KUALA LUMPUR: In the spirit of Deepavali, Malaysians should work towards illuminating their lives with 'light' to replace 'darkness.'
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Deepavali conveys that life is more than just food, drink, and collective well-being; it is also about continuing the fight for goodness, justice, and a better future.
"All families of various races should come together, as we understand that the spirit of Deepavali symbolises the illumination of light to replace darkness.
"We know this celebration is intended to show that life is more than just food and drink or shared well-being... It is also about continuing the struggle for goodness, justice, and a better future.
"May the spirit of Deepavali provide an opportunity for Hindus and others in Malaysia to lead the country towards a brighter and more radiant future," he said in his speech at the Madani Deepavali Open House.
Anwar also called on all Malaysians to inform the government of any weaknesses or shortcomings so that it can work on improvements, moving from 'darkness to light' in the spirit of Deepavali.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he was happy to see people of various races join in the celebration at Sentul Depot, here, today.
"Light comes after darkness, and we, as a pluralistic society, celebrate Deepavali and other festivals together.
"However, this time, it is organised by the Digital Ministry on behalf of the Malaysian government.
"I am delighted to see people of various races attending the event," he said to reporters.
Meanwhile, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the event, which saw people of various races coming together, embodies the spirit of unity that the government wishes to foster throughout the country.
"This is a very positive event, and we can see many people from various races and religions coming together to celebrate in a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere.
"This is the spirit of unity we wish to foster throughout the nation.
"Let us take the opportunity of this Deepavali celebration to strengthen our bonds. Although we may have different religious beliefs, ideologies, and political views, we can unite as Malaysians. This is our strength in Malaysia," he said.
People of various races have joined in the Deepavali celebrations and enjoyed various delicacies as early as 10am.
Some of the dishes served included panipuri, laddu, cendol, sate, and appam.
Several ministers and deputy ministers attended the Deepavali open house.
They included Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Ghani Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, Investment Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.
Also in attendance was Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.