Johor civic groups have been encouraged to actively involve young people in cultural activities to ensure the preservation of the state’s diverse heritage. P. Pannir Selvam, chairman of Johor’s unity, heritage, and culture committee, emphasized the importance of engaging youth during the Onaghosham festival, a celebration of Onam organized by the Johor Baru Malayalee Association (JBMA) at the Taman Johor Jaya Multipurpose Hall.

Speaking at the event, Pannir Selvam highlighted Onam as a traditional harvest festival significant to the Malayalee community, serving as an occasion to express gratitude for agricultural abundance. The festival, he noted, also showcases traditional vegetarian cuisine and other cultural practices passed down through generations. He stressed that such cultural celebrations provide a vital platform for different communities to display their heritage while fostering unity among Johoreans.

“The state government is committed to providing space for various communities to promote their cultural activities so that they will be preserved for future generations,” Pannir Selvam said. In addition to his role as committee chairman, he is also the Perling assemblyman. Johor Baru city councillor G. Jayasilan was also present at the event.

Pannir Selvam further acknowledged the proactive role of the JBMA in supporting state government initiatives, including the annual “Muafakat Deepavali” celebrations. During these events, the association has contributed by showcasing traditional Malayalee cuisine, reflecting the community’s ongoing engagement in promoting cultural understanding.

Looking ahead, the committee expressed willingness to consider integrating cultural and sporting activities organized by various ethnic groups into Johor’s official unity and tourism calendars. This approach aims to enhance the visibility of the state’s multicultural heritage and encourage broader participation.

JBMA president K. Arumugan shared that the association currently has around 1,000 members and is working to expand its reach beyond Johor Baru to include Malayalee communities in other districts across Johor. This expansion is part of the association’s efforts to strengthen cultural ties and maintain traditions among the Malayalee diaspora within the state.