The multiracial groups performing together at the National Vaisakhi Fest 2025 at Matic in Kuala Lumpur.
Event in KL highlights unity and traditions across communities
THE National Vaisakhi Fest 2025 in Kuala Lumpur was a vibrant celebration of heritage and a testament to Malaysia’s cultural diversity.
With over 2,000 local and international guests in attendance, the event showcased performances from various ethnic and cultural groups, highlighting unity and traditions that resonate across communities.
Guests were treated to a diverse array of musical and dance performances, including the Punjabi dhol and bhangra, Indian urumi drum rhythms, a Malay kompang performance, a traditional Chinese lion dance and the Sikh martial arts presentation, gatka.
The event took place at the Malaysia Tourism Centre (Matic) in Jalan Ampang and was attended by the Tunku Besar Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al-Qadri, Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Dr Ramli Mohd Nor, US Ambassador Edgard D. Kagan and Indian High Commission First Secretary Rajesh H. Maniyil.
Organised by Kuala Lumpur Sikh Sports and Recreation Club (KLSSRC) in collaboration with the World Sikh Chamber of Commerce Malaysia and the Kuala Lumpur & Putrajaya Chambers of Commerce, the event received support from Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.
In his speech, Ramli paid tribute to the Sikh community for their longstanding contributions to Malaysia’s development, particularly their roles in the country’s security forces and various sectors, including law, education, healthcare, business, sports and public service.
He praised the community’s active engagement in promoting interfaith harmony, charity work, and youth development.
At the event, Ramli announced a RM50,000 contribution to Gurdwara Sahib Tanah Rata in Cameron Highlands for repair works following a landslide last October.
An additional RM50,000 was donated to Pahang Sikh Cultural and Sports Association to support the 73rd Gurdwara Cup and Sikh Festival of Sports 2025 in Kuantan, Pahang.
KLSSRC president Datuk Baldev Singh Kailay emphasised the event’s role in uniting Malaysians from all walks of life.
He urged Malaysians to renew their commitment to building a more inclusive, respectful and harmonious society.
“Tonight’s celebration is not just about heritage. It’s about recognising our shared values as Malaysians, our belief in peace, mutual respect and the strength found in our diversity,” he said.
Baldev also expressed hope that the government would include the festival in Malaysia’s tourism calendar during Visit Malaysia 2026.
The festival grounds were a riot of colours and flavours, featuring a cultural bazaar around the main stage with traditional crafts, regional delicacies, interactive exhibitions and activities engaging people of all ages and backgrounds.
Another highlight was a hot air balloon display, providing guests the chance to be photographed with family and friends.
The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by the presence of the Dasmesh bagpipers and the Santana Riderz, a Sikh bikers group whose symbolic ride-in reflected the strength, discipline and brotherhood of the Sikh community.
