When December rolls around, there's a special kind of excitement that fills the air in Borneo. Since November, the Christmas decoration already up here almost everywhere. This year will be our first time in Borneo in early December. Before this, we still in Semenanjung and counting days going back to Borneo and pening kepala memikirkan harga ticket yang semakin hari semakin naik. Usually, during this timing, we already secured our flight tickets and looking for extra money to do christmas preparation.
Christmas season in this part of the world truly magical. As someone who lives in Borneo, the preparation for Christmas here is always a delightful experience – a mix of tradition, culture, and togetherness.
Some of you maybe curious, how we Borneo people do Christmas preparations? Is it like Western people do? Here let me share with you guys.
Decorating the Home
The first sign that Christmas is near is the transformation of homes. In many households, families take out their artificial Christmas trees and boxes of ornaments, passed down through generations. You'll see homes adorned with beautiful decorations.
In villages, the community spirit is strong. Neighbors help each other hang fairy lights along verandas, fences, and trees. At night, the twinkling lights create a warm glow that brings joy to the whole neighborhood. The spirit of "gotong-royong" (cooperation) truly shines during these moments of preparation.
Church Services and Carolling
In the days leading up to Christmas, attending church services and joining carolling sessions are beloved traditions. Choir groups often visit homes to spread Christmas cheer through song. In some communities, you'll even find carollers dressed in traditional attire, blending culture and festivity beautifully.
The midnight mass on Christmas Eve is a significant event for many families. It’s a time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and be grateful for the blessings of the year. I personally love Christmas Eve as we will sing Silent Night together at church with candle in our hand.
Shopping and Gift-Giving
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, local markets and malls are bustling with shoppers looking for gifts. From handmade crafts to delicious local treats, there's no shortage of unique and meaningful presents. One of my favorite places to shop is the local Christmas bazaars where you can find everything from handmade bags to homemade cookies.
Many families here also uphold the tradition of "Secret Santa" or "exchange gifts." It's always fun to pick out something special for your loved ones and witness their joy when they unwrap their surprise.
Gift giving is not compulsory, you can do it if you want or can afford it.
Like other big festive in Malaysia, we love doing Christmas shopping since it's year end sale everywhere. But, again it's NOT MUST things to do.
Preparing Traditional Foods
Of course, no Christmas preparation is complete without food! In Borneo, Christmas feasts are a beautiful mix of traditional and local flavors. Depending on which part of Borneo you’re in, the menu might include selukong, grilled meats. I did shared about food that MUST have during Christmas HERE. Check it out!
Christmas Eve is often dedicated to cooking and baking. Families come together to prepare dishes while sharing stories, laughters. Cookies like semperit, kuih makmur and pineapple tarts are baked in batches to be shared with guests who visit during the holidays.
The Joy of Togetherness
Ultimately, what makes Christmas preparation in Borneo so special is the sense of togetherness. Whether it's decorating homes, cooking feasts, or attending church services, everything is done with a spirit of unity and love.
The beauty of diverse cultures in Borneo means that everyone, regardless of background, comes together to celebrate and share in the joy.
As I prepare for Christmas here, I am reminded of how these simple traditions fill our hearts with warmth and gratitude. Christmas in Borneo is more than just a holiday – it's a time of connection, reflection, and joy.
How do you prepare for Christmas? I'd love to hear about your traditions and memories!
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