SHAH ALAM, Nov 8 — The Selangor State Executive Council's (MMKN) Deepavali celebration is not merely an occasion to mark the Hindu festival, but also a platform to strengthen ties among leaders and foster unity within the state’s multiracial and multiconfessional community.
State executive councillor for human resources and poverty eradication Papparaidu Veraman, who organised the event, said the modest celebration at the EXCO Residential Complex today reflects the solidarity among state leaders despite their differences in religion, race, and beliefs.
The annual tradition should serve as an example to the public of the importance of preserving harmony and respecting the diversity that defines Selangor.
“This is an annual tradition to strengthen ties among the state’s top leaders. It shows that we stand together despite our differences in religion, race, and beliefs.
“We want the public to take this as an example by continuing to foster unity and mutual respect despite being made up of various communities,” he told Media Selangor.
The celebration was also attended by Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari, MMKN members, state assemblymen, and representatives from administrative departments.
Commenting on the state-level Deepavali celebration scheduled for Saturday (November 14), Papparaidu said the event at Dataran Klang, also known as Padang Chetty, in Klang will also feature contributions to several temples and Tamil schools.
Similarly, the event will announce several important matters concerning the construction of places of worship to prevent related issues from arising in the future.
“The celebration is expected to draw more than 10,000 visitors. In addition to traditional snacks such as murukku, we have also arranged various attractions, including dance and singing performances,” he said.
Themed "Cahaya Perpaduan, Selangor Sejahtera", the celebration will take place from 7.30pm to 11.30pm and feature activities for people of all races, including festive cash gifts for children.
Papparaidu added that the annual celebration not only marks the Hindu festival but also gives people from different communities a chance to learn about one another’s cultures, strengthening unity in Selangor.
