Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim speaking at the National Level MADANI 2025 Deepavali Open House Ceremony at KL Sentral. Photo by MOHD ADZLAN

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 18 — The Deepavali MADANI 2025 Open House at Lot F, KL Sentral brought together thousands of Malaysians in a festive atmosphere of unity and light. The event was graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim，along with several Cabinet ministers and community leaders.

Deepavali is one of the most important religious festivals for Indian communities around the world, often seen as the “Indian New Year.” It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. People usually celebrate it by lighting lamps and decorating their homes with colorful decorations.In Malaysia, Deepavali has grown beyond a religious celebration — it has become a symbol of unity where people of all races come together to share the spirit.

This year’s celebration carried the theme “Light of the People, Light of Unity,” symbolising Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to harmony among its multiracial society. It also reflected The government’s effort to ensure that national development benefits all communities equally.In line with this goal, several new initiatives amounting to RM42.25 million have been approved to support the Indian community nationwide. These programme aim to promote fair progress, equal opportunities, and meaningful impact across all layers of society.

Vendors make chapatis at the MADANI 2025 National Level Deepavali Open House eremony at KL Sentral. Photo by MOHD ADZLAN

The open house featured dazzling traditional dance performances, vibrant kolam decorations, and stalls offering popular Indian dishes such as roti canai, biryani, and murukku. Families of all backgrounds joined in the celebration, taking photos and sharing festive greetings.

Event organiser Luqman bin Khalid shared that the open house was more than a festive gathering—it was a reminder of Malaysia’s shared identity.

“We may come from different cultures, but we are always one family,” he reflected. “I hope everyone leaves today feeling grateful for the unity we share.”

Among the crowd, Wendy Lee Jia Min, a Malaysian Chinese visitor, expressed similar feelings about the meaning of Deepavali.

“It may be an Indian celebration, but I see it as something for all Malaysians,” she noted. “Everyone can join in and feel the happiness together.”

This year’s celebration underlines the government’s ongoing effort to strengthen social unity and cultural understanding. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim wrote on Facebook, expressing his hope that Malaysians would celebrate Deepavali with gratitude and a renewed spirit — moving together toward a more harmonious and prosperous nation.