Negeri Sembilan Deepavali Open House Targeted For Nov 14, Expects 7,000 Guests

SEREMBAN, Nov 7 – Negeri Sembilan is expecting approximately 7,000 visitors to attend the state-level Deepavali Open House at the Seremban City Council (MBS) Hall on Saturday, November 14, 2026, running from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim announced that the state government increased its funding allocation for this year’s Deepavali Carnival to RM70,000, more than doubling the RM30,000 allocated in 2025.

Speaking to reporters after officiating the 2026 Deepavali Carnival in Seremban, Ismail said a variety of dishes representing the state’s diverse multicultural background—especially traditional Indian delicacies—will be served to promote community harmony and goodwill.

“The state government invites all Negeri Sembilan residents to attend the Deepavali celebration in large numbers to foster goodwill among the communities,” Ismail stated. “Our aim is to ensure that every celebration is held in a lively, harmonious and joyful atmosphere, strengthening ties among the communities and further reinforcing the unity that has already been established.”

Ismail added that dedicated welfare allocations have been directed to rural villages and agricultural estate communities to ensure less fortunate members of the Indian community receive festive contributions and financial assistance without being left behind.

Addressing local development proposals, the Menteri Besar noted that a plan to formally gazette Jalan Dato Lee Fong Yee as Seremban’s official “Little India” will be discussed thoroughly with the Seremban City Council mayor. He highlighted that the area, already informally recognized by locals, holds high potential to be transformed into a key state cultural and tourism landmark.

Event Details, State Allocation, and Gazette Proposal

Key event metrics, funding increases, and urban development plans include:

• Open House Date & Venue: Saturday, November 14, 2026 (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM) at Seremban City Council (MBS) Hall.
• Expected Attendance: Approximately 7,000 visitors.
• State Financial Allocation: RM70,000 for the 2026 Deepavali Carnival (increased from RM30,000 in 2025).
• Rural Community Support: Channeled welfare assistance targeted at rural and estate B40 households.
• Urban Development Plan: Consultation with MBS mayor regarding the formal gazettement of Jalan Dato Lee Fong Yee as Seremban’s Little India tourism enclave.

–NMT