JITRA: Christmas has always been a special time for Muhammad Ayman Joshua Abdullah, 34, and his conversion to Islam 17 years ago has not changed that.
Ayman remains as excited as ever to celebrate the festivities with his elderly mother, J. Roslind, 71, and his three siblings.
"In the week leading up to Christmas, I decorate the house, set up ornaments on the Christmas tree, and help my mother with tasks like putting up curtains and tidying the house while waiting for my siblings to return," he said at the family home in Taman Pasu.
"Every Aidilfitri, I'm usually working, but my mother still joins me in celebrating Raya," said the bachelor, who lives with his mother.
"For me, every celebration is the same; only the religion differs," added Ayman, a tow truck driver.
On Christmas morning, Ayman accompanies his mother, a devout Christian, to church in Alor Star.
"While she attends prayers, I wait outside. Once the service is over, we return home to prepare food for guests.
"I invite friends, including many who are Muslim, to enjoy the food we've prepared. Every year, many friends come over," he said.
This year, the family is opting for a modest celebration as Roslind has been coping with a heart condition.
"All the cookies, pastries, and festive dishes are pre-ordered this year. My sister and younger sibling usually handle the cooking, but this time we're keeping things simple.
"My sister from Johor, my brother from Kuala Lumpur, and my youngest sister from Bertam, Penang, have all returned home to celebrate Christmas together. I am thankful for that," Ayman shared.
Ayman has taken a break from work to spend time with his family.
Roslind, a retired civil servant, said her children's happiness and well-being remain her top priority.
"Ayman's choice of faith does not change that. He will always be my son.
"Every year, we celebrate just as we always have. The only difference this time is that I need more rest due to my health. Otherwise, I would have prepared my signature lamb curry for my children and guests," she said.