Over 2.5 million people are expected at Batu Caves for Thaipusam, with enhanced security and cleanliness efforts in place for the festival.
KUALA LUMPUR: Over 2.5 million visitors are anticipated at Batu Caves for this year’s Thaipusam celebrations, surpassing last year’s attendance.
Sri Mahamariamman Devasthanam Temple trustee Datuk N Sivakumar said the estimate includes devotees, domestic tourists, and international visitors throughout the festival period.
“Last year, around 2.5 million people attended over four to seven days,” he told Bernama.
He attributed the higher forecast to the extended holiday period, as Thaipusam coincides with Federal Territory Day on February 1.
Sivakumar stated that temple management is prioritising safety and cleanliness to ensure a smooth event aligned with the 2026 Visit Malaysia campaign.
He confirmed close coordination with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), which will have complete operational command over all security arrangements.
“PDRM will have complete operational command over security, deploying personnel from the Sentul and Dang Wangi districts with support from the Kuala Lumpur contingent police headquarters,” he explained.
The Batu Caves area itself will be managed by the Gombak district police, assisted by the Selangor contingent headquarters.
On cleanliness, Sivakumar highlighted ongoing efforts to promote public awareness to address littering and discarded footwear.
“Last year, nearly three tonnes of shoes ended up as waste,” he added.
He requested visitors to leave shoes in their vehicles or carry them in a bag to help reduce rubbish.
Sivakumar also confirmed that upgrade work on the 20-year-old Lord Murugan statue is now complete.
The refurbishment included the installation of an enhanced lighting system for the monument erected in 2006.
“The statue was originally erected in 2006. This year’s refurbishment included the installation of supplementary lighting, reinforcing its role as a major draw,” Sivakumar said.
