Page 84 - A Study of Traditional Chinese Religions in Malaysia: The Decline and the Path Towards Revitalization

cases in Sibu… when the parents are seriously ill, their children will convert them without
seeking their permission” These actions indicate non-TCR organizations’ effort such as the

Christian churches are intense. Besides targeting the family members of the converts, the
churches are also very diligent in proselytizing their religion to unknown people.

Besides recruitment, schools are used by Christian missionaries to proselytize
Christianity. In these schools, non-Muslim students are required to attend Bible classes and
prayer recital sessions. As mentioned by Mr LI, “Kids are asked to practice what they have

learned such as reciting prayers before their meals. Slowly, they will be converted.”. His view
reflects the point that through such methods, the Church schools have effectively converted
many students to Christianity. Peer pressure is also causing many children studying in

missionary schools to convert to Christianity. Mr. LI had this experience. He relayed his
experience, “During my school days, in every weekly assembly, the headmaster would lead
a prayer session. Most of my schoolmates were Christians and they would pray. For us, the

non-Christians, we felt pressured. Everybody would be looking at us…”

5.4.2 Mastery of the Chinese language

The decline in Chinese language proficiency was also highlighted as one of the reasons that
has caused the Chinese to convert to non-TCR. As mentioned by Mr LO, “Nowadays in the
national education curriculum, the Mandarin subject is no longer a major subject. This will

cause the younger generation to be unable to gain more understanding of their traditional
culture.” Mr WO from Temple C shared a similar view as Mr LO. He said, “Nowadays many
Chinese are not familiar with Mandarin. It will be difficult for them to gain an understanding

of our teachings.”

5.4.3 Chinese families no longer continuing Chinese traditional practices

Due to exposure to modernity and the urban lifestyle, many Chinese families have
abandoned many traditional Chinese religious rituals. This includes celebrating traditional
Chinese festivities and adhering to TCR rituals. As mentioned by Mr LO, “A child will follow

their parent's path. If their family aren’t practicing the traditional Chinese religion teaching,
the children will not do so too.”

5.4.4 Activities and church image as the main attractions for the youths

According to the points picked up from the discussions, non-TCR organizations such as
Christian churches have successfully developed their image as religious institutions that are

contemporary and capable of meeting current expectations. They create events and

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