KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — The Deepavali celebration should serve as a platform to strengthen unity, bridge gaps between communities and foster values of compassion and concern for those in need.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that in a multiracial society rooted in diverse cultures and traditions, the values of mutual respect, understanding and the acceptance of differences must continue to be reinforced. 

“May this Deepavali inspire a renewed spirit to foster a more open, noble and progressive mindset, thereby elevating the dignity of the people and strengthening the nation’s harmony,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Anwar also extended his Deepavali greetings to all those celebrating the festival, expressing his hope that it brings happiness, peace and prosperity.

“Deepavali arrives bearing a ray of joy, enlivening the spirit of the ‘Festival of Lights’, which symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, the victory of goodness over evil, and the power of knowledge to liberate humanity from the shackles of ignorance and arrogance.

“Deepavali Nalvaalthukkal! (Deepavali greetings),” he added. — Bernama