Baldip Singh speaking at the PKR national congress in Johor Bahru on May 24, 2025
By Asia Samachar | Malaysia |
Kampar-hailing Baldip Singh was one of the speakers at the national congress of the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), the anchor party of the federal government helmed by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Baldip, the first Sikh ever to win a divisional election in PKR, spoke on the importance of unity as the party moves forward after a bruising internal election.
The PKR Kampar division head lost in his attempt to win one of the 20 seats in the party’s Central Leadership Council (MPP).
The congress in Johor Bahru was keeny watched as three-time Mmember of Palriament Nurul Izzah Anwar, daughter of Anwar who is also PKR president, defeated Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli for the deputy presidency.
Baldip also holds the distinction of being being the first Sikh to be appointed as PKR Perak state vice chairman in 2010, and then again in 2018.
He first became PKR Kampar division head in 2014. He is now serving his fourth term, running from 2025-2028.
Baldip is also the second Sikh from PRK to contest in the elections. In 2013, he lost to Barisan Nasional-Umno candidate in the Perak state seat of Tualang Sekah. He ran under the Pakatan Rakyat banner.
Perak state executive councillor A Sivanesan has also appointed Baldip as the Sikh coordinator for Perak, with a key role of channeling state funds to Sikh organisations and gurdwaras.
Baldip’s father Santokh Randhawa was the immediate past president of Ipoh-based Khalsa Diwan Malaysia, one of the oldest surviving Sikh organisation that is now actively promoting the teaching of the Panjabi language via its Panjabi Education Centres (PECs) nationwide.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Anandpur Sahib (May 2025) – Photo: Daljit Singh Khalsa
By Daljit Singh Khalsa | Experience |
My recent pilgrimage to Anandpur Sahib — the sanctified birthplace of the Khalsa and a citadel of Sikh spiritual heritage — stirred within me a deep yearning, tempered by sorrowful introspection. This hallowed city, once sanctified by the presence of our revered Gurus and echoing with divine legacy, now bears the scars of neglect and apathy. What ought to have been a journey of spiritual upliftment was overshadowed by a sobering truth: our sacred spaces are withering, and with them, a vital part of our collective spirit.
Perhaps most disheartening was the condition of the Guru ka Langar hall — a sacred emblem of equality, humility, and shared humanity. Its cracked floors, stifling atmosphere, poor ventilation, and unhygienic conditions render it unworthy of the divine sustenance it dispenses. This decline is not simply structural; it undermines the very principles upon which the tradition of Langar was founded.
This is not merely a question of aesthetics, but of reverence. Dilapidated infrastructure, ineffective drainage systems, and stagnant sewage are not just offensive to the senses — they stand as an affront to the sanctity of these spiritual spaces. At Gurdwara Tir Sahib in Kiratpur, the overpowering stench served as a stark reminder of what transpires when spiritual stewardship is replaced by indifference.
Equally tragic is the desecration of Anandpur Sahib’s natural splendour. Hillsides once clothed in verdant grace are now sullied with refuse, their vitality choked by pollution and disregard. As Wordsworth so aptly wrote, “Nature never did betray the heart that loved her” — yet our neglect of this divine creation is a betrayal both of the natural world and of our sacred values.
This decline is not born of poverty, but of failed leadership. The Sikh sangat continues to offer with open hearts, yet the sacred donations intended for preservation too often vanish into the mire of mismanagement and corruption. Faded paint, broken paths, and weather-worn facades stand as silent testimonies to those who have failed in their solemn responsibility.
True sewa — selfless service — must transcend ritual and manifest in meaningful action. The Guru’s word reminds us: “Jithai jaye bahai mera Satguru, so than Suhavān” — “Wherever my True Guru resides, that place becomes beautiful.” If the Guru’s house is to remain holy, we must labour to keep it so — with reverence, with resolve, and with righteousness. Cleanliness is not merely a virtue; it is an act of devotion.
UNSETTLING EMPTINESS
There was a time when even the mention of Anandpur Sahib would awaken something sacred within—a stirring of the soul, a yearning for divine connection. Yet, as I stood there just two days ago, I felt an unsettling emptiness. The spiritual energy that once enlivened the atmosphere seemed to have ebbed away. What I encountered was a space burdened by neglect, its spirit dimmed by apathy and disrepair.
It wasn’t merely the deteriorating structures or the absence of basic amenities—no towels, no soap, not even clean drinking water for the sangat—that troubled me. What struck deeper was the palpable sense that sewa had been overshadowed by self-interest, and that genuine devotion lay hidden beneath layers of bureaucracy and ritual. From what I could gather, a powerful faction continues to siphon off funds from the golaks, and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), mired in corruption, appears to have forsaken its duty to preserve the sanctity and upkeep of the Gurdwaras in both Anandpur Sahib and Kiratpur Sahib.
ALL IS NOT LOST
Yet all is not lost. The transformation of Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar is living proof of what is possible when hearts and hands unite in sacred purpose. Even so, the forgotten Gurdwaras on its outskirts remind us that our reverence must be comprehensive — not confined to the prominent, but extended to every sacred site.
