2025 Vesakhi Day Perak State-Level Open House in Ipoh: Celebrating 25 Years of Unity & Tradition
This year’s Vesakhi Open House in Perak was truly memorable, marking the 25th anniversary of the state-level celebration.
In Malaysia, Vesakhi is celebrated on 13th April this year. This celebration is traditionally recognised as a spring harvest festival, particularly in Punjab and Northern India.
Held at Ipoh Stadium Indera Mulia on 26th April 2025, the event was organised by Pertubuhan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Sikh Perak, gathering Sikhs and Malaysians from all walks of life in a grand celebration of culture, faith, and unity.
This annual open house tradition began in 2000 at the Ipoh Red Crescent Hall. After a quarter-century, it continues to grow stronger than ever.
Distinguished Guests and Warm Wishes
The event was graced by a host of VIPs, including YB Sivanesan A/L Achalingam, the Perak State Legislative Executive Councillor for Health, Human Resources, National Integration, and Indian Community Affairs.
Joining him were YB Mohd Azlan Helmi bin Helmi, Executive Councillor for Communications, Multimedia & NGOs, and Tuan Shanmugam Mookan, Special Duties Officer to the Honourable Prime Minister.
Also in attendance were ADUN Simpang Pulai YB Wong Chai Yi, YDP Tuan Ahmad Suqairy Bin Alias from the Kampar District Council, and Jagir Singh, President of the Malaysian Gurdwaras Council, and many other esteemed community leaders, alongside organising chairperson Baldip Singh A/L Santokh Singh, president of Pertubuhan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Sikh Perak.
Their presence showed strong support for the Sikh community’s contributions to Perak’s cultural fabric.
A Boost of Support for Sikh Institutions
In a heartening move, the Perak State Government allocated RM100,000 each to Pertubuhan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat Sikh Perak and Gurdwara Sahib Green Town Ipoh.
This RM200,000 forms part of a larger RM600,000 allocation the Sikh community has already received this year through various parliamentary, state, and federal channels, a reflection of continued investment in the community’s well-being.
In a positive development announced by YB Sivanesan, the annual state budget allocation for the Sikh community will also be increased from RM500,000 to RM750,000.
With 39 Sikh non-governmental organisations established in Perak, this increase will certainly make a difference in supporting education, cultural, religious, plus social initiatives across the state.
The Meaning of Vesakhi and Words of Appreciation
In his speech, YB Sivanesan touched on the significance of Vesakhi, commemorating the birth of the Khalsa in 1699 and the beginning of the harvest season.
He emphasised how similar open houses can also promote a deeper understanding among Malaysia’s diverse communities, fostering harmony besides goodwill.
Special thanks were extended to Baldip Singh and the organising committee, who successfully brought together over 10 Sikh NGOs and 40 Gurdwara Sahib management committees for a vibrant and unforgettable occasion.
The atmosphere was filled with joyous performances, traditional foods, and lively cultural showcases such as Giddha and Bhangra dances, creating a true spirit of togetherness.
Spectacular Gatka Performance Lights Up the Event
One of the highlights of the open house was a breathtaking Gatka display by the Daler Khalsa Gatka Group from Punjab, India.
Rooted in Sikh martial traditions, Gatka combines discipline, spirituality, and skill with weapons like kirpans, chakkars, and shields. Every performance begins with a prayer, blending spiritual devotion with martial arts mastery.
The Daler Khalsa Gatka Group, known for preserving this ancient heritage, wowed the crowd with their agility and fast-paced storytelling through the traditional form of Sikh martial art.
A special attraction was the towering presence of Sukha Baba, one of the group’s members, standing at an astonishing 7ft 5in. According to his friends, he may still be growing at 35 years old!
Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future
The 25th Vesakhi Day celebration in Perak was not just a walk down memory lane. It was a powerful reminder of the Sikh community’s resilience, unity, and contribution to Malaysian society.
With new milestones reached and fresh commitments made, the future for Sikhs in Perak shines even brighter. As they say in Punjabi, “Vesakhi Dhi Lakh Lakh Vedaai Hoveh!” Happy Vesakhi to all!
View the full photo album on our official Facebook Page by clicking HERE.
Video: Gatka performance by Daler Khalsa Gatka Group from Punjab, India at 2025 Perak Vesakhi Open House
EMILY2U MEDIA attended the event at the invitation of Mr Khuswindera Singh Tara Singh, the Media and Publicity Committee for the 2025 Vesakhi Day Perak State-Level Open House in Ipoh.
Event: 2025 Perak Vesakhi Open House
Venue: Stadium Indera Mulia, Ipoh
Date: 26th April 2025
Time: 2pm
