Ipoh (Malaysia), Aug 13 : Malaysia's Sikh community may be small in number, but its contributions to the development of Perak and the nation as a whole have been invaluable.

Menteri Besar Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said the community should continue with its contributions and remain united to face local and global challenges, as well as work with the government to improve its lot.

"The state government would like to record its appreciation to the community for enriching the heritage, culture and social fabric of our country, especially Perak," he said at a dinner organised by Union of Perak Sikh Organisations (UPSO) on Tuesday.

"I hope Sikh organisations will work together to maintain their cohesiveness, strength and identity," The New Strait Times quoted him, as saying.

Eight Sikh organisations and 38 Gurdwara Sahibs make up UPSO. There are about 28,000 Sikhs in Perak.

Some 1,500 members of the community attended the dinner.

"The state government intends to form a solid, long-term and fruitful relationship with the community through UPSO. We will try to address the problems raised by the community promptly," said Zambry. (ANI)