November 5, 2018
Vanakkam, En Iniya Deepavali Nal Vaalthukkal,
I would like to wish a happy Deepavali to the people of Selangor who celebrate this festival, especially the Hindus and Sikhs.
The celebration of Deepavali or ‘Diwali’ is meaningful as the theme of light triumphing over darkness and the emergence of new light is stitched firmly in the fabric of all Malaysians.
Thus, it reminds me of the collection of letters by Raden Adjeng Kartini, titled Habislah Gelap Terbitlah Terang. It was titled such as it was inspired by a Quranic verse which means “He took them from darkness to light.”
All religions encourage us to do good. Goodness calls us to celebrate the light and to leave the darkness. Similarly, this celebration reminds us of the strength of Selangor which is a melting pot of ethnic diversity and cultures.
Therefore, Selangor has always been known as the “Golden State of Malaysia”, not only because of its economic progress but also as a peaceful haven where people can eke out a living.
Deepavali also brings the knowledge and awareness to overcome ugliness and arrogance. The story that is often told about Deepavali’s origin is Ramayana, the ancient Indian epic, where Rama sets out to save his beloved wife Sita and they return triumphantly to rule their kingdom using the principle of ‘fairness’. To welcome them back, the whole town of Ayodhya was filled with lights thus Deepavali is also known as the Festival of Lights.
Let us also not forget the steadfast loyalty shown by Laxamana and Hanuman for Rama as they fought alongside him against Ravana. Their story is a lesson to us to stay on the path to fight for comprehensive change. After such a long struggle, do not let the temptation of power cloud our eyes.
The mandate given in the general election is a major responsibility for the administration of the state. That is why I pledge that the Selangor State Government will always strive to ensure the well-being of the people including the Indian community.
InshaAllah, with the concept of Maju Bersama, as the ideal way forward, the Selangor State Government will work on empowerment programs for the Indian community so that they too can enjoy the prosperity of the state.
I take this opportunity to wish a happy Deepavali to all Hindus and Sikhs. Hopefully the celebrations this year with friends and family will be even more meaningful in the era of Malaysia Baharu.
YAB Tuan Amirudin Shari
Dato’ Menteri Besar Selangor
