In 2007, Thaipusam was already a holiday in 5 states, namely Selangor, Penang, Perak, Negeri Sembilan and Johor.
In 2008, the government had declared Thaipusam a holiday in Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur.
It has long been the wish of the Hindu community that Thaipusam be declared a national public holiday.
Based on the following grounds, I wish to urge the government to declare Thaipusam a national public holiday:-
1. Thaipusam is an important festival celebrated by the Hindus who constitute a large percentage of Malaysia's population.
2. Declaring Thaipusam as a national public holiday will further reflect Malaysia's religious diversity . Many different races come and watch the process of Thaipusam. Many of these people may not be active participants , but as they are from different walks of life and races is it self a very unique attraction.
3. Every year, more than 1 million people from all over the country will converge at Batu Caves and at other temples like in Ipoh about 300,000 make it yearly. Also Thaipusam has become a tourist attraction for many. Thousands more would come to see the process, if Thaipusam is declared a national holiday rather then only a state holiday in the above 5 states.
A national holiday will therefore facilitate Malaysians and Hindus to witness or participate in the celebrations .
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