KUALA LUMPUR: The new year heralds the arrival of fresh hope and aspirations.

       And for many Malaysians, they opted to start 2022 by praying for a blessed year ahead.

       At Batu Caves, thousands of devotees could be seen streaming towards the statue of Lord Murugan.

       Among them were groups of families and friends, as well as foreign workers who were enjoying the public holiday.

       Many parents were seen carrying offerings and their newborns with freshly shaven heads as they prepared to enter the temple.

       K. Kasturi, who was with her husband S. Thinesh and daughter T. Shaashvika, said they always try to start the new year by offering prayers and receiving blessings.

       They offered prayers at a temple at the foot of the limestone hill before climbing up the 272 steps as part of their family tradition.

       Kasturi carried offerings of flowers, milk, rosewater and incense.

       “At the start of each year, we would usually pray to have a good year ahead.

       “It’s something we try to do each year, although we were not able to last year because of the pandemic.

       “This year we are hoping for good health and luck for the family as well as success with our careers.”

       Kasturi said her other family members would also visit the temple every year.

       Other Malaysians were seen enjoying an outing with their families.

       Zoo Negara was the popular destination that was bustling with activity.

       Spiritual start: Kasturi with husband Thinesh and daughter Shaashvika at Batu Caves to offer prayers and seek -blessings for the year ahead. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star

       Rachel Tan, who was with her son Adam Tan, said they had taken the day to travel from Klang to experience something new.

       “As the school holidays are coming to an end, we decided to enjoy the day out here among the animals and get to know more about them.

       “Jan 1 is a special holiday so we decided to do something different, especially since we were not comfortable going out the last two new years because of the pandemic,” said Rachel, adding that she herself had not been to the zoo since her schooldays.

       Clutching a panda soft toy in his arms, Adam said he was looking forward to seeing pandas and tigers for the first time.

       Gombak resident Aidil Azim, who was visiting the zoo together with his wife and two children, said the idea for the outing came from his wife.

       “I had not planned anything so my wife suggested that we bring the family to the zoo.

       “Even though we don’t live far away, we have never been here as a family.”

       His children had a good time, he added.

       “The environment at the zoo with all the greenery is quite relaxing, too, even though it is always tiring when bringing the children out,” he said.

       Aidil said he does not have any resolutions but added that he looks forward to a brand new year and hoped the best for Malaysia.

       “2021 was a tough year for everyone. I hope things get better, especially the economy. We are all looking forward to a better year ahead,” he said.