Celebrating together: Anwar and Dr Wan Azizah speaking with Gobind (left) at his residence on Deepavali. Also present are (from second left) Saifuddin Nasution, Loke and Ahmad Zahid. — Photo taken from Anwar’s Facebook page
Leaders share festive wishes and hopes for the future of Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR: The Deepavali celebration should be used to promote unity, reach out to those in need, and strengthen the spirit of togetherness that underpins the nation’s strength, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister emphasised that it is essential to continuously nurture and reinforce mutual respect and understanding among all communities in a nation rich in cultural diversity and traditions.
“Deepavali arrives with joy, bringing the spirit of the Festival of Lights, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
“May this Deepavali be celebrated with hearts full of gratitude and a renewed spirit of intellectual awakening, so that the dignity and progress of the people continue to rise, paving the way for a more harmonious and prosperous Malaysia,” Anwar said in a Facebook post yesterday.
At the same time, Anwar took the opportunity to join in Deepavali celebrations at the residence of Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.
“Visiting the residence of Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, I embraced the spirit of unity following the Deepavali celebrations.
“Wishing happiness to all Hindu devotees and their families,” he said in an Instagram post yesterday.
Anwar was accompanied on his visit by his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, the MP for Bandar Tun Razak, as well as Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Transport Minister Anthony Loke were also present to celebrate the festival of lights.
Ahmad Zahid urged all to strengthen bonds among each other.
“In conjunction with this year’s Deepavali celebration, let us strengthen our bonds of friendship and continue to uphold the harmony that is the foundation of Malaysia’s strength.
“My family and I extend our warmest wishes for a Happy Deepavali to all Hindus in Malaysia, particularly to the residents of Bagan Datuk,” he remarked in a Facebook post.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who also expressed his good wishes, remarked that the Deepavali holidays exemplified Malaysia’s multicultural society, which serves as a source of unity.
“Like other celebrations, Deepavali reminds us that within our differences lies a strength that unites us as Malaysians living in harmony and mutual respect.
“As a multiracial, multireligious, and multicultural nation, Malaysia’s celebration of Deepavali highlights the beauty of diversity, which is one of the main strengths of our country.
“In the spirit of Malaysia Madani, let us continue to strengthen the values of unity, togetherness, tolerance, and mutual understanding so that the light of goodness continues to shine across every corner of our beloved homeland.
“May this year’s Deepavali celebration bring happiness, peace and prosperity to all Malaysians, regardless of race, religion or background, as we build a more prosperous, united, and harmonious future together,” he said on social media.
