Deepavali: unity shines through in Sabah, Sarawak celebrations

Despite a small Hindu population, Deepavali celebrations in Sabah and Sarawak brought together people from various backgrounds, showcasing a strong spirit of unity. The Department of Statistics Malaysia estimates about 5,000 Indians in Sarawak and 6,000 in Sabah, making up 0.2% of their respective populations, based on 2026 data.

For R. Ruhthiran, a 20-year-old soldier stationed in Sarawak's Penrissen Camp, this was his first Deepavali away from his family in Klang, Selangor. He expressed missing his family but was enjoying his time there. Deepavali celebrations typically began with an early-morning oil bath, new clothes, and prayers at the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple around 8 am. His mother usually prepared idli and thosai for breakfast.

In Kuching, Pramod Kumar, 67, shared that Deepavali remains a meaningful occasion despite the state's small Hindu population. The day would start with prayers at the temple, followed by a family gathering to celebrate and seek blessings. Kuching celebrated Deepavali much like Peninsular Malaysia and India but on a smaller scale.

At the Sri Pasupathinath Alayam Temple in Kota Kinabalu, people of various ethnicities and faiths gathered to join in the Deepavali festivities. Geoffrey Lo, a first-time visitor, expressed excitement about experiencing the celebrations and enjoying the delicious food. Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is set to attend the 2026 Deepavali gathering at the Sabah International Convention Centre.