To improve sense of belonging to a community sometimes we are required to identify ourselves with traditions and when the time comes we introduce new traditions ourselves as part of the cycle.
For example both workplaces previous and current doesn’t have a way for the team to mark or remember members who left until I introduced the pin badges with words “_name_, thank you for your service”. Up till now, we printed four badges and the team appreciates it when I handout the badges to each of them – we got to chat about it and then they go pay a visit to the person leaving the organization.
Another example is that we’d book the photographer studio on the first day of Aidilfitri for a formal family photo because its a rare occasion to have all the members present and wearing out best traditional attires and later on it became a booming business for the small town studio with other families of neighbors also following suit.
At the age of thirty eight, it was my first time having to be invited to a Lou Sang or Yee Sang dinner to celebrate the coming of Chinese New Year – I just got to know today that it was not a tradition from China but was invented by a Malaysian Chinese from the Loke clan about forty years ago.
In conclusion, the invention of new traditions is a powerful tool for improving the sense of belonging within communities. By creating rituals and practices that reflect contemporary identities, values, and aspirations, societies can foster inclusivity, strengthen social bonds, and cultivate a profound sense of belonging among their members. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, embracing innovation and creativity in our traditions can help us build more connected, inclusive, and resilient communities.
By Mohd Firdaus Rahiman