Ramanan's Deepavali do unites leaders of various races, reflecting 'Otrumai Madani' spirit

KUALA LUMPUR: The spirit of unity and harmony under the "Malaysia Madani" vision was on full display yesterday when Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the Deepavali open house hosted by the family of Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.

In a statement to Bernama today, Ramanan remarked that the prime minister's visit underscores Malaysia's unique identity as a pluralistic nation that continues to uphold the values ​​of togetherness, tolerance, and mutual respect.

He added that Anwar's willingness to attend his family's open house serves as a great honour, while also reflecting the national leadership's commitment to fostering harmony among the country's diverse, multi-ethnic society.

"Malaysia possesses a truly significant unique quality. We may differ in terms of race, religion, and culture, but when the festive season arrives, we celebrate together as one big Malaysian family.

"The prime minister's concern for the Indian community is evident not only in his willingness to join in the Deepavali celebrations but also in the attention he pays to the genuine needs and challenges faced by the Indian community particularly regarding education, the economy, and family well-being," he said.

The open house was also attended by government leaders from diverse racial and religious backgrounds.

Among those present were Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek, Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh, and Selangor assembly Deputy Speaker Mohd Kamri Kamaruddin.

Ramanan noted that the open house tradition, long practised by Malaysians, demonstrates that unity is not built through government policy, but close relationships and interactions among the people.

He said religious and cultural diversity should continue to be celebrated as a national asset especially as Malaysia faces various challenges that require its citizens to remain united and trust one another.

"The 'Malaysia Madani' spirit teaches us that the nation's strength does not lie in any single race or group alone, but in the ability of all citizens to move forward together, leaving no one behind.

"Malaysians desire a nation that continues to thrive in an environment of peace, harmony, and mutual understanding. We want to see diversity celebrated, rather than used as a pretext to sow division or foster prejudice against one another," he said.

Ramanan extended Deepavali greetings to the entire Hindu community in Malaysia, expressing his hope that this year's celebration would bring happiness, well-being, and prosperity to every family.