National unity minister calls for year-round community bonding at national Deepavali celebration

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 14 — National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang has urged the cultivation of community bonds beyond the festive season, proposing open houses, social visits and neighbourly ties to strengthen Malaysia's multiracial ties. He emphasized that unity should manifest in daily interactions, social concern and willingness to aid one another, advocating for acceptance, respect, and celebration of diversity to foster a progressive and harmonious society.

Addressing the 2026 national-level Deepavali celebration at Little India, Brickfields, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Aaron highlighted that Malaysia's strength stems not from uniformity, but from unity amidst differences in religion, language, culture and traditions. The event, organized by the Ministry of National Unity and the Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI), also drew participation from Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Human Resources Minister R. Ramanan, and Hannah Yeoh, who serves as the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Federal Territories.

The event, themed "Cahaya Deepavali, Semarak Perpaduan," showcased Indian cultural performances such as Veenai, Mridangam classical music, Silambam, Kalaripayattu, Karra Samu martial arts, and a fashion show. Attendees could also explore exhibits from the Rumah KAMI (Ethnic House) booths, which highlighted the heritage and traditions of various ethnic groups including Malays, Chinese, Tamils, Telugus, Punjabis, Gujaratis, and Malayalees.