MIC to seek two-day public holiday for Deepavali

The MIC will put forward a proposal to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, urging the government to declare a two-day public holiday for Deepavali, as is given for Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

MIC President Datuk Seri G. Palanivel (pic) said that as a national festival celebrated by not only the Indians and the Sikh community in the country but all races, the government should consider declaring two days to enable the festival to be celebrated on a bigger scale.

"Currently one day is declared for Deepavali. I will submit a proposal to the prime minister during the MIC Deepavali Open House in Batu Caves on November 2, seeking two days off for Deepavali.

"Deepavali celebrations currently defers from the past as all races are involved in the celebration because it has become a national festival that is celebrated for 30 days when compared to the past, when it was only a one-day festival," he told reporters in Putrajaya today.

Palanivel, who is also the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, said Deepavali or also known as the Festival of Lights, was among major festivals celebrated in the country, just like Hari Raya Aldilfitri and Chinese New Year.

To join in the festive season, the government has already enhanced its scope by allocating locations and providing facilities to set up temporary stalls where shopping carnivals are held for the convenience of those celebrating Deepavali.

Meanwhile, Palanivel said MIC expects more than 10,000 people, including tourists and well-wishers from all races, to attend the MIC Deepavali Open House on Saturday. - Bernama