KUCHING: At the Indonesian Consulate’s Christmas celebration in Kuching, Indonesians from different parts of the country shared their experiences of celebrating Christmas away from home, speaking about unity, gratitude and finding a sense of belonging in Sarawak.
Lee Khay Seng, 55, from Surabaya
Sarawak is peaceful, with strong unity among people of different religions. After 15 years here, he feels happy as his family now lives with him. Although he misses Christmas with family in Surabaya, celebrating with the Indonesian community remains meaningful.
Elisabet Firctoria Fratacosta Firda, 25, from West Kalimantan
Christmas in Sarawak as joyful and special. While she feels sad being far from family, spending time with friends from her hometown makes it feel like having a new family. She noted that Christmas here focuses more on togetherness among migrants.
Yuliana Uskono, 43, from Kupang
Meeting old friends brings her great happiness. She appreciates Sarawak for its kindness and lack of discrimination. While she misses celebrating with family in Indonesia, she values the support and prayers shared among friends here.
Ignasius Majeng (Eghy) from Flores
Celebrating with fellow Indonesians makes him feel at home. After 11 years in Sarawak, he described his experiences as positive and considers Kuching his second home. Although Christmas is livelier in Indonesia with family, it remains meaningful here. He hopes for good health, smooth work and fulfilled goals in the coming year.
