Enjoyable time together: Manpreet, Syaza Aqilah and her daughters smiling for the camera at the national-level Deepavali open house in Kuala Lumpur.
KUALA LUMPUR: Music, colour and laughter filled Brickfields as Malaysians turned out in full force to celebrate Deepavali at the national-level open house, showcasing a vibrant display of unity that illuminated the city centre.
The event, jointly organised by the Digital Ministry and National Unity Ministry, drew thousands of people who immersed themselves in the festive atmosphere.
They indulged in traditional cuisines and enjoyed a range of captivating cultural performances that showcased Malaysia’s rich diversity.
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For Manpreet Kaur, 33, it was her first experience at the national celebration, and it was just as vibrant as she had anticipated.
“I’ve always heard about the national Deepavali celebration and wanted to experience it for myself.
“It’s lovely to see everyone from different backgrounds celebrating together,” said the public sector employee, who was especially excited for the performances.
“I hope to see the Bhangra dance.”
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Beside Manpreet stood her friend Syaza Aqilah Sulaiman, 31, who was attending the national celebration for the second time, bringing her daughters to share the experience.
“I want my children to learn about the culture and the celebration.
“This year is extra special because we are celebrating together with Manpreet.
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“Events like these are fantastic as they unite Malaysians in appreciating one another,” said the senior executive.
That same spirit of unity resonated with Dr Vinogiri Krishnan, 44, who attended with her team from Rise of Indians, a movement empowering the Indian community.
“Since my childhood, I have always held the belief that we are all united. We belong to Malaysia, and this country is our home.
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“Events like this bring us together and inspire us to understand and embrace each other,” said the mental health advocate.
Her fellow Rise of Indians member, Hardew Singh, 70, said the event also created space for meaningful connection, not only among communities but also with national leaders.
“Today’s celebration, hosted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, allowed the public to mingle, enjoy tasty food and performances, and listen to their messages,” he said.
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“I think this shows that we are united as a society.”
For some, the visit was a spontaneous decision that turned into a joyful surprise.
“I heard about the event on the radio while driving, so we decided to drop by,” said housewife S. Lakshmi, 54, from Bangsar.
“It’s wonderful, as we even got to see friends here. It feels enjoyable to have a reunion while celebrating Deepavali.”
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Among the crowd was Eugene Chua, a humanitarian manager from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who was attending a Deepavali celebration in Peninsular Malaysia for the first time.
“It’s so colourful and lively, just what we expected. This is the kind of joy everyone hopes to experience during a festival,” he said.
