THE spirit of unity and inclusivity shone brightly during the Thaipusam celebrations recently, as Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong announced a total allocation of RM150,000 to support religious institutions and community welfare activities in Penang.
Speaking at a press conference held in conjunction with the festivities recently, Sim expressed his appreciation to devotees, volunteers and visitors who gathered to mark the sacred occasion, describing Penang as a true reflection of Malaysia’s multiracial harmony.
“Thank you to everyone who attended. We welcome all visitors. Penang is multiracial, and Thaipusam is a celebration that belongs to everyone,” he said.
Sim announced an allocation of RM100,000 to the Penang Waterfall Hill Temple Arulmigu Sri Balathandayuthapani Devasthanam, which marks its 240th Thaipusam celebration this year.
“On behalf of everyone here today, I am pleased to announce an allocation of RM100,000 to the Penang Waterfall Hill Temple to support their annual activities.
“I hope this allocation will assist them in continuing their welfare programmes for the community,” he said.
In addition, Sim also contributed RM50,000 to the Ayira Vaisiyar Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, which has served devotees for more than a century.
“This temple has stood for over 100 years, and this contribution is to help them continue their meaningful activities,” he added.
Sim noted that more than 200 volunteers had stepped forward to assist throughout the Thaipusam period, providing logistical support and helping the elderly and children, while food and drinks were prepared daily for between 1,000 and 2,000 people.
He also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing outreach efforts, saying services, programmes and funding opportunities were made available at the site, attracting many young people eager to learn more about grants and assistance for entrepreneurs.
“Previously, when I served as Human Resources Minister, we set up tents here.
“Today, under my current portfolio, we continue engaging the public by offering services, programmes, grants, as well as food and drinks for everyone,” he said.
Also, present were state Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh, and key representatives from the temples.
This year’s Thaipusam marks the 240th anniversary of the celebration in Penang, standing as a powerful symbol of faith, volunteerism, and the state’s enduring spirit of togetherness.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix courtesy of YB Steven Sim’s office