Deepavali Lights Up Kampung Emperoh Jambu in a Colourful Fusion of Cultures
KUCHING, 21 October — In the peaceful village of Kampung Emperoh Jambu, Sarawak, the glow of Deepavali lit up the home of Liyana Wilfred, a Bidayuh woman who has continued to embrace her late husband’s Indian heritage with grace and love.
Though Deepavali is not a state public holiday in Sarawak, that did not stop her family from celebrating the Festival of Lights with colour, warmth, and togetherness.
For Liyana, Deepavali is not just a festival — it is a heartfelt remembrance of her late husband, Vasu from Perak, and the legacy of culture and values he left behind.
“Every year, I make it a point to celebrate with my children, Losha and Tanish, so they will always remember where their late father’s roots, culture, and heritage came from and the traditions that shaped him,” she shared.
The day began early with the family working hand in hand to create a colourful kolam at their home entrance. Made of coloured rice and flower petals, the kolam glowed under the morning light, symbolising happiness, blessings, and the festive vibes that Deepavali brings.
“The kolam is more than decoration — it’s a tradition that connects us to our roots and brings joy into the home,” said Liyana.
This year, Liyana made sure not to miss one of the most beloved festive snacks — muruku. The crispy, spiral-shaped snack made from rice flour, chickpea flour, and spices is a Deepavali favourite in every Indian household.
“Making muruku always reminds me of my mother-in-law,” Liyana said fondly.
“She taught me the recipe years ago, and now Losha and Tanish help me make it every Deepavali. It’s our family way of keeping Vasu’s memory alive.”
As guests arrived, the aroma of home-cooked dishes filled the air. Liyana had prepared a wonderful spread featuring white ghee rice, fish curry, chicken sambal, local lemang, acar, and mixed vegetables. The dishes reflected a perfect harmony of cultures — blending the richness of Indian flavours with local Sarawak influences.
Relatives, friends, and neighbours joined in the feast, sharing stories, laughter, and the joyful spirit of the day. “Deepavali is about more than lights and food — it’s about love, unity, and gratitude,” Liyana said. “When people come together and celebrate, it keeps the light of kindness shining.”
Though Deepavali is often associated with the Hindu community in West Malaysia, the Wilfred family’s celebration in Kampung Emperoh Jambu reminds us that the essence of the festival — the triumph of light over darkness, and love over loss — transcends culture and geography.
As evening fell, flickering oil lamps lit up the veranda and the kolam at the doorstep, casting a soft golden glow. In that light, one could feel the presence of continued culture and legacy — a quiet reminder that love never truly fades, but continues to guide through the warmth of family, faith, and tradition.
For Liyana, Losha, and Tanish, Deepavali will always be a time to honour their roots, celebrate their bond, and carry forward a legacy of light and love that continues to shine brightly in their home.
Note — This story was first published in Press KL, and it was contributed by content writer Jennifer Sejet from Kuching, Sarawak