Now is the moment for courageous truth and collective resolve. We must demand transparency in governance, independent financial oversight, and conscientious stewardship. Civic institutions and the Sikh community must join hands — not just in expressing concern, but in forging real, restorative action. Let us offer not only our donations, but our time, our labour, and our love to renew the sanctity and dignity of these sacred spaces.
Where gholaks remain unattended and funds misdirected, let us instead direct our efforts towards environmental restoration and structural renewal. The Tenth Master, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, proclaimed: “Jin Prem Kiyo Tin Hi Prabh Paayo” — “Only those who love, realise the Divine.” Let that love become our guiding light — not merely professed, but practised in reverent action.
Let us not passively witness the slow decay of our holy places. Let us rise — not in despair, but in devotion; not in accusation, but in unity. The true legacy of Anandpur Sahib lies not solely in its glorious past, but in how we safeguard and uplift it today. May we honour our Gurus — not only with bowed heads, but with awakened hearts, devoted hands, and unyielding sewa.
It grieves me to say it, but I no longer feel the spiritual draw to return. What should have been a sanctuary of inspiration now stands lacklustre and hollow. And yet, perhaps speaking of this pain is necessary—not as condemnation, but as a call to awaken. A call not merely for reform, but for revival. For a return to the spirit of selfless service, to the purity of intent that once defined these sacred spaces.
May we find the courage and unity to restore not just the physical structures, but the very soul of Anandpur Sahib.
Daljit Singh Khalsa, a UK-based practitioner with over 50 years of experience in both medical and mental health field, is a devout Sikh and an avid traveller. Physical fitness, spiritual discipline and sewa(selfless service) form the core of my daily practice.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
We deeply regret to inform you of the peaceful passing of
Tharvinder Jeet Kaur d/o Jagjit Singh
(Tanjung Malim)
14.2.1971 – 20.5.2025
Leaving behind –
Husband: Gurdeep Singh s/o late Sarban Singh
Children / Spouses: Roushandeep Singh / Divya Kaur Aneel Deep Singh / Jasvinder Kaur Renisha Preet Kaur
Siblings / Spouses D J Dave / Mahshid Inddarsh Kaur / Kavil Singh Surinder Kaur Daljit Kaur
And a host of relatives and friends.
LAST RITES 21st May 2025, Wednesday
2pm: Cortege leaves from 36, Jalan BSC 3B/5, Presint 3, Bandar Seri Coalfields, Sungai Buloh 3pm: Saskaar (cremation) at Nirvana Memorial Park, Jalan Pusaka 21/1, Section 21, Shah Alam
PATH DA BHOG 31st May 2025, Saturday, 4pm to 7pm Gurudwara Sahib Subang
For further information, kindly contact Aneel 018 207 1219 | Roushan 012 209 9654
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Jasvir Singh takes oath as Bentong Municipal Council councillor on May 20, 2025
By Asia Samachar | Malaysia |
Sikh councillor Jasvir Singh Ram Singh will continue to serve in the Bentong Municipal Council for the 2025/2026 season.
Jasvir, a businessman and a former Gurdwara Sahib Bentong committee president, took the oath of office as the council member of the Pahang district today (May 20).
Present at the ceremony was Bentong Municipal Council chairman Rose Samsul Abdul Razak.
“I will serve to the best of my ability, guided by the needs of our people. My aim is to work closely with the community, government agencies and local stakeholders to bring meaningful change and improve the quality of life across the district,” he told Asia Samachar.
Separately, in a letter dated May 26, Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail extended Jasvir’s appointment as Special Officer for Sikh Ccommunity for another year until June 30, 2026. (Updated).
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Arambh: 9am, 30 May 2025 (Friday) Path Da Bhog: 9am, 1 June 2025 (Sunday)
Meher Singh was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather. As a dedicated Sikh, he served his community with kindness and compassion. His love for his family and commitment to his faith were central to his life. He is deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.
Wife: Tej Kaur
Children / Spouses: Jugjeet Singh & Kashmir Kaur Late Hardebh Kaur (Rani) & Lt Col Devinder Singh RMAF (Retired) Keeran Kaur Santh Singh & Gurmit Kaur
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
Baldev Singh and the Jyot brought from Nankana Sahib
By Dr. B. S. Bains | Opinion |
In the sacred city of Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, a flame was lit—not merely of fire, but of faith, remembrance, and spiritual continuity. This jyot, kindled by Mr. Baldev Singh, symbolized more than tradition; it embodied the undying light of Naam, the Mool Mantar, and the Guru’s eternal message of oneness, truth, and universal brotherhood.
Carried by road across Pakistan, India, Myanmar, Thailand, and ultimately to Malaysia, the jyot transcended political and cultural borders. It brought together communities in prayer and reflection, illuminating not just physical spaces but hearts and minds. Each stop became a sanctuary even to the animals that came in contact; every border crossed became a symbol of the unity Guru Nanak envisioned—Ik Onkar, the One Divine Light that permeates all creation.
