Anand Gopi (seated third from left) with participants of the workshop at the Sri Pasupathinath Temple.
57 participants from Sabah attend workshop on funeral ceremonies
A WORKSHOP on Hindu funeral rites was held by Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
The workshop, led by principal trainer AL Anand Gopi Sivaachariaryaar, focused on educating the younger generation about these rites that are deeply rooted in the religion’s customs and beliefs.
Anand Gopi said that such workshops were necessary to share and preserve cultural and religious practices of the Hindu community as they were in danger of being lost, particularly in places like Sabah.
“This workshop is not just about teaching rituals, it is also to empower the next generation to uphold the spiritual and cultural integrity of our community,” he said.
Anand Gopi is also MHS Negri Sembilan chairman and Malaysia Archagar Sangam treasurer.
The workshop was held in collaboration with Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry together with Sri Subramaniar Temple Kem Lok Kawi and Sri Pasupathinath Temple, Bukit Padang.
A total of 57 participants from Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu, Keningau and Labuan attended the workshop.
Sabah MHS chairman Datuk Dr K. Mathavan said the event was important as elderly members, who traditionally hold this knowledge, were often unable to perform these rituals due to age-related factors.
“Moreover, the younger generation in the region has not been exposed to formal training on these important ceremonies,” he said.
Mathavan said the workshop provided comprehensive training on the rituals, practices and significance of Hindu funeral ceremonies.
“The primary objective is to ensure cultural preservation, pass down essential knowledge to the younger generation and empower them to carry out these ceremonies in accordance with traditional customs,” he added.
Participant S. Seetharaman found the training extremely useful, particularly in preparing family members to perform essential rituals when a loved one passed away.
“This workshop has equipped us with the knowledge and confidence to carry out these important ceremonies according to our traditions.
“It’s something that will greatly benefit our community,” he said.
The skills and understanding gained during the workshop would ensure that the rituals are conducted with respect and dignity, he added.
Mathavan said collaboration between government bodies and community organisations was important in preserving cultural heritage among the younger generation.
