Johor bahru: The Johor government has announced that a total of 40,000 Indian families across the state will receive food baskets in conjunction with this year's Deepavali celebration, as a gesture of appreciation and goodwill from the state government towards the community. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi stated that this first-ever initiative demonstrates the state government's commitment to ensuring the well-being of the Indian community is protected.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Onn Hafiz emphasized that the distribution of food baskets serves as a symbol of the state government's support for the Indian community. He made this announcement while officiating the Bangsa Johor Deepavali Bazaar Carnival at Little India, highlighting the initiative as a reflection of unity and inclusiveness under the Bangsa Johor concept. This effort complements various community development programs that have been implemented.

Meanwhile, State Unity, Heritage, and Culture Committee chairman K. Raven Kumar said the 40,000 food baskets, worth about RM4.9 million, will be distributed to Indian families throughout Johor, particularly to the lower-income group. He mentioned that the distribution would cover all districts, with deliveries starting this week, aligning with the Menteri Besar's aspiration to assist the Indian community during Deepavali. Raven Kumar, who is also the Tenggaroh assemblyman, detailed that each food basket, valued at over RM100, contains essential items such as rice, cooking oil, flour, sardines, and curry spices to meet festive needs.

He further added that the distribution is being carried out through 56 community service centers across the state and is expected to be completed within the week. Earlier, Onn Hafiz took the time to engage with traders and local residents at the Deepavali bazaar carnival.