In Sikh thought, fire is not an object of worship but a profound metaphor. The Guru Granth Sahib speaks of the fire of desire and ego that consumes the world, and of the inner jyot—the divine light within—that guides the soul to liberation.
“O my mind, you are the embodiment of the Divine Light—recognize your origin.”
This sacred jyot, though Sikh in form, resonates with sacred fire across both Eastern and Western religious traditions.
In Hinduism, fire (Agni) is the divine messenger, purifier, and witness to sacred vows. In Buddhism, fire symbolizes impermanence and the burning away of desire. In Taoist thought, it is a transformational force—part of the cycle of life. In Christianity, fire is the presence of the Holy Spirit, as seen in the tongues of fire at Pentecost. In Judaism, God appears in the burning bush and leads the Israelites by a pillar of fire—symbols of divine guidance and communication.
In all these traditions, fire becomes a universal language of the sacred: purifying, transforming, and connecting the human to the divine.
When the jyot finally reached Malaysia, it did not mark the end of a journey—but the birth of a new spiritual awakening. It arrived not as a ritualistic object, but as a living symbol of unity, transformation, and remembrance—a reminder that in every faith, the sacred flame is ultimately the inner light of the soul, guiding us toward truth, love, and oneness.
In Conclusion: A Sacred Flame Through Borders and A Light Beyond Politics
The journey of the jyot from Nankana Sahib to Malaysia was not a simple passage of fire—it was a daring act of faith, a testament to the endurance of spiritual conviction in a time marked by political tensions and tightly guarded borders.
In an era where even the movement of people across borders is scrutinized, to carry a sacred flame—a live jyot—across five nations was unprecedented. Mr. Baldev Singh, with unshakable resolve, and absolute faith (Visvash) in Guru Nanak, an Omnipresent Godly Entity, navigated a complex web of diplomatic permissions, security clearances, and bureaucratic hurdles. Each crossing demanded trust, patience, and negotiation with governments, often requiring personal appeals and assurances that this jyot was not political, but deeply spiritual.
In places where borders have too often divided, this flame became a bridge of light, symbolizing peace, remembrance, and unity. The act of carrying fire across nations by road—each with its own sensitivities, histories, and struggles—required not just permission, but blessing. That such a task was even possible is a reflection of the divine grace and the universal respect for sacred intention.
This journey, against the backdrop of fractured geopolitics and rising tensions between neighbors, quietly wrote a different page in history—one of hope, shared heritage, and spiritual resilience. In a world often dominated by headlines of division, here was a flame that whispered of oneness.
More than just fire, the jyot carried Guru Nanak’s light, reigniting the shared humanity that transcends borders. In doing so, Mr. Baldev Singh reminded us that the true borders worth crossing are those within—between ego and humility, ritual and understanding, division and unity.
This was not merely the movement of a flame, but the rekindling of a vision—that all of humanity is one light, one breath, one song of the Divine.
This *historic journey* stands as a testament to the truth that, despite the formidable challenges—especially the fragile fabric of cross-border diplomacy—there prevailed an unseen divine force, gently revealing its presence. It elevated the sacred significance of the jyot, transforming it into a timeless symbol of the inner light that resides within every being—a profound reminder of our shared essence and the eternal principle of universal coexistence.
Dr Balwant Singh Bains is a Malaysia-based kirtan enthusiast and a practicing physiotherapist with a chain of physiotherapy clinics.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
LAST RITES 19 May 2025, Monday 11.30am-2.30 pm: Wake at residence No. 30, Jalan 3/1A, Taman Serdang Jaya, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor 2:30pm: Cortege leaves residence 3.00pm – 5.00: Wake at Shamshan Bhoomi Hall, Jalan Loke Yew Crematorium, KL 5:00pm: Antam Sanskar (cremation) Followed by Ardaas and Path at Gurdwara Sahib Serdang, Selangor
Dad, Grandpa — You were our guiding light, our steady hand, and our greatest support. You lived with quiet strength, gave with an open heart, and loved without condition.
Your stories, your laughter, and your wisdom will echo in our hearts forever. Though you’re no longer with us, your love remains — in our memories, in our lives, and in everything we do.
Thank you for everything. Rest peacefully. You will always be missed, always remembered, and always loved.
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
LAST RITES Monday, 19th May 2025 5pm: Cottege leaves residence at 258, Jalan Desa Kasia 3/2, Taman Desa Kasia Green, Bandar Baru Nilai, Negeri Sembilan 6.30pm: Saskaar (cremation) at Hindu Crematorium, Jalan Templer, Seremban
ASIA SAMACHAR is an online newspaper for Sikhs / Punjabis in Southeast Asia and beyond. You can leave your comments at our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We will delete comments we deem offensive or potentially libelous. You can reach us via WhatsApp +6017-335-1399 or email: asia.samachar@gmail.com. For obituary announcements, click here
