Why not criticise 7 states without Thaipusam, says MB’s aide

 

Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden, political secretary to the menteri besar, hit back at critics of the state government. (Facebook pic)

ALOR SETAR: An aide to Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor today has questioned why critics of Kedah’s decision not to declare a Thaipusam holiday this year did not direct their fire at seven other states yet to proclaim a holiday for the festival.

Sanusi’s political secretary Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden said the detractors failed to understand that Kedah’s decision arose simply for public health reasons and because of movement restrictions.

“Even other festivities are also not celebrated, including the Chinese New Year. Even Hari Raya Puasa is uncertain if the MCO continues.

“A ‘cuti perisitiwa’ or special holiday cannot be given as the rakyat was already on holiday, with most working from home during MCO. Those who are at work are front liners.

“The question is why these parties are not attacking the state governments of Pahang, Perlis, Kelantan, Terengganu, Melaka, Sabah and Sarawak (for not proclaiming a state holiday for Thaipusam)?” Afnan said.

He said special holidays granted by the state are “limited” and was up to the Kedah executive council to approve. He reiterated the state government was not discriminating against Hindus.

Afnan also asked why criticism did not arise during the BN era no holiday was declared for Thaipusam. It was learnt that a state holiday for Thaipusam has been observed only since 2013.

Afnan said the 6.8% Kedah population who are Hindus could continue to pray in temples, following health rules.

Sanusi came under attack from MIC’s M Saravanan and DAP’s P Ramasamy, after he said the day off was not necessary since Thaipusam celebrations had been called off under the movement control order.

Thaipusam is celebrated on Jan 28 this year. - FMT