sensitivity.
Opting for “Merry Christmas” is rooted in tradition, reflecting the dominant cultural celebration in Christian nations.
For many, it symbolises a connection to religious or familial customs, fostering a sense of continuity and shared identity.
However, in a multicultural landscape, like Malaysia where various celebrations coincide during the season, the push for inclusivity has led to the rise of more neutral phrases like “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings.”
Choosing the latter options aims at being considerate of the diverse religious and cultural observances that occur around the same time.
Advocates argue that these phrases create an inclusive environment, recognising and respecting the multitude of celebrations beyond Christmas, given the multiethnic population in the country. With Malaysia being predominantly Muslim, the sensitivity surrounding the importance of celebrating Christmas may have escaped those who are not-so-exposed to other faiths.
In December, Kuala Lumpur and many others places in the country are transformed into fairylands of lights and glitter, especially the shopping malls. The KL Pavilion boasts of having the tallest Christmas tree in the nation!
Anyway, I feel that the call for political correctness in holiday greetings is, at its core, an attempt to foster an inclusive and respectful atmosphere.
By opting for neutral expressions, individuals aim at acknowledging the rich tapestry of beliefs that coexist in our globalised world.
However, critics argue that this pursuit of inclusivity may inadvertently dilute the significance of individual traditions, eroding the uniqueness that each celebration holds.
Navigating this complex terrain requires a delicate balance. While political correctness encourages sensitivity, it should not undermine the importance of preserving cultural and religious traditions.
Ultimately, the choice between “Merry Christmas” and more neutral greetings should be a personal one, guided by an understanding of one’s audience and a commitment to promoting unity amid diversity.
In the spirit of the season, perhaps the best approach is to recognise and celebrate the various holidays occurring while being mindful of the diverse perspectives that make our society vibrant and rich.
Whether it’s “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Holidays,” or “Season’s Greetings,” the underlying message should be one of warmth, goodwill, and a shared commitment to understanding and respecting the myriad ways people celebrate during this festive time of year.
Rahim Said is a human behaviourist and a regular contributor on digital media platforms. He is a professional management consultant, a corporate trainer and an executive coach specialising in coaching of senior executives and individual entrepreneurs with the purpose of modifying their behavior in the pursuit of their cherished missions.
WE