The exterior of the house was draped in festive lights and adorned with Christmas figures
SEBERANG PERAI: A quiet neighbourhood in Taman Teluk Molek, Teluk Ayer Tawar, was transformed into a Christmas wonderland on Dec 12 as more than 200 visitors gathered outside a private residence to enjoy twinkling lights, Santa Claus decorations and the novelty of artificial snow.
The festive crowd assembled after homeowner Charles Dorney opened his semi-detached house to the public for a Christmas display that has quickly become a local attraction.
The Friday night gathering marked the second consecutive year the contractor staged the large-scale decorations, following enthusiastic public response last year that drew visitors and media attention.
“This year, we added more lights and more decorations,” said Dorney, adding that the cost of this year’s setup was about RM25,000 – a significant increase from the previous year, which cost about RM10,000.
The exterior of the house was draped in festive lights and adorned with Christmas figures, including multiple Santa Claus displays and snowmen, while a snow-blowing machine released artificial flakes from the rooftop, delighting children and adults alike.
Inside, the house was also extensively decorated, creating a Christmas atmosphere more commonly associated with shopping malls than a private home.
“We let them come for free. The snow is for everybody, children and adults,” he said.
According to Dorney, public response played a key role in his decision to continue and expand the display this year.
“People were asking when the snow would start. So, we listened to what the public wanted and made it happen,” he said.
While no food was served, friends sponsored coffee for visitors.
Dorney said the emphasis was on sharing the festive spirit rather than hosting a formal open house.
Since the display began, Dorney has been switching on the artificial snow from Fridays to Saturdays for about half an hour each night.
The Christmas decorations and open house will remain until Dec 31, while the artificial snow will make its final appearance on Dec 25.
Last year’s display was widely shared on social media, attracting visitors and coverage from multiple media agencies.
In addition to the public, church members were also invited.
Dorney has been a Christian since his grandfather’s generation and his family attends the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Chain Ferry.
His wife Christe Samasundram said the family typically begins Christmas Day by attending mass, followed by a family meal with relatives from her father’s side.
Inside the home, Christmas celebrations are kept private and centred on family. The couple’s son, Dohnaven, 21, is currently studying information technology in university.
“Turkey is a must for us. We also prepare mutton dishes, fruit cake and cookies. We usually cook together with help from family members,” she said.
Christe added that Christmas also holds a strong charitable meaning for the family. Each year, they reach out to orphanages to offer support and essential items.
“Helping others is an important part of our Christmas tradition. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces reminds me of the true meaning of Christmas – sharing love and kindness, and letting others know they’re not forgotten,” she said.
The family also observes simple practices to keep the season meaningful. On Christmas Day, Christe said they put away their phones, practise mindfulness, avoid food waste and focus on maintaining a joyful atmosphere.
“It’s a time for family bonding,” she said.
Christmas carols are also sung, with “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Joy to the World” among the family’s favourites.
For Dorney and his family, opening their home to the public during the Christmas season reflects how they observe the celebration by sharing it beyond their own household.
“It’s about sharing the joy,” he said.
