TRADITION AMID TURMOIL
Postgraduate student Samin Alami has lived in Malaysia since she was nine.
This year, the 26-year-old, who studies English literature at the University of Malaya, took the lead in preparing the traditional Haft-seen table — a centrepiece of Nowruz featuring seven symbolic items beginning with the Persian letter “S”.
She explained that each item carries meaning, from apples representing health and garlic symbolising spirituality, to coins for prosperity and vinegar reflecting patience and wisdom. Together, they represent hope and renewal for the year ahead.
The display also includes tulips, sweets, candles and the Quran — all integral to the 14-day Nowruz celebration which began on Mar 20 this year.
Tulips, she noted, hold deep emotional significance in Iranian culture, often associated with sacrifice and loss throughout the country’s history.
While her own family and friends back home are largely safe, her thoughts are with those – especially women and children – who continue to suffer.
“I really hope that peace can come to my country because Iran is such a beautiful country with intelligent people,” said Alami.
“It always makes me emotional. But most of all, I wish for peace.”
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/iranian-community-malaysia-persian-new-year-war-conflict-6033256
