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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today extended Thaipusam greetings to Hindus across the country, describing the festival as a powerful symbol of sacrifice, self-reflection, spiritual resilience and patience, and expressing hope that it would continue to strengthen mutual respect and harmony in Malaysia’s multiracial society.
In a Facebook post, Anwar said Thaipusam carried profound meaning and values that deserved to be honoured and appreciated collectively, particularly the discipline and perseverance demonstrated throughout the religious observances.
“Order and harmony in every religious and cultural celebration in this country reflect togetherness within the diversity of the Malaysian people, where differences are not something foreign, but a reality that has long shaped Malaysia’s identity,” he said.
He expressed hope that Thaipusam would bring peace of mind to all Hindu devotees and continue to nurture mutual respect and harmony within the country’s plural society.
The Prime Minister also said he hoped the celebration would be observed with gratitude and decorum, while upholding manners and values that form the foundation of communal life.
Meanwhile, in Penang, Thaipusam celebrations were highlighted not only as a religious and cultural milestone but also as a driver of economic activity and tourism growth.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the annual festival contributed to the expansion of the state’s tourism sector, benefitting small traders, tourism operators and local communities.
He said Thaipusam in Penang demonstrated how cultural and religious diversity could strengthen unity in line with the Penang2030 Vision and the Malaysia MADANI concept, while also acting as a catalyst for socio-economic development.
“What’s more, with the introduction of a direct flight between Chennai, India, and Penang, it will not only strengthen cultural ties between the two regions but is also expected to further increase tourist arrivals from India to the state,” he said in his message in conjunction with the Thaipusam 2026 celebration.
Chow said that every year in Penang, the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple became the focal point of the celebrations, commemorating the victory of Lord Murugan over evil and symbolising devotion, self-discipline and spiritual strength in upholding goodness for the benefit of all humanity.
He added that the noble values embodied by Thaipusam were worthy of emulation across religions and cultures, and formed an important foundation for building a harmonious and mutually respectful society.
According to Chow, Penang’s experience showed that political stability, good governance and inclusive leadership could foster a strong sense of togetherness, where all communities felt included, heard and respected in the state’s development journey.
He also expressed appreciation to temple management committees, volunteers, security agencies and all parties involved in ensuring the smooth organisation of the Thaipusam celebrations each year.
Thaipusam in Penang is distinctive as it is observed a day earlier, known as Chetti Pusam, featuring a procession by the Chettiar community carrying about 90 peacock kavadis and silver chariots. Since 2017, the celebration has been further enhanced with the introduction of a golden chariot bearing the vel of Lord Murugan.
On education, Chow reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the development of Tamil National-Type Schools (SJKT) in Penang and welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement of a RM50 million nationwide allocation for SJKT maintenance, which is expected to benefit all 28 such schools in the state.
He said the allocation would help improve infrastructure, provide digital facilities and smart boards, and create safer and more conducive learning environments, particularly for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education.
Citing SJKT Ramakrishnan as an example, Chow said the school had grown from a single block into a well-equipped building serving 339 students, with continued support from the state government, local leaders and the Penang Hindu Endowments Board.
He added that SJKT Rajaji in Air Itam would soon have its own upgraded and more comfortable building, which would benefit students and support long-term human capital development in the state. - February 1, 2026