Delhi Diary : Malaysians Connect With Each Other As They Celebrate Eid Al-Adha

By Shakir Husain Bernama’s correspondent in New Delhi, Shakir Husain shares his story from the Indian sub-continent. NEW DELHI, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- Zainudin Sabai arrived in Delhi recently and is trying to familiarise himself with his new city of residence. The Malaysian expatriate who works as a senior executive for a major business group was among more than 100 Malaysians and their family members who gathered to celebrate Eid Al-Adha at the Malaysian High Commission on Saturday. Joining the event helped him in connecting with the small community of Malaysians in the Indian capital. In a megapolis that has a population of 18 million (if you add the size of Delhi's conurbation the areas's population would exceed that of Malaysia), it's important to connect with those you can rely on for advice and tips on various matters. "When I came to India I registered (with Malaysia's diplomatic mission) so they invited me. It's good to celebrate Aidiladha with fellow Malaysians," Zainudin told Bernama. A group of Malaysians touring India also came to the event in Chanakyapuri, the Indian capital's diplomatic zone, and was surprised to be treated a variety of Malaysian delicacies such as nasi dagang, satay, laksa, kuih and teh tarik. "We have been travelling in India for many days and were craving for Malaysian food. Now suddenly in Delhi we are reminded of what the best home-cooked food tastes like," said one of them. Some Malaysians travelled from outside Delhi to be at the Aidiladha celebration. Families, working professionals, students and diplomats were part of the gathering. Brunei's High Commissioner Sidek Ali and other diplomats joined the prayers and interacted with the Malaysians. "We invite Malaysians as much as possible when we celebrate festivals. There is a general guideline for them to register so that we can inform them about events," said Hidayat Abdul Hamid, Malaysian High Commissioner to India. Registering with diplomatic missions helps Malaysians in more ways than just socially interacting with compatriots on special occasions and exchanging tips on food, travel, driving or sports. Sometimes officials find it difficult to reach out to those who may require urgent help in case of mishaps, crime or natural disasters. "We can help them quickly and coordinate better with the local authorities if we have their details," Hidayat said. Most Malaysians living in India either work for Malaysian companies or are students. Compared with south India, their numbers are tiny in other regions of the country. But the numbers should improve in the coming years as there is growing Malaysian interest in India's tourism attractions, educational institutes, and business opportunities. For expatriates, finding good schools for children and medical facilities in India without breaking the bank can be a challenge. As for those interested in traveling, the vastness of the country with a myriad cultures, geographic features and languages mean they need to research and prepare well to avoid the scams and hassles that may confront foreigners in the country. So, for a newcomer meeting other Malaysians exposed to the ways of life in India, can only mean time well spent. -- BERNAMA