GEORGE TOWN – Hindu organisations have lauded Penang’s decision to scrap public Thaipusam celebrations later this month, due to record daily Covid-19 cases.
Representatives expressed their support and welcomed the decision that was taken to safeguard the safety of devotees and the public.
The Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) had decided not to hold any public Thaipusam celebrations on January 28, following consultation with the Health Ministry.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) national vice-president N. Shanmuganathan said he believed the decision has been taken in the interest of the people to prevent further spread of Covid-19.
“It is to safeguard the safety and health of the devotees, especially the elderly and children.
“It would smear the good name of Thaipusam, which is a religious festival that has been celebrated for the last 200 years. Thaipusam should not be the cause of a new Covid-19 cluster.
He added that it would be hard to control crowds if public participation is allowed to proceed as usual this year.
“It would tarnish the image of the religious festival if there is an outbreak following the celebrations.”
PHEB has decided to carry out a livestream of the prayer sessions at two main temples for devotees to watch.
PHEB chief executive officer Datuk M. Ramachandran told The Vibes that the decision aims to put the public’s safety first.
Malaysia Hindu Darma Mamandram (MHDM) national women leader R. Rajalecumi said the Hindu community will appreciate PHEB’s decision.
“Let us follow the instruction of the government and avoid gathering for Thaipusam. We can pray from our homes this year.”
Penang Hindu Association president P. Murugiah also welcomed PHEB’s decision on Thaipusam.
“It’s to keep our communities safe. Let us follow the government’s instructions to break the chain of infection.”
Thaipusam will be celebrated on January 28, which is a public holiday for several Malaysian states, and 29.
If not for the pandemic, the hilltop Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani temple under PHEB and the Nattukottai Chettiar temple would have held chariot processions during the three-day celebration. – The Vibes, January 7, 2021
