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KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob sends Thaipusam greetings to Hindus throughout the country, who are celebrating the festival today.
In a post on his Facebook page, Ismail Sabri said he hopes devotees will celebrate the festival in meaningful ways with their families.
“Observe the festival with new normal practices for the safety of yourselves, your families and our community. Happy Thaipusam,” he said.
Ismail Sabri said the country is blessed with harmony between various cultures, and the mutual respect among people of various races, religions and cultures is a source of strength for Keluarga Malaysia.
Meanwhile, in his video message, he said Thaipusam is an important festival for Hindus in Malaysia that is celebrated in the month of Thai – the tenth month in the Tamil calendar.
He said before the Covid-19 pandemic struck, Thaipusam was celebrated with processions to Hindu temples involving the carrying of kavadis and “paal kudam”.
“However, this year, the celebration is being held on a small and moderate scale to curb the spread of Covid-19. I hope Keluarga Malaysia members of the Hindu faith can continue to observe the festival according to the new normal by adhering to the set SOPs (standard operating procedures).
“It is hoped that the Thaipusam celebration this year will continue to inculcate the spirit of unity among the people of various races and religions and promote inclusivity and togetherness among Keluarga Malaysia,” he said. – Bernama, January 18, 2022