Part 8/10:
The Human Toll and the Hope for Reunification
Many Malaysians abroad, including those in Singapore and East Malaysia, face disappointment as travel bans prevent them from returning home. For example, Ho Chin Shin, who usually celebrates in Sarawak, cannot travel due to quarantine requirements and flight cancellations. To cope, some Malaysian communities organize virtual gatherings and open houses—an adaptation that mirrors traditional hospitality.
Healthcare workers and frontline staff, like Ung, continue to prioritize safety, opting to celebrate with colleagues instead of family to avoid transmission risks. Meanwhile, many people express a profound sense of loss and longing, with frequent video calls serving as their only link to loved ones during this year's holiday.