A Sarawak uncle hosts a private halal CNY open house for his Malay friend, even buying new cutlery. Netizens call the 40-year friendship “so wholesome.”
A heartwarming Chinese New Year celebration in Sarawak is winning praise online after a Malaysian Chinese uncle organised a private open house exclusively for his longtime Malay friend and his family — going as far as preparing halal food and purchasing brand new cutlery to ensure they felt comfortable.
The touching story was shared by the uncle’s son, Joseph, through a video post that quickly resonated with netizens.
According to Joseph, the friendship between the two men dates back four decades to when they first met at work — under less-than-ideal circumstances.
The pair had initially clashed and “almost got into a fight.” Yet 40 years on, what began as tension has transformed into an enduring bond built on mutual respect and loyalty.
“One sends pineapples from his farm, my dad’s favourite, and the other does impromptu open houses,” Joseph wrote, describing the simple but meaningful ways the two friends show up for each other.
Although Joseph’s parents had not hosted an open house in years, this year was different. They decided to revive the tradition — not for the crowds, but for one special family.
From carefully sourcing halal dishes to buying brand new cutlery specifically for their guests, the gesture reflected thoughtful consideration and a deep understanding of one another’s faith and customs.
“Only in Sarawak. Truly the land of love,” he added.
The story has since struck a chord with many Malaysians, who praised the sincerity behind the gesture and pointed to it as a reminder that genuine friendship can transcend race, religion and even rocky first impressions.
One user called jannahana_nur shared: “Love this!! Thanks for sharing these beautiful moments of yours!”
“Aw, a brand new cutlery! The level of understanding!” nssykrhzln gushed, while sidqi_jr commented, ‘Salute the efforts of getting new cutleries. Didn’t have to but did anyway to eliminate all doubts.”
“This is so wholesome. Happy Chinese New Year to all of you,” thee_ow wrote.
The Sun Malaysia
