Festive seasons often provide an opportunity for reflection, gratitude and the strengthening of relationships within a community. At UNIMAS Global, the tradition of sharing blessings during major celebrations continues to play an important role in fostering a caring and inclusive workplace culture.
In conjunction with the upcoming Eid Al Fitr celebration, the Director of UNIMAS Global, Mr Thian Foong Fatt, presented Eid gifts to staff members who celebrate the occasion. Although simple in nature, the gesture carries meaningful value as colleagues come together to acknowledge the joy and significance of the festive season following the holy month of Ramadhan.
Such initiatives highlight the spirit of diversity, unity and mutual respect within the UNIMAS community. In a workplace where individuals come from different cultural and religious backgrounds, celebrating one another’s traditions creates a stronger sense of understanding and appreciation. These shared moments allow staff members to connect beyond their professional roles, strengthening the sense of belonging within the organisation.
From a workplace perspective, small gestures of appreciation can also contribute positively to staff motivation and morale. In organisational behaviour and motivation theories, recognition and appreciation are often identified as important elements that encourage engagement and satisfaction at work. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the sense of belonging and recognition plays a crucial role in motivating individuals, as people naturally seek appreciation and meaningful connections within their community.
Similarly, Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory suggests that recognition and appreciation act as motivating factors that enhance job satisfaction and encourage positive attitudes towards work. While festive gifts may appear symbolic, they represent acknowledgement and care from leadership, reinforcing the idea that employees are valued members of the organisation.
In the context of Eid Al Fitr, the act of giving and sharing reflects values deeply rooted in compassion, generosity and gratitude. These values align closely with the broader goals of building a supportive and harmonious workplace environment. By recognising festive occasions and celebrating together, organisations help cultivate a culture of empathy, unity and shared happiness.
Beyond the celebration itself, traditions like these also contribute to a positive organisational climate. When employees feel appreciated and included, they are more likely to demonstrate stronger commitment, cooperation and enthusiasm in their work. This ultimately strengthens teamwork and encourages a collaborative environment that benefits the entire organisation.
As UNIMAS continues to grow as a global university community, initiatives such as this remind us that strong organisations are built not only through professional achievements but also through human connection and shared values. By celebrating diversity and fostering appreciation among colleagues, UNIMAS Global continues to nurture a workplace culture grounded in respect, understanding and unity.
Mohd Ilham Abdullah, Head of Mobility, UNIMAS Global.
Mohd Ilham Abdullah has over five years of experience at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). He previously served as Head of International Student Affairs and is currently serving as Head of Mobility, where he supports inbound and outbound mobility programmes, international student engagement, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen UNIMAS’s global presence