SELANGOR, MALAYSIA February 1, 2026 – Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today delivered a heartfelt address at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves, Selangor, during the grand celebration of Thaipusam 2026. Speaking at 10:30 AM amid thousands of devotees, the minister extended warm greetings and highlighted the festival’s profound significance in showcasing Malaysia’s cultural diversity and national harmony.
In his speech, Gobind congratulated all Hindu devotees on a blessed Thaipusam, describing the festival as a powerful symbol of faith, sacrifice, and devotion. “Thaipusam is not only a reflection of the unwavering faith and sacrifice of Hindu devotees but also proof of the cultural diversity and harmony we enjoy in our beloved nation,” he said.
The minister noted the massive turnout for the silver chariot procession from Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur to Batu Caves over the past two nights, drawing crowds through the city streets. He praised the unique Malaysian spirit evident in the ‘thaneer panthal’ (free water and refreshment stalls) set up along the route, where communities selflessly provide food and drinks to pilgrims and onlookers alike.
“This uniqueness is being witnessed firsthand by visitors and tourists currently in Malaysia for Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” Gobind remarked, emphasizing how such acts of mutual aid strengthen the nation’s image as a harmonious multicultural society.
He also touched on ongoing efforts to improve facilities at Batu Caves, expressing hope that the construction of a multipurpose hall and the installation of escalators would commence soon to benefit devotees and visitors.
As Digital Minister, Gobind stressed the importance of preserving harmony in the digital realm. “Let us make digital platforms spaces for learning, not arenas for debating differences,” he urged, calling on Malaysians to use technology to educate one another about cultural uniqueness and foster greater appreciation.
The Ministry of Digital has contributed to the festivities by installing giant digital screens at Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Penang to help the public follow the celebrations. At Batu Caves, the minister’s service centre actively distributed food and beverages to pilgrims, demonstrating support for the meaningful continuation of the festival.
Concluding his speech, Gobind emphasized unity as key to progress: “A united Malaysia will enable us to achieve faster advancement. Let us use digital technology to educate society about our cultural uniqueness so that we continue to value one another.” He added in English, “We are all Malaysians. And as Malaysians, we must come together to build a stronger and prosperous nation. We are one.”
He ended with the traditional chant, “Vel, Vel, Vetrivel!” followed by “Nandri, terima kasih semua.”
Thaipusam 2026 has drawn massive crowds to Batu Caves, with expectations of millions of devotees and visitors, boosted by the coinciding long weekend and Visit Malaysia Year initiatives. The festival, dedicated to Lord Murugan, features acts of penance, kavadi-bearing processions, and vibrant displays of devotion.
The minister’s presence and message underscore the government’s commitment to celebrating Malaysia’s multicultural heritage while promoting inclusive digital spaces.
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