Thousands turn up for MB’s Raya open house

Entertaining the crowd: Adnan (fourth from left) and several of his guests sang festive songs during his open house in Bentong.

BENTONG: The heavy morning rain failed to dampen the spirits of thousands who attended the Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house of Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob here.

His wife Datuk Seri Junaini Kassim, who was still recuperating from an eye operation, was not present at the event.

Various festive delicacies were served under several canopies set up to cater to the huge crowd.

Children and senior citizens were given duit raya as the police, led by Bentong OCPD Supt Mansor Mohd Nor, controlled the crowd.

Among the guests were MCA president and Bentong MP Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, state PPP chief Datuk M. Elayppen, Adnan’s special officer (Indians affairs) Senator Datuk R. Goonasakaren and Batu Talam assemblyman Datuk Abdul Aziz Mat Kiram.

Earlier in his speech, Adnan said the Bentong district should serve as a role model for unity as people of all races live together without any problems.

“The recent incident in Low Yat Plaza should serve as a reminder on the importance of preserving unity and harmony,” he said.

Adnan added the country could only achieve more growth and prosper in a peaceful and harmonious environment.

He said the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax would encourage people to spend within their means.

“For example, the baju Melayu I am wearing today is the same one I wore last year,” he said.

Adnan also urged Liow to defend his Bentong parliamentary seat in the next general election.

“Liow has served the people well and should continue to be their MP,” he said.