KUALA LUMPUR: The Tamil, Malayalee, and Sikh communities across Malaysia will begin their respective New Year celebrations – Chittirai Puthandu, Vishu, and Vaisakhi – today.
The Tamil New Year, also known as “Visuvaavasu” will commence at 5.07am, according to the Malaysian Hindu Sangam.
Its president, Thanga Ganesan, said the Tamil New Year falls under the auspicious “Krothi” year in the Hindu calendar and begins on the 30th day of the Tamil month of Panguni.
“The auspicious time to observe the Tamil New Year, known as Vishu Punniya Kaalam, will be from 5.07am to 1.07pm on April 14,” he said.
All Malaysia Malayalee Association president Dr Manohar Kurup said Vishu signifies the start of the Malayalam calendar year and symbolises renewal, prosperity, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
“A key element of the celebration is the Vishukkani, a sacred arrangement featuring items such as gold, fruits, rice, and holy texts placed before a statue of Lord Krishna.
“This first sight of the day is believed to bring luck and abundance for the year ahead,” he said, Bernama reported.
Manohar said community gatherings will be held nationwide, including one hosted by the Selangor & Federal Territory Malayalee Association in Bangsar to promote cultural unity.
This year’s Vishu holds additional significance as the association prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in August.
On the Sikh celebration of Vaisakhi, Sikh Naujawan Sabha Malaysia president Paramjeet Singh Jai Singh said preparations are underway at about 130 gurdwaras nationwide.
“All gurdwaras are getting ready for lively celebrations, which will feature Kirtan Darbar (devotional singing), langar (community meals), and various programmes such as blood donation drives, health screenings, and children’s activities,” he said.
For Sikhs, Vaisakhi marks a historic moment: the founding of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699, which united Sikhs into a strong spiritual and social community with a distinct identity.
The Khalsa was created to defend justice, protect the vulnerable, and uphold the core teachings of Sikhism.
“Those who join the Khalsa go through a special ceremony called Amrit Sanskar and commit to following the Five Ks: Kes (uncut hair), Kangha (wooden comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton undergarments) and Kirpan (small sword).”
