KOTA KINABALU: The annual Gaya Christmas Celebration 2013 ended yesterday with prayers and fireworks display.
Thousands of visitors also witnessed various stage performances at Lintasan Deasoka, starting from 5.30pm until 11pm.
President of Sabah Council of Church, Bishop Dr Thomas Tsen said Christmas is a worldwide celebration and it is a remembrance of the birth of Jesus Christ.
“In this Christmas, I want to remind all off us to hold on to our beliefs, and at the same time respect others.
“In Malaysia, our first Rukunegara is believing in God. We should be thankful for being given the freedom to practise our religion. We must appreciate that,” he said at the closing ceremony yesterday.
Also present was Kota Kinabalu City Hall Director General Datuk Yeo Boon Hai.
The stage performances before the closing prayer were performed by Methodist Church and Youth fellowship and also singing by Keys To Music Ukulele Group and DBKK Choir.
Three welfare homes, Grace Old Folk Home, Rumah Agape Kundasang and Faith Caring Home also received donation from the organizer.
The closing prayer was led by president of Sabah Provisional Annual Conference, The Methodist Church in Malaysia, Rev Dr Hii Kong Hock.
The guests at the carnival also had the chance to purchase various goods sold by hawkers at Gaya Street in conjunction with the event.