Religion in Malaysia - Chinese Religions

Chinese Religions

See also: Malaysian Chinese religion and Buddhism in Malaysia

Many Malaysian Chinese practice a mixture of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism. Although Buddhism was influential prior to the arrival of Islam, the majority of the current Chinese population arrived during British rule of Malaya. Chinese New Year is celebrated as a national holiday. For many Chinese religion is an essential part of their cultural life. It is rare for any Malaysian Chinese to be a 'pure' follower of a particular belief. Many nominally claim membership in a certain belief, yet respect beliefs from multiple religions into their lives. Traditional Chinese beliefs have become a strong influence in life, and new sects have arisen trying to integrate different religious teachings. Beliefs in Malaysia have also often adopted influence from local animism.

Around 19 per cent of the current population classify themselves as Buddhist. Each religious building is autonomous, and most Malaysian Chinese follow the Mahayana branch. Thai and Sinhalese minorities in Malaysia follow the Therevada branch. A Malaysian Buddhist Council has been created to promote the study and practice of Buddhism and promote solidarity among Malaysian Buddhists. Vesak day is a national holiday, and joint celebrations take place in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor by both branches of Buddhism. Buddhist temples often contain Daoist deities, with most deities being from the Chinese provinces of Guangdong and Fujian. Malaysia has over 150 Daoist temples served by 12000 priest, with the Daoist communities sharing links with those in Taiwan and Mainland China. Although the religion is not as organised as others, a Malaysia Daoist Association was formed in 1995 and a Daoist Organisation League was formed in 1997. A Chinese population known as the Hui people practiced Islam yet retained Chinese culture and have unique traditions. Communities existed in Singapore, Pangkor island, and Sitiawa before the Second World War. The last established community, in Penang, was dispersed when they were evicted from their homes due to development projects.