The 69 children from Pusat Asuhan Tunas Islam (PASTI) Little Imtiyaz, looking adorable in their green uniforms and skullcaps, were split into groups to visit as many Chinese families as they could in their neighbourhood.

“Happy Chinese New Year uncle, aunty,” they said cheerfully while handing out cakes and kuih that they bought.

PASTI manager Farriz Abd Rahman said they organised the activity to teach the children about community relations and charity, regardless of race or religion.

He added that they organised similar visits for the different festivals every year.

“At the same time, it teaches the children on the rights of their neighbours, regardless of racial or religious differences and the importance of unity in the community.

“When we teach them and ask them to do it (wish and give gifts) they understand quickly how to properly give a gift to their neighbours. If we just tell them without them doing it, they won’t really understand.”

During Muslim celebrations like Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the students will invite their neighbours to PASTI Little Imtiyaz’s open house.

Last year, Farriz said, one of their Chinese neighbours came to the daycare to give “ang pow” to the students.

He hoped other daycare centres would also carry out similar activities.