CAPTIVATING sounds of music and traditional Indian dances reveberated Little India during the Deepavali celebration here.
Hosted by the Malaysian Associated Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI), the event was also attended by children from the Ramakrishna Ashrama Penang.
The guests were served with a scrumptious meal at the event.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow who was the chief guest at the celebration, said the state was committed to promote the well-being of the Indian community in Penang.
“The state government allocates RM1.5 million yearly to the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB) to empower the Indian community in Penang.
“The allocation is for the Board to implement projects pertaining to religion, education, medical and construction,” Chow said during his opening speech at the event.
Chow said that the state government had also increased the yearly allocation for Tamil schools from RM1.75 million to RM2 million.
“As for Tamil kindergartens, the allocation has been increased from RM100,000 to RM150,000.
“As for Tamil kindergartens, the allocation has been increased from RM100,000 to RM150,000.
“The state has also increased the allocation for Punjabi schools from RM60,000 to RM90,000.
“Apart from that, the state contributes RM200,000 yearly to the Thanneermalai Temple (Waterfall Hilltop Temple) in conjunction with the Thaipusam festival.
“The state government, through the Penang Development Corporation, has also established the Skim Pinjaman Harapan to assist entrepreneurs. The scheme has benefited 285 Indian entrepreneurs,” he said.
On a separate note, Chow said the design for the proposed arch at the entrance of Little India (Market Street) has entered the final phase.
“I hope the project can start this year after the architect from the Chamber finalises the design,” Chow said.
MAICCI president Datuk N. Gobalakrishnan thanked the Penang government for its continuous support.
“The state has contributed RM50,000 for this celebration,” he said.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Norazis