By Selva Manogary
SEREMBAN – Faith and culture converged in Kampung Tekir as the Orang Asli shared their traditions and joy, reminding all that the Jubilee belongs to every child of God. The village came alive on Sep 7, as Gereja Maria Bonda hosted a triple celebration — Jubilee for the Orang Asli; the 124th anniversary of Pesta Maria Bonda, and Sambutan Orang Asal. More than a parish milestone, it was a Jubilee of grace for the Orang Asli community, affirming that they are cherished sons and daughters of the Church, fully part of its journey of faith.
The church, adorned with fresh flowers and traditional decorations, welcomed hundreds of faithful for the celebration. Archbishop Julian Leow presided over the Holy Mass, with Fr Christopher Soosaipillai and Fr Edwin Peter concelebrating. In his homily, Archbishop Julian spoke from the heart, recalling how his vocation to the priesthood was first stirred as a 17-year-old fifth former, during a visit to this very parish. Though it would take him 15 years to answer God’s call, he shared that the people, the church, and the sacred grounds of Gereja Maria Bonda have always remained close to him — a testament to the seeds of faith sown here long ago.
After Mass, the faithful joined in a solemn three-kilometre procession through Kampung Tekir, carrying candles and praying the Rosary with one voice. Accompanied by the statue of Mother Mary and the Blessed Sacrament, the walk was a moving expression of devotion and solidarity, culminating in Benediction by Archbishop Julian.
The celebration flowed naturally into a feast, where traditional Orang Asli delicacies were joyfully shared alongside familiar favourites. The table of fellowship was a reminder that the Jubilee is not only about remembering the past but also about embracing one another in the present. Cultural performances of traditional dances and songs by Orang Asli communities from Kg Belihoi, Mantin; Kg Sebir, Seremban; Kg Bukit Kepong, Port Dickson; and Kg Tekir added colour and vibrancy, weaving their heritage into the fabric of the celebration.
Speaking on behalf of community leader Roslan Kandong, vice leader Lela Telan expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, Archbishop Julian, the priests, and all who took part in the celebration.
The evening’s highlight came with the joyous “Ting Ting” line dance, which brought together young and old, parishioners and clergy alike — even Archbishop Julian himself joined with laughter and energy. In that dance, one could glimpse the spirit of Jubilee: a Church that celebrates together, where no one is left out. – Herald Malaysia
