Chinese couple's Malay wedding celebrates unity, harmony
SHAH ALAM : You could be forgiven for assuming it was a Malay wedding – the bride and groom in traditional songket, escorted by the rhythmic beat of kompang drums; a reception showcasing traditional elements such as the 'salam restu' (blessing ceremony), 'bersanding' (sitting in state), 'makan beradab' (formal dining), and a series of cultural dance performances that culminated in a lively joget lambak.
Yet, at the centre of the festivities was a Chinese couple who chose to mark their special day with a Malay-themed wedding.
According to Chang Jeff Sun, 31, the celebration had been a dream for him and his bride, Ng Sow Gee, as they have long been captivated by the uniqueness of Malay traditions.
'In Malaysia, we grow up immersed in diverse cultures and, to me, Malay culture holds a special place. I wanted to embrace that experience on the happiest day of my life,' he told Bernama at the celebration held at the Magical Grand Hall in Star Avenue mall here recently.
Ng, also known as Eva, was equally thrilled and quickly agreed to immortalise their special day with a celebration that embodies Malaysia's cultural inclusivity.
'This is my first time wearing a full traditional outfit, complete with a hairpiece. It was challenging but totally worth it because the look turned out absolutely beautiful,' the 32-year-old said.
Meanwhile, the groom's mother, Chen Bee Kheng, described the event as the realisation of a long-held dream.
'Malaysians are like one big family. We live close to a Malay community… I've long had the wish to hold a wedding in the style of a Malay kenduri for my eldest son,' she said.
The event was attended by their family and friends from diverse backgrounds, who were thrilled to witness how culture could unite people in a celebration of love and togetherness, reflecting the nation's unique identity.
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