By P. Chandra Sagaran
The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah and Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim graced the state Deepavali celebrations which saw the attendance of some 4,000 people at Indera Mulia Stadium here today.
Also present were Raja Muda Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, Raja Di Hilir Perak Raja Iskandar Dzurkarnain Sultan Idris Shah, Menteri Besar Datuk Saarani Mohamad and other state dignitaries.
This year’s celebrations were held with a difference, less sugar in beverages and food.
The favourite “teh tarik” was not available and no “air syrup” either.
This is the state government’s efforts against excessive sugar consumption which leads to diabetes.
The VIPs and the public were treated to various traditional foods, cookies and other delicacies.
They were also entertained to songs and cultural dances performed by Kumpulan Selendang Perak, Veena Percussion and Greentown Dancers.
Sultan Nazrin also presented Deepavali contributions to children from Pusat Penjagaan 1 Malaysia Perak, Pusat Jagaan Gembala Baik, Pusat Jagaan Vision Home, Pusat Jagaan Pelangi Perak and Yayasan Amanah An-Anur Maisarah
Earlier in his speech Saarani said the event provided an opportunity to celebrate the festival in a muhibbah concept.
“It is likened to a Mini Malaysia where the people from different ethnic groups get together and celebrate the occasion in a harmonious situation which is envied by other countries,” he added.