RELIGIOUS PRACTICES AMONG MALAYSIAS DIVERSE SOCIETY

Abstract

Religious practices in Malaysian society are an important aspect of their daily lives. Malaysia is a multicultural and multireligious country, with Islam being the predominant religion, while Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism are also recognized. In the religious practices in Malaysia, there are several key features that influence how Malaysian people carry out their religious beliefs.Firstly, Islam is the primary religion in Malaysia, with the majority of the population being Muslims. Islamic practices include performing the five daily prayers, fasting during the month of Ramadan, and adherence to Sharia law.Secondly, there are Buddhist religious practices among the Chinese and Thai communities in Malaysia. They follow Buddhist teachings by attending temples, engaging in meditation, and practicing values such as kindness and simplicity.Thirdly, the Indian community in Malaysia practices Hinduism. They worship various Hindu gods and goddesses through religious ceremonies, such as worship and offerings at Hindu temples. Festivals like Deepavali are also part of their religious practices.Fourthly, Christianity is also present in Malaysian society, especially among the indigenous population and the Chinese minority.They attend churches and perform religious rituals based on Christian teachings, including reading the Bible and celebrating Christmas.Fifthly, there are also minority religions such as Sikhism and traditional religions among the indigenous Orang Asli communities. They practice unique religious rituals based on their beliefs.Religious practices in Malaysia often closely intertwine with local culture and artistic heritage. Additionally, Malaysia celebrates various religious festivals with enthusiasm, reflecting the diversity and tolerance in Malaysian society.This study attempts to examine the overview of religious practices in the diverse society of Malaysia. The research uses qualitative methods involving data collection, data analysis usinghistorical research methodology, and document analysis. The study findings indicate that religious practices in Malaysian society reflect the religious and cultural diversity of the country. Despite differences in religious practices and beliefs, Malaysia has successfully achieved a unique religious harmony where various religious communities coexist peacefully and respect each other. This is a significant feature that enriches Malaysias cultural heritage.