The Malaysian Advancement Party president said the estimated two million Hindus in the country are concerned for their safety and were looking for assurances that Thaipusam gatherings can be conducted safely despite the threat of the Omicron Covid-19 variant.

“As a federal minister, I am sure you would be aware that Thaipusam, which is a public holiday in most states, is a different form of celebration, unlike Deepavali.

“Hindus congregate at certain locations throughout the country to fulfil their vows,” he wrote in an open letter to Khairy.

“Batu Caves usually reports almost one million visitors and, taking into account Penang, Sungai Petani, Johor Bahru and Ipoh, the likely number of devotees visiting these locations is estimated to be two million.

“Over a period of 48 hours, devotees throng these locations, mostly using public transportation. The space at these temple sites is limited and physical distancing is unattainable.

“Thus far, only some of the temples have come out with SOPs. However, it must be noted that these temples do not have control of the crowd outside the temple compounds.

“Hence, even though they may be able to apply the SOPs inside their premises, the big crowds outside their compounds are a matter of public concern.”

As “hundreds of thousands” of devotees will take public transport to and from temples and other religious sites, he said that it would not just be Hindus affected by the potential safety concerns of Thaipusam celebrations, but all Malaysians.

“I am certain that as the minister in charge of health, you would have been briefed on the latest effects of Omicron and the available relevant data worldwide.

“Hence, Malaysians are depending on your judgment to make the necessary decision in this matter.

“We need you to assure all Malaysians whether it is safe or otherwise for Hindus to visit Thaipusam sites.”

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