RM4.9 million initiative reflects Bangsa Johor unity and the government’s commitment to community welfare.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Johor state government has announced food basket aid worth RM4.9 million for 40,000 Indian families across the state ahead of Deepavali. The move underscores the government’s appreciation and inclusiveness towards the Indian community under the Bangsa Johor spirit.

RM4.9 Million for 40,000 Families

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi announced the programme during the Bangsa Johor Deepavali Bazaar Carnival at Little India, Johor Bahru, over the weekend. Each Indian family in the state will receive a food basket valued at over RM100, containing essentials such as rice, flour, cooking oil, sardines, and curry spices.

“This is the first time we are implementing such an initiative as a gesture of love from the state government to the Indian community,” said Onn Hafiz. He added that the effort highlights Johor’s values of inclusivity, unity, and compassion under the Bangsa Johor concept.

Distribution Begins This Week

According to State Unity, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman K. Raven Kumar, deliveries began this week and are being coordinated through 56 community service centres across all districts in Johor. The initiative focuses primarily on low-income families, ensuring that the festive season brings comfort to those most in need.

“The Menteri Besar’s vision is clear — no family should be left behind during this meaningful celebration,” said Raven Kumar, who also serves as the Tenggaroh assemblyman.

Promoting Unity Under Bangsa Johor

The Deepavali food basket programme complements various community development efforts introduced by the Johor government in recent years. Beyond its material benefits, the initiative reinforces inter-ethnic solidarity and celebrates cultural diversity — core principles of the Bangsa Johor identity.

Onn Hafiz said the initiative serves as a reminder that Johor’s progress is built on unity among its people, regardless of race or religion. “It reflects our shared values and the inclusive vision that guides our policies,” he added.

Deepavali Joy Across the State

The festive aid comes just as Indian communities across Johor prepare for Deepavali celebrations. In addition to the food distribution, the Bangsa Johor Deepavali Bazaar Carnival featured cultural performances, local businesses, and festive markets, where Onn Hafiz mingled with residents and traders.

Residents welcomed the gesture warmly, viewing it as both a practical and symbolic show of appreciation from the state government.

Johor’s RM4.9 million Deepavali food aid programme not only lightens the festive burden for 40,000 Indian families but also strengthens the message of unity and inclusiveness that defines the Bangsa Johor spirit. As the state celebrates diversity through action, the initiative stands as a model of community-driven governance for the region.

Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , Bernama (2025)

Keywords: Johor Deepavali Aid, Onn Hafiz, Indian Families, Food Basket Programme, Bangsa Johor Unity