23rd Deepavali Carnival 2025 Shines Bright with Community Spirit at Bukit Jalil

Bukit Jalil - The 23^rd Deepavali Carnival transformed the car park of the National Sports Complex Bukit Jalil, into a lively hub of music, colour, and festive energy from 11th to 19th October. Organised by Agenda Suria Communication, the annual celebration once again drew Malaysians from all walks of life to experience the joy of Deepavali together.

Overview of the packed carnival crowd and brightly-lit stalls. (Source: Agenda Suria Communication)

Besides the variety of festive booths and performances, the carnival also featured a food waste prevention campaign organized in line with the government’s effort to promote sustainability during Deepavali. The campaign supported the Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan (KPKT) initiative to strengthen food waste awareness among the public.

Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government, Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu, joined the celebration by distributing muruku to vendors and greeting the public warmly.

(On the left) Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government, Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu. (Source: Jia Yi’s phone)

Local Entrepreneurs Bring Festive Flavour

The carnival also featured both traditional and modern delicacies offered by colourful food vendors.

Cheese nachos vendor at her booth. (Source: Jia Yi’s phone)

"We imported our real cheese and made it a bit Indian style with nachos, fries, masala chicken, and Italian cheese on top," said the cheese nachos vendor.

Curious visitors were drawn to live demonstrations around the event. The event experienced fewer visitors on Monday, but she reported that weekend attendance had been excellent, and many young people attended the event.

Young Helpers Keep the Spirit Alive

Not all participants were adults. Two primary school siblings were seen helping their mother at a family booth.

Two young children helpers were there too to help their mother, who was selling Deepavali snacks. (Source: Jia Yi’s phone)

"Our mom is doing a business, so we are just here to help her," said the Brother.

"We go to our grandma’s house and then we eat and pray, get our angpaos, buy clothes, and then we party until five o’clock," said his sister cheerfully.

When they were asked, "Are young people still keep the festive spirit?", they answered confidently, 

"Yes, because Deepavali is a culture, a thing that cannot be changed."

Experience The Traditional Valued and Togetherness

Two friends at the carnival said they came to shop for jewellery and new clothes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Interview with two visitors at the carnival, both young working adults. (Source: Jia Yi’s phone)

"There are so many things to look at," one said. "It’s so nice to walk around and browse. It really gets you in the festive mood."

They agreed that even though times have changed, traditions are forever, and remain in their hearts.

"We still follow the same routines every year," said one. "We go to temple, we pray and have meals with family and enjoy our quality time."

"I realised that the older we grow, the more we cherish the festival,” added the other. “You realise you’re glad you kept them with you so you can pass them on."

A young man who came for last minute shopping, shared a similar view.

Interview with the young man. (Source: Jia Yi’s phone)

"I’m here to get some clothes for Diwali, some last-minute shopping," he said. 

"I visit my hometown and celebrate with my parents and family."

He said that family time during Deepavali stands as his most important commitment even though dealing with a busy working schedule. 

A Festival of Light, Unity and Joy

As the night grew, music filled the air as people from all walks of life gathered to eat street food and watch performances while surrounded by the magical glow of lights. From small business owners to children helpers, the Deepavali Carnival brought back the spirit of community bonding which makes the Festival of Lights so special. 

Editor’s Note: The Deepavali Carnival organised yearly by Agenda Suria Communication has become one of the most recognised festive bazaars in Malaysia. The celebration this year focused on strengthening community ties while promoting cultural understanding and environmentally friendly practices to ensure Deepavali's enduring spirit for future generations.