CHURCHES across Malaysia marked Palm Sunday with traditional rites, ushering in the start of Holy Week, the most significant period in the Christian calendar.
At the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Kuala Lumpur, Archbishop Julian Leow celebrated the 11 am Mass with parish priest Fr Gerard Theraviam.
In his homily, the archbishop called on the congregation to continue praying for peace in the world and to always be ready to reach out to those in need.
At the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes (OLL) in Klang, parishioners assembled early in the morning for the customary blessing of palm leaves before taking part in a procession into the church.
The observance began at 8 am with congregants gathering outside Wisma Lourdes, where the palms were blessed ahead of a short ceremonial procession.
Parish priest Reverend Fr Gregory Chan led the blessing, assisted by Fr Simon Agbo from Nigeria.
Palm Sunday commemorates the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where he was received as the Messiah, and marks the beginning of Holy Week, culminating in Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
This year, Maundy Thursday, which commemorates the Last Supper, falls on April 2, followed by Good Friday on April 3, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Easter Sunday, celebrating the resurrection, will be observed on April 5. - March 29, 2026
