Naw-Rúz Celebration at the Baha’i National Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Young World Federalists
- May 17
- 3 min read
YWF Malaysia organiser Dr. Amirul Haikal is embarking on a tour of spiritual and religious sites to foster unity and cross-cultural understanding in Malaysia and across the globe. This initiative, called the 'One World Project', is supported by YWF Members who voted to allocate approximately $600 USD to the tour.
On May 10, 2025, Dr. Amirul received a special invitation to attend the Naw-Rúz celebration, the New Year festival in the Baha’i Faith, held at the Baha’i National Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Although this celebration is traditionally observed in March in conjunction with the spring equinox, it was postponed due to several logistical and community-related factors and was instead joyfully celebrated on this later date.
The event was further honoured by the presence of Mr. Tan Kim Huat, Deputy Secretary of the Division for Social Integration and Nationhood from Malaysia's Ministry of National Unity, symbolising the country’s commitment to bridging gaps between religions and cultures in pursuit of global unity.
The presence of government representatives at events like this elevates the dignity of minority religions and paves the way for more productive bilateral relations between faith communities and public institutions.
A Spiritual Journey Beyond Borders
Amirul’s presence at this event is part of the “Spiritual Tour,” an initiative by YWF Malaysia and a personal spiritual mission undertaken by Amirul to engage with and understand various religions and belief systems across Malaysia and the region. Through this Spiritual Tour, Amirul has visited numerous houses of worship from different faiths, with a sincere intention to foster mutual understanding, express universal love, and revive the spirit of global solidarity.
As a token of appreciation and a memento of the interfaith connection established, Amirul presented a commemorative plaque to the Baha’i community of Malaysia. This plaque not only symbolises respect for the uniqueness of the Baha’i teachings but also serves as a manifestation of the values of unity championed through every step of the Spiritual Tour.
Interestingly, through the Spiritual Tour initiative, many participants, whether directly or indirectly involved, have begun to recognise the role of the Young World Federalists (YWF), a global movement that advocates for human unity beyond national borders and ideological divisions, in which Dr. Amirul actively serves.
What was once unfamiliar to some is now becoming understood and appreciated, thanks to the gentle and compassionate approach brought by Dr. Amirul. The Spiritual Tour has become a bridge connecting the spiritual realm with global unity advocacy efforts, making his presence at spiritual centres not merely symbolic but truly transformative.
Understanding Naw-Rúz and the Baha’i Teachings
During the Naw-Rúz celebration itself, Dr. Amirul was honoured with the opportunity to learn more about the origins and development of the Baha’i Faith. This religion was founded by Bahá’u’lláh in the 19th century in Persia (now Iran), with core principles emphasising the unity of humanity, interfaith harmony, and universal justice.
Naw-Rúz, meaning “New Day” in Persian, is the Baha’i New Year celebration observed on or around March 21 each year, aligning with the spring equinox. Spiritually, it marks a sacred time of renewal and new beginnings, bringing to a close the 19-Day Fast observed by Baha’i worldwide. This special occasion invites individuals to reflect deeply, express gratitude, and renew their commitment to spiritual growth and meaningful living.
Though the celebration is often marked with simplicity, its essence is rich in spiritual significance. The atmosphere during Naw-Rúz is one of warmth, reflection, and unity. The Baha’i community welcomes guests with sincere hospitality, embodying their core teachings of unity in diversity and fellowship among all people. It is a time not only for personal renewal but also for strengthening communal bonds and reaffirming the shared values of peace, justice, and oneness.
Amirul said: "I was deeply honoured to be invited to the Naw-Rúz celebration organised by the Baha’i community of Malaysia at the National Baha’i Centre. Although this celebration is traditionally held in March, the spiritual essence remained strong despite the rescheduling. The presence of an official representative from the Ministry of National Unity highlighted the nation's commitment to fostering interfaith and intercultural harmony.
As part of my ongoing Spiritual Tour with YWF Malaysia, this experience offered me a profound opportunity to learn more about the Baha’i Faith, which emphasises the unity of humanity, interreligious harmony, and universal justice. Recognised under the umbrella of the United Nations, the Baha’i Faith stands as a testament to how spirituality can serve as a bridge toward global peace.
I call upon all Malaysians and the global community to embrace greater openness in understanding the diverse beliefs around us. Differences should not be seen as barriers but as doorways to love, understanding, and the unity of humankind. Together, let us build a world where every faith and culture contributes to a shared vision of peace and compassion.”
