The Ipoh Hindu Devasthana Paripalana Sabah and the City Council have banned the selling of burgers on Thaipusam, Malay Mail reported.
Source: The Fit Indian
This is because they found that the sale of burgers largely contributed to littering. And instead of selling those meat-based food, the ministers are encouraging the sale of vegetarian food.
The organisation’s chairman, R.V. Suppiah told the press,
“During our discussions with the council, we agreed there should no longer be burger stalls as wrappers have been found littering the fields at D.R. Seenivasagam Park and Padang Ipoh.”
“We encourage stall owners to sell vegetarian food instead since this is a religious occasion.”
Besides that, the Kallumalai Arulmigu Subramaniar Temple in Gunung Cheroh will be giving away 10,000 packets of food for lunch on Thaipusam day, while the Sri Maha Mariamman temple in Buntong will be giving away 5,000 packets.
Source: Malaysian Temples
Source: The Star
Suppiah added,
“There will be also a lot of thannir panthal (water stations) in the compounds of the temples where people will distribute water and food.”
“The temple committee has engaged about 50 barbers who will shave the heads of devotees wanting to give their hair as an offering.”
Moreover, to ensure cleanliness and also comfort, Suppiah mentioned that there will be ample trash cans around the area for devotees and visitors to throw their rubbish in, and mobile toilets will be prepared for the public to use.
About 350,000 devotees and visitors are expected to be present in the two temples on Thaipusam day.
Residents of Ipoh should also take note of certain road closures for the chariot procession.
Source: Malay Mail Online
After hearing of this news, netizens were in complete support of the move.
“Respect and salute to you Ipoh council and local temple board for the initiative.”
“A welcome move. Love you Ipoh.”
One netizen even went as far to call for the ban in other temples too.
“We should ban in Batu Caves, even the ones along the roadsides. Thaipusam is not a carnival people! Non-vege should not be sold!”
What do you guys think of this move?
