Jailed former opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysians can take heart during Deepavali that good will always prevail over tyranny.

Writing through his lawyer while under serving his jail sentence for sodomy charges, the PKR de facto leader said the central message of the Hindu festival “bears great meaning” in the current situation of Malaysia.

“Deepavali celebrates the eternal struggle between right and wrong, and good and evil.

“No matter what the obstacles and the challenges facing us, good will always emerge triumphant in the end.

“Remember this, and do not be dismayed by setbacks or temporary failure,” said Anwar.

Anwar, who is serving his sentence at Sungai Buloh prison, sent the holiday message through his lawyers on Friday and delivered by PKR communications director Fahmi Fadzil.

The veteran leader maintains his sodomy conviction is a political conspiracy and is pushing to review the verdict .

Let there be light

He said the annual festival of lights, the celebration of the defeat of darkness in Hindu religious lore, is a timely reminder for Malaysians to persevere.

“Let us strengthen our purpose, and continue the struggle against tyranny with renewed vigour and effort.

“This year I cannot be with you to celebrate the festival of lights.

“But rest assured, my thoughts, hopes and best wishes will always be with you, the people.

“ Deepavali naal valthuga l!" said Anwar in the traditional Tamil greeting for the festival that begins this Tuesday.