Hopes for love, light and prosperity

PETALING JAYA: The country’s leaders have extended Thaipusam greetings to the Hindu community.

MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong shared his hopes that Hindu devotees would be showered with love, light and prosperity during the occasion.

“Wishing you a blessed and joyful Thaipusam!

“May Lord Murugan shower you with love, light and prosperity on this special day.

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“May your journey be filled with peace, happiness and good health,” he said on Facebook.

Former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob expressed hope that the diverse festivities celebrated by Malaysians, including Thaipusam, would help to strengthen the unity of the people.

“I would like to wish Happy Thaipusam to all Malaysian Hindu families.

“Celebrate this festival with deep understanding and happiness with your family and friends.

“Harmony and cross-culturalism through the diversity of festivals is our source of strength, regardless of background and skin colour,” he said in a post on Facebook.

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Hindu devotees will be performing their rituals today by carrying paal kodam, kavadi and breaking coconuts to fulfil their vows.

Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Yusof Apdal also extended his greetings to all those celebrating Thaipusam.

“I would like to wish a Happy Thaipusam to those who celebrate. Hopefully, this year’s festival can bring fresh and brighter rays of light.

“The beauty of the diversity of ethnic groups in Malaysia is what makes us live in harmony even though we have different customs.

“Therefore, we as Malaysians who are multiracial need to join hands together to preserve this harmony that has existed for a long time,” he said.

Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching said she hoped Hindu devotees celebrate the festival with joy.

“Happy Thaipusam to all Hindus. Unity is the key to the harmonious Malaysia that we all love.

“Let’s all be tolerant with each other, and live in harmony and be respectful,” she said.