KUALALUMPUR. MALAYSIA, Oct 18, 2025 – Thousands gathered in a vibrant celebration of light, harmony, and shared heritage as the National Deepavali MADANI Open House 2025 unfolded at Lot F, KL Sentral today. Organized by the Ministry of Digital with support from the Ministry of National Unity, the event under the theme “Cahaya MADANI, Sinar Perpaduan” (MADANI Light, Ray of Unity) drew over 5,000 attendees from diverse communities, including government officials, local residents, industry partners, and both local and international tourists.
The festive atmosphere was amplified by the presence of Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, who underscored the event’s role in fostering national cohesion. Cultural performances featuring traditional Indian dances, folk arts, and an array of Deepavali delicacies enchanted the crowd, showcasing Malaysia’s rich multicultural tapestry.
In his remarks, Minister Gobind Singh Deo highlighted the deeper significance of such gatherings. “The organization of open houses like this not only celebrates cultural diversity but also strengthens the values of unity and compassion among the people, in line with the spirit of Malaysia MADANI,” he stated. He emphasized how the event elevates “Cahaya MADANI” as a symbol of enlightenment, hope, and humanity, ultimately weaving a “Sinar Perpaduan” across Malaysian society.
Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s speech, delivered amid warm applause, wove personal reflections with calls for sustained national solidarity. Greeting the audience with “Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh” and “Deepavali Nal Valtukal,” he praised the inclusive turnout, noting the presence of Malays, Chinese, and Indians alike. “We take it for granted… But you will be wrong because this is unique to Malaysia and we must do whatever is necessary to preserve the unity and the affection that we have between all races and religions in this country.”
The Prime Minister delved into the challenges of governing a multiracial nation, urging Malaysians to be “smarter, more discerning, more exposed to information” to counter divisive narratives. He detailed government initiatives under the MADANI administration aimed at uplifting the Indian community, including billions in allocations for hardcore poverty alleviation programs like i-SARA and STR, which have reached nearly RM1 billion for eligible recipients regardless of ethnicity—though disproportionately benefiting Indian-majority areas like Sentul and Klang.
Further underscoring equity, Anwar highlighted expanded funding for micro-entrepreneurship: RM50 million each from Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia and TEKUN for low-income Indians, alongside RM2 billion approved in 2024 for the Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme (SJPP) for the community, rising to RM1.6 billion in projections for 2025 and 2026. Business financing through the Indian Community Business Financing Guarantee Scheme (SJPPNI) stands at RM600 million annually to empower young entrepreneurs.
Addressing long-standing educational concerns, the PM announced the addition of 1,500 new university spots for STPM high-achievers across fields like accountancy, engineering, medicine, digital studies, and languages—expanding access without encroaching on existing quotas. “That’s the essence of reform. Reform means always moving to improve, to enhance our capabilities,” he affirmed, while decrying past corruption that siphoned RM15.5 billion recovered under the current government. “This light is truth. This light is justice. This light is goodness. Rejecting darkness. Rejecting corruption. Rejecting oppression. This is the meaning of celebrating Deepavali.”
The event, a resounding success, reaffirms the MADANI framework’s commitment to inclusivity and progress. As diyas flickered and laughter echoed through KL Sentral, participants left inspired by a shared vision of a brighter, more united Malaysia.
