SALUTATIONS
1. The Right Honourable Mr. Chow Kon Yeow
Chief Minister of Penang
2. The Honourable Mr. Lim Guan Eng
Former Chief Minister of Penang
3. The Honourable Mr. Steven Sim Chee Keong
Minister, Ministry of Human Resources
Honourable Members of the Penang State Assembly,
Members of Parliament, and Senators,
Friends from the Media,Ladies and Gentlemen.
Vanakkam, Salam Perpaduan, and Salam Malaysia MADANI.
1. First and foremost, allow me to extend my heartfelt wishes for a joyous Thaipusam celebration to all Hindu devotees in Malaysia.
2. I am truly honored to be here with all of you on this meaningful occasion.
3. Thaipusam is a day when Hindu devotees seek blessings, fulfill vows, and express gratitude to Lord Murugan.
4. I am deeply impressed by the devotion and dedication demonstrated by the devotees. May this Thaipusam bring blessings and prosperity to us all.
5. This celebration not only symbolizes the faith and sacrifice of Hindu devotees but also stands as a testament to the cultural diversity and harmony that we cherish in our beloved country.
A Ray of Hope in Government Initiatives
Distinguished guests,
6. The unity and spirit of goodwill exhibited by Malaysia’s diverse society are among the unique strengths of our nation.
7. One of the key elements in maintaining harmony in our country is ensuring the socio-economic progress of all communities.
8. This progress must go hand in hand with the nation’s digital development, whether in the fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) or animation. To achieve this vision, the MADANI Government remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey toward making Malaysia a developed nation.
9. In line with this aspiration, the Ministry of Digital is determined to support and assist the Indian community in Malaysia.
10. Throughout 2024, the Ministry of Digital has provided RM2 million in aid to temples, Indian associations, and Tamil schools across the country. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to celebrating Malaysia’s diversity and harmony.
11. I am pleased to announce that these assistance programs will continue this year, in addition to other initiatives and programs run by the Ministry’s agencies.
12. For this year’s Thaipusam celebration, the Ministry of Digital has set up two large digital screens in the beautiful Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple compound. These screens will enable attendees to closely follow the Thaipusam festivities in greater comfort.
13.Additionally, the Ministry of Digital has also prepared bottled water and food for visitors at this temple and Batu Caves in conjunction with today’s Thaipusam celebration.
Empowering SMEs in the Digital Economy
Ladies and gentlemen,
14. While being here, I noticed many traders selling various products and food around the temple grounds. I would like to commend the Indian small traders who have embraced digital transactions and online platforms to conduct and promote their businesses.
15. I encourage more small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to leverage digital platforms to enhance their business productivity. Let us not forget that SMEs represent 97% of all businesses in Malaysia. You are the backbone of our nation’s economy. A thriving SME sector will undoubtedly drive Malaysia’s economic growth.
16. At the same time, I believe that by equipping the public with digital knowledge and skills, Malaysians, including SME entrepreneurs, will become more competitive in the ever-evolving digital economy.
17. Furthermore, the Ministry of Digital is actively working towards the government’s goal of positioning Malaysia as a leader in the digital economy within the Southeast Asian region. This includes expanding broadband coverage, enhancing digital skills, and promoting technological innovation.
18. I am confident that through the collaboration of all parties, we can achieve this goal and ensure that no one is left behind in this digital era.
Closing Remarks
Ladies and gentlemen,
19. As we pursue progress, we must always safeguard the unity and harmony among all ethnicities in this country. A united Malaysia will enable us to achieve rapid development and ensure the well-being of all citizens.
20. At the same time, I urge everyone to utilize digital technology to educate the broader Malaysian society about the uniqueness of various celebrations and cultural heritage. This will foster greater understanding and appreciation among us all. Let’s celebrate and appreciate each other better. Let’s cement our strong ties among one another. The best and most effective way to do so is by educating our fellow Malaysians through digital platforms.
21. In closing, I wish you all a Happy Thaipusam.
Nandri, Thank You.
-END-
