Penang Deepavali celebration lights up hope and unity

A vibrant Deepavali celebration in Bukit Tengah brought together community leaders and residents to emphasise unity, tolerance, and the importance of uplifting underprivileged families.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow led the evening with impactful announcements, including initiatives aimed at supporting the B40 income group.

One of the evening’s highlights was the distribution of RM100 school uniform vouchers to 100 families.

This initiative, organised by Ottrumai Bukit Tengah and the Bukit Tengah state constituency office, reflects the state’s commitment to education and community welfare.

“This noble effort lightens the burden on less fortunate families and ensures our children, the hope of the nation, have access to equal educational opportunities,” Chow said.

Supporting families and strengthening community

Held at the Perkampungan Juru multipurpose hall, the Deepavali open house showcased the state’s dedication to inclusivity under the Penang2030 vision: A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation.

Chow reiterated Penang’s resolve to prioritise its people, highlighting achievements like the lowest deficit in the state’s budget history while maintaining robust welfare programmes.

“The Penang government is committed to safeguarding the well-being of our people, especially with the projected increase in revenue next year,” he said.

Chow also praised the collaborative efforts behind community-focused initiatives like the school uniform vouchers, urging more organisations to step forward and help marginalised groups.

The open house was a cultural extravaganza, featuring traditional Indian performances that celebrated the diversity of Penang’s multicultural fabric.

Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung noted the symbolic significance of Deepavali: “This festival highlights the triumph of light over darkness, symbolising hope and unity for everyone.”

Looking ahead: Progress and prosperity

The event also served as a platform to discuss development projects such as the Juru-Sungai Dua elevated highway.

Chow highlighted its importance in advancing Penang’s infrastructure and economic growth while maintaining focus on the people’s welfare.

Expressing gratitude to all participants, Chow shared warm wishes for Deepavali, saying: “May this Festival of Lights brighten the lives of all Penangites.

Together, let us continue to build a state that not only inspires Malaysia but the world.”

Community leaders echoed his sentiments. “The Indian community, like others in Penang, has played a vital role in the state’s development,” said Gooi.

He emphasised how Penang’s rich traditions and culture create a shared heritage that strengthens the state’s unity.

Source: Buletin Mutiara