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THIS past year has tested the world in ways few of us could have imagined. It has tested my family too. I am still recovering from a heart transplant — a journey marked by moments of fear, resilience, and grace — while also finding the strength to return and rebuild parts of my companies after nearly two years of absence.
These personal trials unfolded against a global backdrop of economic strain, war, terrorism, and unspeakable human suffering.
There is no polite language that can soften the pain inflicted by conflict and disaster, particularly the devastation endured by the innocents caught in the crosswinds of history.
And yet — even in the darkest nights — dawn still comes.
As Malaysians, we chose hope. We chose faith in the idea that fear, race-baiting, ignorance, and hatred do not define us. Those tired narratives were rejected, and in their place, many found a renewed sense of belonging and purpose.
With the re-emergence and strengthening of Sarawak and Sabah — long the quiet guardians of our nation’s true identity and aspirations — the Malaysian soul feels protected, for now.
But we must never be complacent. Power-hungry voices do not rest, and neither can we. Vigilance matters. So does pragmatism. In moments like these, it is pragmatic idealism — not loud dogma — that will carry us forward.
There is something profoundly different about this season. For a brief, precious window each year, we step away from our baser instincts and turn toward what makes us human.
We lean toward the light. We search for the best in ourselves and in one another — and, remarkably, we often find it. We begin to listen to the better angels of our nature.
This spirit was on full display when floods and landslides struck our communities. Malaysians did not ask who you were, what you believed, or where you came from.
They simply showed up — to rescue, to feed, to comfort, to save lives. In those moments, our unity was not theoretical; it was lived.
I do not know what awaits us beyond this life. Having brushed the edge of it more than once, I admit I am still no wiser. But I do know this: I love what I have here, now. I love this life, this country, these people. And I choose to celebrate it — every single day.
Because the sun will always rise again. Each morning brings renewed hope and a fresh chance to do better than we did yesterday.
To my friends, and to all who — regardless of faith — use this season to celebrate life, gratitude, and joy, and who look toward the coming year with hope: I wish you a Christmas, a holiday season, and a new year filled with love, forgiveness, compassion, and the warmth of family.
May the Almighty, in all His mystery and mercy, bless us all — and bless Malaysia.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to one and all, from me, Winy, Petra, and Tara. - December 25, 2025
Datuk Dr Vinod Sekhar is the publisher of the Vibes and Chairman of the Petra Group
