THE festive spirit extended across the Causeway as Malaysian border officers in Johor Baru shared traditional Indian treats with their Singaporean counterparts in conjunction with Deepavali.
Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) assistant commander Vimala Ramalinggam and her team from the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (BSI) Complex personally delivered the goodies at about noon on Deepavali day.
“The exchange of festive gifts is a tradition between the Malaysian and Singaporean border authorities.
“We wanted to show our appreciation to our Singaporean counterparts who are working during the festive season,” she said in an interview.
Vimala said the delegation, which included AKPS Group Bravo deputy head Mohammad Hanafiah Hussein, presented an assortment of Indian snacks, including muruku and achi muruku, to Woodlands Checkpoint assistant commander DSP Mohamed Anwardeen.
“The initiative also maintains the close working relationship between both border authorities, who work together daily to facilitate the movement of travellers between the two countries.
“This is the third year we have done this for Deepavali, and we hope to continue the tradition in the coming years,” said Vimala.
She said the team also delivered festive treats to the Singapore Consulate-General’s office in Johor Baru.
Meanwhile, Vimala arranged a special Deepavali meal for Malaysian personnel stationed at BSI.
“This is the first time we organised a Deepavali meal for our officers, although we have done something similar during previous Hari Raya celebrations.
“We prepared putu mayam, chicken curry, muruku, achi muruku and other Indian delicacies for those working on Deepavali day.
“I wanted to ensure they had a good meal on the public holiday and could share in the festive celebrations,” she said.
Vimala hoped the gestures would lift the morale of personnel on both sides of the Causeway.
“With the long weekend, many people were travelling in and out of the country, and our officers continued working despite the public holiday.
“They often stand for long hours at the counters, especially during long weekends when traveller numbers surge.”
