RELIGION IN MALAYSIA

Do you know what these religious symbols are?

The multi-religious society The population of Malaysia is a mixture of cultures and religious traditions. Research the main 5 religions represented in Malaysia. What percentage of the population belong to each religion? What is the official religion of Malaysia?

Task Watch the film (up to 7 minutes) and answer the questions on your sheet. Tamil Indian dancer

The Hindu community The majority of Indians in Malaysia are immigrants from Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu

Arrival The Tamils were originally sent to Malaysia by the British as labourers. Many settled after British rule. Tamil workers allowed Malaysian economy to boom, but the wellbeing of the workers was overlooked… Today, decent education for Tamil children is provided so the Tamils are not trapped in poverty. Now watch the film from 7 mins. When you get to 10m30s, skip to 13 mins. Stop at 14 mins 30 secs. m/watch?v=I1hOInQlcu M

Discussion question What are some issues people may face living in a multi-ethnic society? What are some positive aspects of having a multi-ethnic society.

Now let’s look at some of the beliefs and values the Indians brought with them to Malaysia… The goddess Pavarthi – Batu Caves

Indians brought Hinduism to Malaysia Can you remember what this symbol means?

The Hindu faith Belief in the Ultimate Reality, the source of everything, BRAHMAN BRAHMAN is experienced in different way, as BrahmaVishnuShiva The CreatorThe Preserver The Destroyer

Key Hindu beliefs You will be writing definitions for each word in bold Everything dies and is reborn (reincarnation) This cycle of birth, death and rebirth is called samsara That is why there is a creator, a preserver and a destroyer, so that everything can be destroyed and remade again and again. These three deities, the Trimurti, are personified cosmic functions of creation. Hindus strive to reach Moksha, when the soul is freed from the body and lives on for eternity.

Key Hindu Festival – Diwali (Deepavali) The festival of lights Deepavali dancing This festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over dark, knowledge over ignorance. It is celebrated in all Hindu cultures, as well as other Indian cultures. Have a look at the Diwali dancers in Malaysia.

Now complete the worksheet ‘what did Indians bring to Malaysia?’