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Events
& Festivals 2000 |
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January
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Hari
Raya Aidilfitri
(January 8 - January 9)
(Nationwide
Public Holiday)
Also known as Hari Raya Puasa, this is the most significant festival
for the Muslims as it marks the end of the fasting month. The event is
ushered in with prayers and the asking of forgiveness from family members.
It is also customary for Muslims to open their homes to visitors as well
as to visit friends and relatives. Some shops would even close during
this festive occasion.
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Thaipusam
(January 21)
(Public
Holiday in Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, Penang & Selangor)
A day for penance and atonement, Thaipusam is celebrated on the tenth
month of the Hindu calendar. The Hindu community believes that by celebrating
Thaipusam, they are cleansed from all sins. The festival is celebrated
in honor of the deity Lord Subramaniam who represents bravery, power,
beauty, and virtue, and visits to temples are accompanied with gifts such
as milk, honey, flowers, coconuts, and sugarcane. Many seek forgiveness
for their sins by carrying kavadis, which are wooden frames supported
by long, thin spikes that are pierced into the flesh of the devotee. However,
those participating in this ceremony prepare days in advance by fasting,
eating only certain foods, and maintaining self-discipline.
•
Le
Tour de Langkawi
(January 26 - February 6)
 This
is a top-notch race with some of the world’s best cyclists competing for
top spot on a grueling multi-stage route. The route starts from Langkawi
and traverses the length and breadth of Peninsular Malaysia before reaching
the finishing line in Kuala Lumpur. There will also be exciting cultural
dances, parades, performances and other shows on display.
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